The Zara Spook made by Heddon is the first bait that comes to mind when anglers talk about walk-the-dog lures. In fact, many anglers will often refer to all walk-the-dog lures as “Spooks.” It was the first of its kind, so the term “Spook” became kind of a blanket name for all topwater walking baits.
Spooks are long and narrow topwater baits that are shaped like cigars. Like with all walk-the-dog lures, the Zara Spook zigzags back and forth on the surface as the angler jerks their rod. This walking action creates a really attractive sound and appearance in the water, mimicking a struggling baitfish.
Not only are Spooks the oldest walk-the-dog lures, they’re one of the oldest bass lures that are still used today. Many people wonder where the name came from. Well as the history goes, its original name was the Zaragossa when it was first created back in the 1920’s.
That’s where the “Zara” part comes from. The “Spook” part came from the makers thinking that the translucent body looked ghostly in the water. Put them together and that’s how the Zara Spook got its name.
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Types of Spooks
The original Zara Spook is still a popular choice among bass fishermen. But since its conception, Heddon has come out with new versions of the bait. They all work the same for the most part, just in additional sizes and with additional features.
The newer versions have things like rattles, knockers and feathered hooks, but they’re still all walking baits. We’re going to dive into the difference between all of them. Read the differences closely so you can select the best Zara Spook for the conditions you’re fishing.
Zara Spook
4-1/2 inches • 1/2 ounce
The classic Zara Spook is true to its original design, and a great choice for when you want to keep things simple. There are no rattles, knockers, flash, or feathers added to these baits. They also come with pretty basic hooks that you should consider upgrading. We suggest Owner ST-41 treble hooks in a size 2.
Rattlin Spook
4-1/2 inches • 3/4 ounce
This Spook has the same look and size as the original Spook, but it makes a rattling noise while in action. There is a rattle chamber inside the bait that is filled with multiple tungsten BB’s. You might consider using a Rattlin Spook when you want some additional noise in murky or choppy water. This version comes equipped with Mustad Triple Grip Hooks.
One-Knocker Spook
4-1/2 inches • 3/4 ounce
The Knocker Spook is again, the same size as the original Spook, but this bait has a knocker in it. If you aren’t familiar with what a knocker is, it’s a metal ball in a chamber inside the body of the bait. The ball slides back and forth inside the chamber as the bait walks, making a loud “knocking” sound. Also a great choice for murky or choppy water and also come equipped with Mustad Triple Grip Hooks.
Super Spook
5 inches • 7/8 ounce
At five inches long, the Super Spook biggest Zara Spook of them all. They feature flashier and more detailed paint finishes than the original. They are equipped with a rattle and three treble hooks instead of two. They also come with a feathered treble hook option for the rear hook.
Super Spook Jr
3-1/2 inches • 1/2 ounce
The Super Spook Jr is, you guessed it, a smaller version of the Super Spook. It is shorter, lighter, and has two treble hooks instead of three. It’s actually smaller than even the original Zara Spook. It also comes with a feathered treble hook option for the rear hook.
Chug’n Spook
4-7/8 inches • 1 ounce
The thing that makes this Spook different is the cupped mouth at the front. The mouth gives it the versatility to be fished as a walk-the-dog lure or a chugger. The walking action also tends to make more splashing than the pointed nose of regular Spooks.
Chug’n Spook Jr
3-1/2 inches • 1/2 ounce
This is the smaller version of the Chug’n Spook at three and a half inches long. This is a great choice for targeting smallmouth or when nothing is hitting the bigger Chug’n Spook.
Wounded Zara Spook
4-1/2 inches • 3/4 ounce
The Wounded Zara Spook is a hybrid between a walk-the-dog bait and prop bait. It’s basically the body of a Spook with props at the front and rear of the bait. As the bait zigzags from side to side the props spin creating additional splashing and sputtering to attract bass.
Zara Puppy
3 inches • 1/4 ounce
And lastly we have the Zara Puppy, the smallest version of a Spook. At only three inches long and a quarter ounce this bait is perfect for lighter tackle like a spinning rod. These baits are great for when bass are not eating big baits, or the water is pretty calm.
