WSOzzie

I truly appreciate this thread. I tried my hand at fly fishing last year on the Snake in Idaho. As awesome as the scenery was— I was bad to that level. I can comfortably finesse fish, so my next trip will be with a 2-3 piece spinning rod and appropriate reel. Taking note of the responses. Thanks, again, for the knowledge.

There is a pad section of the lake that I fish which I have pretty much avoided, opting to finesse other sections with DS and N-Rig. Will be giving that section a visit or two with this rig.

I hear you. If I wanted the bait to float, I'd probably just do a Carolina or the equivalent. Bought the makings (without the wire leader) so we'll be good to go. Thanks, JF.

This is the what I've seen and read. What is the benefit of the 'dropped' sinker to this rig? I would assume it's to allow the bait to sit above the floor...??

I am attempting to build some jika rigs for the upcoming campaign and want to separate the sinker @ 3" from the hook. Pictures that I've seen appear to show a wire leader attached to a swivel on the top and a tungsten weight on the other end. Has anyone seen a wire leader that short of length, or is it handmade? Appreciate the knowledge, as always.

Have to agree with all - great post from the past, but still relevant today. One of the key components to DS, in my novice opinion, is the setting of the drag. I was losing big fish to line breaks, and was very quick to blame line size, material and quality. Several folks, especially JFrancho, set me straight on the 'human error' involved in having the drag too tight. It takes some time to hone in on the right setting, but that's the beauty of the technique. I also have tried the swivel to avoid inevitable line twist, but I think I might have missed a few more hooksets than normal with an unwanted turn of the hook. The DS technique that I enjoy the most is more of a power-finesse approach that allows me to cover more water. Some of the most fun I've had is drawing a biting fish closer to the boat in order to subtly set the hook. Once set, the game is on. Of course, learning to use the electronics for the vertical assault is a great time as well. Thanks, again, for all who take the time to share.

Thank you for the link. Very good stuff. I'm thinking the 'punch shot' that Ike brought back from Japan is a modified Jika Rig. Particulars in rod, reel and line?

Read an article written by Ike about his recent trip to Japan (October, '16). He returned with a new technique and setup, referred to as 'Punch shot'. I would liken it to a drop shot on steroids with a Texas rig. Since I have moved toward DS and Power DS as my 'go to', I was intrigued. While trying to figure out the components, I came across (google, yes) a 2012 ICast video on a Jika rig. My untrained and novice eye is not seeing much of a difference. Looking for some knowledge.....Thanks, as always. Tom

I had not looked at the Vanquish, simply because of the cost factor. It is, however, a beautiful looking reel. I believe the 2000, which I saw on JLS is basically the 1000 with a larger spool. Price point on the 2500 is @ $150 right now. Itchy trigger finger.

My DS obstacles (not issues..lol) have always been line twist as opposed to a line breaking either through a nick or a poorly tied knot. An extended leader, which I have not used, would seem neither to prevent nor slow down that twist. I am, however, game to experiment.

Good morning, folks. Have a new dedicated DS rod coming from DVT and are looking to pair it with the new Shimano FK reel (2500). It is a couple ounces heavier than other finesse reels that I've looked into, but looks solid with reported high end power. Has anyone fished a full day (or more) with one and could offer some feedback? Thanks, as always, for the knowledge. Tom

Great question with, as always, great replies. I had been a spinhead for several years and asked the same question a couple of seasons ago. I ended up starting with an Exceler, then Lexa and now use the Tatula , almost exclusively. I have, however, kept all reels on poles in the boat. Watch the videos provided on how to set one up. It is ON POINT. Best of luck, don't get discouraged and tight lines!

X 4

Dropshot (roboworm or dreamshot) or t-rig powerworm (pumpkinseed w/ bullet sinker and bead).

Agree with Brian about Mike's great work at DVT. Have my DVT DS rod paired with a Revo. Color is on point. http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/Tsamdog/media/image.jpg1_zpsiwlnm1zt.jpg.html

Thanks to all who took the time to reply. The lake that I primarily fish is more sand and gravel than smalljaw's chunk rock, so going with the longer rod might do the job. I do have an open *** 7'1" MH/F available for this technique. I do not, however, own a 7:X:1 reel.....all 6:3:1. I fear the bait monkey...... Thanks, again, folks. Your input, as always, is appreciated.

Thanks for the feedback. Are you using the 7:X:1 reel on the shorter rod?

Evening folks, has anyone had any experience with the swing jig heads? If so, is it the same setup as a deep crank? Thanks, as always, for the knowledge.

Own a Denali Kovert 6'10" M/M, paired with a Shimano Symmetry 2500. From dropshots, senkos and even a little spring topwater , the stick was a trooper.

Looking to upgrade electronics. Have the Humminbird 788 HD/GPS and Helix 5 DI/GPS both offered at same price, installed. Any thoughts? Again, appreciate the knowledge. Tom

Thanks again for knowledge. Going to BPS today (have gift cards from Christmas) to look at Daiwa Procyon (size 2000).

Thanks, as always, folks. I have some options. Bigger question will be size of reel. 2500 (or equivalent) seems to be consensus. I would like to stay as light as possible with the rod being where it is in weight. Tennessee handle will help with balance. Thanks, again, for those who took the time.

Looking for some thoughts on a drop shot spinning reel for dedicated set-up. Plan to pair with DVT (MHX DS 821 6'10" 1/8-3/8 Mag Lite /XF). Will use yo zuri 6 lb. and would like to stay under $150. Snowing like crazy here.....have to think pleasant thoughts....Thanks, as always for the knowledge.

Please forgive the tardiness in pics.....Old AND slow these days. They do not do the rod justice --- and the reel that I am pairing the stick with is up in Michigan ---- Revo SX (color will look great, as well!). http://s1298.photobucket.com/user/Tsamdog/library/Mobile%20Uploads?sort=3&evt=email_share_media&page=1

I just wanted to share my first 'custom' rod experience with DVT. Mike worked within my budget, shipped the stick in military - grade PVC, and communicated throughout. When I opened the tube --- could not have been more pleased! I do have pics- they do not do the rod justice - but each is above limit. Specs are below: MHX DS 821 6'10" 1/8-3/8 Mag Lite / XF Kevlar Tennessee grip w/ slip rings Pac Bay Minima guides (ringless) Red guide wraps Weighs in @ 3.3 ounces! The man will work within your budget, and the craftsmanship is exemplary. I will post pics when figure out the kb issue. Thanks for reading folks. Cannot wait to wet a line!