Shimano
2.08m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb
Rig
Drop-shot rig
The weight sits on the bottom and the bait floats above it on a short tag, so the bait stays at one depth.
The numbers match the parts list. The drawing is stylised, not to scale.
How it works
The hook is tied to the main line with a tag end left long. A weight on the end of the tag holds the bait just off the bottom. It lets you shake a bait in one place, which suits cautious fish in clear water.
- Best for
- Clear, pressured water and fish holding near the bottom or over structure.
- Conditions
- Clear, deeper water and pressured fish.
Parts list
- 1
Main line. Fluorocarbon, 6 to 10 lb.
- 2
Hook, point up. Tied with a palomar so the point sits upward.
- 3
Soft plastic. A small worm or minnow, hooked through the nose.
- 4
Tag end. 20 to 40 cm of line below the hook.
- 5
Drop-shot weight. A tear-drop or cylinder weight, 3.5 to 10 g.
Build it
- 1
Tie the hook to the line with a palomar knot, leaving a long tag end.
- 2
Make sure the tag end runs down from the eye of the hook.
- 3
Tie the weight to the end of the tag with a clinch knot.
- 4
Nose-hook the plastic so it floats above the weight.
- 5
Cast, let the weight settle, then shake the rod tip.
Strengths and trade-offs
Strengths
- Holds the bait in one place
- Great in clear water
- Good for light line
Watch out for
- Covers little water
- Needs light tackle
Excellent for cautious fish, but it covers little water and needs light line and tight control.
Knots and hooks
Hook sizes 1/0 to 2/0 suit this rig. See the hook guide.
Rig and hook recommendations are pending review by a local angler. Check bag limits and gear rules for your area before you fish.
Gear
Gear that suits this rig
Shimano
2.03m
7–28 g · 10–20 lb
Ugly Stik
1.98m
7–28 g · 8–17 lb
Ugly Stik
1.98m
5–21 g · 6–14 lb
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