How to Fish a Split-Shot

Split-shot rigs are among the most effective rigs fishermen can use when targeting bass. That is especially true if the bass are heavily pressured by anglers or recreational boat traffic, or if a cold front has given them a case of lockjaw. Known as finesse presentations, split-shot rigs include split-shot weights and straight-tail worms. Anglers fish them along the bottom and the rigs can draw strikes from bass when nothing else will.

Things You'll Need

  • Fishing rod and reel
  • 8-pound. test fishing line
  • Split-shot
  • Size 1/0 hook
  • Straight-tail worm
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Spool a 6.5-foot to 7-foot spinning rod and reel with 6-pound to 8-pound test fishing line.

    • 2

      Tie a size 1/0 hook to the end of the fishing line with a Palomar knot.

    • 3

      Attach two to three split-shot weights 12 inches up the line from the hook. The weights should be just heavy enough to keep the worm on the bottom.

    • 4

      Insert the hook point into the head of the straight-tail worm. Push it down 1/8 inch and then push the hook point out of the lure. Thread the worm up the shank of the hook and then turn the hook so the point faces toward the worm. Insert the hook point into the worm and push it until it is just below the surface on the other side.

    • 5

      Cast the straight-tail worm into likely areas, including along drop-offs and weed edges. Other good places to fish split-shot rigs include the tops of rock piles and the edges of humps and reefs.

    • 6

      Cast the rig out and let it fall to the bottom. Let it sit for 5 to 10 seconds and then lift your rod tip until you feel the lure. If there is any tension, drop the rod tip slightly and set the hook by swinging the rod tip upward. If there is no tension, turn the reel three or four times and then allow the rig to sit on the bottom. Repeat the process until you've reeled the rig back to the boat or shore. As you fish, experiment with the length of time you leave the rig sitting on the bottom before moving it.