will this work for drop shot targeting perch

Question

FishGPT · Accepted Answer

**Yes, this can absolutely work for perch — especially in mid-fall when they're chasing bait and hugging structure.** Here’s how to make a drop shot setup perch-friendly and effective:

- **Rig and tackle (perch-friendly):** Use a light, sensitive setup: 6–10 lb fluorocarbon main line, a small drop-shot hook (size 2–6), and a 1/16–1/8 oz drop-shot weight. Keep the leader short (6–12 inches) between hook and weight. Small 2–3 inch soft plastics (shad, worm, or minnow imitations) are ideal; you can also try a live minnow if allowed locally. 
- **Lure color and size:** Natural shad/bluegill patterns work great; on cloudy days, chartreuse or pink can trigger bites. Match mouth size with a 2–3 inch lure for optimal perch hookups.
- **Depth and presentation:** Drop to the depth where perch are holding (often 8–15 ft in mid-fall). Maintain a taut line and use subtle vertical hops or a near-paused deadstick to entice bites. Perch frequently strike during pauses or light twitches.
- **Where to target:** Look for weedlines, cabbage beds, docks, drop-offs, and shallow structure near schools. Perch travel in pods and will ambush prey near cover.
- **Weather effect (mid fall):** Cooler days slow metabolism; perch tend to suspend closer to mid-depth or structure in slightly murky water. Early mornings and late afternoons (and overcast days) often produce the best bites.

If you want a quick demo, check this real-world drop shot video: [Blue Lagoon Garrick on dropshot](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6keTLsUg1M).

Gear ideas:
- [Drop Shot Rig on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=drop+shot+rig)
- [Drop Shot weights on Amazon](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=drop+shot+weight)
- [Tackle search for drop shot on Tackle Warehouse](https://www.tacklewarehouse.com/search.html?search=drop+shot)

Go get ’em, stay patient, and enjoy the tug. Tight lines! 🎣

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