BUYER'S GUIDE: DROPSHOT FISHING (Worms, Hooks, And Rods)

[@Pudge4400]

I know this is totally off-topic for this video, but as a regular watcher I just wanted to take a minute and ask everyone who reads this to stop and take a moment to appreciate what you have because it can all be gone in a split second. I was fishing Old Hickory Saturday...had no idea that we were under a tornado watch that had changed to a tornado warning, until the sirens went off. I pegged out the throttle and headed back to Rockland marina in Hendersonville, where I had loaded in at, thinking that at most I was just trying to beat a monsoon rain. I got to the dock, got the boat on the trailer and was gathering up gear that I was going to put in the truck when I heard that old cliche' "it sounded like a freight train." That's exactly what it sounded like and it was getting louder FAST. I jumped off the boat, ran for the truck and just barely got the door slammed behind me when the truck started getting hammered with what sounded like machine gun fire. Then the next thing I know, half a massive cedar smashed into the grill slamming me into the dashboard and sending the truck skidding. I then heard the bimini top get ripped off the boat and watched the boat get lifted up off the trailer, spun upside down and smashed into the parking lot. The truck was rocking and skittering around like it was going to go airborne too. I've never been more terrified in my life nor more sure that I was going to die. I called my wife to tell her that I loved her and that I was sorry and then the line went dead. I shut my eyes and waited to die..and then it was over. Just like that, in the blink of an eye almost, my truck, boat, all my rods and baits...everything, was destroyed. Soooo, I guess I say all that to say take a moment to appreciate all that's important to you. You never know when it all might be gone. I know I'm lucky to still be alive and there are a lot of people who are way worse off than I am at the moment, but it's a WHOLE lot to take in. Plus, fishing was my only solace and therapy for PTSD. So again...if I could impress one thing upon you- stop to appreciate the things you have in life and never pass up an opportunity to tell those you love that you love them. You never know when that might be your last chance. Oooh, ok...I guess TWO things. Never, ever, ever blow off a tornado warning! Stay safe out there, folks!!!

[@USMCdad470]

Thank God your ok. Sorry for your loss of boat and gear. All replaceable unlike you. Stay safe brother.

[@Pudge4400]

@@USMCdad470 thanks man! I hope it didn't sound too "preachy." I just wanted to remind folks to remember what's important. It certainly was an eye-opener for me.

[@tacticalbassin]

We're so glad you're okay!! That's as close as it gets! I can't imagine what that experience was like in person and the mix of shock and relief you must have flet when you realized it had passed. You were spared for a reason. So sorry you lost all your things, but were so glad that you survived it!! Thank you for taking the time to share.

[@Pudge4400]

@@tacticalbassin thanks for listening! Looking like my fishing days are over, if insurance has anything to say about it, so I guess the THIRD thing I'd like to say is make sure you're fully covered for any eventuality!

[@nickrobertson8406]

Fishing days are over? Do what every poor fisherman does: buy a cheap rod and reel, $40 worth of your favorite lures and catch fish from the bank.

[@ethanrosefishing]

If you guys could, a buyers guide on rain suits would be awesome. A pair for warm weather and raining, a good all around pair, and an extremely cold pair of bibs and jacket would help a lot. Thanks for making these great videos guys

[@davidmcdonaldfishing3018]

They will just tell you aftco is the best it's obviously one of their sponsors.

[@ethanrosefishing]

@@davidmcdonaldfishing3018 Even if the answer is Aftco, what type of Aftco are they wearing? People shopping for the holidays aren’t going to know and people that want to get into a new rainsuit would probably like to know as well. Plus they chose Aftco because it’s the best they could find on the market.

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

Thank you, Matt and Tim. Drop shot is not exactly a go-to technique for me here in Florida, but I have been known to rig one up on occasion when conditions allow. Looking forward to tomorrow, with Matt probably saying with a tinge of sadness in his voice.."If I could only have one..." . Good luck to those heading out to have a go at the bass today, and I hope everyone has a fantastic Monday!

[@tacticalbassin]

Thanks Bob! Have a great day!

[@The_Bass_Stunters]

All of us are not so lucky mate! Lol ever one else in the country needs that technique to fill a limit at times 😂

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

@@The_Bass_Stunters Most of the ponds I fish don't set up well for a dropshot; my go-to for when things are tough is a wacky worm or a down-sized jig. Florida is an awesome fishery, though.

[@noride11]

Keep it up guys! Seems like all the "bass pros" wish they were you.. imitation is the most sincere form of flattery

[@Itz1Adam12]

This is always one of my favorite videos every year, and the reason is simple. We, all your fans, know you both can do it all. But there's just something about seeing Tim get all jacked up talking finesse gear and baits. You can see him really shine when he's talking about the Roboworm. He looks so in his element. Thank you for all of the amazing contents, suggestions and tips. Best fishing channel on KZbin. Period.

[@davidhidalgo5662]

I have never thrown a drop shot and chances are I never will but I still appreciate your video. Thank you for all you do. Bang Bang Bang. Amazon, Amazon, Amazon.

[@jamesfitzpatrick8596]

Great video with many useful tips. While tungsten dropshot weights provide more sensitivity when compared to lead dropshot weights, they have an even more important advantage, they are less toxic to the environment. Over 4,000 tons of lead fishing weights are sold in the US each year and how much of that winds up in water is unknown. The lead can contaminate drinking water, fish, and other wildlife. Lead weights in tackle boxes also produce “lead dust” that is toxic and it contaminates everything in the box. Some states and countries have banned the use of lead in fishing weights because of this issue. But I also understand the other side of the issue; lead dropshot fishing weights are much cheaper and can be poured at home.

[@WorldsOkayestBusDriver]

I am on a mission to find myself a great dropshot hook. Your videos are the first I went to. Thank you

[@douglasspickler4925]

Definitely everything you need to know about drop shoting. Thanks for sharing. Great job.

[@amyrichards690]

I caught the majority of my fish this year on a drop shot using the xzone finesse slammer green pumpkin blue on a nose hooked ichakawa hook. Love it!

[@msowell21]

Enjoyed the buyers guide on my way to work this morning. I'd rather be fishing but talking tackle is the next best thing.

[@tacticalbassin]

Awesome! Have a great day!

[@scottmiles5783]

Thanks for these videos. I have bought so much gear this year from them. You have gained my trust.

[@NorthWoodsWes]

Tied on a Drop Shot for the first time this past summer. First cast I hooked a nice Smallie within seconds of hitting the water. Used the Smallie Smasher nose hooked. Score!!

[@shorefishingontario]

I been using the NRX dropshot rod since 2020 and upgraded to the NRX+ in December 2022. I think its perfect for Roboworms and Xzone slammers. I had an Exsence on it first but switched to the Stella on it and then put a Vanquish on it (its what I had on before the NRX+) and it's amazing. Handles the Roboworm Rebarb hooks nicely as well as the Owner Mosquito light and Hyabusa hooks. Always love seeing a dropshot video.

[@tacticalbassin]

You've got your gear DIALED!!

[@shorefishingontario]

@@tacticalbassin Most definitely!

[@johnmango6056]

I’m all in on that Nishine snell knot drop shot hook! Thing is incredible.

[@j.t.cooper2963]

👍🏻😎 It's December and I'm already thinking drop shot fishing is going to be something I'm going to be doing a lot of this coming year. Thanks for this video.

[@1stJohn215]

Fabulous as always!! Keep them coming!

[@codycampbellfishing2007]

Cool to see Xzone on there as in most of the videos have worked with them for around 6 months now, some of the best/nicest people in the industry and they make one of the most well rounded lineups of baits that I know of, there are also two new sizes of Swammers coming out soon that I know you guys will get your hands on😂

[@nathanblake3608]

Look who it is that’s long winded today! Love the video regardless and love the buyers guides!

[@tacticalbassin]

😂😂😂

[@DanielMagner-r6b]

I am new to fishing (needed a hobby after a full career) - I did try the drop shot a few times with no success (this video shows me why - as I was doing it with incorrect hooks/weight/rod/baits/movements) - Thank you for the education ! I look forward to trying drop shot again next spring when the ice clears.

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

Welcome! If you haven't already done so, check the Tactical Bassin' archives; there are some great instructional videos in there. Good luck out there!

[@willmed3209]

Going through final exams right now, you guys are the only thing keeping me calm

[@dickiehoskins9835]

Love the video! Love everything thing about the drop shot. 🔥

[@toddpossum]

Thanks!

[@TWC6724]

Thanks guys. I love the drop shot.

[@thesonorandesertangler]

I use 3 rods for this technique: 1) Shimano Zodias 6'9" ML paired with a Shimano Miravel 3000 reel spooled with 15lb braid and a 6lb flouro leader 2) Phenix Classic BFS 6'8" L paired with a Shimano Aldebaran spooled with 4lb flouro 3) Dobyns Kaden 6'10" Medium Power/Moderate Fast Action paired with a Shimano Metanium spooled with 10lb flouro I fish from the bank, so I don't always have each one of these rods on me, but I typically have at least one. They can all dropshot, but I definitely do more power drop shot fishing with the Dobyns. The Shimano and Zodias really shine with the more finesse presentations. I really like drop shotting a senko wacky style.

[@thedadbodangler7784]

The Great Lakes Finesse "Drop Worm" & "Drop Minnow" have started to become staples in my drop shoting as well. They're a great bait! And don't sleep on the Xzone "Deception Worm". That thing has done some damage for me!

[@tacticalbassin]

Those are all great options! Thanks for chiming in!

[@kevinbeaudean704]

Thanks Matt/Tim. I appreciate the Expride getting some attention as the NRX+ isn't a consideration. I'm more of a Zodius basser but could stretch to the Expride if needed(don't see the need). You mentioned bait sag on the hook. There's a knot that eliminates that on all smaller nose hook baits. Just look up best drop shot knot.

[@PickwickPirate]

I really wish TW would go back to their old format and have it where tactical bassin wish lists were public!

[@danpetriuc1509]

Great detailed information!

[@alexalt2888]

Do you guys ever do any ice fishing? I would LOVE to see a matt and tim ice fishing video!

[@jasoneric5969]

Love love love the content please do a Spinnerbait seminar when it’s convenient

[@tacticalbassin]

We'll do it, thanks for the feedback!

[@hWOLFGANGs]

Incorporating drop shot rigs in BFS style fishing is absolutely dynamite. Thanks for the tips and helping me find new lures and rigs

[@pondparadisedesignsinc.rob5313]

You guys have incredible experience 🎣 very informative video here. Great job guys.

[@tacticalbassin]

Thank you! We appreciate the support!

[@ljwldt]

Love drop shot fishing. I had a ton of luck with the x zone stealth invader last year. It was the ticket for me.

[@tacticalbassin]

That's a great bait!

[@donpanico7708]

Thanks I’ll give it a try

[@vincentgelles3805]

I’m with you Matt! I prefer power fishing, in fact if I could throw a frog 365 days a year and only a frog, I probably would. I never get tired of catching frog fish and I tend to catch a lot of big largemouth doing it. I need to get better at finesse fishing and I plan on trying to get better with the dropshot this winter. If I have to finesse fish, I usually throw a wacky rig, weightless Senko, or a shaky head. But I could see where suspending a bait off the bottom could be beneficial in these mud bottom ponds I mostly fish.

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

Or just throw a smaller frog. 🤣 . Not sure where you are, but have you ever tried a fluke? I'm in Florida and throw these quite a bit. Good luck out there!

[@vincentgelles3805]

I’m in North Carolina. There’s usually about a 3 month window where bass won’t hit a frog or any topwater for that matter, usually December-February. Once the water gets below 60 degrees topwater usually stops working for me. I envy you being in Florida and being able to frog fish year round! Hell your fish are probably pre-spawn already!

[@brianrobinson9979]

Oh no! Jig fishing.... Tim, please don't kill Matt. 😂 We know how much he likes talking about his jigs 🤣

[@oldeschoolbob1022]

Those words that have wrought so much havoc on my credit card: "Today we're talking......jig fishing.."

[@brianrobinson9979]

@@oldeschoolbob1022 🤣👍

[@tacticalbassin]

😂 😂 😂

[@thadgeorge4984]

Thanks guys

[@LoadingSkateboarding]

Great content as usual - as a young angler on a strict budget, you guys could offer us some more budget friendly alternatives for rods. I know there is a standard when it comes to quality , but 650$ and 280$ rods just aren’t realistic for many of us.

[@joelangley1462]

For largemouth I use a 7'3" MedHvy Lews Custom Lite 20lb Braid to 15lb leader when fishing heay cover in the Ole Tarheel State especially down east in the rivers and catchem pretty good

[@pgm1970]

What is your preferred dropshot “bait”for largemouth ?

[@sbaner5]

I was really hoping you would mention the little weight keeper you put on the rod to use when you’re done fishing it. I could not find them at Tackle Warehouse when trying to search.

[@Tylerbone96]

Matt & Tim are y’all ok after this weekends storms or was that north of yall? Of course everyone else who was affected by it, yall are in my prayers 🙏🏻

[@rhodesianhunter9360]

I’ve noticed when I’m river fishing in murky water, tungsten helps them find the bait too.

[@idontstunt2613]

The reins bubble shaker is good on a damiki rig or hover rig to been killing then on it

[@chrischilds4141]

Hey guys, great stuff as always! Northern fisherman, target smallmouth a lot. It seems like a huge omission every drop shot video when you don't mention the Berkley Maxscent Flatworm, probably the most effective bait in my limited experience. Thoughts? Thank you!

[@SmokinBaits]

Let’s go!

[@Larry77777]

ALSO: I think the Trick ShotZ and Long ShotZ by ZMAN are great dropshot baits for nose-hook and weedless respectively.

[@midwestfischerman]

First

[@toddpossum]

Ayyyyye!

[@tacticalbassin]

We were wondering where you'd been! Welcome back!

[@a.l.g7775]

Try the Berkley HD champ minnow, most realistic soft plastic I’ve seen in my life

[@CharlesRigdon-h2r]

Did I miss the link for the Versa Pintail?

[@Poseidon-USN]

What would be a nice budget dropshot rod? I’m looking for something to pair with a Shimano Miravel. Thanks.

[@AndrewRedding-q6u]

That Reins you think its possible to T Rig it for Grass and cover fishing?

[@rickyparker1149]

Hey Matt and Tim, would a Cashion 7’10” Heavy swimbait rod be efficient for the Tactical Wake?

[@michaelmoore2498]

Once again great video and very informative. What are the yellow weight keepers on your rods? I can't find them.

[@dhtamura]

TW has them as the Cal Coast Fishing - Cali Hook Keeper. Different sizes for different rod thickness.

[@onfootbassin]

I still can't believe how long it took you guys to come around on the Reins Bubbling Shaker. I've been using that amazing bait for so many years.

[@mikegardiner3934]

Agree! i’ve been using bubbling shaker for a few yrs as well. The 5” and 7” are my fav shakey head bait. Recently started the smaller for DS. Love it!

[@tacticalbassin]

Ha! It takes time to try it all, but we do work hard to check everything. We actually used it for about a year a while back and then it somehow faded away... but we tracked it back down. 😃

[@onfootbassin]

@tacticalbassin oh it absolutely takes time to try everything. When I tried this the first time, my first two thoughts were holy crap this bait is insane and rather unheard of and I immediately wondered if you guys were a fan. Love what you guys do. Tight lines.

[@alcav54]

First!!!! 🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@sheepdad556]

You're winning at life keep up the great work

[@adamw6271]

Another AWESOME video! What are the weight keepers called you have on your rods? I definitely need a couple of those

[@dhtamura]

The company name has changed but TW still has them as Cal Coast Fishing - Cali Hook Keeper

[@clintonhussey8502]

Bro. Is there an in depth Arig. Video? I’m on the most insane a rig bite right now. Wearing out rigs snapping arms off from dozens of catches. Goin down the worm hole of perfecting weighted head combinations for the right depths. Would like to see how yall get down.

[@hkilic03]

Could you please tell me the model of the drop shot weight holder clip you have on the NRX+ (yellow clip at the bottom if the rod)? Thank you.

[@Queensryche230]

What are the yellow things on your rods that your attaching the wight too?

[@ely410]

This is slightly off topic but it references sensitivity-it’s why I have trouble fishing crank baits. I’ve predominately fished light texas rigged ribbon tails and I can vary my retrieves. But as soon as fish with a crank bait, it feels the same to me whether I burn it fast or slow down. I don’t know how build a cadence for it

[@jakerinaldi4766]

If I wanted to get real specific with the Cover Shot, what size for the 4.5in and the 6in Robos?

[@BassHoleJt333]

When are you going to do a review of curado m

[@donpanico7708]

Hey guys I feel the best way to fish a drop shot is vertical from a boat. Do you feel it’s just as affective fishing it from the bank even though the angle of your line is more horizontal when you make your cast? Thanks

[@gregchilders7643]

It is very effective from the bank. I just use a longer leader.plus it allows you to cast a small bait when the fish are finicky or when it's windy

[@CarlosSolis-w6y]

👍👍👍👍👍

[@caseyhepler2806]

There are nail weights, how about float spikes?

[@rodbehr5106]

What was it you were using as a weight keeper on your rods?

[@brandonsmith606]

Sweet at least I have that jerkbait combo lol. My question is I find myself liking a bit longer drop shot rod, like a 7' 1"- 7'2" is there an advantage to the shorter rod? I know traditionally drop shotting was done directly under the boat, just curious as I was looking at the Expride 7' 2" ML

[@tacticalbassin]

There's not a significant difference... just overall weight reduction in the shorter rod. If you prefer the longer, you already know what you like.

[@brandonsmith606]

@tacticalbassin Thank you just making sure I wasn't missing something

[@muskyvictim]

Wish you went live instead of uploading these at 6 AM est so we all feel more connected..but ok thx

[@tacticalbassin]

It's just not possible with this much content to be going live all the time. But we appreciate that perspective. The good news is, we're right here in the comments all the time 👍 -Matt

[@umairfaizuddin3429]

Hey thanks for the awesome information! I have the Expride B 7’ Light spinning rod not the 6’10 ML. Can I rely/dedicate the 7’L to dropshotting? How would my line/hook/hookset have to differ from the 6’10 ML! Have the 2500 vanford on it as well. Thanks!

[@umairfaizuddin3429]

Also, what are the best techniques to use on the 7’L?

[@Instynctofficial]

I’ve bought so many drop shot baits but non work as good as the Berkley flatworm😭

[@louistaljaard1765]

Have you seen this lure from Japan, it's called a coike full cast it look soo ridiculous, but it catches fish

[@tacticalbassin]

Haha yeah, pretty similar concept to the Raid 2 Way Wacky or the OSP sailors Dice Rubber

[@chriscurtis8577]

You can change the volume on the line to cheerleader Dearborn wait

[@chriscurtis8577]

I know what is drop shot is it's with the sinker is down the line in the hook

[@rafabonati7757]

Matt and Tim only brought 1 box to the boat deck today. What’s going on?

[@tacticalbassin]

Ha! It was a weak moment!

[@donaldcase2971]

What line and size of line .

[@tacticalbassin]

You'll find our recommended lines (by price point) in the video description as part of the rod and reel combos.

[@donaldcase2971]

@@tacticalbassin ok

[@nachopretzel3533]

I feel like the weight is the most important part, but guys just ignored that part.

[@Shiloh3498]

So a $300 rod is low budget? 🤔 I think I just gotta roll with a falcon Walmart special. 💁🏻‍♂️

[@treehunter1]

Number 1 piece of gear needed for dropshot is a live scope

[@adt83live]

😆 Come on bro, I've been killing em on the dropshot pre ice up, no electronics needed.