Basic Guide to Ned Rig Fishing

If you’re a novice angler, then you know that there are a ton of different rigs and techniques out there. And if you’re new to the sport, it can be downright overwhelming trying to figure out which one is best for you.

We’re going to take a close look at NED rig fishing—what it is, how to do it, and what kind of results you can expect. By the time you’re finished reading, you’ll know everything there is to know about this increasingly popular technique. So let’s get started!

What Is Ned Rigg Fishing?

Ned Rig fishing is a unique and effective way to catch bass, and it was first introduced by outdoor writer Ned Kehde. Ned developed this method of fishing after noticing that small jigs were not as effective in catching bass as they used to be.

He began using a smaller baitfish, rigged it on a light jig head, and slow-rolled it along the bottom. This rigging allowed the baitfish to swim naturally and enticed bass to bite. Ned’s method quickly caught on in the Midwest, where anglers embraced it for its simplicity and effectiveness.

The Ned Rig is a simple yet effective rig that can be used to catch a variety of fish. It gets its name from the bait rigging on a small jighead, which gives it a subtle presentation that fish love.

The most important thing to remember when fishing with a ned rig is that less is more. The fish are attracted to the bait because it looks natural and unassuming, so don’t try to overdo it with flashy colors or big movements. Just let the rig do its thing, and you’ll soon be hauling in the big ones!

One of the great things about Ned Rig fishing is that it can be done with a variety of different baits. The most popular choice is usually a small plastic creature bait, but you can also use grubs, minnows, or even worms. Experiment with different baits until you find one that works best for you.

What Fish Can You Catch With a Ned Rig?

A variety of fish can be caught using a Ned rig, including largemouth and smallmouth bass, trout, panfish, and more. Among other fishing techniques, it can be used in fresh and salt water, making it a great option for anglers of all skill levels.

In order to catch fish using a Ned rig, novice anglers or even tournament anglers will need to invest in a few key pieces of equipment, including a swimbait, jig head, and soft plastic bait. When rigged correctly, this setup allows anglers to fish slow and methodically, often triggering strikes from even the most finicky fish.

How Deep Can You Fish A Ned Rig?

One of the great things about the Ned rig is that it can be effective in both shallow and deep water. In general, the Ned rig is most effective when fishing in clear water at depths from 6-15 feet. However, some anglers have had success using the Ned rig in even deeper water.

The key to fishing the Ned rig effectively is to use a light line and slow, steady retrieves. This will help the bait stay in close contact with the bottom, where fish often feed. Additionally, it is important to use a sharp hook to ensure good hookups.

What Does a Ned Rig Imitate?

A Ned rig imitates a number of bass food sources, such as crawfish, small baitfish, and frogs. The Ned rig is especially effective when fished around docks, laydowns, stumps, and other covered structures where bass often feed.

Because the lure is weedless and has a small profile, it can be worked slowly through the cover without getting hung up. This makes it a great option for fishing in heavy cover.

Ned Rig Mistakes You Should Avoid

With any fishing technique, there are certain mistakes that anglers can make when using a Ned Rig that can lead to less than stellar results. If you’re fishing with a Ned Rig and not getting the results you want, chances are you might be making one of these common mistakes.

Not Using the Right Size Hook

You’d be surprised how many tournament anglers use hooks that are way too big when fishing a Ned Rig. Remember, the whole point of this technique is to imitate a small, easy meal—something shad or other baitfish might nibble on as they swim by. If your hook is too big, you’re not going to fool much fish. We recommend using size 2 or 4 hooks for most Ned Rigs.

Limiting Yourself to Certain Ned Rig Baits

One mistake that anglers make when using the Ned rig is limiting themselves to certain ned rig baits. Ned rigging can be effective with a variety of different bait profiles, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different baits until you find one that works well for you. Some good baits to use with the Ned rig include small plastic worms, grubs, and swimbaits.

Setting Hooks Too Hard

Another mistake that anglers make when using the Ned rig is setting their hooks too hard. This can cause the bait to come flying off the hook, or it can simply just injure the fish. When setting the hook with the Ned rig, do so with a light and gentle twitch of the rod tip. This will help ensure that your bait stays on the hook and that the fish is properly hooked.

Using Tackle That Is Too Heavy

Ned Rigs are designed to be fished slowly and methodically, so using heavy tackle is not necessary. In fact, using too heavy of tackle can actually be counterproductive. Heavier tackle will cause the bait to sink too quickly and will make it more difficult to impart the desired action on the bait. So, go with a lighter tackle when fishing a Ned Rig, and you’ll likely catch more fish.

Conclusion

Now that you know all there is to know about ned rig fishing, it’s time to get out there and give it a try! Remember to keep things simple, use small baits, and fish in clear water for the best results. With a little practice, you’ll be hooking them like a pro in no time!