Say what you want, but finesse spinning techniques are essential for consistently catching neutral to negative bass. Jacob Wheeler knows this well. He shares his top four methods for rigging a Ned rig, offering a fresh perspective on how to maximize its effectiveness. Whether you’re looking to fish in shallow or deeper water, Wheeler’s techniques are designed to help you catch more fish, especially when conditions are tough. Check out our Ned Rig Tips library for more in-depth information.
FEATURED PRODUCT (retail links)
- PLASTIC – Rapala CrushCity Ned BLT: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- HOOK – VMC Redline Series Finesse Neko Hook, sizes 1 and 6: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- JIG HEAD – VMC Ned Rig Jig, 3/16-ounce: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- JIG HEAD – VMC Swingin’ Ned Rig Jig: Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
- CROSSOVER RING – VMC Crossover Ring 4mm: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
ROD SETUP
- ROD – Duckett Jacob Wheeler Series Spinning Rod, 7’2″ Medium Heavy: Buy at FishUSA
- REEL – Shimano Vanford Spinning Reel 2500: Buy at Bass Pro Shops | Buy at Tackle Warehouse | Buy at FishUSA
TRADITIONAL NED RIG
The classic way to fish a Ned rig is with an exposed jig head, often in the 3/16-ounce range. Wheeler highlights how this traditional rig works best with small baits, such as a 3-inch stick bait, especially in stained water where a chartreuse jig head can offer an added visual edge. He emphasizes the importance of jig size, with 3/16-ounce being his favorite for versatility across depths without excessive snagging.
DROP SHOT NED RIG
For smallmouth fishing, Wheeler’s go-to is the drop shot Ned rig. The drop shot method, particularly with durable and stretchy plastics like TPE, allows the bait to move more naturally. Wheeler mentions that this approach has led to multiple tournament wins, proving its effectiveness for big smallmouth bass in clear and deep waters.
TEXAS RIGGED SWINGING NED
Wheeler showcases a unique swing head jig design specifically focused on finesse plastics. By Texas rigging the bait, anglers can fish the Ned rig in snaggy areas that empty your terminal box. Wheeler points out how this rigging method adds action and helps avoid snags, particularly in heavy cover.
WACKY RIGGED DROP SHOT NED
Finally, Wheeler recommends a wacky rigged drop shot, paired with a 4mm crossover ring for added bait durability. This rig’s slow rate of fall makes it ideal for targeting individual fish in deep water, and Wheeler suggests bumping up to a heavier weight for faster bottom contact. This rig has proven successful for both largemouth and smallmouth bass, with Wheeler citing numerous top-five finishes in tournaments using this method.
