Cordell Pencil Popper 3/4oz 4.5" Pearl Red Head

The Cordell Pencil Popper 3/4oz topwater lure is a classic hard bait designed to trigger explosive strikes from bass, stripers, redfish, and other aggressive gamefish. At 4.5 inches, this smaller pencil popper excels when fish want surface action but conditions call for a more subtle presentation than a full-size trophy bait. The Pearl Red Head finish combines visibility and natural appeal—pearl catches light and attracts attention, while the red head mimics bleeding prey that gamefish can't resist.

The defining feature of any pencil popper is its concave mouth design, which does double duty: it allows you to work the lure with a walk-the-dog retrieve for that side-to-side swimming action that bass find irresistible, and it cups water to create disturbance on the surface that calls fish from a distance. The weighted tail isn't just for show—it improves casting distance and accuracy so you can reach tight cover, and it also contributes to the erratic, wounded-baitfish motion that triggers strikes.

This is a lure that adapts to what the bite demands. Fish shallow flats, weed lines, and current breaks in morning and evening when topwater action is hot. On slower days or in pressured water, switch down to the Pencil Popper when bigger lures draw nothing but follows. The combination of size, finish, and action makes it a go-to choice for anglers who want one hard bait that covers multiple scenarios without sacrificing effectiveness.

Key Features

• Concave mouth creates surface disturbance and enables walk-the-dog retrieve
• Weighted tail for improved casting distance and accuracy
• Pearl Red Head finish for visibility and natural predator appeal
• 4.5-inch profile—smaller than full-size trophy poppers, ideal for selective presentations
• Hard bait construction for durability and consistent action

Specifications

Frequently Asked Questions

What fish will the Cordell Pencil Popper catch?

This lure is designed for bass, stripers, redfish, and other topwater-feeding gamefish. The 4.5-inch size and surface disturbance work well on both largemouth and smallmouth bass, as well as saltwater species that hunt baitfish near the surface.

How do you fish a pencil popper?

The concave mouth is designed to be worked with a walk-the-dog retrieve—alternating side-to-side twitches that make the lure weave across the surface. You can also work it more aggressively to maximize water disturbance, or fish it more subtly with shorter pauses depending on fish mood and conditions.

When should I use the 4.5-inch size versus a larger pencil popper?

The 3/4oz 4.5-inch Pencil Popper is ideal when fish want topwater action but are selective about lure size, or when fishing shallower water and tight cover. It casts easier and creates a more refined presentation than larger models while still producing enough surface disturbance to attract strikes.

Why does the weighted tail matter on a topwater lure?

The weighted tail adds casting distance and accuracy, especially important when you're targeting specific cover. It also contributes to the erratic, wounded-baitfish action that makes the lure more lifelike and triggering to aggressive fish.