Winter Neko Rig Patterns & Techniques

Founded in Japan, this technique first gained popularity on the West Coast before quickly spreading throughout the rest of the States thanks to its ability to score limits in tough conditions. Comprised of four major components, it consists of the bait itself (generally a worm or stick bait), a hook, O-ring, and a nail weight that is inserted into one end of the bait. These components all work in tandem to present your plastic in an enticing manner with the weighted end of your worm nosing along the bottom.

A longer spinning rod with a little more backbone than your typical dropshot rod is what you are generally looking for as you often find yourself working a Neko Rig near vegetation and other cover. Select the most sensitive rod you can from 7’ to 7’4” in length and look for an option with a Medium to Medium Heavy action and a Fast or even Extra-Fast taper to drive the hook home on the hook-set and guide fish away from any dangerous cover. The end-goal is a rod that achieves the perfect balance between muscle, castability, and sensitivity.

This is a technique where bigger can certainly be better when it comes to your reel. Opt for a spinning reel with a larger spool, such as most options in the 3000- or even 4000-class. The larger diameter spool picks up more line with each turn of the handle, perfect for picking up slack line, making quick reel sets, and launching long casts – all while putting less twist in your line. While a larger set up is certainly beneficial, many standard 2500-sized spinning reels with a smooth drag can get the job done as well.

Similar to your drop shot set up, using braided line as your main line with a fluorocarbon leader enhances sensitivity, provides quicker hooksets, and reduces pesky line twist. Spool up your favorite hi-vis braided mainline from 12-20lb and match that with a fluorocarbon leader in the 7lb to 12lb range to maximize the Neko Rig’s effectiveness. Your leader should be on the heavy side compared to your drop shot set up, as you will often be fishing your Neko Rig near cover and fish are likely to eat the bait headfirst.

There are many connection knots out there to connect your main line and leader. It really comes down to preference. Here’s a how-to on the RP Knot to get you started.

Use your favorite O-ring or band that fits the diameter of the plastic you are throwing to anchor your straight shank hook, generally sized #2-2/0 depending on conditions. Rigging your hook in the top third of your bait can offer a bit of snag-resistance as it keeps the hook point away from the bottom. There are many different weight options available - from weights with or without a head to nail weights with ribbing and screw weights that feature aggressive threading, you’ll just need to play around to find your preference.

For an advanced weedless Neko Rigging technique, check out our VLOG with Mike Iaconelli!

When choosing a weight, you can opt for tungsten for increased sensitivity, or go with lead for a customizable option as you can trim lead weights to find the perfect rate of fall. If you opt for a nail weight without a head, a creative way to eliminate the chance of your nail weight flying out on the cast is to insert the weight completely into the tip of the bait and use a heat source to seal off the plastic. Lastly, using an offset hook can substantially increase your hook-up percentage, which is critical in the challenging winter months.

Natural colors, such as Green Pumpkin, Oxblood, or Crawfish-imitating colors are good options to help you land a limit. If you are faced with heavily stained water, try incorporating more visible, brighter color options to help fish locate your plastic or add a strike point with your favorite dipping dye.

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