Berkley Screamin’ Choppo Screams for Bass’s Attention: OHUB Review

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Berkley Screamin’ Choppo Screams for Bass’s Attention: OHUB Review

I’ve fished with the Berkley Choppo for years, so I was very excited to fish the latest version when the new Screamin’ Choppo was released. I used it in my farm ponds throughout the fall, and I’ve been impressed with this topwater plopper lure. But is it that much different from the original? You’ll find out in this Berkley Screamin’ Choppo review.

Specs & Design Features

• Sizes: 95 and 110
• Colors: 14 different color patterns
• Hooks: Fusion19

The Berkley Screamin’ Choppo is available in two sizes and 14 various colors and patterns so that you can match the forage and conditions of any bass fishing environment. The Screamin’ Choppo utilizes Fusion19 hooks that are sharp straight out of the package. The Screamin’ Choppo isn’t designed to replace the classic Choppo. It’s intended to provide an additional sound profile for tough days and fisheries.

Action & Presentation

The Screamin’ Choppo delivers on the promise to swim straight without rolling over at various speeds. I’ve fished it slow and fast with zero problems. It does have a unique sound, thanks to the metal-on-metal grinding tail structure. I like to retrieve it steadily along the edge of the ponds and grass, but I’ve also had success pausing it mid-retrieve in a spot that looks like it should be holding a bass.

Rating:

8 / 10

Casting & Ease of Use

I’ve been impressed with how far I can cast this lure. I’ve accidentally cast it too far on more than one occasion because it flies through the air so well. I prefer it on a moderate or moderate-heavy rod. I typically use the same baitcasting rod and reel as I do for my crankbaits, but I’ve also tossed it around on my do-all spinning rod and reel. It’s a great lure because it doesn’t require any special gear or techniques to entice a bite or two, which is why I believe it’s beginner-friendly.

Rating:

9 / 10

Hookup Ratio & Fish Response

I’ve had fish blow up on this plopper without hesitation. The Fusion treble hooks ensure a good hookup ratio, and they secure the fish well, as long as you get a good hookset and keep the line taught. Trebles hooks are still known not to be as effective at securing fish as single hooks, but I haven’t had any problems losing fish on the Screamin’ Choppo.

Rating:

8 / 10

Durability & Longevity

• How many fish can one bait catch before tearing or breaking?
• Does the bait hold up to hard strikes, snags, or toothy fish?
• Is it cost-effective based on how long it lasts?

Even after months of use, the Berkley Screamin’ Choppo still looks new. I have no doubt I’ll be using this plopper for many years to come because Berkley designs its lures to be durable and uses high-quality materials. Berkley claims that the cupped propeller will retain its shape and not warp in the sun or a hot tackle box. I’m excited to test that out this summer.

Rating:

9 / 10

Versatility & Conditions

Topwater lures are rarely the most versatile, but the Screamin’ Choppo is very effective during those times when you love to throw topwater lures. The wide color variety and screeching, plopping sound allow this plopper to be used in many water clarities, but it’s primarily a warm(ish), shallow-water lure. I haven’t had any luck drawing fish up much deeper than 5 feet. It’s also terrible in grass (thanks to the treble hooks and propeller, but shines along grass edges and open water.

Rating:

7 / 10

Value & Competition

At $14.99, the Berkley Screamin’ Choppo isn’t a cheap lure. However, it’s a very competitive price and not even close to being the most expensive plopper. I’ve used other plopper brands in this price range, and the quality and value are very comparable. For the quality you receive, it’s worth picking up a couple of Screamin’ Choppo’s to add to your tackle box. As long as you don’t lose it, you should be fishing with this lure for many years. Berkley is a brand you can trust to produce high-quality lures at competitive prices.

Rating:

8 / 10

Overall Rating: Berkley Screamin’ Choppo Review

The Berkley Screamin Choppo has earned a spot in my tackle box, but it hasn’t replaced the original thanks to its unique sound profile. If you fish pressured waters (like my small farm pond that gets fished at least once or twice a week), this plopper gives you a unique take on a proven lure. It doesn’t matter if you’re a full-time tournament angler or brand new to fishing; the Screamin’ Choppo will help you catch more fish when the topwater bite is on.

Rating:

8.2 / 10

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