The main difference between the ned rig and the shaky head is that the ned rig is more compact, much lighter, and has an exposed hook. Ned rigs are going to catch more total numbers than shaky head rigs because of their small overall size. Shaky heads are going to penetrate the water column much more quickly, and they’ll stay put better, too. Shaky heads are better in and around weed beds, where the Ned rig is more likely to get hung up. Keep in mind, though, that weedless Ned heads are available and that both of these techniques depend on visibility – open, hard bottoms, riprap, and rocks are where they’re at their best.
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The Ned Rig
We’ve discussed the Ned rig at length before, so if you want the full run down, check out this article:
Very light jig heads and small hooks make the Ned rig very compact.
Jigs this size have small hooks, and Ned rigs will typically be running a jig head equivalent to something in the neighborhood of a #6 to a #2 at the largest. Keep in mind that the Ned leaves the hook exposed, and you’ll run your trailer straight down the shank.
Ned rig trailers are typically in the 3- to 4-inch range.
The Ned rig is an ultra-light finesse technique, and you already know that spinning tackle is the only way to go when you’re casting a 1/10-ounce jig head with a soft plastic trailer the size of your pinky.
Fishing the Ned rig can be a little different than what you’re used to.