A single engine small aircraft pilot landing at a non towered airport reported an unstable approach resulted in a hard landing on the nose wheel and a prop strike. The reporter did not detect the prop strike until the next day after a subsequent flight.

Narrative

I was working on IFR proficiency. I received my Instrument rating 6 months ago and was looking to log some actual instrument time. With 2;800 foot ceilings and my IFR flight plan at 4;000 feet I expected to be in the clouds for the entire 20 minute flight. I had not flown in over 50 days and had some issues programming an unexpected waypoint in my flight plan on the G430. I also had some issues with the altitude hold on the Trutrak autopilot. I obviously need to work on my proficiency with these instruments before my next IFR flight. Descending out of the clouds on final with the runway in sight I was feeling good about the approach. I crossed the threshold and decreased power too abruptly and landed with a bounce and then landed on the nose wheel. I taxied to the terminal and inspected the tire and nose gear and was relieved to not find any damage. I picked up a passenger and flew back to ZZZ1 VFR. The next day; in my preflight; I found the damaged prop and realized I had a prop strike when I landed. Looking back; given the length of time since my last flight; I should have made a few practice landings to restore proficiency before flying into IMC. A very costly lesson! I also learned the importance of always examining the prop before flying.