Mastering the Ned Rig in Cold Water

When winter settles in and the bite gets tough, don't overthink it. Reach for one technique that has proven itself time and time again, the Ned Rig.

Cold water slows fish down, and that’s exactly why the Ned Rig shines this time of year. With its small profile and subtle action, it matches the mood of winter bass perfectly. Ned knows winter isn’t about aggressive retrieves; it’s about finesse, patience, and letting the bait do just enough.

Why the Ned Rig Works in Winter

In cold water, bass are conserving energy. They’re not chasing fast-moving lures, but they’ll still pick off an easy meal. The Ned Rig’s lightweight mushroom style jighead and short soft plastic bait like the FishCo Lil Deuce or ZMan TRD which stand up naturally on the bottom, making it irresistible, even to the most reluctant fish.

Focus on deeper water in winter: channel edges, rock piles, points, and areas with hard bottom. Using his electronics, he finds fish holding tight to structure and presents the Ned Rig slowly, keeping it in the strike zone as long as possible.

TBO's Winter Ned Rig Approach

Keep your setup simple:

• Light spinning gear

• Light line for maximum sensitivity 8lb or less

• A compact plastic threaded straight for a natural fall

Once the bait hits bottom,  barely move it, which is why alot of people call it the "Do Nothing Rig" Make small hops, gentle drags, and long pauses are key. Sometimes the best move is no move at all. Many winter bites feel like nothing more than extra weight on the line.

Patience Pays Off

Winter fishing with a Ned Rig teaches patience. you might go long stretches without a bite, but when one finally comes, it’s usually a quality fish. The Ned Rig doesn’t just catch numbers, it catches fish when other techniques fail.

As the sun climbs and slightly warms the water, watch for subtle changes. A small shift in depth or a slower retrieve can make all the difference. Winter bass reward anglers who pay attention.

A Technique You Can Trust! The Ned Rig isn’t just another lure,it’s a confidence bait. When the water is cold and the bite is tough, it’s the technique he trusts most. While others struggle to get bit, just stay patient, keep it slow, and let the Ned Rig do what it does best.

Because in winter fishing, sometimes less really is more.