Drop shot fishing is a finesse fishing technique that involves presenting a soft plastic bait above a weight on a specialized rig called a drop shot rig. It is a versatile and effective technique for targeting bass, particularly in deeper water or when bass are in a less active or finicky feeding mood.

Here’s how drop shot fishing works:

1. Rigging: To set up a drop shot rig, tie a Palomar knot or any other suitable knot to attach a small, thin-wire hook to the end of the fishing line. Leave a tag end of the line below the hook. Typically, the hook size is chosen based on the size of the soft plastic bait being used.
2. Weight Placement: Slide a drop shot weight onto the tag end of the line below the hook. The weight is usually a cylindrical or teardrop-shaped sinker, and its size can vary depending on the depth of the water and the desired presentation. The weight is secured in place by either tying a knot above it or by using a specialized drop shot weight clip.
3. Bait Selection: Choose a soft plastic bait, such as a finesse worm, minnow-shaped bait, or creature bait, that complements the forage and mimics the natural prey of the bass. Popular drop shot baits are usually 3 to 6 inches in length.
4. Presentation: Cast the drop shot rig to the target area, such as drop-offs, ledges, underwater structure, or areas with suspended fish. Allow the weight to sink to the desired depth while keeping the line taut. The soft plastic bait will hover above the bottom, enticing bass to strike.
5. Action: Use subtle and finesse-like movements to work the bait. This can include small twitches, hops, or gentle shakes of the rod tip to impart slight movement to the bait. The goal is to create a realistic and enticing presentation that appeals to the bass, even in their less active or finicky state.
6. Sensitivity and Detection: Drop shot fishing is known for its sensitivity, as the angler can feel even the slightest nibble or change in the line tension. Maintain a semi-slack line and be attentive to any subtle taps or pressure variations, as these can indicate a fish biting the bait.
7. Hookset: When you feel a bite or notice any unusual line movement, reel in the slack and set the hook with a gentle but firm upward rod motion. Since drop shot fishing is often done with light tackle and finesse gear, it’s crucial to avoid overly aggressive hooksets that could result in breaking the line or pulling the hook out of the fish’s mouth.

Drop shot fishing is effective in various situations, including clear water, pressured fisheries, and when bass are less active. It allows for precise and controlled presentations, enabling anglers to target specific depths or suspend the bait at the fish’s eye level. Experiment with different bait colors, sizes, and presentations to determine what works best for the conditions and the behavior of the bass.