RE: the dropshot rig
tie a Palomar knot and leave a long tag end to attach your sinker to. you have to tie it right so the bait hangs right. since i know the waters you fish, you'd be better off just fishing a crank or tube or possibly a carolina rig, as the drop shot requires deep structure and for the most part excellent water clarity, none of which you find in this area. i have one lake up north that i can fish it for smallmouth and i may try it, but you need deep clear water with some structure.
slayer