Ned Rig
Finesse Bass - Weedless Option
A compact mushroom-head or weedless jig setup for river smallmouth and neutral fish.
Catches fish that are willing to eat but not interested in chasing something loud.
Products in this rig video
Z-Man ShroomZ, VMC Half-Moon Wacky
Z-Man ElaZtech for buoyancy and durability
Sensitive tip for subtle bites
10lb braid to 6-8lb fluoro for clear water
Ingredient list
How to build it
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1
Tie braid or mono to a fluorocarbon leader.
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2
Attach the Ned head.
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3
Thread the bait straight on the hook.
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4
For grass, use a weedless head or EWG-style Ned hook.
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5
Drag, hop, and pause more than your impatience wants.
How to fish it
Shallow river bass, current edges, rock transitions, and fish that have seen the circus.
Variations
- Green pumpkin with purple flake for clear rivers.
- Copper or green pumpkin heads for subtle contrast.
- Weedless hooks around grass and wood.
Tie the weak links correctly
A strong, simple terminal knot that shines on braid, hooks, jigs, and drop-shot style presentations.
The everyday terminal knot for hooks, jigs, spinners, and flies when you want a fast tie that behaves.
A compact braid-to-mono or braid-to-fluoro connection for spinning setups.
Current water that fits this setup
Recovering nicely at 440 CFS, water is clear, 72°F — prime summer feeding temp. Everything is lining up. Don't overthink it — just go. Storm pulse is fading. Watch the edges and the clarity. Numb Fingers, Full Heart.
Dropping nicely at 93 CFS, water is clear, 70°F — prime summer feeding temp. This is a go-right-now situation. Dropping water. Get there before the crowds do. Broke Off on Something Big. Again..
Dropping nicely at 467 CFS, water is clear, 76°F — prime summer feeding temp. Conditions are cooperating. Fish smart and stay patient. Flow is coming down — the sweet spot is approaching. I Don't Have a Problem. I Have a System..
Running 134 CFS, water is clear, 71°F — prime summer feeding temp. Dialed-in anglers will have a good day. Clear water means spooky fish. Approach low and slow. Set the Hook Like You Mean It.
Gear shelf
