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Fishing the Ned Rig for Perch – Ash Costa
The Ned Rig is an incredibly simple yet highly effective fishing method, especially when targeting perch. Its design and the techniques associated with it might seem basic, but the results speak volumes. In this article, we’ll explore why the Ned Rig is so successful, the key components to set it up, and the lures and retrieves that can transform your perch fishing.
What is a Ned Rig?
At its core, a Ned Rig is a jig head—either flat or slightly rounded at the end—paired with a lure, traditionally a floating one. When cast out and allowed to settle on the bottom, it presents a vertical posture that can entice perch and other predators. One of the most effective ways to fish the Ned Rig is through dead sticking. This technique involves casting the rig out, letting it rest on the bottom, and allowing the natural current or subtle water movements to work the lure with minimal angler input. Sometimes, simply reeling in slack is enough to provoke a strike.
The Ned Rig might not look impressive, but its simplicity is precisely why it works so well. By focusing on minimal movement, it becomes a highly natural presentation that appeals to even the wariest fish.
Selecting the Right Ned Heads for Perch
The choice of a jig head (or Ned head) can significantly impact your success. Here are four outstanding options:
1. Illex Tungsten Ned Head
Features: Razor-sharp hook, double hook keeper, resin ball on the shank.
Advantages: The tungsten head provides excellent feedback, making it easier to detect bottom structure and subtle takes. The double hook keeper ensures the bait stays in place, even during aggressive casting or skipping.
Best For: Anglers who value precision and durability. While pricey, it’s the full package.
2. Trokar Eagle Claw Ned Head
Features: Razor-sharp hooks and reliable hook keeper.
Advantages: Affordable with an option for tungsten. These are highly versatile and durable hooks.
Best For: Everyday Ned Rigging in varied conditions.
3. Z-Man Finesse Shroom Heads
Features: Small and lightweight with a dependable hook keeper.
Advantages: Perfect for micro-finesse fishing with tiny baits. Ideal for pressured waters.
Best For: Finesse anglers targeting finicky perch.
4. Z-Man Offset EWG Ned Head
Features: Thick-gauge wire and offset design.
Advantages: Useful for weedier areas where a snag-resistant setup is necessary. However, its weight can offset the balance of some floating baits, causing them to topple over.
Best For: Situations requiring weedless presentations.
Choosing the Right Lures
Ned Rig lures fall into two categories: inert and active. Understanding the difference and when to use each type can greatly enhance your success.
Inert Lures
These rely on the angler to impart action. Examples include stick baits like the Z-Man Finesse TRD, a classic floating bait that excels in dead-sticking presentations. Minimal input from the rod and reel is required to make these baits come alive. Simply let them rest, occasionally reeling in slack or giving a subtle twitch.
Active Lures
These have inherent movement, such as the Gunki Boogie Craw with its kicking arms. Even a straight retrieve can activate these baits, making them great for days when perch are more aggressive.
Top Lures for Ned Rigs
1. Z-Man Finesse TRD
Why It Works: The classic stick bait made from floating material. Its simplicity is key; it stands upright on the bottom with minimal angler input, responding to water currents naturally.
Technique: Cast, let it hit bottom, and occasionally move the lure with subtle reel turns. Dead-sticking can be highly effective.
2. Illex Yammy Fish
Why It Works: Though not a floating lure, its unique action and erratic spiral during the fall make it a perch magnet.
Technique: Shake the rod tip gently, or use a half-turn of the reel to create lifelike movements. Experiment with darting retrieves to mimic prey fish.
3. Gunki Skip Worm
Why It Works: A versatile bait that can be used whole or cut down for smaller presentations. It’s particularly effective for micro-finesse setups.
Technique: Dead stick or hop the bait slowly along the bottom.
4. Gunki Hourra Craw
Why It Works: This creature bait combines floating claws with a sinking body, creating a hybrid action. Perch find its natural movements irresistible.
Technique: Cast, let it sink, and use short reel bursts or gentle shakes of the rod to imitate a fleeing crayfish.
Refining Your Retrieve
The retrieve style can make or break your session. Here are two approaches to try:
Dead Sticking
Perfect for floating baits like the Z-Man Finesse TRD. Cast out, let it sink, and hold it in place for extended periods. Perch will often hit when the bait is completely still.
Subtle Rod Tip Shakes
Works exceptionally well with baits like the Illex Yammy Fish. After letting the bait hit bottom, shake the rod tip gently to create subtle quivers, then pause. This approach mimics a small fish feeding or struggling along the substrate.
Why the Ned Rig Excels for Perch
The Ned Rig’s effectiveness lies in its simplicity and versatility. It can be fished almost anywhere—from rocky bottoms to weedy margins—and its natural presentation appeals to perch in all conditions. Cold, inactive days are when this rig truly shines, as it allows anglers to present a subtle, lifelike lure without overwhelming the fish.
Additionally, the ability to switch between floating and sinking baits provides the flexibility needed to adapt to changing perch behaviour. For anglers who enjoy experimenting with new techniques, combining different baits and retrieves can unlock patterns that other rigs might miss.
Final Thoughts on Fishing the Ned Rig for Perch
The Ned Rig might not be flashy, but its effectiveness is undeniable. By selecting quality components, understanding bait actions, and refining your retrieves, you’ll have a deadly method for targeting perch in any condition. Whether you’re dead sticking a floating stick bait or hopping a creature bait along the bottom, the Ned Rig will undoubtedly earn a place in your arsenal. Give it a try on your next session and prepare to be amazed at its simplicity and results!
