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Drop shot fishing is an essential technique when targeting Great Lakes smallmouth bass. Jeff “Gussy” Gustafson highlights the effectiveness of the drop shot rig and why you need a tuned rod setup. He demonstrates his go-to setup, breaking down the rod, reel, line, and hook for consistent success.
ROD SETUP
- HOOK – Gamakatsu G-Finesse Drop Shot Hook, size 2: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- PLASTIC – Z-Man Finesse TRD (prototype): Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- TERMINAL TACKLE – Drop Shot Hooks at Weights: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- ROD (drop shot) – G-Loomis NRX+ Spinning Rod, 6’10” Medium Light: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- REEL – Shimano Exsence Spinning Reel 3000: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- LINE (braid) – Power Pro Braided Spectra Line Yellow, 8-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- LINE (fluorocarbon) – Shimano Mastiff FC Fluorocarbon Line, 8-pound: Buy at Tackle Warehouse
CHOOSING THE RIGHT DROP SHOT ROD
Gustafson starts by discussing his preferred drop shot rod action. The featured G. Loomis NRX+ Spinning Rod has a soft, light action. He stresses that the rod must provide adequate flexibility to absorb the shock of hard runs while providing enough “give” to prevent tearing the hook out.
LINE SELECTION AND VISIBILITY
One unique aspect of Gustafson’s setup is the yellow braided mainline. This color choice isn’t for aesthetics but allows him to detect subtle bites. By monitoring the line, Gustafson can detect subtle bites such as on the fall or in the wind on slack line. He uses a fluorocarbon leader connected with an FG knot for reduced visibility and some stretch. His go-to line pairing consists of a high-visibility 8-pound braided line to an 8- or even 6-pound fluorocarbon leader in clear water or when the bite gets tough.
IMPORTANCE OF SMALL HOOKS AND NATURAL PRESENTATION
Using the right drop shot hook is a key element to a successful presentation. Gustafson prefers the stealthy Gamakatsu G-Finesse Drop Shot Hook, explaining that a smaller hook ensures the bait looks natural in the water. Combined with a light line and a soft-action rod, this setup allows the bait to have a natural buoyancy and lifelike presentation.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON DROP SHOT FISHING
Finesse fishing with a drop shot rig is a top technique for catching Great Lakes smallmouth bass, but also largemouth and spotted bass in many situations. As Gustafson showcases, the right combination of rod, line, and hooks helps to keep your presentation as natural as possible. With the proper drop shot setup, you’ll increase your chances of getting bites and landing more fish.
