The Neko rig is a unique rig and it’s becoming very popular among many anglers. As you can see in the tank to the left, the hook is in the center and the weight is at the head of the bait. In this case, it’s a screw that is screwed into the head of the worm. Because most anglers use smaller baits to target smallies, you may not see many anglers using the Neko rig when targeting these fish.
Best Baits on a Neko Rig for Smallmouth Bass
Wacky Worms
These baits work great on a neko rig. You still get that good u-shaped action when you twitch them, however, the fall and the way the bait rests are completely different from other rigs.
Finesse Worms
Finesse worms may be more difficult to get a nail in because of their small diameter, however, their action is very good on a neko rig.
Longer Creature Baits
A longer creature bait can very super effective on a neko rig. Just hop it along the bottom to give the bass a much different look.
Lizards
A soft plastic lizard is another good neko rig bait for smallmouth bass. It just gives you another way to fish this bait and it will get plenty of bites.
Paddle Tail Worms
The action on paddle tail worms is very good on a neko rig. Use more of a jerk and pause retrieve kind of like how you would work in a jerkbait. Most of your bites will come on the pause.
Crayfish Baits
Some crayfish baits look good on a neko rig. The longer baits tend to look better. Just crawl it along the bottom slowly and mix it some pauses.
Minnows
A 4 to 5 inch minnow bait looks good on a neko rig. It’s just another way to imitate a wounded bait fish to catch some of those finicky bass.
