Post by eriequest on Dec 26, 2008 13:40:56 GMT -5
The drop-shot rig is a relative newcomer to the world of bass fishing, at least it is to those who us who live anywhere outside of the West. Drop Shotting originated in the deep, clear reservoirs of the western United States where it was used to entice finicky bass. The technique soon spread to the southern reaches of the nation where it was just the ticket for filling limits of bass. Largemouth bass fishermen quickly caught on...the success of big-name tournament anglers rocketed. Soon, some of the biggest names on the BASS series, started wielding spinning rods, tiny hooks and light line with regularity....the Drop Shot Rig
But smallmouth bass? You bet and trust me, believe it!
The drop-shot, for those unfamiliar with it, is about as simple as bass fishing gets. It features a small octopus-style hook, a light weight and your choice of finesse plastics or "live bait". Tying up a drop-shot is easy.
First, start with a quality hook. You'll be using hooks much smaller than you're used to and quality hooks are extremely important. Use one that's tack-sharp and fish will stay stuck. Capt Rick's favorite choice is the Gamakatsu's drop shot hook or Eagle Claw's Octopus Hook,# L7226BP. Hooks sizes vary slightly depending on the plastic you're attaching to the hook. For small, finesse-style worms, I'll use a size 1. For drop-shot gobies and softcraws...I like a 1/0. Next, tie the hook to the line using a Palomar knot, leaving an extra-long tag end of about 6-16 inches.
Finally, attach a drop-shot or "bell sinker" weight to the "open" end of the line. Use can purchase a specially designed Drop-Shot weights (specially-designed weights that feature a small swivel with line-pinching eyes) or use a 1/4 oz bell sinker, also known as casting sinkers.
Just pass the line through the eye, pull up and the line will cinch in tight. You can add a simple overhand knot to keep the weight from pulling free.
Especially, when fishing the open waters of the Great Lakes...like Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair or even the famous, Dale Hollow , where some of the biggest smallmouth bass in North America roam...the Drop Shot Rig catches the biggest of the big Bronzebacks!
Smallmouth bass fishing at it's finest with Erie Quest & the Drop Shot Rig
Trophy smallmouth bass, Sept. 2008 with Erie Quest in the distant Canadian waters of Lake Erie
Sept. 2008, Lake Erie - Canadian waters near Pelee Island, Drop Shot Rig
But smallmouth bass? You bet and trust me, believe it!
The drop-shot, for those unfamiliar with it, is about as simple as bass fishing gets. It features a small octopus-style hook, a light weight and your choice of finesse plastics or "live bait". Tying up a drop-shot is easy.
First, start with a quality hook. You'll be using hooks much smaller than you're used to and quality hooks are extremely important. Use one that's tack-sharp and fish will stay stuck. Capt Rick's favorite choice is the Gamakatsu's drop shot hook or Eagle Claw's Octopus Hook,# L7226BP. Hooks sizes vary slightly depending on the plastic you're attaching to the hook. For small, finesse-style worms, I'll use a size 1. For drop-shot gobies and softcraws...I like a 1/0. Next, tie the hook to the line using a Palomar knot, leaving an extra-long tag end of about 6-16 inches.
Finally, attach a drop-shot or "bell sinker" weight to the "open" end of the line. Use can purchase a specially designed Drop-Shot weights (specially-designed weights that feature a small swivel with line-pinching eyes) or use a 1/4 oz bell sinker, also known as casting sinkers.
Just pass the line through the eye, pull up and the line will cinch in tight. You can add a simple overhand knot to keep the weight from pulling free.
Especially, when fishing the open waters of the Great Lakes...like Lake Erie and Lake St. Clair or even the famous, Dale Hollow , where some of the biggest smallmouth bass in North America roam...the Drop Shot Rig catches the biggest of the big Bronzebacks!
Smallmouth bass fishing at it's finest with Erie Quest & the Drop Shot Rig
Trophy smallmouth bass, Sept. 2008 with Erie Quest in the distant Canadian waters of Lake Erie
Sept. 2008, Lake Erie - Canadian waters near Pelee Island, Drop Shot Rig
Just another night at work for me and Monty will be back here again bright and early. 
