Tying the Dropper Loop

The Dropper Loop is a very useful knot for a variety of applications. In live bait fishing when you need a weight, it can be advantageous to rig so the weight will be on bottom and the bait a few feet higher. Another application might be anytime you want to rig multiple hooks on the same line; any number of dropper loops can be formed in your leader or main line without weakening it. When using artificial lures in deep water around rip-rap, reefs, rocks or other hard structure, hanging the lure on the structure often means losing it. We frequently find strong currents in these areas and the weight or action of the lure alone may not be enough to get it down to the depth where the fish are holding. By forming a dropper loop in the line a short distance above the lure, you now have a connection point for a weight. Using light line to attach the weight, 6 to 8 lbs test, offers the chance to sink the lure and break the weight line if it hangs up. You get your lure back by sacrificing the weight.

Step 1: Form a loop of about six or eight inches diameter in your line leaving a tag of suitable length.

Step 2: Where the strands cross, begin rolling one over the other, keeping your fingers in between to preserve an opening.

Step 3: Reach through the opening and pull the lower strand of the original loop up through the twisted strands so there are an equal number of twists on each side.

Step 4: Now, with your incisor teeth, or an assistant’s fingers, tug gently on the loop protruding through the twists.

Step 5: Moisten the twisted strands so they’ll seat easily.

Step 6: Tug gently to begin seating the coils, with heavier mono you may need to nudge them together slightly to achieve even seating.

Step 7: Tug vigorously to seat everything nice and tight, and then pull hard to test the knot.

Step 8: Attach hook or lure.