Soft Plastic Rigging Guide: Neko Rig

What Is It?

First developed among bass finesse anglers in Japan, the Neko Rig is essentially just a weighted version of a Wacky Rig with a weight inserted into just one end of the soft plastic, giving the bait a unique action as it descends through the water column and a unique "stand-up-on-the-bottom" presentation that combines features of the Wacky Rig, Ned Rig, and a shakey head jig.

How To Rig It

To create a Neko Rig, start with a wacky rigged version of your favorite soft plastic stick bait or worm, then insert a weight such as a small metal nail, screw, or specialized lead or tungsten Neko Rig weight in the end. It's as simple as that.

By inserting a nail weight in one end, the Neko Rig falls faster with a crazy darting and gliding action. Once on the bottom, the weighted end hops along the bottom structure while the unweighted end dances around producing strike-inducing action from finicky fish.

How To Fish It

When throwing the Neko Rig, cast it out and watch your line on the way down. Give the line a little shake as the bait is getting near the bottom. If the bait makes it to the bottom without getting hit, give it some easy shakes on a semi-slack line. Then let it settle back down to the bottom and repeat the process until a fish takes your presentation.

Tips & Tricks