The drop shot rig is a popular technique for bass fishing, especially in finesse fishing situations.
It’s effective for targeting suspended bass or holding close to the bottom. Here’s how you can set up a drop shot bass rig:
Choose a right Rod and reel
Choose a medium-light to medium-power rod with a fast or extra-fast action for better sensitivity and control.
Match it with a spinning reel that has a smooth drag system.
Line Selection
Select the right line. Use a low-visibility and lightweight line, such as a fluorocarbon or braided line with a fluorocarbon leader.
For the mainline, choose a line in the range of 6-10 lb (2.7-4.5 kg) test.
The leader should be around 6-12 lb (2.7-5.4 kg) test, depending on the fishing conditions and the size of the bass you’re targeting.
Knot Selection
Secure the hook to the leader by tying a resilient knot like the Palomar knot or any other reliable option.
Leave a trailing end measuring approximately 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the tied knot.
Weight Selection
Attach a drop shot weight to the tag end of the leader. Drop shot weights are typically cylindrical or round in shape.
You can use specially designed drop shot weights or a regular split shot weight.
The weight’s size should be chosen based on the depth and conditions of the fishing area. Start with a weight of around 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5-7 grams).
Hook Selection
About 12-24 inches (30-60 cm) above the drop shot weight, tie another Palomar knot or any other strong knot to attach a drop shot hook.
Use a light-wire, wide-gap hook, such as a size 1 to 3/0, depending on the size of the soft plastic bait you plan to use.
Include drop shot rigs
Rig your preferred soft plastic bait onto the drop shot hook. Popular options for drop shot rigs include finesse worms, minnow imitations, and creature baits.
Thread the hook through the bait, usually nose-hooking or wacky rigging, to maximize its action in the water.
Set up the rig
Once the rig is set up, cast it out and let it sink to the desired depth. Use a slow and gentle lifting and shaking motion to work the bait.
The drop shot rig is often worked vertically, but you can also drag it slowly across the bottom or twitch it subtly.
Pay attention to retrieving the rig
Pay attention to subtle taps or weight changes while retrieving the rig. Bass will often pick up the bait and swim away with it, so be ready to detect those light bites and set the hook with a gentle, upward motion.
Remember, the specifics of your setup may vary depending on your fishing conditions and personal preferences, so feel free to experiment with different weights, hooks, and soft plastic baits to find what works best for you.
Drop shot rig for largemouth bass
The drop shot rig is an effective technique for targeting largemouth bass. Here’s how you can set up a drop shot bass rig specifically for largemouth bass:
Equipment: Use a spinning rod and reel combo with a medium to medium-heavy power rod and a smooth-drag spinning reel.
This will provide you with the necessary sensitivity and control for bass fishing.
Line Selection: Choose a low-visibility and lightweight line, such as fluorocarbon, or braided with a fluorocarbon leader.
For a line in the 8-12 lb (3.6-5.4 kg) test range for the mainline. The leader should be around 6-10 lb (2.7-4.5 kg) test.
Hook Selection: Use a drop shot hook appropriate for the size of the soft plastic bait you plan to use.
Largemouth bass is often targeted using hooks in the 1/0 to 3/0 size range. For optimal hooksets, a wide-gap hook with a lighter wire.
Weight Selection
- Choose a drop shot weight that suits the fishing conditions.
- Start with weights of 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5-7 grams).
- Adjust the weight based on the depth you’re fishing and the rate of water current.
Soft Plastic Baits: Largemouth bass can be enticed by various soft plastic baits on a drop shot rig.
Popular choices include finesse worms, creature baits, and minnow imitations.
Experiment with different colors and profiles to match the forage in your fishing area.
Rigging
- Tie a Palomar knot or any other strong knot to attach the drop shot hook to the leader.
- Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the knot.
- Attach the drop shot weight to the tag end of the leader.
Presentation
- Cast the rig near likely bass-holding areas, such as structures, weed edges, or drop-offs.
- Allow the rig to sink to the desired depth.
- Use a subtle presentation by gently shaking, twitching, or dragging the bait to entice the bass to strike.
Detecting Strikes: Pay close attention to subtle bites or weight changes. Largemouth bass often takes the bait and swim away with it.
Be ready to detect these light bites and set the hook with a gentle, upward motion.
Remember to adjust your setup based on the fishing conditions and adapt to the preferences of the bass in your specific fishing location.
Drop shot rig for smallmouth bass
The drop shot rig is a highly effective technique for targeting smallmouth bass. Here’s how you can set up a drop shot rig specifically for smallmouth bass:
Equipment: Use a spinning rod and reel combo with a medium-light to medium power rod and a smooth-drag spinning reel.
For a drop shot rod with good sensitivity and a reel with a smooth drag system.
Line Selection: Choose a low-visibility and lightweight line, such as a fluorocarbon or braided with a fluorocarbon leader.
For the mainline, select a line in the range of 6-8 lb (2.7-3.6 kg) test. The leader should be around 4-6 lb (1.8-2.7 kg) test.
Hook Selection: Use a drop shot hook suitable for the size of the soft plastic bait you plan to use.
Smallmouth bass can be targeted with hook sizes ranging from 1 to 2/0. For a light-wire, wide-gap hook for better hooksets.
Weight Selection: Choose a drop shot weight appropriate for the fishing conditions.
Start with weights in the range of 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5-7 grams) and adjust based on the depth you’re fishing and the rate of water current.
Soft Plastic Baits: Smallmouth bass responds well to various soft plastic baits on a drop shot bass rig.
Popular choices include finesse worms, grubs, tubes, and crawfish imitations. Experiment with different colors and profiles to match the forage in your fishing area.
Rigging
- Tie a Palomar knot or any other strong knot to attach the drop shot hook to the leader.
- Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the knot.
- Attach the drop shot weight to the tag end of the leader.
Presentation
- Cast the rig near rocky structures, drop-offs, or likely smallmouth bass habitats.
- Allow the rig to sink to the desired depth.
- Use a finesse presentation by subtly shaking, twitching, or hopping the bait along the bottom to entice strikes from smallmouth bass.
Detecting Strikes: Closely to subtle taps, weight changes, or line movement. Smallmouth bass can be more aggressive in their strikes compared to largemouth bass.
When you feel a strike, set the hook with a firm, upward motion to ensure a solid hookset.
Remember to adjust your setup and presentation based on the fishing conditions, water clarity, and the preferences of smallmouth bass in your specific fishing location.
How to tie a drop shot rig for bass
Tying a drop shot rig for bass is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to tie a basic drop shot rig for bass:
- Start with a length of fishing line or fluorocarbon leader material. Cut a piece of line or leader approximately 2 to 3 feet long, depending on your preference and fishing conditions.
- Take one end of the line or leader and tie a Palomar knot or any other strong knot to attach the drop shot hook.
- Slide the tag end of the line or leader through the eye of the hook, then double it back on itself to create a loop.
- Hold the loop and the vertical line together and pass them through the hook eye again, forming a larger circle. Make sure the loop is large enough to fit the hook through comfortably.
- Wet the line or leader, then pull both ends of the line or leader to tighten the knot securely onto the hook. Trim any excess line or leader tag end.
- Slide the hook down the line or leader, leaving a gap of about 12 to 18 inches (30-45 cm) from the hook to the weight.
- This length can be adjusted based on your preference and fishing conditions.
- Attach the drop shot weight on the line or the leader’s tag end. Specialized drop-shot weights are available, but you can also use regular split-shot weights. Slide the weight onto the line or leader, ensuring it is secure.
- You can add a small plastic clip or swivel between the weight and the hook if you prefer to change the size quickly or minimize line twists.
- Rig your preferred soft plastic bait onto the drop shot hook. Popular choices for bass include finesse worms, minnow imitations, creature baits, or crawfish imitations.
- Thread the bait onto the hook, either nose-hooking or wacky rigging it to maximize its action in the water.
- You have tied a basic drop shot rig for bass fishing with these steps.
Remember to adjust the length of the leader, hook size, weight, and bait according to the fishing conditions and your target bass species’ preferences.
How to fish a drop shot rig for bass
Fishing a drop shot rig for bass requires finesse and a strategic approach. Here’s a guide on how to effectively fish a drop shot rig for bass:
Cast and Let it Sink
- Choose your target area, whether the near structure, weed edges, or known bass-holding spots.
- Cast your drop shot rig to the desired location and allow it to sink to the bottom.
- Pay attention to the depth you’re fishing and adjust the length of the leader accordingly.
Maintain Contact: Once the rig has reached the bottom, keep the line taut and maintain contact with the weight and the bait.
You should be able to feel any subtle strikes or changes in weight transmitted through the line.
Shake and Quiver: Use a subtle shaking or quivering motion with your rod tip to impart action to the bait.
This mimics the movement of a natural prey item and can attract the attention of the bass.
Experiment with different cadences and intensities to see what triggers the most bites.
Drag or Hop: After shaking the bait in place, you can drag or hop the rig along the bottom.
Lift your rod tip gently and lower it, allowing the weight to move the rig across the bottom in short hops or dragging motions.
This can imitate a baitfish or a small creature moving along the substrate.
Vary the Retrieve: Mix up your retrieve speed and technique. Try slow and subtle movements, as well as slightly more aggressive ones, to gauge the bass’s preference on that particular day.
Sometimes a slow crawl works best, while other times, a more active presentation is required to trigger a reaction strike.
Pay Attention to Bites: Smallmouth and largemouth bass often bite subtly, so being attentive is crucial.
Keep an eye on your line for any twitches, pauses, or any indications of a strike. Set the hook gently upwardly to ensure a solid hookset if you notice anything unusual or feel a slight tap or resistance.
Explore Different Depths: While the drop shot rig is commonly fished closer to the bottom, don’t be afraid to experiment with different depths.
Smallmouth bass, in particular, may sometimes be suspended off the bottom. Adjust the length of the leader and vary your casts at different depths to cover the entire water column.
Stay Patient and Experiment: Drop-shot fishing for bass often requires patience and persistence.
It’s essential to stay focused and be willing to experiment with different bait colors, sizes, and presentations to find what works best on a given day.
Remember to adapt your technique based on the fishing conditions, the behavior of the bass, and the feedback you receive from your bites.
Each day on the water can bring new challenges and opportunities, so be open to adjusting your approach to maximize your success with the drop shot rig.
Double drop shot rig for bass
The double drop shot rig is a variation of the traditional one that allows you to present two baits simultaneously, increasing your chances of enticing bass.
Here’s how you can set up a double drop shot rig for bass:
Equipment: Use a spinning rod and reel combo with a medium-light to medium power rod and a smooth-drag spinning reel for a setup that can handle the weight of two rigs without compromising sensitivity.
Line Selection: Choose a low-visibility and lightweight line, such as fluorocarbon, or braided with a fluorocarbon leader.
For the mainline, select a line in the range of 6-10 lb (2.7-4.5 kg) test. The leader should be around 4-8 lb (1.8-3.6 kg) test.
Tying the Rig: Start by tying a Palomar knot or any other strong knot to attach the drop shot hook to the leader.
Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the knot.
Slide a drop shot weight onto the tag end of the leader. Position the weight at the desired distance from the hook, typically around 12-18 inches (30-45 cm). The weight should be secure but able to move freely along the leader.
Tie a second drop shot hook to the remaining tag end of the leader using the same knot as before.
Position the second hook a few inches above the weight, leaving enough space for the baits to hang freely.
Rigging the Baits: Select two soft plastic baits of your choice. Popular options include finesse worms, creature baits, or minnow imitations.
Thread each bait onto its hook, ensuring they are secure and provide a natural presentation.
Cast and Retrieve: Cast the double drop shot rig to your desired location, allowing it to sink to the desired depth.
Once the rig is on the bottom, employ various techniques such as shaking, dragging, or hopping to simultaneously impart action to both baits.
Pay Attention to Bites: Monitor your line for subtle bites or weight changes. Getting double strikes is possible since you have two baits on the rig.
When you feel a bite, set the drop shot hook with a gentle upward motion to secure the hook in the bass’s mouth.
The double drop shot rig can be effective when the bass is feeding on multiple prey items or when you want to present different bait profiles or colors to increase your chances of enticing strikes.
Experiment with different bait combinations and presentations to determine what works best on a given day and fishing conditions.
Best drop shot rig for bass
When dropping shot rigs for bass, you can try several effective setups. Here are three popular and effective drop shot rigs for bass fishing:
Traditional Drop Shot Rig
- Tie a drop shot hook to a fluorocarbon leader using a Palomar knot.
- Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and attach a drop shot weight.
- Rig your preferred soft plastic bait onto the hook, such as finesse worms or creature baits.
- Cast the rig out and let it sink to the desired depth, then use a subtle shaking, twitching, or dragging motion to entice the bass to strike.
Double Drop Shot Rig
- Tie two drop shot hooks to a fluorocarbon leader, positioning one hook a few inches above the other.
- Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) and attach a drop shot weight.
- Rig different soft plastic baits onto each hook, providing variation in color or profile.
- Cast the rig, let it sink, and employ various techniques to entice bass, such as shaking, dragging, or hopping.
Wacky Drop Shot Rig
- Instead of a traditional drop shot hook, use a wacky-style hook with a weedless or o-ring setup.
- Attach the hook to the leader using a Palomar or another suitable knot.
- Attach a drop shot weight to the tag end of the leader.
- Rig a soft plastic stick bait wacky-style onto the hook by inserting the hook through the middle of the bait.
- Cast the rig, allow it to sink, and gently twitch or shake to make the stick bait come alive.
Remember, the best drop shot rig for bass can vary depending on the fishing conditions and the preferences of the bass in your specific area.
Experimenting with different rigs, bait colors, sizes, and presentations is always a good idea to determine what works best on a given day.
Three Ways to Drop Shot
Certainly! Here are three different ways to approach drop shot fishing:
Finesse Approach
- The finesse approach uses light tackle and subtle presentations to entice bass in a more finicky or inactive mood. Here’s how to employ the finesse approach:
- Use a light or ultralight spinning rod and reel combo with a sensitive tip.
- When using a smaller drop shot setup, the weight typically falls within the range of 1/8 to 1/4 ounce (3.5-7 grams).
- Tie on a smaller drop shot hook, typically in size 1 to 2/0.
- Choose finesse-style soft plastic baits like finesse worms, small creature baits, or small minnow imitations.
- Present the rig with subtle twitches, shakes, or slow dragging motions to mimic natural movements.
- Pay close attention to subtle bites or weight changes, and set the hook gently when you detect a strike.
Power Approach
- The power approach involves using heavier tackle and more aggressive presentations to target active and aggressive bass. Here’s how to utilize the power approach:
- Use a medium to medium-heavy spinning or baitcasting rod and reel combo with faster action.
- Depending on the depth and conditions, for a larger drop shot weight, usually 3/8 to 1/2 ounce (10.5-14 grams).
- Tie on a larger drop shot hook, typically in size 2/0 to 4/0.
- Choose bulkier soft plastic baits like creature baits, paddle-tail worms, or larger minnow imitations.
- Present the rig with more aggressive movements, including quick hops, aggressive shakes, or fast retrieves with occasional pauses.
- Be prepared for stronger strikes, and set the hook firmly when you feel a bite.
Vertical Approach
- The vertical approach involves targeting bass that is suspended or holding near vertical structures such as drop-offs, ledges, or submerged trees. Here’s how to employ the vertical approach:
- Position your boat directly over the structure you want to target.
- Use a drop shot weight that is heavy enough to reach the desired depth quickly.
- Let the rig free-fall vertically to the bottom.
- Once on the bottom, employ subtle shaking, hopping, or lifting motions to entice strikes.
- Pay attention to your sonar or fish finder to locate suspended bass or key depth changes where bass might be holding.
- Experiment with different depths by adjusting the length of the leader or the weight size to find where the bass are located.
Remember, the approach you choose will depend on the fishing conditions, the behavior of the bass, and your personal preference.
Be willing to adapt and experiment with different techniques to find what works best on a given day.
How do you rig a drop shot for bass?
To rig a drop shot for bass, follow these steps:
- Tie a drop shot hook to the end of your line using a suitable knot, such as a Palomar knot.
- Leave a tag end of about 12-18 inches (30-45 cm) from the knot.
- Slide a drop shot weight onto the tag end of the line. The weight should be positioned a few inches below the hook depending on the desired distance from the bottom.
- Attach the weight to the line using a clip-on weight or by tying a small loop above it and passing it through the weight’s hole.
- Rig your preferred soft plastic bait onto the drop shot hook. Common choices include finesse worms, creature baits, or minnow imitations.
- Ensure the bait is straight and secure on the hook by threading it through the center or using a specialized bait keeper or O-ring.
- Test the rig by gently pulling on the weight to ensure the bait moves naturally and the rig is properly balanced.
Remember to experiment with different bait colors, sizes, and presentations to determine what works best on a given day.
Conclusion
The drop shot rig is a highly effective technique for targeting bass. It provides a finesse presentation that can entice bass in various fishing conditions, including clear water, pressured lakes, and when bass are sluggish or finicky.
The basic setup of a drop shot rig involves a weight tied to the end of the line, with a drop shot hook tied above it.
A soft plastic bait is rigged on the hook, allowing it to suspend above the bottom. This setup allows for precise control and subtle movements that can trigger strikes from the bass.
When fishing a drop shot rig for bass, it’s important to experiment with different bait colors, sizes, and presentations to determine what works best on a given day.
Techniques such as shaking, quivering, dragging, and hopping can impart action to the bait and entice the bass to strike.
It’s crucial to maintain contact with the rig, pay attention to bites, and set the hook gently when you feel a strike.
Adapt your approach based on the fishing conditions and the behavior of the bass to maximize your success with the drop shot rig.
Check out the Grub Fishing available on our website.
Drop Shot Bass Rig Video
FAQs
Is drop shot good for bass fishing?
Yes, a drop shot is an excellent technique for bass fishing. It is particularly effective when the bass is in a finicky or less active mood or when fishing in clear water or heavily pressured areas.
The drop shot rig’s finesse presentation, versatility, and ability to target specific depths make it a go-to choice for many bass anglers.
The drop shot allows for precise control and subtle movements and can entice largemouth and smallmouth bass bites.
What is the best bass line for a drop shot?
The best line for drop-shot bass fishing depends on water conditions, personal preference, and fishing style.
However, the fluorocarbon line is commonly favored for drop-shot fishing due to its low visibility and sensitivity.
Fluorocarbon lines in the range of 6-10 lb (2.7-4.5 kg) tests are often used as the mainline for drop shot rigs. It offers good sensitivity to detect subtle bites and gives a better feel of the bottom structure.
Additionally, fluorocarbon sinks faster than monofilament, which helps maintain a more vertical presentation.
However, considering the specific fishing conditions and adjusting your line choice is always a good idea.
What is a drop shot rig good for?
A drop shot rig is good for various fishing situations, including:
- Finesse Fishing: The drop shot rig’s finesse presentation makes it highly effective when the bass is in a demanding or less active mood. It allows for precise control and subtle movements that can entice bites.
- Clear Water: In clear water conditions, where bass can be warier and easily spooked, the drop shot rig’s subtle and natural presentation can be highly effective in enticing strikes.
- Pressured Lakes: Drop shot fishing excels in heavily pressured lakes or areas where bass have seen a lot of traditional presentations. The finesse approach of the rig can trigger bites when other techniques fail.
- Suspended Bass: When the bass is suspended off the bottom or relating to specific depths or structures, the drop shot rig allows you to precisely target those areas and keep your bait in the strike zone for extended periods.
- Vertical Structure: The drop shot rig is excellent for fishing vertical structures such as drop-offs, ledges, or submerged trees. It lets you keep the bait in the desired zone and entice strikes from bass near the structure.