How to Tie a Drop Shot Knot

Drop Shot Fishing Knot

The drop shot knot is basically a Palomar knot with a tucked tag end that is used to create a drop shot rig. A drop shot rig consists of line connected to a hook (point facing up) with a trailing leader and weight at the very end. When the hook and bait are suspended above the weight the bait takes on a fluid motion that can entice even stubborn or inactive fish to bite. In most cases, the bait used is a soft plastic worm.
 

When to Use a Drop Shot Knot

You can tie the drop shot knot and fish the drop shot rig for smallmouth bass or largemouth bass in a number of different situations, but it works particularly well for fish that are suspended in clear deep water. This is one of the essential bass fishing knots you will want to learn.

How to Tie a Drop Shot Fishing Knot

Like all other fishing knots, tying a drop shot fishing knot will become quicker and easier with practice. Learn how to tie this knot by following a few easy steps.

1. Hold the hook facing up, double up your line to make a long loop and run it through the eye of the hook (pull through 10 to 36-inches of the tag end to make a leader).
2. Tie an overhand knot with the doubled line.
3. Pull hook through the loop made by the overhand knot.
4. Moisten the line to prevent friction and cinch it tight.
5. Pass the tag end through the eye of the hook and pull it out.
6. Make sure the hook is still facing up.

Once the drop shot knot is tied, add a drop shot sinker or weight by tying it to the tag end.

That's how you tie a drop shot knot!

In addition to following these steps, it might be helpful to refer to a drop shot diagram. A diagram or illustration will show you exactly how the hook, bait, leader and weight should be configured.