Drift Fishing Technique
Drift Fishing is a technique, which can be used on rivers, streams and creeks. The water simply needs a current to move your bait or lure. The set-up described below is mainly used for Trout and Steelhead.
- The Rod: You will need a long rod with good tip sensitivity. I use 8’6″ to 10′ rods. They should be rated in the 6-12 pound line range. You can use either a spinning or bait casting set up. I prefer spinning from shore and bait casting from a boat.
- The Line: I prefer 20-30 lb test braided line for my main line. The braided line floats better then monofilament.
- The Rig:
Place two beads, a weight slider and then tie a snap swivel at the end of your main line. Next you can place a variety of items attached to the hook. The attached photo has a small spin-n-glo, a plastic bead and yarn placed under a Snell Knot on the hook.
You could also simply have a Corkie and Yarn or a Sand Shrimp. You will need to try different combinations to see what will work. - The Weight: In the upper photo you will see that I have chosen a Slinky Weight. This is made by inserting ball bearings into a length of parachute cord and burning both ends closed.
This weight tends to slip past many snags in the water as it flexes. You will need to adjust the weight so that it bounces every once in a while on the bottom. It should be a tap,,,,,tap,,,,,tap type feel, rather then a tap,tap,tap,tap,tap, or just holding in one spot. Make various lengths for your trip and remember, you will loose gear drift fishing!
Cast a little upstream and into a seam in the current. Retrieve line as your rig drifts past you. You can release additional line to extend the drift, but keep control of the line by thumbing your reel. You want to be ready to set the hook upon a strike.
That is the basics. Next you need to get out and try it.
Ken Bear Cole