Drop Shot Fishing

Friday, 11 May 2007

Whatever it may be called – down shot, drop shot, or even under shot; its effectiveness has been proven many times over by thousand of fishermen all over the US and around the world. Generally it is a fine fishing technique which involves the use of light weights and small baits that are basically made of plastic. When utilizing drop shot fishing, some anglers use the technique for deep sea fishing, that is, angling under the fishing boat for those present suspended or lethargic fish.

More fishermen nowadays are using the drop shot like they would use other worm technique such as the dart heading or split shotting, by casting it upwards on the bank and then shake back toward the boat, working along some ambush points. The weights and hooks utilized for drop shot fishing are turning more complex in recent years and major rod manufacturers have done great taper designs specifically for this fishing method.

Drop shot fishing is indeed effective on suspended fish. If for example you have found a school of bass fish that are suspended on some deep structures, try positioning your boat near or over the school and then drop your bait directly on top of them. You have to shake the worm while you keep the weight down on the bottom allowing for few, long stops. Try working the area with utmost care, especially during winter months and surely enough, your patience in using drop shot fishing will be rewarded with a great catch of quality bass no other angler can match. It is however imperative that you utilize a long leader. Try to make it really long enough for you to place the worm around the level that the fish is on hold, 4 to 5 feet in length or even more is oftentimes needed.

Most of the time the hit is almost undetectable and you might barely notice some added weight on your line. In this case, it is probably time to set your hook. Many veteran anglers using drop shot fishing will lift the rig occasionally a few feet in order to check for any presence of fish on their hooks which they might not have felt. You must try working your bait around the area which you think some fish might be holding, then crank up. Try again if unsuccessful. One of the advantages of the drop shot weights is that if you cannot shake and unloose them, you can pull hard on the clip and it will automatically cut your line. All you have to do is clip another weight and you are back in the game.