Learning how to fish a ned rig for bass should be a staple in every bass angler’s arsenal. It’s a finesse technique that’s easy to fish, highly effective, and catches bass year-round. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, learning how to fish a Ned rig can help you put more bass in the boat, especially on tough days. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know—from the gear to the technique, including the best conditions to fish it and a look at some deadly colors from Red Angle Fishing’s R.A. NED lineup.
Rod and Reel Setup for the Ned Rig
Fishing a Ned rig requires the right finesse setup to maximize sensitivity and hook-up ratio. Here’s what works best:
- Rod: A 6’10” to 7’ medium-light spinning rod with a fast tip is ideal. You want a rod that’s sensitive enough to detect subtle bites but has enough backbone to drive the hook in and fight the fish.
- Reel: A 2500-size spinning reel pairs well with a finesse rod. Look for a smooth drag system, especially if you’re using light line.
- Line: Use a braided mainline (10-15 lb test) with a fluorocarbon leader (6-8 lb test). This setup gives you sensitivity, strength, and stealth.
Ned Rig Techniques and Retrievals
The Ned rig shines when fished slow, but there are multiple ways to work it depending on bass mood and bottom composition:
- Deadstick: Simply cast it out, let it hit bottom, and leave it still. Sometimes bass will pick it up without any movement.
- Hop and Pause: Lift your rod tip slightly to hop the bait off the bottom, then pause and let it sit. This mimics a small baitfish or crawfish reacting to danger.
- Drag and Shake: Slowly drag the bait along the bottom while adding slight shakes to the rod tip. This triggers bites when bass are keyed in on bottom-dwelling prey.
- Swim and Glide: Slowly reel it in with occasional pauses. This is especially good when bass are suspended or chasing bait in open water.
- Lift and Fall: A gentle lift of the rod tip followed by a controlled fall lets the bait flutter down naturally, imitating a dying baitfish.
Best Time of Year to Bass Fish a Ned Rig
The beauty of the Ned rig is that it works all year, but it truly excels during:
- Late Winter to Early Spring: When bass are sluggish and not chasing fast-moving baits, a Ned rig can be a difference-maker.
- Summer: During post-spawn and into the dog days of summer, fish a Ned rig around deeper structure or shaded banks.
- Fall: When bass are chasing shad but become finicky with pressure, a finesse Ned rig can still get bites.
Best Weather Conditions for Ned Rig Success
The Ned rig is particularly effective under certain weather conditions:
- High Pressure / Bluebird Skies: These are tough conditions, but the subtle action of a Ned rig often gets bites when other presentations fail.
- Cold Fronts: Bass become lethargic, and the slow, natural action of a Ned rig can be just what they need.
- Clear Water: The finesse nature of the rig makes it perfect when visibility is high and bass are spooky.
Avoid using the Ned rig in heavy vegetation or extremely muddy water—it tends to get hung up or lost in low visibility.
Best Colors for Ned Rig Bass Fishing
Color choice can make or break your Ned rig success. Red Angle Fishing offers a killer line of R.A. NED soft plastics that are built for durability, lifelike action, and just the right amount of salt and scent. Here are some top-performing colors:
- Obi-Wan Goby: A combination that works well in all weather conditions and delivers the colors associated with a round goby.
- Yella Perch: Ideal when bass are feeding on baitfish in clearer water. Use it during the fall baitfish chase.
- JohnnyCash Black/Blue: A solid silhouette for low light or dirty water conditions. It’s a go-to for overcast days or murky lakes.
- Michigan Craw: With a mix of unique green, orange, and black flakes, this color mimics real summer crawfish—great for rocky lakes and river systems.
- Green Pumpkin/Black Flake: A classic color for clear to stained water, especially during sunny and cloudy days.
Final Thoughts on How to Fish a Ned Rig for Bass
If you’re looking for a reliable, versatile finesse tactic, the Ned rig is hard to beat. Learning how to fish a ned rig for bass will improve your fishing skills tremendously. With the right rod and reel, a few proven retrievals, and an eye on the weather and season, you’ll be ready to catch more bass. Don’t forget to check out Red Angle Fishing’s R.A. NED line of colors—they’re made to last and designed to catch fish. Tie one on, fish it slow, and get ready for that tell-tale tick on the end of your line.
