Introduction

The Ned Rig has become a go-to finesse fishing technique for catching a variety of freshwater fish, particularly bass. This simple yet effective presentation consists of a small soft plastic bait rigged on a specialized hook and head. In this article, we will delve into the key components of the Ned Rig: the hooks and heads, and explore how they contribute to the rig’s success.

Ned Rig Hooks

Ned Rig Hook Style:

The Ned Rig is typically rigged on a specific type of hook known as the “Ned Rig hook” or “Ned head hook.” These hooks are characterized by their mushroom-shaped heads and fine wire construction. They come in various sizes to accommodate different soft plastic baits.

Mushroom-Shaped Head:

The mushroom-shaped head design of Ned Rig hooks is essential. It allows the hook to stand upright when resting on the bottom, mimicking a natural presentation that is enticing to fish.

Fine Wire:

Ned Rig hooks are made from fine wire, which gives them a subtle and finesse-oriented action. This is crucial for enticing wary or pressured fish that might be reluctant to strike larger baits.

Barbless or Small Barb:

Some Ned Rig hooks come barbless or with small barbs to minimize damage to fish and make catch-and-release practices more sustainable.

Ned Rig Heads

Ned Head Shape:

The Ned head, sometimes called a “mushroom head,” is the weight portion of the Ned Rig setup. It is designed to be compact, resembling a mushroom, with a rounded top and a flat bottom.

Weight Selection:

 Ned head come in various weights, typically ranging from 1/16 ounce to 1/4 ounce or more. Anglers choose the weight based on the depth they want to fish and the rate of fall they desire.

Wire Keeper:

Most Ned Rig heads feature a wire keeper that helps secure the soft plastic bait in place. This prevents the bait from easily sliding down the hook during casts and retrieves.

Color and Finish:

While the color of the Ned head might seem insignificant, some anglers believe that matching it to the soft plastic bait can make a difference, especially in clear water or when fish are particularly finicky.

Ned Rig Soft Plastic Baits

It’s essential to mention that the Ned Rig’s success is not solely attributed to the hooks and heads; the choice of soft plastic baits also plays a crucial role. Common Ned Rig baits include small stick worms, finesse worms, and creature baits. These baits are typically cut down to a more compact size to fit the finesse presentation.

Conclusion

The Ned Rig’s effectiveness lies in its simplicity and the synergy between its components. Ned Rig hooks and heads, with their mushroom-shaped heads, fine wire construction, and subtle action, create a lifelike presentation that appeals to a wide range of fish species, particularly bass. When paired with the right soft plastic baits and employed with finesse techniques, the Ned Rig has proven to be a reliable choice for anglers looking to entice fish in various conditions.