Join Ott DeFoe as he tackles summertime bass fishing with finesse and precision, demonstrating the unmatched effectiveness of soft plastics using Texas rig and drop shot techniques. This video is a must-watch for any angler looking to enhance their approach during the warm months, where bass retreat to shaded, structured areas.
MASTERING THE TEXAS RIG
Discover the simplicity and effectiveness of the Texas rig, a staple in DeFoe’s fishing arsenal. This segment highlights how to employ a light 3/16-ounce Texas rig in current, targeting areas where aggressive bass are likely to be, such as near floating logs and eddies. DeFoe shares detailed tips on bait presentation, emphasizing the importance of allowing the bait to fall naturally to maintain its position in the strike zone.
FEATURED PRODUCT (retail links)
TEXAS RIG SETUP
- WORM – Bass Pro Shops Magnum Fin-Eke Worm, color – Sooner Run: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- HOOK – VMC Heavy Duty Worm Hook, 3/0: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- WEIGHT – VMC Tungsten Worm Weight, 3/16-ounce: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- VMC Sinker Stop: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse
- ROD – Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Signature Series Made in USA Casting Rod – 7’2″ – Medium Heavy: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- REEL – Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris CarbonLite 2.0 Baitcast Reel, 8.3:1: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (braided mainline) – Bass Pro Shops XPS SS Braid Fishing Line, 40-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (fluorocarbon leader)- Bass Pro Shops XPS KVD Signature Series 100% Fluorocarbon Fishing Line, 17-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
UTILIZING THE DROP SHOT IN CURRENT
In contrast, DeFoe explores the drop shot rig, which is particularly useful in sparse cover and open water scenarios where the current introduces a natural bait action. Learn how to adjust your rig to match the water depth and current speed to optimize the presentation of your bait. This technique is superb for enticing bass with a more subtle approach, offering a finesse alternative to traditional power fishing methods.
DROP SHOT SETUP
- WORM – Bass Pro Shops Magnum Fin-Eke Worm, color – Red Bug: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- ROD – Bass Pros Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Rod, 7’1” Medium Light (coming soon)
- REEL – Bass Pro Shops Johnny Morris Platinum Signature Spinning Reel, size 2000 Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE (braided mainline) – Bass Pro Shops XPS SS Braid Fishing Line, 10-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- LINE – Bass Pro Shops XPS KVD Signature Series 100% Fluorocarbon Fishing Line, 10-pound: Buy at Bass Pro Shops
- HOOK – VMC RedLine Finesse Neko Hook, 1/0: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- WEIGHT – VMC Tungsten Drop Shot Weight, 1/4 ounce (coming soon)
EXPERT TIPS AND GEAR RECOMMENDATIONS
DeFoe goes beyond basic techniques, sharing insights on his preferred gear setups for each method. From rod and reel combinations to the specific weights and hooks yielding the best results, he covers all the essentials to master these techniques. Whether you’re fishing heavy cover or open water, DeFoe’s advice is invaluable.
BOAT SETUP
- BOAT – Nitro Z21 XL PRO: Check out at Nitro
- MOTOR – Mercury Pro XS 250 hp: Check out at Mercury
