First Impressions of Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper promises to be more than just another lure in your tackle box. Designed by the legendary Kevin VanDam, this popper boasts an erratic thumping action and a size reminiscent of the KVD 1.5 Squarebill, suggesting a serious fish-catching pedigree. I’ve been a devoted topwater angler for over a decade, chasing explosive strikes from bass and other predators, and I’m always on the hunt for the next edge. Will this lure live up to the hype and earn a permanent spot in my arsenal?
What led me to this product was a persistent problem on heavily pressured lakes: fish becoming conditioned to traditional topwater presentations. I was looking for a popper that offered a different sound and action, something that could trigger strikes from wary bass. Upon unboxing, the Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper immediately impressed me with its detailed paint job and solid construction. It felt well-balanced in hand, and the feather-enhanced rear treble hook was a nice touch.
Compared to the classic Rebel Pop-R and the River2Sea Whopper Plopper, the KVD Splash seemed to occupy a unique space. The Pop-R is a proven performer but can be a bit predictable, while the Whopper Plopper excels at covering water quickly but lacks finesse. The KVD Splash promised a more subtle, yet still attention-grabbing, presentation. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism – excited to see if its unique design translated to more fish in the boat.
Real-World Testing: Putting Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper was on a local reservoir known for its clear water and finicky bass. I tested it along weed edges and around submerged timber, varying my retrieve from a slow, deliberate “walk-the-dog” style to a faster, more aggressive popping action. The lure performed beautifully right out of the box, spitting water and creating an enticing gurgling sound with each twitch of the rod tip. I was immediately impressed with how easy it was to control.
The KVD Splash excelled even in a light chop, maintaining its action and drawing attention. I was able to generate strikes in both calm and slightly windy conditions, showcasing its versatility. After a few casts, I landed a solid 3-pound largemouth that absolutely crushed the lure. This first fish gave me a serious boost in confidence.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper has proven to be a reliable and durable lure. The paint job has held up surprisingly well despite numerous encounters with rocks and vegetation, showing minimal signs of wear and tear. The hooks, though sharp out of the box, did require a bit of touching up after a particularly grueling day of fishing heavy cover. A quick pass with a hook sharpener restored their bite.
Maintaining the lure is incredibly easy: a simple rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient. Compared to some other topwater lures I’ve used, the KVD Splash seems less prone to fouling with weeds or debris. It has definitely outperformed my expectations in terms of durability and consistent performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper
Specifications
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper features a carefully considered set of specifications designed for optimal topwater performance. Weighing in at 3/8 oz, it’s light enough for effortless casting with baitcasting gear. Measuring 2 3/4 inches, it’s the perfect size to imitate a variety of forage, from small baitfish to fleeing insects.
The lure’s modified flat side is crucial, contributing to its erratic thumping action and allowing it to be walked effectively. The inclusion of a feather-enhanced rear treble hook adds extra visual appeal and entices reluctant fish to strike. The 3D eyes provide a realistic appearance, while the size 4 treble hooks ensure solid hooksets.
Performance & Functionality
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper truly shines in its performance. It strikes an excellent balance between spitting, chugging, and walking, allowing anglers to tailor their presentation to the specific conditions and fish behavior. Its erratic action is highly effective at triggering strikes from even the most pressured bass.
The lure’s strengths lie in its versatility and ease of use. It’s forgiving to cast, even for beginners, and responds well to a variety of retrieves. The only slight weakness I’ve found is that it can occasionally roll on its side during a very fast retrieve, though this is easily corrected with a slight adjustment to rod tip angle. Overall, it meets and even exceeds expectations for a topwater popper in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the KVD Splash is impressive, especially considering its affordability. The materials feel durable, and the lure is well-balanced. The modified flat side design not only contributes to its action but also gives it a unique profile in the water.
The lure is remarkably user-friendly, requiring minimal learning curve. It is very intuitive, making it great for beginners. Its size and weight make it comfortable to fish for extended periods without fatigue.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper is built to last. The durable construction and high-quality paint job ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use. The feather-enhanced rear treble hook does require occasional replacement, but this is a common issue with most feathered hooks.
Maintaining the lure is simple, primarily involving rinsing off any debris and occasionally sharpening the hooks. Its robust design suggests that it will provide many seasons of reliable performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper comes ready to fish straight out of the package. However, there are a few customization options to consider. Swapping out the treble hooks for higher-quality, chemically sharpened hooks can improve hookup ratios.
Adding a small split ring to the front hook hanger can also allow for a more natural presentation. Although the lure is not explicitly designed for use with trailers, some anglers may choose to add a small grub or swimbait to the rear hook for extra attraction. The KVD Splash is compatible with most standard topwater lure accessories.
Pros and Cons of Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper
Pros
- Erratic Thumping Action: The lure’s unique design creates an enticing and unpredictable action that triggers strikes from pressured fish.
- Versatile Presentation: It excels at spitting, chugging, and walking, allowing anglers to adapt to different conditions and fish behavior.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality materials and paint job ensure long-lasting performance, even with heavy use.
- Easy to Use: It is very user-friendly and can be effortlessly cast and retrieved, making it great for both experienced and beginner anglers.
- Feather-Enhanced Rear Treble: The premium feather and hook are enticing, and are an amazing addition to the lure.
Cons
- Occasional Roll: During extremely fast retrieves, the lure can sometimes roll on its side.
- Hook Maintenance: The stock hooks may require occasional sharpening, especially after fishing around heavy cover.
Who Should Buy Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper?
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper is perfect for anglers who want a versatile and effective topwater lure that can trigger strikes from pressured bass. It’s an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced anglers looking to expand their topwater arsenal. If you target bass around vegetation, timber, or other structure, this lure is a must-have.
Anglers who prefer larger, more aggressive topwater presentations may want to consider other options. Those who primarily fish open water with minimal cover may not fully appreciate the KVD Splash’s ability to navigate tight spots. A must-have accessory is a high-quality pair of polarized sunglasses to spot the strikes.
Conclusion on Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper
The Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper is a top-notch lure that delivers on its promises. Its unique design, durable construction, and versatile presentation make it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box. At a price of $10.99, the value proposition is excellent.
I would absolutely recommend the Strike King KVD Splash Topwater Popper to anyone looking for an effective and affordable topwater lure. If you’re ready to experience explosive topwater strikes and put more fish in the boat, give the KVD Splash a try – you won’t be disappointed!