Line for dropshot rod? Want to change what I'm using. 2024
WRangler506 reply :
I'm using a st croix legend 610 mlxf for dropshot. I set it up with braid and about a 6ft flouro leader. I don't remember what size braid, but I think the knot is hanging up in the micro guides. Should I run a longer leader? Shorter? Or run full flouro to avoid the knot? I'm not great with knots, but probably tied a double uni when I set it up.
I do still want to run some other finesse baits on this rod so not sure if that changes what I should run.
MN Fisher reply :
I run straight 8# Mono on my finesse rig - drop-shot, Ned, weightless worms/critters, etc.
CroakHunter reply :
I like 4lb cxx, 6lb hi seas grand slam, 6lb red label, or 7lb sniper. I am using a 3000 size reel on both my spinning combos
Jcj90 reply :
6lb trilene xl. Deep water id probably run a light braid/leader
Bluebasser86 reply :
What knot are you tying? Thin braid to a thin leader line with a well tied knot shouldn't be catching on the guides.
Bankbeater reply :
I use straight 6lb mono on my drop shot / split shot rig.
ResoKP reply :
For straight mono I like Sufix Advance. I did that last season on Avid X 6'9" ML/XF DS'ing and probably will do it again this season.
BoatSquirrel reply :
On 2/21/2019 at 12:53 PM, Bluebasser86 said:What knot are you tying?
Blue asks the important question here. An alberto/modified albright or fg knot should pass through your micro guides no problem.
10-20 lb braid to 6-10 fluoro leader for dropping by me.
WRangler506 reply :
I wrote double uni in the original post, but I think I got that wrong. I am FAR from a knot expert. I like to use the clinch, improved clinch and polomar whenever possible. I do remember google searching the alberto and fg when setting up my rods.
I dont think the knot looks that bad, but its almost like its in the wrong location. If the leader was any longer or shorter it wouldnt be passing through the guides when the rod is still loaded during a cast, so maybe thats part of it. I dont know.
Brad Reid reply :
Gosh, I rarely make an overhead cast while drop shotting. I just pitch mine, can do so way farther than I want to place it. Caveat: I fish out of a canoe and/or kayak.
The pitching technique I use is on a cast retrieve, I let the sinker swing back to my free hand, dip my rod tip, and use and underhanded swinging motion. It is very accurate for short to medium casts. Not needed at all, of course, for more vertical drop shotting some of the anglers here do on deep lakes.
So, if you do use a braid to fluoro or mono leader, and you have knot concerns, just keep your leader short enough that it never reels up to your rod tip. With a 6 to 7 feet rod length, that'll give you as decently long leader.
Say, just know that arguably the greatest contemporary pro drop shot angler out there is Aaron Martens. He tore them up using it on MLF the other day. And, Martens will often say something to the effect, "I use 8 lbs. unless the bite is tough, then I drop to 6 lbs." He'd likely use 4 pound test if he thought he wouldn't lose fish.
The moral of the drop shot story is this is a light line presentation, the lighter the better. I think, by the way, that straight mono (fluoro, too) is just fine.
Brad
BoatSquirrel reply :
On 2/22/2019 at 1:30 AM, Brad Reid said:The pitching technique I use is on a cast retrieve, I let the sinker swing back to my free hand, dip my rod tip, and use and underhanded swinging motion.
Yes sir—thats two of us on the dropshot pitch. I can pitch accurately to 20 yards and rarely need any longer.
Smokinal reply :
On 2/21/2019 at 12:53 PM, Bluebasser86 said:What knot are you tying? Thin braid to a thin leader line with a well tied knot shouldn't be catching on the guides.
This^^^ Use an albright knot
J Francho reply :
On 2/22/2019 at 1:52 AM, BoatSquirrel said:Yes sir—thats two of us on the dropshot pitch. I can pitch accurately to 20 yards and rarely need any longer.
Three of us.
For the OP's issues, I'd take a look at the Alberto knot, and make sure you're tying it right. I generally sue straight 6# fluoro, but one set up has 20# braid to 8# leader. There's no issue passing the knot on the cast.
Choporoz reply :
On 2/21/2019 at 10:31 AM, WRangler506 said:probably tied a double uni when I set it up.
On 2/22/2019 at 1:01 AM, WRangler506 said:I wrote double uni in the original post, but I think I got that wrong. I am FAR from a knot expert. I like to use the clinch, improved clinch and polomar whenever possible. I do remember google searching the alberto and fg when setting up my rods.
I dont think the knot looks that bad, but its almost like its in the wrong location. If the leader was any longer or shorter it wouldnt be passing through the guides when the rod is still loaded during a cast, so maybe thats part of it. I dont know.
Sure....you can change where the knot is...and what lines you're using. But, I have the same red flags as those above. Don't wait another day to learn to tie your leader well. Sit down tonight and tie braid to flouro knots 20 times....or more. I don't care whether you use uni's or alberto, or fg. I use alberto, but others work well. Whichever you choose, practice tying it until you can do it nearly with your eyes closed. Then, learn to trim the tags with sharp tool so that there is nearly imperceptible tag when you run your finger back and forth over your knot.
I generally tie a leader of around 5-6 feet. Typically, I don't want the knot on my spool. But, I use lots of rods with micro guides and the only times that I have problems with knots and guides is when I have cut a sloppy tag. There may be times when you find your leader length just happens to put that knot exactly at the tip when you're pitching. You may get some ticking or even a bit of a hang-up...but it should be rare and trimming the leader down a couple inches should solve that.
WRangler506 reply :
I will inspect the knot when I get home and see if I can see a sloppy tag end. Then, Ill practice the alberto knot, and re tie it to see if that helps. Thanks for all the help.
Normally yes I pitch it fairly close too but at times I have to send it into the wind or a farther target.
JoeyT reply :
I'm using a Stella 2500/ gloomis drop shot rod with 10# braid to 8# flouro leader and have no issues. I use a crazy alberto knot, holds great and is small. How you guys use mono for drop shot? With an extra fast tip and all that stretch how you set a hook? Down size your braid to 10# if you comfortable using a 6# leader that knot tied with alberto will be very small.
J Francho reply :
On 2/22/2019 at 5:09 AM, JoeyT said:With an extra fast tip and all that stretch how you set a hook?
Same way we set the hook back before zero stretch line was invented.
JoeyT reply :
On 2/22/2019 at 5:13 AM, J Francho said:Same way we set the hook back before zero stretch line was invented.
Oh ok thanks man...
DropShotHotShot reply :
Fg knot will pass through guides
Glenn reply :
I use straight fluoro for dropshotting, either Seaguar Tatsu or Seaguar Fluoro Finesse.
I never use leaders. I've had no reason to use them. Leaders are too much hassle, too many problems.
WRB reply :
^^^this^^^
Choice of line I prefer Sunline but Seagaur is top quality FC.
Casting a drop shot is popular because of 1 rig. If you want to improve cover water and increase catch rates don't overlook the slip shot rig. Slip shot is limited to straight rigged worms that don't spin and neutral bouyant line like Maxima 5 lb Ultra Green coploy line.
Tom
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 12:40 PM, Glenn said:I use straight fluoro for dropshotting, either Seaguar Tatsu or Seaguar Fluoro Finesse.
I never use leaders. I've had no reason to use them. Leaders are too much hassle, too many problems.
Question I have @Glenn, is FC better for a DS rig than the Mono I've been using? Definitive proof or just personal preference.
Crestliner2008 reply :
The Alberto knot will flow through your guides with no problems. IF....you tie it correctly. Practice tying it often, when not on the water, and you will become proficient at it in no time. Personally, I prefer a no-stretch main line with a 6# test fluoro leader. I use Fireline Crystal exclusively now on all my rigs. Very reliable. Ties up nicely with fluoro using the Alberto. JMO. 
dodgeguy reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 12:40 PM, Glenn said:I use straight fluoro for dropshotting, either Seaguar Tatsu or Seaguar Fluoro Finesse.
I never use leaders. I've had no reason to use them. Leaders are too much hassle, too many problems.
I couldn't agree more !!!!
Sam reply :
Aaron Martins has a formula for a drop shot leader: the length of a Plano tackle box as a starting point.
I use fluorocarbon or braid with a drop shot, including the leader.
I also go with Aaron's suggestion unless I want a little longer leader. Depends on the depth I am fishing.
I also use either a medium or a medium heavy rod to get a good hook set when I raise the rod to set the hook.
As for my knot, I use a Palomar Knot on the hook by taking about three feet of line, run it through the hook's eye, then tie the Palomar Knot. You now have one continuous line between your reel and hook. I then measure the length of leader I want and cut off the remaining line before adding the weight. And yes, you wil be pulling all that line through your Palomar Knot and then back through the hook's eye from the front of the hook (over the barb).
Give this setup a try and see if you like it.
NYWayfarer reply :
I use straight 6-8# Kastking Flourokote line on my dropshot rigs.
There is a great vid Mike Iaconelli did for Bass Resource on dropshotting. I use his method for setting the hook. Works well for me.
J Francho reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 1:04 PM, MN Fisher said:Question I have @Glenn, is FC better for a DS rig than the Mono I've been using? Definitive proof or just personal preference.
For deep and straight down, or almost straight down, I think it's better. Back in the day, before drop shot was invented in Japan, we drop shotted live night crawlers and soft shell crabs for smallies. Only difference was we used home poured casting sinkers. And mono line. Flouro feels more direct, doesn't get beat up by zebes as bad, and sinks. You are probably fine sticking with what you know works, but it won't hurt to try. Get a good fluoro, like Tatsu, Finesse, or Invisx. Speaking of, I remember watching a local stick do a presentation at the local BPS on drop shot. He was using braid with a leader. The bow in his line just casting into the fish tank was prominent. He never felt the 8-15 lb. steelhead nipping at his bait on the way down. It was hilarious. I knew then, never use the braid and leader for anything more than 8' of water.
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 10:00 PM, J Francho said:For deep and straight down, or almost straight down, I think it's better.
Since I haven't spooled my reels for this season yet, you think it's a good idea to get the FC instead of spooling Mono? I'm not planning on DSing deep - probably 15' or less, and most of my tosses will be away from the canoe instead of straight down.
J Francho reply :
I think good fluoro is upgrade from mono, but that's really just an opinion I formed from using the stuff. When I first tried it, I bought cheap stuff, and thought all the buzz was just hype. I already used Seaguar fluoro leader material, though, and understood the advantages of it for trout fishing (centrepin and fly), but wasn't sold on it as reel fill line. Once I tried a better brand, Seaguar Invisx ,was when I could see the advantages. Seguar invented fluorocarbon fishing line. I trust their technology.
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 10:37 PM, J Francho said:Once I tried a better brand, Seaguar Invisx ,was when I could see the advantages. Seguar invented fluorocarbon fishing line. I trust their technology.
Given my budgetary restraints - would Red Label be good enough?
punch reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 11:07 PM, MN Fisher said:Given my budgetary restraints - would Red Label be good enough?
Cabela's has invizix on sale right now.
TBAG reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 12:40 PM, Glenn said:I use straight fluoro for dropshotting, either Seaguar Tatsu or Seaguar Fluoro Finesse.
I never use leaders. I've had no reason to use them. Leaders are too much hassle, too many problems.
I'd like to try the Seaguar Finesse on my ned rig, dropshot, weightless Senko spinning rod/reel. What lb test would you recommend?
J Francho reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 11:07 PM, MN Fisher said:Given my budgetary restraints - would Red Label be good enough?
I don't care for how Red Label behaves on spinning gear. Given that I have gotten four years out of Invisx, it's worth the price. Look for it on sale.
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 11:20 PM, J Francho said:I don't care for how Red Label behaves on spinning gear. Given that I have gotten four years out of Invisx, it's worth the price. Look for it on sale.
I'll do that - since my DS rig is the Avocet, something that behaves on Spinning gear is better.
MickD reply :
Rather than reinventing the wheel, let's try to get the braid/leader to work. Most likely your double uni is not tied well. Watch some videos on line on tying the double uni., With the light line and leader you want to use, it should work with almost any guides. But if not tied properly, it can get big and ugly. As you pass the tag ends through the loop they should not ever be on top of each other, and when you get the one side done, gently snug it up before going to the second one. When doing the final set, be sure it's well lubed with saliva. Cut the leader tag end quite close to the knot. If tied properly it will not come out.
If you are not a good knot tyer or "learner," forget about other knots , especially the FG. Just concentrate on tying a neat, tight, double uni and I think you'll be ok.
WRangler506 reply :
On 2/27/2019 at 11:33 PM, MickD said:Rather than reinventing the wheel, let's try to get the braid/leader to work. Most likely your double uni is not tied well. Watch some videos on line on tying the double uni., With the light line and leader you want to use, it should work with almost any guides. But if not tied properly, it can get big and ugly. As you pass the tag ends through the loop they should not ever be on top of each other, and when you get the one side done, gently snug it up before going to the second one. When doing the final set, be sure it's well lubed with saliva. Cut the leader tag end quite close to the knot. If tied properly it will not come out.
If you are not a good knot tyer or "learner," forget about other knots , especially the FG. Just concentrate on tying a neat, tight, double uni and I think you'll be ok.
Yeah i get what youre saying, but im wondering if ill like FC better. I may try both, with the Invisix being on sale. Im not a big braid fan in general, but i see the benefits. I think part of the issue is this rod is just too stiff in the tip for my preference, but i can feel everything. I may try to retie, and then FC, and then try the softer 69 MLXF.
Im a good "learner" lol, but yes Im not going for the difficult to tie knots just yet. Simple is best for now.
WRB reply :
I used Maxima 5 lbs test Ultra Green mono (copolymer) for drop shot before it was called drop shot and for split ot slip shot rigs a decade before FC came available.
FC line has less drag going through water then mono/copolymer or braid. When a weight is tied onto either mono or FC and dropped down there isn't any noticeable different in strike detection. If you cast a drop shot rig more then 30' from you line drag creates a bow using mono/copolymer and braid line. As soon as you try to move the weight the bow is gone as the weight is moved. Slack FC line will sink and slack mono/copolymer line tends to be bouyant, FC bows downward and mono bows upward. Slack FC drags on the bottom were snags occur and for that reason I prefer 5 lb Maximum UG line for drop and split/slip shot rigs.
Braid on a spinning reel acts like a swivel to reduce the affect of line twist, but if you fish less then 15' deep with a drop shot 1/2 the line is leader with 2 knots. Tried braid with leaders and didn't like it.
Tom
Way north bass guy reply :
I tried braid to fluoro for a while, and it seems to me that unless your in real deep water ( over 30’), there is just too much contact, by that I mean no stretch, so the bait tends to be moved way too much.
A lot of the time I’m dropshotting, I want the bait to be almost floating motionless, and with no stretch at all, any small rod movement makes the lure jump around quite a bit.
The last few years I’ve been using straight Berkley 100% fluorocarbon usually in 8lb test and it’s been great for me. Lots of contact with the bait, but just enough “give” that the bait isn’t being jumped all over the place and to me seems more natural in the water.
WRangler506 reply :
On 2/28/2019 at 8:43 AM, Way north bass guy said:I tried braid to fluoro for a while, and it seems to me that unless your in real deep water ( over 30’), there is just too much contact, by that I mean no stretch, so the bait tends to be moved way too much.
A lot of the time I’m dropshotting, I want the bait to be almost floating motionless, and with no stretch at all, any small rod movement makes the lure jump around quite a bit.
The last few years I’ve been using straight Berkley 100% fluorocarbon usually in 8lb test and it’s been great for me. Lots of contact with the bait, but just enough “give” that the bait isn’t being jumped all over the place and to me seems more natural in the water.
Im glad you commented. I think this is one big reason why I dont like the braid on a DS setup. It felt like i was either slack or moving. Sure you could balance just perfect if you are absolutely perfect, but I feel like the bow of mono or FC would make it feels like more what Im used to. I also didnt like the "snap" feel everytime I used up the floating slack on the water surface. I know thats not intended, but Im explaning the feel. Never had mono feel like that.
Im going to try Invisix on this rod in #8 and see how it compares. The only time I like that distinct slack ending snap or tick feel is when im vertical jigging for walleye. Hope that makes sense. Again, I think if this rod had a softer tip like the 69MLXF Avid, it might feel ok with braid. That tip is way softer.
Glenn reply :
@MN FisherI prefer FC these days due to it's sensitivity. DS'ing is finesse tactic that used primarily when the bite is slow and subtle. So the ability to detect those very light bites is important. I'll take any edge I can get that helps me detect those little nibbles. So FC is the answer for me.
That said, there's no "wrong" way of doing it. I started off by saying "these days", because originally when DS started to become popular on the west coast in the early 90's, I was using co-polymer. And I caught a lot of fish that way. And if budget was an issue, I'd still go with co-polymer as my second choice.
Mono is a good option as well.
I just wouldn't use braid. It's visible and has no stretch, which is a bad thing when you're using light-wire hooks.
MN Fisher reply :
On 2/28/2019 at 10:26 AM, Glenn said:Mono is a good option as well.
I just wouldn't use braid. It's visible and has no stretch, which is a bad thing when you're using light-wire hooks.
Thanks for that opinion - and I'd never use braid for a finesse technique...mainly because it seems like overkill.
punch reply :
On 2/28/2019 at 10:26 AM, Glenn said:
I just wouldn't use braid. It's visible and has no stretch, which is a bad thing when you're using light-wire hooks.
Because a hook will bend out? I'd argue it's MAYBE bad thing if you're not using quality hooks. If braid (on spinning gear) even had a chance of bending out light-wire hooks then why is nearly every pro bass angler that dropshots (or finesse fishing in general on spinning gear) using braid to a floro leader? They seem to be able to boat big fish on braid to floro, with no problems. Edwin got that 9lber in shallow water on a spinning rod/braid/floro leader just a few weeks ago in the BPT. It's basically the standard setup tournament anglers nowadays.
Wouldn't using quality hooks matter the most? I use VMC neko hooks (so do many pro's), which i would consider 'light-wire' and i've hooked into some big fish and never had one bend. Heck I've hooked into some nasty rocks & tree's with a neko and the line broke off before it bent out.
I hooked into a 43" Musky this past summer on a NRX 852s spinning rod, stradic ci4+ 2500 with 10lb power pro braid to a 8lb floro leader. I was fishing a neko worm with a VMC neko hook. I fought that fish for about 30 minutes, including multiple runs he made. The hook didn't even come close to bending out. I landed it too.
I'm not trying to be a contrarian, but i'm a hardcore finesse guy and in my experience if you have a decent reel and a good hook.. you're not bending out a light-wire hook on a bass with braid.
Boomstick reply :
10 - 15lb braid and a 6lb leader is the way to go. I have been using Sunline FX2 in 12# myself, which is closer to the diameter of most 15lb lines.
blckshirt98 reply :
6 foot leader is overkill - braid to a ~24 inch(give or take a few inches, since I just eyeball how much I pull off, but try to error on the longer side) leader, the knot should never even touch the tip guide.
offsidewing reply :
Seaguar Tatsu 6lb fluoro for Drop Shot and Ned Rig. Fantastic line. Sunline is good when I can't get Tatsu from Amazon cheaply.
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