Museum Archive: Vintage Heddon Zara Puppy, Gray fishing lure #15573

The Zara Spook is a classic topwater lure that has been around for decades, and its effectiveness has never diminished. This lure is the oldest of surface-plug designs and still one of the best, consistently pulling in everything from freshwater bass and pike to saltwater stripers and seatrout.

One of the key features of the Zara Spook is its ability to "walk the dog" with ease. This technique involves a medium-fast cadence of twitch-pause, twitch-pause as you slowly reel, which makes the plug zigzag along the surface. The result is a realistic, darting action that drives fish crazy.

The 5/8-ounce original Zara is easier to make "walk the dog" than smaller versions, and the blue shore minnow color is almost universally effective. However, the Zara Spook comes in a variety of sizes and colors, making it versatile for any fishing situation.

The Zara Spook's effectiveness can be attributed to its unique design. The slender profile and tapered nose create a lifelike baitfish appearance, while the concave mouth produces a loud, popping noise that attracts fish from afar. The lure's weight distribution also allows for long and accurate casts, making it ideal for covering a lot of water.

Whether you're fishing in a freshwater river or a saltwater estuary, the Zara Spook is a proven fish catcher. It's not uncommon to see experienced anglers relying solely on the Zara Spook during topwater season. The lure's simplicity and effectiveness make it a staple in any angler's tackle box.

When it comes to presentation, the Zara Spook is most effective when fished in the early morning or late afternoon when fish are more active. The lure can be worked in a variety of ways, including a steady retrieve, a stop-and-go retrieve, or a "walk-the-dog" retrieve. Experimenting with different retrieves is key to finding what works best on any given day.

In conclusion, the Zara Spook is a must-have lure for any angler who loves topwater fishing. Its proven effectiveness, ease of use, and versatility make it a favorite among anglers of all skill levels.