Droplining: The Angler's Guide

With an unusual name, this technique primarily involves a long rod and some additional gear for dropping. The main target is the great saltwater depths and the fish that live there, but it also targets all other species that can be hooked on the line on the way from the top to the bottom!

Despite its unfamiliar name, droplining is a technique that is fundamentally unified and can be applied even from small boats. Its simplicity and adaptability make it a technique that any angler can master.

To bring this technique closer to you and make it even more interesting, in this guide, we will do our best to answer all your questions about drop lining, from the best places to fish to essential equipment and techniques. So, without further ado, let's delve into the exciting world of droplining!

Understanding Droplining

Given that it is exclusively applied at greater depths, even exceeding 6000 feet, such an approach requires detailed planning and precision. The essence is simple: dropping involves lowering weights with lures to specific depths in the water using a long line. 

This line is usually attached to a winch or reel, with which the angler steers. The weights ensure that the bait reaches the desired depth, while the hooks are placed along the line to increase the chances of a catch. You can adapt gear and lures depending on the type of fish you are targeting and the specific conditions in the water.

Droplining enables efficient fishing in deep waters, deep seas, or large lakes. It differs from the traditional method of fishing in that instead of using rods and reels, droplining focuses on precise management of lines and weights.

Why Use Droplining

Droplining is particularly suitable for hunting at great depths, offering a high level of efficiency and precision in hard-to-reach areas. Its practicality enables targeting large species of fish, such as Cod and Tuna, that live in deep waters, where other techniques might not be as effective. 

Droplining is both exciting and significantly different from other fishing techniques. It is relatively affordable and less complicated, making it an excellent choice for anglers looking for a challenge and satisfaction in fishing at great depths.

When to Use Droplining

Droplining is a technique that works best and most cost-effectively in deep seas and oceans, and as such, it can be used throughout the year. If the equipment is well prepared, you can catch fish such as Tuna, Cod, Flounder, and many others. 

Droplining also enables the precise placement of lures under challenging conditions such as strong currents or winds. It is helpful when baits are specialized for certain types of fish because it enables stable and efficient management of the line and baits.

Why Fish Gather on Droplining

Fish gather around the baits used in droplining primarily because the gear and technique enable the precise setting and presentation of the baits at the exact depths where the fish naturally look for food. These are usually locations in specific deep water zones where fish naturally congregate due to favorable conditions or migrations.

These baits are usually natural prey, such as small fish or squid. The weights required in droplining help lures remain stable and visible, stimulating the natural sensitivity of foraging fish. Baits that imitate the prey's natural sounds and movements can also attract fish.

Fish Species Commonly Caught By Droplining

Although this intriguing technique can catch small and large fish, it primarily targets large and vicious sea faces. Here are the fish species primarily targeted by dropping.

• Cod: Cod is one of the fish caught by droplining. It lives in cold, deep waters, especially in the North Atlantic.

• Tuna: Different species, such as Blackfin and Yellowfin Tuna, are also popular and often caught by droplining due to their presence in deep oceans and vigorous appetite.

• Eel: An unusual fish that roams the dubs and expanses, seems constantly searching for food, and is often hunted for its meat.

• Squid: Squid are hunted not only for their meat but also because they are bait for other types of fish.

• Shark: Some species of sharks, especially those that live in deep waters, are also hunted as trophies, but some are also hunted for poor meat.

• Sole: Sole hides on the bottom and can be attracted to specialized baits.

• Black Cod: Also known as Sablefish, it is a popular droplining target due to its presence in deep water and market value.

Of course, there are many more, and this technique can catch various species by accident.

Essential Gear Used for Droplining

A specific technique requires specific equipment. There are no rods or reels, but the method relies primarily on weights and lures. Let's get to know them in more detail.

Lines

A good line is the heart of droplining, as it is necessary to pull out all the many trophy and difficult fish you can encounter while droplining. Different locations require different line types, so let's explore them.

• Monofilament Lines: Durable and elastic, ideal for fishing at great depths. They can handle a lot of weight and pressure, and their elasticity helps absorb the shock when catching a big fish. They are almost invisible in the water, which can be helpful when targeting sensitive and wary fish.

• Braided Lines: Extremely strong and almost not elastic at all. They are solid, which helps to reduce resistance when descending to greater depths. Also, they enable a better feeling for the bait movement and the bite, which allows a faster and more precise reaction.

• Fluorocarbon Lines: Almost invisible in the water, making them ideal for fishing species sensitive to visible lines. They are highly wear-resistant, which makes them long-lasting and reliable for fishing on steep and rocky terrain.

• Hybrid Lines: Hybrid lines combine the characteristics of multiple line types to provide optimal performance. Monofilament/fluorocarbon has the elasticity and resistance of braided/fluorocarbon hybrids, while braided/fluorocarbon hybrids offer strength and invisibility. They provide balanced performance, allowing anglers to get the best of both worlds.

Take into account the weather conditions and the types of fish you plan to catch, and based on that, choose the line that suits you best.

Weights

Weights are also a must-have in droplining, because with them, you can secure both the line and the bait, and the whole setup could be fixed where you imagined it. Therefore, pay attention to the characteristics of the following weights.

• Lead Weights: The most popular choice due to its density and affordable price. It will ensure fast and efficient lowering of baits to great depths. Available in different shapes and sizes, they allow adaptation to specific fishing conditions and the type of fish you target.

• Pyramid Weights: Designed in the shape of pyramids to remain stable on the bottom, even in conditions of strong currents. Also, their shape enables a quick descent and minimal rolling on the bottom, ensuring the bait stays in place. They are helpful in fishing on sandy or muddy grounds where the bait must stay put.

• Spherical Weights: Also known as "balls," they allow easy rolling on the bottom, which is useful when moving the bait. They are often combined with live baits to enable more natural movement. They are ideal for fishing in areas with a flat or slightly sloping bottom where the mobility of the bait is crucial.

• Slide Weights: Slide weights allow the line to pass through them, increasing line sensitivity and better detecting fish bites. When a fish bites the bait, the sliding weight offers no resistance, which reduces the chance that the fish will feel the weight and escape.

• Rod Weights: These are often called "rod weights" and are used for fishing on rocky or inaccessible bottoms. Their oblong shape allows easy extraction from cracks and reduces the possibility of getting stuck.

Droplining is a technique that requires good organization, preparation, precision, and adaptability. Correctly selected weights are a critical factor in achieving success.

Reels

The reels ensure that everything runs smoothly. The dropline is aimed primarily at extracting the highest-quality prey; the reel must support the strength of the fish and potential problems that may arise due to the specifics of the aquatic environment.

• Spinning Reels: They are flexible and suitable for anglers of all experience levels, allowing easy line handling. They are easy to manage because they are made of durable materials, which gives them durability and reliability.

• Baitcasting Reels: They are ideal for precise casting and line management, especially for casting at great depths. They provide precision, more power, and control, which is helpful in the fight against big fish, and they can withstand tough fishing conditions.

• Electric Reels: Thanks to their small motor, electric reels specialize in fishing at extreme depths, where manual line management becomes impractical. They also enable automatic string lowering and pulling.

• Big Game Reels: As the name suggests, they are designed to catch big and powerful fish. Thanks to the large capacity of the line and powerful mechanisms, they are excellent support in challenging sea conditions.

No matter what type of reel you choose, maintain and care for them regularly. You will extend their lifespan and prevent unexpected problems in critical fish battles.

Rods

Although they are not mandatory and are not often used in droplining, they can sometimes get you out of a tricky situation. We made a short list of those that will not disappoint you.

• Conventional Rods: Strong and durable, ideal for droplining at great depths. They provide enough strength to handle the weight and pressure when lowering the line. They are versatile and can be used in different fishing conditions, providing an optimal balance between power and sensitivity.

• Electric Rods: When combined with electric reels, electric rods enable automated line management, thus reducing the angler's physical effort and increasing fishing efficiency by enabling faster line lowering and pulling.

• Stand-Up Rods: These rods are designed to fight big fish while the angler stands, allowing maximum power and control. They are short and powerful, with ergonomic handles and belt support for additional support, which enables the angler to endure long battles with large catches.

Whether you use them or not, it's okay to have them with you when droplining. Just make sure they are strong enough for battles with bigger fish.

Essential Baits and Lures for Droplining

In this technique, both live and artificial bait can be used, but live bait is preferred because, due to its complexity, it can attract fish in dark and inaccessible areas.

Saltwater

Whether you are using live or artificial, they must provide an authentic look and smell that can attract a specific fish or group of different species.

Live Baits

Live baits are an important part of the dropline strategy, as they offer an authentic look and smell that is hard to beat. 

• Small Fish: They can be used alive or fresh frozen, and in both cases, they perfectly mimic the natural food of predators. For this very reason, this is one of the most commonly used natural baits in saltwater.

• Squid: Squid is one of the best bait choices for droplining. They are durable and fatty and, therefore, very attractive to many types of fish. They can be used whole or cut into pieces and combined with other baits.

• Shellfish: Shellfish, including mussels and oysters, can attract many types of fish. They are usually used fresh and can be put on the hook whole or sliced, and sometimes, they can also be combined.

Although this does not apply to all-natural baits, keeping them in a cool environment to retain the smell, taste, and appearance necessary to attract fish is essential.

Artificial Lures

The common characteristic of all artificial baits is that they are designed, often to the point of exaggeration, to imitate fish's natural food through different shapes, colors, and movements. Depending on the situation, they can perform impressively in salt water.

• Silicone Lures: Flexibility and ability to imitate the natural movements of various types of fish; therefore, they are prevalent. They come in different shapes and sizes, they are adaptable and durable, and it is okay to always have them with you.

• Vibrating Lures: They look like toys because they produce vibrations that imitate prey movements and are very powerful in attracting fish sensitive to sounds and vibrations.

• Lures with LED Lights: These look like small key chains with built-in LED lights. They attract fish in dark waters or at great depths, as well as sensitive species.

Considering that you are lowering them to great depths, make sure they are correct and made of quality material that can withstand various conditions of deeper waters.

Where to Go Droplining

As you already know, droplining requires slightly more extreme and challenging conditions because using it in shallower waters makes no sense. Therefore, when you dare to droplining, opt for the following locations.

Coastal Areas

We do not mean shallows or plains, but sea areas with water at least 100 feet deep. It is best to be near rocks, reefs, and rocks close to the shore. These places offer rich ecosystems where fish often seek shelter and food. It is essential to focus on changes in depth and specific areas where fish can congregate.

Sea Plates and Reefs

Sea plates and reefs are natural complex structures around which different types of fish are attracted. They often offer rich flora and fauna, making them ideal places for fish to feed. You can explore various depths and structures to find the most productive spots. 

Different topographies create unique conditions where other species congregate, especially reefs known for their vibrant ecosystems, which can be hotspots for larger predatory fish. You must be careful because not all reefs are the same, so you will adjust the strategy more efficiently. Fishing in these unusual places contributes to a more prosperous and profitable fishing adventure.

Deep Sea Areas

Deep sea areas are undoubtedly the best places to find a productive and commodity-rich environment. These places require robust and sturdy equipment due to the extreme depths. But here, you can catch vicious species like Sharks and big Tuna. You will also need a strong vessel and always consider the weather forecast.

Specific Droplining Strategies

Although it seems straightforward, there are several approaches to it that differ in application depending on the location, water conditions, and, of course, the targeted fish. 

Pause and Pull Strategie 

The "pause and pull" technique in droplining is not complicated and, as the name suggests, involves lowering the bait to the desired depth, after which short pauses are made before the bait is pulled gently. Takonse imitates the movements of the prey most naturally, and the key to success is in the correct pace of pauses and retreats, which creates an attractive rhythm for fish.

Quick Sinking

"Quick Sinking" relies on using weights to sink the bait to the desired depth quickly. It reaches the bottom layers of water faster and attracts fish in deep areas or conditions with strong currents. In this way, the bait is delivered promptly to the places where the fish expect food, which increases the chance of a catch.

Jigging and Shaking

A technique that sounds like a dance move involves moving the bait in quick, nervous movements or pauses during the bait pull. It is especially effective for fish species that are attracted to rhythm changes and react to water disturbances.

Adding Vibrations

Adding vibrations means you will need to include using baits with built-in vibrators or adding external vibrating devices to the bait. It will significantly affect the presentation, increasing the intensity of the movement, which allows even distant fish to get used to it. 

The vibrations help mimic natural sounds in the water, thus increasing the attraction of the lure. It is helpful in conditions of low visibility or at night, as fish sensitive to sounds and vibrations may be attracted to these additional stimuli.

Depth Setting

Adjusting the depth is like exploring and experimenting with different depths to target different water and fish species layers. It means staying at various layers and depths and adapting the bait to different water conditions can effectively test what works best for a particular type of fish. Adjust the depth according to the behavior of the fish and the current water condition. It can be pretty tiring but also very productive.

Following Natural Currents

Following natural currents is drifting in the interpretation of droplining. Since fish often use currents to navigate and find food, placing your lure in line with the currents can significantly increase your chances of catching a catch. The angler must understand the direction and speed of the water flow and allow the bait to be placed where the fish often stay, thus increasing the probability of successful fishing.

Final Thoughts 

You probably realized that droplining can be complicated and simple because that is usually the case when you are fishing at great depths. However, plenty of strategies help optimize your approach, ensuring you effectively target the suitable species and tackle the challenges of freshwater and saltwater environments.

If you are an experienced droplining angler or have had experience with exploring the depths in this way, write us your suggestions, criticisms, and comments, and share tips with future droplining anglers! As always, we are waiting for you in the comment section. Happy fishing!