Bassdozer Bass Fishing Blog: Megabass Ito Engineering POP-MAX Topwater for Bass Fishing

Model: ITO ENGINEERING POP-MAX
Type: Topwater, Walking, Rolling, Splashing, Diving
Weight: 1/2 oz
Length: 3-3/8" (78 mm)

The POP-MAX is one of the very best bass lures that Megabass offers, and it is relatively hard to get / hard to find.

The POP-MAX is categorized as a popper, but it is much more than that. It is equipped with a large and complex series of six water intakes and a water pressure chamber which makes what you might call a more natural ‘bio-sound’ compared to other poppers. POP-MAX is more dynamic than other poppers. Its action is based on dog-walking, side-rolling, but it also grabs so much water each time it turns its head, it really agitates the surface each time it rolls from one side to the other.

The original POP-MAX mold was carved out by Yuki Ito rather than relying on computer design programs. As expected of Megabass, the overall quality of the finish and paint patterns are impeccable. Also, POP-MAX features a unique water flow system which consists of six water intakes and a water chamber. Instead of the regular water-through system used for the smaller size Megabass POP-X, the POP-MAX utilizes a water-accumulating chamber inside, and as water pressure changes inside the POP-MAX chamber, it makes the cupped face act like a crankbait lip when filled with water. Furthermore, when paused, the water in the chamber goes out and lifts its head, ready for a splash with a gentle rod action. That gentle rod tip action is the key to make POP-MAX roll-walk dynamically, grabbing the water with each rolling action.

Since poppers tend to sit still more often than other lures, it is critical to look ‘real’ or ‘natural.’

POP-MAX is one of the most realistic, beautiful and intricately-detailed bass lures you will ever see.

If there is any topwater bait which looks more convincingly natural and more detailed than POP-MAX, please let me know.

Back Bone Rib Balancer System. The internal body is a complex construction of 'balancer ribs' inside. This construction concept is unique to the Pop-Max, and is there in order to increase its structural integrity - and at the same time raise the center of gravity or balance point higher up on the bait. This internal construction is not readily visible. From the outside, the structural design does not reveal itself, but it is what gives POP-Max its unique balance and rolling action. POP-MAX is the only Megabass product with this internal ribbed construction. When you walk the dog with it, due to the high center of gravity of the ribs inside, it causes the dynamic roll that displays the vulnerable stomach of POP-MAX each time it rolls.

High Impact Resin. The body resin material is especially able to absorb impact, states Megabass. So the lure is not fragile and not prone to break due to the cut-out water duct intakes.

Water Intakes and Pressure Chamber. The water from the six water intakes does not flow through, but water accumulates and builds up water pressure within a water chamber inside. With delicate rod action, the water pressure changes inside, and some water is discharged by the pressure build-up. The pressure discharge helps the POP-MAX to roll and to walk. The water chamber, when filled and under pressure, also causes the cupped face to act a little like a crankbait lip, and causes the POP-MAX to dog walk as it dives underwater easily.

Pausing the POP-MAX releases the water pressure inside the water chamber, and that's the time to pop it lightly, like a typical topwater popper, to make a splash.

POP-MAX (1st and 3rd) has a huge body size compared to conventional poppers, yet POP-MAX responds sensitively to gentle rod movements.

Super long distance casting, even in a stiff breeze.