Ned rigs are a type of finesse fishing technique that has gained popularity among anglers recently.
This technique involves rigging a small jig head, usually 1/16 to 1/8 ounces, and a soft plastic bait, typically a stick bait or worm, to create a subtle, natural presentation in the water.
The Ned Rig was developed by a Midwestern angler named Ned Kehde, who wanted a finesse technique that would consistently catch fish in tough conditions.
The rig has become a go-to technique for many anglers, especially those targeting bass and other freshwater species.
Ned Rig effectively and increasing your chances of success on the water.
Choose the Right Gear
You’ll need some specialized gear to get started with a Ned Rig.
A light or medium-light spinning rod and reel combo is ideal, as it allows for the precise presentation and sensitivity needed for finesse fishing.
You’ll want a rod around 6 to 7 feet long, with a fast or extra-fast action, and a reel with a smooth drag system and a high gear ratio for quick hooksets.
As for line, it’s best to use a thin, low-visibility line, such as fluorocarbon, in the 6 to 10-pound test range.
This will help you feel even the lightest bites and ensure that your rig looks as natural as possible in the water.
Choose the Right Bait
The Ned Rig’s success relies heavily on the bait you choose.
The most common bait used with a Ned Rig is a stick bait, such as the Z-Man Finesse TRD, explicitly designed for this technique.
Other options include small creature baits or worms, but stick baits are the most popular due to their subtle, lifelike action in the water.
Natural colors like green pumpkin, watermelon, and brown tend to be the most effective, as they mimic the color of the baitfish and other prey in the water.
Technique
The Ned Rig is a finesse technique, meaning that it requires a slow and subtle presentation.
The key is keeping the bait close to the bottom, where fish often feed. To do this, cast your rig out and let it sink to the bottom, then reel in the slack line and use a slow, steady retrieve.
You can also pause and twitch the bait every few seconds to give it a more natural action.
Another effective technique with the Ned Rig is the “deadstick” approach, where you cast out and let the bait sit completely still on the bottom for a few seconds.
This can entice even the most stubborn fish to bite.
Location
Ned Rig fishing can be effective in various locations, but it’s beneficial in areas with clear water and light fishing pressure.
It’s also effective in areas with a lot of structure, such as rocks, logs, and weed beds, as it allows you to target specific areas precisely.
Fishing with a Ned Rig is a finesse technique that can be extremely effective in the right conditions.
By choosing the right gear, bait, and technique, you can increase your chances of success on the water and catch more fish.
Ned rig setup
Setting up a Ned Rig is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps to follow:
Choose your jig head: The first step in setting up a Ned Rig is to select the appropriate jig head.
The most common size for a Ned Rig jig head is 1/16 to 1/8 ounce.
You’ll want to choose a size that matches the depth and current of the water you’ll be fishing in.
Add a hook: After you’ve selected your jig head, you’ll need to add a hook.
The hook should be small and light, usually around size 2 or 4, and made of a thin wire to maximize sensitivity.
Some anglers prefer hooks with a wide gap, which can help with hooksets on larger fish.
Choose a soft plastic bait: The next component of a Ned Rig is the soft plastic bait. Stick baits are the most popular choice, but small creature baits or worms can also be used.
The bait should be rigged on the hook to sit horizontally, with the tip pointing up.
Thread the bait onto the hook: To rig the bait, first, insert the hook point into the nose of the bait and thread it through until the hook point is about halfway down the bait.
Then, turn the hook point and bury it back into the bait so it’s barely exposed.
This will help the bait sit horizontally in the water and give it a natural appearance.
Attach the bait to the jig head: To attach the bait to the jig head, slide the head of the jig into the nose of the soft plastic bait.
Then, push the hook point through the center of the bait so that it is flush with the back of the jig head.
This will create a weedless presentation that is less likely to snag on underwater structures.
Tie on your line: Tie your line to the eye of the jig head using a Palomar knot or another strong knot of your choice.
It’s best to use a thin, low-visibility line, such as fluorocarbon, in the 6 to 10-pound test range.
Fish the Ned Rig: Cast your Ned Rig out and let it sink to the bottom.
Use a slow, steady retrieve, or pause and twitch the bait every few seconds to give it a more natural action.
Another effective technique is the “deadstick” approach, where you cast out and let the bait sit completely still on the bottom for a few seconds.
Ned rig rod
Selecting the right rod for Ned Rig fishing is crucial to maximize sensitivity and effectively present your bait to the fish.
Rod Length: The ideal rod length for Ned Rig fishing is around 6’6″ to 7’2″.
This length allows you to make accurate casts and feel subtle bites while providing enough leverage to fight larger fish.
Power and Action: A medium-light to light power rod is ideal for Ned Rig fishing as it provides the sensitivity to detect even the slightest bites while still having enough power to handle larger fish.
A fast or extra-fast action rod is also recommended, as it will help you feel the bite and set the hook quickly.
Material: The material of your rod affects both sensitivity and durability.
Graphite rods are the most popular choice for Ned Rig fishing due to their lightweight and high sensitivity.
A composite rod, which is a blend of graphite and fiberglass, can provide a balance between sensitivity and durability.
Handle: Your rod handle should be comfortable and allow you to maintain a good grip, even when your hands are wet.
Cork or foam handles are popular choices as they provide a good grip and are comfortable to hold for long periods.
Line and Lure Weight: Ensure your rod is rated for the line and lure weight you plan to use.
For Ned Rig fishing, you’ll typically use light lines (4-8 lb test) and small lures (1/16 to 1/8 ounces).
Overall, a light to medium-light power, fast-action graphite rod with a comfortable handle is a good choice for Ned Rig fishing.
Look for a rod for finesse techniques like Ned Rig fishing, as these rods provide maximum sensitivity and accuracy.
How to use a ned rig
Cast your Ned Rig: Make a cast to the area you want to fish.
It’s important to use light gear and line to help you feel bites and detect subtle movements of your bait.
Let your Ned Rig sink: Allow your Ned Rig to sink to the bottom. The small jig head and soft plastic bait will slowly descend to the bottom, where you’ll want to maintain contact with the bait as you work it.
Retrieve your Ned Rig slowly: Begin retrieving your Ned Rig slowly, using a gentle and consistent retrieve.
The key is to keep the bait close to the bottom and move it in a naturally realistic manner.
Experiment with pauses and twitches: As you retrieve your Ned Rig, experiment with pauses and twitches to give the bait a natural appearance.
Try twitching your rod tip or pausing your retrieve for a few seconds to allow the bait to settle on the bottom before continuing your retrieve.
Watch for bites: It’s important to always maintain contact with your Ned Rig, as bites can be subtle and difficult to detect.
Watch for the line to twitch, jump or move sideways. Set the hook by sharply lifting the rod tip when you feel a bite.
Repeat: Once you’ve finished your retrieve, move your Ned Rig to different water areas until you find where the fish are biting.
Remember, using a Ned Rig is all about finesse and patience.
You’ll need to slow down your retrieve and pay close attention to the subtle bait movements.
Using this technique, you can target various species, including bass, walleye, and panfish.
Ned rig hooks
Regarding Ned Rig fishing, selecting the right hook is crucial to maximizing your chances of hooking and landing fish.
Here are some things to consider when choosing a hook for your Ned Rig:
Hook Size: The hook size you choose will depend on the size of the soft plastic bait you plan to use.
For most Ned Rig baits, a size 1 or 2 hook is appropriate.
Hook Style: The best hook style for Ned Rig fishing is a mushroom or round jig head.
These hooks are designed to sit horizontally in the water, mimicking the natural position of prey in the water.
Hook Weight: The weight of your hook is also important. A Ned Rig hook typically weighs between 1/16 to 1/8 ounces, and this is enough to get your bait to the bottom while maintaining a natural, lifelike presentation.
Hook Material: The material of your hook can affect both durability and sensitivity.
High-quality hooks made of carbon steel or other durable materials are recommended for Ned Rig fishing.
Hook Brand: Many hooks are available on the market, so choosing a reliable and trusted brand is important.
Some top brands for Ned Rig hooks include Z-Man, Owner, and Gamakatsu.
When choosing a hook for your Ned Rig, it’s important to consider the size, style, weight, material, and brand.
Selecting the proper hook can improve your chances of hooking and landing fish using this finesse fishing technique.
Best ned rig
Z-Man Finesse TRD: This is the original Ned Rig bait and is still one of the most popular options.
The Finesse TRD has a small profile and a buoyant design, which helps it stand up off the bottom, giving it a lifelike appearance.
Strike King Ned Ocho: This bait is designed to mimic a small baitfish and has a unique shape that helps it move naturally in the water.
It has a soft texture and is infused with salt and coffee scent, which can entice fish to bite.
Roboworm Ned Worm: This bait has a slender profile and is made from soft plastic, which provides a natural feel and movement in the water.
It’s available in various colors, allowing you to match the hatch to the local forage.
Keitech Easy Shiner: This bait is an excellent option for targeting larger fish with the Ned Rig.
It has a broader profile than the other options and a ribbed body that provides extra movement and vibration in the water.
Tips for using a new rig
Choose the Right Gear: Ned Rig fishing requires light gear and line to help you feel bites and detect subtle movements of your bait.
Use a spinning rod with a light or ultralight power and fast or extra-fast action.
Pair it with a high-gear ratio reel to quickly reel in the slack and keep your bait in contact with the bottom.
Keep It Simple: The Ned Rig is a simple setup consisting of a small jig head and a soft plastic bait.
Avoid adding scents or attractants, as they can mask the natural scent of the bait.
Use a Slow and Subtle Presentation: The key to using a Ned Rig is maintaining contact with the bait and moving it naturally in a realistic manner.
Use a gentle and consistent retrieve, keeping the bait close to the bottom. Experiment with pauses and twitches to give the bait a natural appearance.
Pay Attention to Line and Rod Movement: When using a Ned Rig, it’s important to pay close attention to the movements of your line and rod.
Watch for the line to twitch, jump or move sideways. Set the hook by sharply lifting the rod tip when you feel a bite.
Fish the Right Areas: Ned Rig fishing is most effective in areas with rocky or hard-bottomed structures, such as points, drop-offs, and ledges.
Fish the Ned Rig around cover and structure, including weed beds, docks, logs, and open water areas.
Best ned rig baits
There are many great Ned Rig baits available on the market, but some of the best include:
Z-Man Finesse TRD is the original and most popular Ned Rig bait.
It has a small profile and a buoyant design, which helps it stand up off the bottom and mimic the movements of a worm or insect.
Strike King Ned Ocho: This bait is designed to mimic a small baitfish and has a unique shape that helps it move naturally in the water.
It has a soft texture and is infused with salt and coffee scent, which can entice fish to bite.
Roboworm Ned Worm: This bait has a slender profile and is made from soft plastic, which provides a natural feel and movement in the water.
It’s available in various colors, allowing you to match the hatch to the local forage.
Keitech Easy Shiner: This bait is an excellent option for targeting larger fish with the Ned Rig.
It has a wider profile than the other options and a ribbed body that provides extra movement and vibration in the water.
NetBait T-Mac Worm: This bait has a unique tapered design that mimics the shape and movement of a small baitfish.
It’s made from soft plastic and has a natural texture that can help trigger strikes.
Yamamoto Senko: While not explicitly designed for the Ned Rig, the Yamamoto Senko is a versatile soft plastic bait that can be used with various rigging techniques, including the Ned Rig.
It has a natural, subtle movement in the water and is available in various colors.
Ultimately, the best Ned Rig bait depends on your preferences and fishing conditions.
Ned rig kit
Jig Heads: The Ned Rig is typically fished with a small mushroom-shaped jig head, which helps keep the bait standing up off the bottom.
A Ned Rig kit typically includes several jig heads in various sizes and weights to accommodate different fishing conditions.
Soft Plastic Baits: A Ned Rig kit includes various soft plastic baits designed to be fished on a small jig head.
These baits are typically small and have a slender profile, which helps them mimic the movement of a worm or insect.
Tackle Box: To keep your Ned Rig components organized and easily accessible, many kits will come with a small tackle box.
Fishing Line: A Ned Rig kit may or may not include a fishing line, but choosing a light line will allow you to feel subtle bites and movements of your bait is important.
Many anglers prefer using fluorocarbon or braided lines with a Ned Rig.
Scissors or Clippers: You’ll need scissors or clippers to trim your bait and rig it on the jig head.
Fishing Rod and Reel: While not typically included in a Ned Rig kit, you’ll need a light spinning rod and reel to fish this finesse technique effectively.
When purchasing a Ned Rig kit, ensuring the components are high quality and suitable for your fishing conditions is important.
Ned rig underwater
The Ned Rig is a finesse technique that can be very effective underwater, especially in clear or lightly stained water where fish are likelier to see and respond to subtle presentations.
Keep the Bait Close to the Bottom: The Ned Rig is typically fished with a slow and subtle retrieve, keeping the bait in contact with the bottom.
This can be particularly effective when fishing in deeper water or around structure like rocks, weed beds, or logs where fish might be holding.
Use Natural Colors: When fishing underwater, it’s important to choose colors that mimic the natural forage in the area you’re fishing.
Green pumpkin and brown are good colors to start with as they imitate a variety of worms, insects, and small baitfish that bass may be feeding on.
Pay Attention to Your Line: If you notice your line twitching or moving unusually, it may be a sign that a fish has taken the bait.
Vary Your Retrieve: While a slow and steady retrieve is often effective with the Ned Rig, it can also be productive to mix up your retrieve with occasional pauses or twitches to imitate the movement of a dying or injured baitfish.
Watch for Strikes: When fishing a Ned Rig underwater, it’s important to be alert for subtle strikes.
You may feel a slight tug or pressure on your line, or your line may suddenly go slack as a fish takes the bait.
Fishing ned rig deep water
Choose the Right Jig Head: When fishing in deep water, it’s important to use a heavier jig head to quickly get your bait down to the bottom.
Use a Slow Retrieve: When fishing a Ned Rig in deep water; it’s important to use a slow and deliberate retrieve.
This will allow your bait to stay in contact with the bottom and allow fish to find and strike it.
Pay Attention to Your Line: Detecting bites can be more difficult when fishing in deep water.
Keep a close eye on your line for any twitches, movement, or changes in tension.
Even the slightest movement could signify a fish taking your bait.
Use Natural Colors: In deep water, choosing colors that mimic the natural forage in your fishing area is important.
Green pumpkin and brown are good colors to start with, as they imitate a variety of worms, insects, and small baitfish that bass may be feeding on.
Experiment with Different Depths: When fishing a Ned Rig in deep water, it’s important to experiment with different depths until you find where the fish are holding.
Be Patient: Fishing a Ned Rig in deep water can take time and patience.
Keep at it and be persistent. Once you find where the fish are holding, you could be in for a great day of fishing.
Fishing the ned rig in cold water
Fish Slow: In cold water, bass metabolism slows down and becomes less active.
This means you’ll need to fish more slowly than in warmer water.
Use a slow and subtle retrieve, keeping the bait close to the bottom.
Downsize Your Bait: The bass is less likely to chase after large or flashy baits in cold water.
Consider using smaller, more natural-looking baits, such as 2.5 to 3-inch soft plastic worms or stick baits. This will help entice bites from lethargic fish.
Use Natural Colors: In cold water, choosing colors that mimic the natural forage in your fishing area is important.
Stick to natural colors like green, pumpkin, or brown, as these imitate a variety of worms, insects, and small baitfish that bass may be feeding on.
Fish Deeper Water: In cold water, the bass often moves to deeper water where the temperature is more stable.
Look for deeper areas near structure, drop-offs, or other changes in the bottom contour.
Use a heavier jig head to get your bait to the desired depth.
Be Patient: Fishing a Ned Rig in cold water can take time and patience.
Be prepared to fish slowly and work your bait thoroughly.
Once you find where the fish are holding, you could be in for a great day of fishing.
Watch for Bites: In cold water, bites can be subtle. When you feel a bite, don’t set the hook too hard, as bass may not be as aggressive in cold water and could drop the bait if you jerk too hard.
When should you use a Ned rig?
The Ned Rig is a highly versatile finesse bait that can be used in various fishing situations.
Here are some scenarios when using a Ned Rig can be especially effective:
When Fishing is Tough: The Ned Rig is a great choice for when other baits aren’t producing or the fishing is tough due to pressure, weather, or other factors.
Its subtle action and natural appearance can entice bites from even the most finicky fish.
Clear or Highly Pressured Waters: Fish can be wary of large or flashy baits in clear or highly pressured waters.
The Ned Rig’s small size and natural appearance can be more effective in these situations.
Shallow Water: In shallow water, fish can be spooked by larger or more aggressive baits.
The Ned Rig’s subtle action and natural appearance can be more effective in these situations.
Cold Water: Fish are less active and less likely to chase after large or fast-moving baits in cold water.
The Ned Rig’s slow and subtle action can be more effective in these conditions.
Smallmouth Bass Fishing: The Ned Rig is especially effective for catching smallmouth bass, as it imitates small baitfish and crawfish, the primary food source for these fish.
The Ned Rig is a versatile bait used in various fishing situations.
It’s especially effective in clear or highly pressured waters, shallow water, and cold water and for catching smallmouth bass.
What fish can you catch with a Ned rig?
Walleye: The subtle action of a Ned Rig can be highly effective for catching walleye, especially in clear or pressured waters.
Panfish: Small soft plastic baits on a light jig head can be a great way to catch panfish like crappie and bluegill.
Trout: In streams and rivers, a small Ned Rig can effectively catch trout, especially in areas where other baits may be too large or flashy.
Catfish: While the Ned Rig isn’t typically considered a catfish bait, it can effectively catch smaller catfish in shallow water.
Perch: A small Ned Rig can catch perch in fresh and saltwater.
How do you make a Ned rig for fishing?
Making a Ned Rig for fishing is a straightforward process that requires only a few simple components.
Here’s how to make a Ned Rig:
Gather Your Components: To make a Ned Rig, you’ll need a small mushroom-shaped jig head, a finesse worm, and a pair of pliers.
Thread the Finesse Worm onto the Jig Head: Start by taking the finesse worm and threading it onto the Jig head so the hook point comes out the top of the bait.
Leave about 1/4 inch of the jig head exposed below the worm.
Pinch the Bait: Using a pair of pliers, pinch the bait onto the jig head to stay in place.
Be careful not to damage the bait or the hook.
Trim the Tail: Using scissors, trim the tail of the finesse worm so that it is flush with the back of the jig head.
Optional Step: Some anglers prefer to add a small piece of plastic or a nail weight to the jig head to add more weight or action to the bait.
Can you catch big fish on Ned’s rig?
While the Ned Rig is a finesse technique often used for catching smaller fish, it is still possible to catch big fish on a Ned Rig.
Many anglers have reported catching fish weighing over 5 pounds on a Ned Rig.
Additionally, the finesse approach of the Ned Rig can be especially effective in clear or highly pressured waters where larger or more aggressive baits may not produce as well.
However, when fishing for larger fish with a Ned Rig, it’s important to use heavier gear, including a medium-heavy or heavy power rod, a stronger line, and a larger jig head.
It’s also important to set the hook quickly and fight the fish carefully to avoid losing it.
Overall, while the Ned Rig is primarily known as a finesse technique for catching smaller fish, it can still be effective for catching larger fish with the right gear and approach.
Conclusion
The Ned Rig is a highly effective finesse technique for catching bass in various conditions.
Its simple design and subtle action make it a great choice for pressured fish or when other baits aren’t producing.
When fishing a Ned Rig, it’s important to choose the right gear, rig it correctly, and fish it slowly and deliberately.
Pay attention to your line for any indication of a bite and be patient, as fishing a Ned Rig can take time and persistence.
The Ned Rig can become a go-to bait for catching bass in various situations with practice and experimentation.
See the Hooks for Bass Fishing on our website.