The Ned Rig: A Finesse Fishing Phenomenon for UK Anglers

The Ned Rig, originally developed in the US, has become a game-changer for anglers worldwide, including those in the UK. Its simplicity, versatility, and effectiveness have made it a staple for targeting various species, especially bass in North America. For UK anglers, it offers a fantastic technique to catch perch, zander, pike, and even other coarse fish like chub and trout. Let’s dive into how this "do-nothing" rig works and how you can adapt it for UK waters.

What Is a Ned Rig?

The Ned Rig is a finesse fishing setup born from the Midwest finesse tradition in the US, pioneered by Ned Kehde of Lawrence, Kansas. It typically consists of a small, streamlined soft plastic lure (2 to 3 inches) rigged onto a mushroom-style jighead. Despite its minimalist appearance, it’s incredibly effective. The subtle, natural action of the lure mimics prey such as small fish, crayfish, or aquatic insects, enticing even the most cautious fish.

The original Ned Rig was crafted by cutting a soft stick bait, like a Yamamoto Senko, in half and threading it onto a mushroom jighead. Its success in the US quickly spread, and now it’s equally effective in UK waters where predators like perch and zander are often tempted by its unassuming profile.

The Appeal of the Ned Rig

The Ned Rig works because it looks natural and non-threatening. Fish don’t hesitate to strike at it, viewing it as an easy meal. Whether you’re targeting perch in urban canals or zander in larger reservoirs, the Ned Rig can excel in clear or pressured waters where finesse tactics are key.

Ned Rig Setup for UK Anglers

You don’t need a complex setup to get started with a Ned Rig. Here's what works best for UK species:

Jigheads

  • Use mushroom-style jigheads weighing 1g to 5g (1/32 to 3/16 ounces).
  • Select a light-wire hook for finesse fishing, ideal for perch and smaller predators. Heavier hooks are better for larger species like pike.
  • Weedless options with wire guards are useful for fishing snaggy areas or around submerged vegetation.

Soft Plastics

Choose lures between 2 to 3 inches that resemble small prey:

  • Mini stick baits, like the Z-Man TRD series or SPRO Twitch Worm.
  • Small creature baits or crawfish imitators.
  • Slim-profile baitfish patterns, ideal for clear water.

Rod and Reel

  • Rod: A sensitive spinning rod rated 1-7g or 2-10g (light to ultra-light) with a fast action. This allows you to feel subtle takes and set the hook effectively.
  • Reel: A 2000 to 2500-sized spinning reel paired with a smooth drag system.

Line

How to Fish a Ned Rig in the UK

The beauty of the Ned Rig lies in its versatility. Here are some techniques you can adapt:

  1. Drag and Pause
    Cast the rig out and let it sink to the bottom. Slowly drag it along the substrate with pauses in between. Perch and zander often strike during the pause.

  2. Hopping
    Lightly lift your rod tip to make the lure hop along the bottom. This imitates small prey like shrimp or crayfish scuttling away.

  3. Steady Retrieve
    In deeper waters, a slow, steady retrieve keeps the lure just off the bottom, mimicking a baitfish swimming.

  4. Skipping and Dock Fishing
    For areas with overhanging structures or boats, skip the rig under cover. Perch love to ambush prey from these hiding spots.

  5. Vertical Jigging
    In deeper reservoirs, vertical jigging with a Ned Rig near structures like bridges or submerged trees can be deadly for zander.

Adapting the Ned Rig for UK Species

Perch

Perch are the UK’s prime target for the Ned Rig. They respond well to small, natural-colored plastics in greens, browns, and translucent tones. Fish near structures like jetties, canal edges, or submerged vegetation.

Zander

Zander are often found in deeper waters or slow-moving rivers. Opt for slightly heavier jigheads (3-5g) and baitfish-like plastics in whites or silvers.

Pike

While not the primary target, smaller pike often hit a Ned Rig. Use sturdier hooks and heavier leaders (wire trace) to handle their sharp teeth.

Chub and Trout

In rivers, the Ned Rig can also tempt chub and trout, especially when fished near current breaks or deeper pools.

Weedless Ned Rig Options

In snaggy UK waters, a weedless Ned Rig can make all the difference. Choose jigheads with wire guards or offset hooks to fish confidently around reeds, rocks, and snags.

Recommended Gear for UK Ned Rigging

Jigheads

  • Z-Man Finesse Shroomz: A classic choice for general finesse fishing.
  • SPRO Ned Heads: Designed with UK species in mind, offering robust options.
  • Weedless Options: Look for jigheads with wire guards for snaggy conditions.

Soft Plastics

Rods

Why the Ned Rig Belongs in Your Tackle Box

The Ned Rig is a fantastic addition to the UK angler’s arsenal. Its simplicity, effectiveness, and adaptability make it perfect for targeting a range of species. Whether you're fishing canals, reservoirs, or rivers, the Ned Rig offers an easy-to-fish solution that consistently catches fish, even on tough days.

So, grab your spinning rod, tie on a Ned Rig, and experience the finesse fishing revolution for yourself.