Donald, have you ever rigged that heavy dropshot setup with a straight shank hook? Curious to see what that would do....
No; I haven't. My hookup ratio is as good as it gets; so nothings broke don't try to fix it.
I leave the tag end at about 4 inches. Just put an overhand knot on the end of the line. I use a slip knot, very simple to hold the weight on. The braid is 50 lb. Stren. If the weight happens to hang up in grass and hardwood then I can do a straight pull to release the weight and bring in the fish. The weights are sold in the salt water section at Cabala's and BPS called trolling weights in 1 oz.. I will use 1.5 on heavy matt. They come with a swivel on them; but I cut that off. The line doesn't twist. This set up will make it's own hole in the grass. You do not have to hunt one to pitch into. It comes out with no grass on it like a jig does many times.
Edit: I have won more tournaments on Amistad with this setup than any bait. I have used every creature bait there is and none will beat Watermelon/Neon.