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Best Neko Rig Rods & Reels

The neko rig is a great bass producing technique. It’s a slight modification to one of the most popular fishing techniques. The weight unbalance creates a different action that bass haven’t seen as much as the wacky rig.

Below you will find our tried and true recommendations for neko rig rods & reels for any budget.

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Best Neko Rig Rods & Reels

Best Overall – G Loomis NRX+ 852S JWR

The G Loomis NRX+ 852S JWR is a 7’1″ medium action spinning rod that was designed to fish worms. It is the perfect balance of weight, sensitivity and strength.

Pair your rod with the Shimano Twin Power 2500 FD reel for the perfect performance. You will notice a large improvement in performance and comfort compared to value options.

RodTaper / ActionLine WtLure WtGuides
G. Loomis NRX+ 852S JWRExtra Fast6 – 12lb1/8 – 3/8ozFuji Titanium SIC/RECOIL
ReelGear RatioWeightBearingsLine Capacity (Test/Yd.)
Shimano Twin Power 2500 FD5.3:17.4 oz9S A-RB + 1S A-RB6/200, 8/140

Best Value – Shimano Expride 7′ Medium

The Shimano Expride is a 7′ medium action spinning rod that makes a great neko rig rod at a great price. It has a great balance of sensitivity and responsiveness.

Pair your rod with the Shimano Vanford 3000 reel for great performance. You will notice an improvement in performance compared to budget options.

RodTaper / ActionLine WtLure WtGuides
Shimano Expride 7′ MediumFast5 – 10lb3/16 – 1/2oz8 + Tip
ReelGear RatioWeightBearingsLine Capacity (Test/Yd.)
Shimano Vanford 30006.4:16.3 oz7BB + 1RB8/170, 10/140

Best Budget – St. Croix Bass X 7’2″ Medium Heavy

The St. Croix Bass X is a 7’2″ medium-heavy action baitcasting rod that can throw worms very well. It is the good balance performance without breaking the bank.

Pair your rod with the Shimano SLX 150 HG reel for the good performance.

RodTaper / ActionLine WtLure WtGuides
St. Croix Bass X 7’2″ Med-HvyModerate12 – 20lb3/8 – 1oz7 + Tip
ReelGear RatioWeightBearingsLine Capacity (Test/Yd.)
Shimano SLX 150 HG7.2:16.93BB + 1RB12/110, 14/90

What Makes a Good Neko Rig Rod?

The ideal neko rig rod is around 7′ long with medium to medium-heavy action. The 7′ length will give you a good balance of casting distance and accuracy to help you get your bait to where you want it.

Medium action is better for open water or light cover. If you fish heavy cover often you may want to bump up to a medium-heavy baitcaster.

I use 15lb Power Pro with a 8lb Maxima Ultragreen leader.

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