The Ned rig is popular and productive. People not using the lure need to learn when and how to use a Ned rig. This lure is easy to learn and will yield results in a short time. The lure only needs to bounce or drag along the bottom. Plus, it is easy to tell when a fish grabs the lure.
Why Use a Ned Rig
Using the Ned rig will catch fish when nothing else is working. The lure is one of the best options in colder weather and high-pressure areas. The slow presentation is ideal for cold water or fronts. In cold water, fish slow down. A lure needs to sit for a long time.
At times, waiting 40 seconds to a minute is not uncommon. The long waiting period during a retrieve allows fish time to strike. The retrieve is to move a few inches to a foot and let it sit. Then repeat the action. It is surprising how simple and effective the technique works. You may think it is the same as a jig.
There is a difference since the Ned rig will stand on its head. This keeps the bodies up in the water in sight and able to sway or wobble at rest. Fish will hit the lure at rest a lot.
Fish under pressure from constant fishing are less likely to strike. The lure is a finesse lure. The sit and rest action with slight body movements is irresistible to fish. In these scenarios, small lures tend to be better also. The Ned rig is small. The bodies are typically 2-4 inches in length. A fish can take lures quickly and easily due to its small size.
Keys to Using the Ned Rig
Use the lightest head possible. The lighter the head the better action. You only need it to make the lure hit bottom. This is one of the common mistakes using a Ned rig. The heads must be Ned-style heads. These heads with the shape make it easy for the lure to stand. Plus the proper heads use light wire hooks. A heavier hook will kill the action and standing element of the lure.
Body size is important. Small is the way to go with Ned rigs. A 2 1/2 to 3-inch body is perfect for starting out. In a few instances, a 2 or 4-inch body is better. You want fish to be able to suck the bait in easily. A longer bait is going to be harder to suck into the mouth.
What rod do I use for a Ned rig? The right gear is more productive. The Ned rig is a light lure. Use a medium-light power rod with fast action. Use a longer length also. You want some whip in the rod to get longer casts. A rod around 7 feet long is ideal. The same applies to the line. A 12-pound test braid with 4-6 pound fluoro leaders will work well. The light lines help with casting. Plus braid is better for sensitivity.
Finesse With the Rod and Technique
Set the drag a little lighter. The line will break easily if the drag is too tight. The thin hooks set easier. This makes the hook set needs a little control. People often set the hook too hard. You only need to reel up the slack and raise the rod quickly. This will set the hook. After several fish check the hook. The hooks can dull fast so carry a hook file to sharpen as needed.
This lure is for going slow. If you think your retrieve is slow, go slower. The lure is worked too fast by the majority of fishermen. If fish are not hitting the lure, go slower. A twitch of the rod tip and let sit for a minute or longer. This sounds strange yet is productive with the lure. I cannot stress it enough to go slow. Going too fast is a common mistake using a Ned rig.
Conclusions
The Ned rig is a great lure to use in some situations. In cold water or pressured areas, it can excel. Stay light with the head weight, use small bodies, and light lines. A lighter power rod and controlled hookset will catch more fish. The hooks will set easy. The lure retrieves slowly, do not rush.