Advanced Dropshotting

By now, most of you have probably experienced the "Lucky Rig", as it is called in Japan. I am convinced that the dropshot is the hottest technique going, and it’s potential is only growing. The basic rig will consistently put fish in the boat on practically any occasion, but let’s take a look at some new variations that will take this thing to an even higher level. From personal experimentation to conversations with several dropshot fanatics, I have come up with some new angles to think about.

One of the first steps anglers take when trying to locate the strike-zone is to adjust the distance between the hook and the weight until they find the right set-up. To speed this up, I like to set one hook about a foot above the weight and another at about two-foot. This can help you unless, of course, you hook two big bass at the same time on that 6-8 lb. line. Then you are in trouble. I may even go higher if nothing is happening.

Though the vertical presentation is what I like to start with, I will switch to a short cast and drag back method if I am working a shoreline or just trying to mix it up. When casting I will sometimes add a Texas-rigged worm or a jig in place of the dropshot weight and have my hook around two-feet. This allows me to see if fish are bottom-feeding. I like the hook at least two feet from the bottom rig because when dragging it, the dropshot hook will run lower than usual because of the angle. I fish this set-up pretty slow.

Another situation where most people are afraid to go to a dropshot is in dense cover. Typically anglers will flip into the holes in this situation, but while pre-fishing a tournament at Lake Pleasant with a good friend I noticed he was using 15 lb. test, a 2/0 hook and a six-inch worm, and he was catching some nice fish. Sure enough I soon took his advise and caught several in the three pound range that I never could have gotten out of there with my light-line rig. We were looking for holes in the visible brush and dropping down in the middle of it, shaking and catching. The larger set-up will work in open water and will usually produce better fish, but the light set-up will catch the better numbers most of the time.

In closing I would like to share with you a little tip that can make a big difference sometimes. If you have ever had a day where you were getting bites but missing the fish, switch hook styles. I will carry three styles at all times, g-lock, splitshot and some dropshot hooks from Owner. I learned this from a buddy of mine and it really does work.

The bottom line is this is a very versatile technique that you should not be afraid to experiment with. Good luck and good fishin’, KIP POLLAY (AZOD)

Prior Article: Dropshot Rigs