Moping (a.k.a. a Damiki rig), is a highly effective technique for catching bass, especially during the cold and warm water months when many bass move offshore; tend to hold close to bottom cover; and tend to be less active.
This do-nothing technique involves using a soft plastic bait (often a fluke-style lure) rigged on a 3/16-oz to 3/8-oz minnow-style jighead with a 90 degree hook eye. Choose a color pattern that imitates the natural prey of bass in your area. The bait should be about 3-4 inches long with a realistic shape and color.
Next, select a jighead that matches the depth of the water you are fishing as well as existing weather conditions. A heavier jighead is needed for deep water and windier conditions where a lighter one can be used for shallow water and lighter winds.
When fishing the rig, start by identifying fish-holding cover near the bottom, then lower jig and position it a foot or two above the bass. Next, hold the jig at that deoth and allow it to hover over the fish with minimal movement of the bait. This slow, finesse movement is key to imitating the movement of suspended baitfish and enticing the bass to strike.
When a bass takes the bait, you will feel either a deliberate thump or increased pressure on your line. Set the hook quickly and firmly, otherwise the bass may reject the bait if you hesitate. Once you have hooked the fish, reel it in steadily, keeping tension on the line to prevent the fish from shaking the hook loose.
Canadian bass pro Jeff Gustafson is considered an expert at using the Moping or Damiki rig to entice finicky, bottom-relating bass into biting. In the following video created by B.A.S.S., Jeff explains his approach to "Moping" along with some of the nuances of fishing this rig.
Enjoy!
Moping is a simple but effective technique for catching bass. With the right gear, a bit of patience, and a good understanding of the habits of these bottom-relating fish, you'll be able to use this technique to catch more bass and have a great time on the water.
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