Absolutely, trolling with a drop shot worm can be an effective technique for bass fishing, though it's not as commonly discussed as other methods. The drop shot rig is traditionally used for vertical presentations or casting and retrieving, but trolling can also be a productive way to cover water and locate fish.
How to Troll with a Drop Shot Worm:
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Rigging:
- Use a drop shot rig with a suitable weight for the depth you plan to fish. Typically, an 1/8 to 1/4 ounce weight works well, but you may need to adjust based on the depth and current.
- Choose a worm that has good action at slow speeds. Finesse worms, like the Robo Worm or the Damiki Armor Shad mentioned in the video, are great options.
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Depth Control:
- To keep your bait at the desired depth, you may need to experiment with different leader lengths and weights. The video mentions using an 18-inch leader to keep the bait just above the rocks, which is a good starting point.
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Speed:
- Trolling speed is crucial. You want to move slowly enough to keep the bait in the strike zone but fast enough to cover water. A speed of 0.5 to 1.5 mph is generally effective.
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Boat Positioning:
- Position your boat upwind or upcurrent from your target area. This helps maintain a straight line to your bait, which is essential for a finesse presentation. As mentioned in the Wired2Fish video, positioning the boat correctly prevents line bowing and ensures your bait stays in the strike zone.
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Areas to Target:
- Focus on areas with structure such as rock piles, weed lines, and drop-offs. The videos highlight the effectiveness of drop shot rigs around grass, wood, and rocky areas.
Advantages of Trolling with a Drop Shot Worm:
- Cover More Water: Trolling allows you to cover larger areas compared to stationary techniques.
- Consistent Depth: You can maintain a consistent depth, keeping the bait in the strike zone longer.
- Versatility: You can use different types of worms and other soft plastics to match the hatch and entice bites.
Tips for Success:
- Experiment with Baits: Try different worms and soft plastics to see what the bass are responding to. The video mentions the Robo Worm and Damiki Armor Shad as effective options.
- Adjust Leader Length: Depending on the structure and depth, you may need to adjust the length of your leader to keep the bait at the right height above the bottom.
- Monitor Speed: Use a GPS or fish finder to monitor your trolling speed and make adjustments as needed.
In conclusion, while trolling with a drop shot worm isn't the most conventional method, it can be highly effective in the right conditions. Give it a try next time you're out on the water, and you might be pleasantly surprised by the results! If you have any more questions or need further clarification, feel free to ask. Happy fishing!