Dropshot Rig Diagram & Gear List

The hook ties above the weight rather than below it, holding bait at a fixed height off bottom. Precise and finesse-oriented, well suited to structure fishing from a kayak or jetty.

Where to use it: boat, kayak, jetty, lake, river
Difficulty: intermediate

Gear List

main Line8-12 lb fluorocarbon or braid
leaderSame line, palomar-tied hook, no separate leader
leader LengthHook tied 12-18in above the weight on the main line
hook Range#1 - 2/0 dropshot hook
weight TypeCylinder or teardrop weight, 1/4 - 1/2oz
sinker Drop Length12-18in from hook down to weight, fixed distance
swivelNone, direct tie

Optional gear

Gear to build this setup

These Amazon.com searches match the guide's starting specifications. Check the size, listing, and availability in your country before ordering.

1/4 to 1/2 oz dropshot weights Choose a weight for depth and current.Search on Amazon #1 to 2/0 dropshot hooks Check hook size, bait fit, and local hook rules before ordering.Search on Amazon

Affiliate links: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

How to tie the Dropshot Rig

Tie a #1 - 2/0 dropshot hook with a Palomar knot, leaving a 12-18in tag end below it.
Pass the tag end back down through the hook eye so the point faces up.
Clip a 1/4 - 1/2oz cylinder or teardrop weight onto the end of the tag line.
Nose-hook a small soft plastic and shake it in place with the weight on the bottom.

When and where it works best

Vertical fishing over structure, deep edges, and pressured fish in clear water.

How it differs from similar rigs

Unlike a jig head, the bait sits above the weight and stays in one place while you move it, which suits fish that will not chase.

Is the Dropshot Rig good for beginners?

It is rated intermediate: easy to tie, but worth a little practice to fish well. Practice the connections in the knot guide, and see the Boat Rod for a matching rod.

What fish is the Dropshot Rig good for?

Practical starting point only. Adjust line, hook, and sinker sizes for conditions and target fish, and verify current regulations before fishing.

Common Questions

What do I need to tie a Dropshot Rig?

A 8-12 lb fluorocarbon or braid main line, a Same line, palomar-tied hook, no separate leader leader (Hook tied 12-18in above the weight on the main line), a #1 - 2/0 dropshot hook hook, and a Cylinder or teardrop weight, 1/4 - 1/2oz. Full gear list is above.

What is a Dropshot Rig best for?

The Dropshot Rig works best for boat, kayak, jetty, lake, river fishing, and is a recommended setup for Kelp Bass (Calico Bass), California Sheephead, Spotted Bay Bass, California Scorpionfish (Sculpin). Difficulty: intermediate.

Is the Dropshot Rig hard to tie?

It is rated intermediate. The knot guide covers the terminal connections used across RigMyFish rigs, so you can practice each connection separately before building the full setup.