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How to Split Shot Plastic Worms

How to Split Shot Plastic Worms
You seemingly drew the short straw and have been positioned at the back of the bass boat. Well, there goes the day's fishing. This is not necessarily true. Although your options may be somewhat limited to those of your partner in the front, you nevertheless have a great weapon at your disposal. The split shot rig has accounted for numerous big bass when correctly rigged and presented.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • 8- to 10-pound test monofilament fishing line
  • Split shot weight
  • 1/0 EWG (extra wide gap) hook
  • 4- to 5-inch plastic worm
  • Pliers
Step 1
Attach a 1/0 EWG (extra wide gap) hook to your monofilament fishing line with an improved clinch knot.
Step 2
Texas rig a 4- to 5-inch plastic worm or creature bait to the hook. Insert the point of the hook into the nose of the bait for about 1 inch. Push the point of the hook down and out the belly of the worm or creature.
Step 3
Push the nose of the bait up to the eye of the hook, turn the hook toward the bait and insert the point of the hook completely through the body of the bait. Straighten the bait on the hook so that it lies flat.
Step 4
Attach a split shot weight on the monofilament line about 2 feet above the hook. Position the line in the split of the weight and use a pair of pliers to crimp the weight down tight around the line.
Step 5
Cast the line out from the back of the boat and allow the weight and plastic lure to sink to the bottom. Let the weight bounce along the bottom as the boat moves. Be patient. Only reel enough line to maintain a fairly tight line and allow the plastic to suspend along the bottom behind the weight.

Tips & Warnings

 
Adjust the size of the weight so that you are only using enough weight to keep the rig on the bottom but not so much that the rig cannot freely move.
 
Maintain a taut line and be aware of slight movements or tugs that may indicate a bass has taken the bait. Set the hook by reeling down and lifting up on the tip of the rod.

Resources

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

Write for Trails.com

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