dropshot...Breaking line?

[fishnjohn]

I am using 6 pound mono for dropshot. I use a barrel swivel about 8 inches above my hook. Until recently I have had no problem with breaking my line. But the last 2 days out I have broke the line right at the hook. I thought it was the line but I tried some 12 pound and did the same thing. I use a Palomar knot at the hook. Any suggestions to what I may be doing wrong?

[Crestliner2008]

What kind of mono are you using? Is the leader fresh - not like 3 or 4 years old? Do you wet your knot when snugging it up? Is your drag set too tight? A lot of reasons can cause a break off on these powerful fish. Sounds like the pound test you are using is just fine.

I use 4# test fluorocarbon for my DS leader and about the only time I break off is when I get too anxious and put too much pressure on the fish. Then I sit down...take a breather...and replace the leader. I also make real certain that my drag is not too tight.

When a smallie turns 90 degrees on you, down 20', if your drag doesn't slip instantly, he's a gonner!  

[CODbasser]

wowzerz... 4lb test?? haha i cant seem to make myself go below 8lb...i have heard that you shouldnt use a palomar knot on flurocarbon because it will cut itself, but i never use a palomar with it anyway..but you are not using fluro so it shouldnt matter...i would switch knots anyway and see what happens...try a cinch knot

[SammyLee]

Crestliner made some good points.  I don't know if it makes a difference but I run the tag line back through the hook eye, from the front, also tying a palomar.

Two in two days?  Has the line been exposed to some bad stuff?  Is it fresh?  Maybe try a different brand.  I'd sure try something different even though it might just be coincidence.

[Hammer 4]

Are you sure the "loop" on the palomare isn't getting caught where the eyelet, and shank meet..? That'll break almost every time.

I also do the same as Sammy re: running the tag through the eyelet.