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
Dropping nicely at 268 CFS, water is clear, 69°F — prime summer feeding temp. This is a go-right-now situation. Dropping water. Get there before the crowds do. Reading Water Better Than I Read People.
Holding steady at 32 CFS, water is clear, 67°F — active warmwater feeding. This is the window you've been waiting for. Holding steady. Fish are settled and predictable. Skunked but Spiritual.
Holding steady at 497 CFS, water is clear, 72°F — prime summer feeding temp. Textbook conditions. The fish know it, you should too. No surprises in the flow. Pick your favorite run. Broke Off on Something Big. Again..
Running 114 CFS, water is clear, 70°F — prime summer feeding temp. Conditions are cooperating. Fish smart and stay patient. Visibility is high. Stealth is your best friend. Fish Count: Classified.
Gear shelf
