Understanding Small Ned Lures for Bass Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide - WM Bayou

Understanding Small Ned Lures for Bass Fishing: A Comprehensive Guide

Do you love fishing for bass? Are you always on the lookout for new lures and techniques to help you catch more fish? If so, it's time to take a closer look at Ned rigs and the small lures that are making a big impact in the fishing world.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about small Ned lures – from their history and components to their benefits and techniques for fishing them. So, grab your fishing gear and let's dive in!

 

History and Origin of Ned Rigs


Before we jump into the specifics of small Ned lures, let's take a quick look at the history and origin of Ned rigs. The Ned rig was invented by a man named Ned Kehde, a fishing guide and writer from Kansas who was looking for a simple and effective way to catch bass. He developed a technique that involved using a small jig head and a soft plastic bait that was cut down to a small size, and the Ned rig was born.

The Ned rig became popular among bass fishermen in the early 2000s, and it has since become a staple in the fishing world. The key features of the Ned rig include its small size, simplicity, and effectiveness at catching bass in a variety of conditions.

 

Components of a Ned Rig


Now that we know a little bit about the history of the Ned rig, let's take a closer look at the components of the rig. The two main components of a Ned rig are the jig head and the soft plastic bait.

 

Jig Head


The jig head is the foundation of the Ned rig and is what gives the lure its weight and shape. There are several types of jig heads available, including mushroom heads, ball heads, and stand-up heads. The weight and size of the jig head will depend on the conditions you are fishing in, with heavier heads being better for deeper water or more current.

 

Soft Plastic Baits


The soft plastic bait is what gives the Ned rig its action and appeal to bass. A good Ned rig bait should have a small profile, a natural color, and a soft texture that mimics the feel of live bait. Popular soft plastic bait styles for Ned rigs include stick baits, creature baits, and curly tail grubs.

 

Introduction to Small Ned Lures


Now that we know the basics of the Ned rig, let's dive into the world of small Ned lures. Small Ned lures are typically less than three inches in length andare designed to be used with smaller jig heads, typically 1/16 to 1/8 ounces. The benefits of using small Ned lures include their ability to mimic small baitfish and their versatility in a variety of fishing conditions.

 

Characteristics of Small Ned Lures


Small Ned lures have a few key characteristics that make them effective at catching bass. First, their small size and natural colors make them a great choice for bass that are feeding on small baitfish or insects. Second, their soft texture and subtle action make them very appealing to bass, even in tough fishing conditions.

 

Situations Where Small Ned Lures Excel

Small Ned lures excel in a variety of fishing situations, including clear water, finesse fishing, and tough fishing conditions. Because they are so small and subtle, they are less likely to spook fish in clear water or when fish are being finicky. They are also great for finesse fishing techniques, such as drop shotting or wacky rigging, where a small, subtle lure is needed. Finally, small Ned lures are great for tough fishing conditions, such as cold water or high pressure, where bass may be less willing to bite.

 

Ned Palmer Lure: A Worm-Style Ned Soft Plastic


One popular small Ned lure is the Ned Palmer Lure, a worm-style soft plastic bait. The Ned Palmer Lure is similar to a traditional worm bait, but it has a few key differences that make it effective for Ned rig fishing. It has a small profile and natural colors, and it is designed to be rigged weedless, making it great for fishing in cover.

 

When and Where to Use the Ned Palmer Lure

The Ned Palmer Lure is a versatile bait that can be used in a variety of fishing situations. It is particularly effective in clear water or when bass are being finicky, as its small size and subtle action make it less likely to spook fish. It is also great for fishing in cover, as its weedless design allows it to be fished in areas where other lures may get snagged.

 

Tips for Rigging and Fishing the Ned Palmer Lure


To rig the Ned Palmer Lure for Ned rig fishing, you will need a small jig head, typically 1/16 to 1/8 ounces. Thread the jig head onto the hook of the lure, making sure it is centered and straight. Then, cast the lure out and retrieve it slowly, using short, subtle movements to create a natural action.

 

 

 

Wagu Craw: A Crayfish-Style Ned Lure


Another popular small Ned lure is the Wagu Craw, a crayfish-style soft plastic bait. The Wagu Craw is designed to mimic the look and action of a crayfish, a favorite food of bass. It has a small profile and natural colors, and it is designed to be fished weedless, making it versatile in a variety of fishing situations.

 

When and Where to Use the Wagu Craw


The Wagu Craw is particularly effective when bass are feeding on crayfish or other bottom-dwelling creatures. It is also great for fishing in cover, as its weedless design allows it to be fished in areas where other lures may get snagged.

 

Tips for Rigging and Fishing the Wagu Craw


To rig the Wagu Craw for Ned rig fishing, you will need a small jig head, typically 1/16 to 1/8 ounces. Thread the jig head onto the hook of the lure, making sure it is centered and straight. Then, cast the lure out and retrieve it slowly, using short, subtle movements to create a natural action.

 

Other Popular Ned Rig Soft Plastics


In addition to the Ned Palmer Lure and the Wagu Craw, there are several other popular soft plastic baits that are used for Ned rig fishing. Stick baits, creature baits, and curly tail grubs are all effective choices for Ned rig fishing, and each has its own unique advantages.

 

 

 

Techniques for Fishing Small Ned Lures


Now that we know about the different types of small Ned lures, let's talk about some techniques for fishing them. The key to fishing small Ned lures is to keep your presentation slow and subtle. Cast the lure out and let it sink to the bottom, then use short, subtle movements to create a natural action. Slowly reel the lure in, keeping it close to the bottom, and be prepared for bites at any moment.

 

Working Different Types of Cover


Small Ned lures are great for fishing in cover, and there are several techniques you can use to work different types of cover. When fishing around rocks or other hard cover, try bouncing the lure along the bottom, making it look like a small baitfish or crayfish. When fishing around weed beds or other soft cover, try using a slow, steady retrieve to keep the lure at the right depth.

 

Adjusting Your Presentation Based on Water Conditions and Time of Year


Finally, it's important to adjust your presentation based on the water conditions and time of year. In colder water or high pressure conditions, you may need to slow down your presentation and use smaller lures to entice bites. In warmer water or low pressure conditions, you may need to speed up your presentation and use larger lures to get the attention of bass.

Gear Recommendations for Ned Rig Fishing


To get the most out of your Ned rig fishing, it's important to have the right gear. Here are some gear recommendations to consider:

 

Rod and Reel Selection


For Ned rig fishing, a medium-light spinning rod and reel combo is a good choice. Look for a rod that is 6-7 feet in length and has a fast action, which will help you detect bites quickly. A spinning reel with a high gear ratio is also important, as it will allow you to reel in quickly when needed.

 

Line Type and Size


When fishing with small Ned lures, it's important to use light line. Look for a fluorocarbon or monofilament line in the 6-10 pound test range. This will help you cast the lure more accurately and allow you to detect bites more easily.

 

Essential Tackle Box Items


In addition to your rod, reel, and line, there are a few essential items you should have in your tackle box for Ned rig fishing. These include a variety of jig heads in different sizes and weights, as well as a selection of soft plastic baits in different styles and colors. You may also want to consider adding a pair of pliers and a hook sharpener to your tackle box, as these can be helpful when rigging your lures and setting the hook.

 

Tips for Maximizing Success with Small Ned Lures


To maximize your success with small Ned lures, there are a few tips to keep in mind:

 

Observing Bass Behavior


One of the key factors in catching more bass with small Ned lures is observing their behavior. Pay attention to where the fish are feeding, what they are feeding on, and how they are moving. This will help you choose the right lure and presentation for the conditions.

 

Experimenting with Lure Colors and Sizes


Another important factor in Ned rig fishing is experimenting with different lure colors and sizes. Try using a variety of natural colors, such as green pumpkin or watermelon, as well as brighter colors, such as chartreuse or pink. You may also want to experiment with different sizes of lures, as some days the fish may be more willing to bite a smaller or larger lure.

 

Proper Hookset Technique


Finally, it's important to use the proper hookset technique when fishing with small Ned lures. When you feel a bite, wait a moment before setting the hook. Then, use a quick, firm motion to set the hook in the fish's mouth. Be careful not to jerk the rod too hard, as this can cause the hook to come loose.

 

Conclusion


In conclusion, small Ned lures are a versatile and effective choice for bass fishing. By understanding the history and components of the Ned rig, as well as the benefits and techniques for fishing small Ned lures, you can improve your chances of catching more fish. So, grab your gear and give small Ned lures a try – you may be surprised at how effective they can be!
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