In most cases, braided main line has taken the majority of credit for increased sensitivity, less line maintenance and an increase in fish catches. Beyond the most sensitive of rods and perfectly matched spinning reels, customizing baits and double-rigs seem to catch the majority of attention to those who are trying to separate themselves from the competition, but there are a couple of alterations that can actually increase your efficiency with a dropshot.
THE LEADER
Fluorocarbon leader line is often abused and put into a headlock of strength tests. It takes the impact of your upward hookset, the teeth marks from aggressive smallmouth bass and can wear down if it should last long enough. Much like oil to your truck’s engine, your leader material can be changed to elite products designed for maximum abrasion resistance, while being soft enough for increased knot strength.
Seaguar’s Tatsu 100% Fluorocarbon has been a phenomenal leader for me because of its strength and properties. Where the Tatsu shines is not only the recommendations on Tackle Warehouse, but its line diameter compared to other brands. Smaller diameter, true breaking strength and to the weekend angler, a 200-yard spool of Tatsu should last the majority of a season.
RE-RIG SPEED
Speaking of efficiency, many anglers rig two or more dropshot rods if his or her tournament is focused around a finesse approach. While some refuse to pick up a dropshot, others have adapted and excel in the technique. One of the best ways to increase your efficiency if you use one dropshot rod on the boat is your ability to re-rig faster. The hang-up usually occurs when tying the braid-to-fluoro connection knot.
In the past, I used a uni-to-uni and could retie my entire dropshot in less than a couple of minutes. Changing to The
Modified Albright Knot decreased this time and gave me the benefit of a smaller knot. That’s a win-win scenario. By flowing through the guides without much contact, it also streamlined the “feel” of the connection knot. It is strong, easy to tie and much quicker with a practice session. (See Modified Albright instructional video with Andy Montgomery below).
The dropshot is here to stay and without a doubt is one of the most effective techniques during summer and fall. Not only known for finesse fishing, the dropshot can outshine other presentations due in many scenarios. By taking the time to invest in your rigging options, such as the Tatsu leader, two significant changes can yield many big results.