I am using 6 pound mono for dropshot. I use a barrel swivel about 8 inches above my hook. Until recently I have had no problem with breaking my line. But the last 2 days out I have broke the line right at the hook. I thought it was the line but I tried some 12 pound and did the same thing. I use a Palomar knot at the hook. Any suggestions to what I may be doing wrong?

What kind of mono are you using? Is the leader fresh - not like 3 or 4 years old? Do you wet your knot when snugging it up? Is your drag set too tight? A lot of reasons can cause a break off on these powerful fish. Sounds like the pound test you are using is just fine.

I use 4# test fluorocarbon for my DS leader and about the only time I break off is when I get too anxious and put too much pressure on the fish. Then I sit down...take a breather...and replace the leader. I also make real certain that my drag is not too tight.

When a smallie turns 90 degrees on you, down 20', if your drag doesn't slip instantly, he's a gonner!  

wowzerz... 4lb test?? haha i cant seem to make myself go below 8lb...i have heard that you shouldnt use a palomar knot on flurocarbon because it will cut itself, but i never use a palomar with it anyway..but you are not using fluro so it shouldnt matter...i would switch knots anyway and see what happens...try a cinch knot

Crestliner made some good points.  I don't know if it makes a difference but I run the tag line back through the hook eye, from the front, also tying a palomar.

Two in two days?  Has the line been exposed to some bad stuff?  Is it fresh?  Maybe try a different brand.  I'd sure try something different even though it might just be coincidence.

Are you sure the "loop" on the palomare isn't getting caught where the eyelet, and shank meet..? That'll break almost every time.

I also do the same as Sammy re: running the tag through the eyelet.