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Neko Rig

A wacky-rigged stick worm with a small nail weight pushed into one end. The weighted end digs into the bottom and the worm stands up, quivering with every shake.

Best forBass, peacock bass
WhereDeeper flats, points, sparse grass
MethodFinesse bottom
DifficultyModerate
Neko Rig — BigJoe rig illustration
Main lineNeko / wacky hookStick worm + O-ringNail weight

Rig diagram (component order)

Neko Rig: Main line, Neko / wacky hook, Stick worm + O-ring, Nail weight

Step-by-step how-to

Neko Rig How To Graphic
Graphic: Tackle Village, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr
Nail Weight Wacky Rig How To Graphic
Graphic: Tackle Village, CC BY 2.0, via Flickr

Step-by-step build instructions

  1. 1

    Tie the neko hook to the line.

  2. 2

    Push a nail weight fully into the head end of the worm.

  3. 3

    Roll an O-ring about 1/3 of the way from the weighted end.

  4. 4

    Hook under the O-ring with the point facing the weighted end.

  5. 5

    Cast and let it sink: it lands head-down and stands up.

  6. 6

    Lift, shake and let it settle. Repeat slowly.

BigJoe Tips

  • Heavier nails for deeper water or wind.
  • Keep moves small; the worm does the work.
  • Use braid with a fluoro leader for feel.
  • Glue the nail in if it keeps falling out.

Variations

  • Straight-tail worms work as well as sticks.
  • Tungsten nails are smaller and sink faster.
  • Use a weedless hook around grass.
  • Wacky without the nail for a slower fall.

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Target Species

Largemouth bassMicropterus nigricansButterfly peacock bassCichla ocellarisJaguar guapoteParachromis managuensis