One of my goals this year was to get back to throwing a Neko rig and try them with my Great Lakes smallies.  Because of motor problems, I was only able to get out for the 3rd time this year on Lake Michigan this past weekend.  The Neko rig with a 4" Senko was a smashing success and compared well with a Ned rig in terms of success.  So do you use a Neko rig often for smallies?  While it doesn't seem to be a major smallmouth presentation, I can see how it would fit into my arsenal as a nice alternative to a dropshot.  What do you think? 

Yes, I have used Neko for smallies... especially when the Ned either gets snagged too much, or I need to upsize and keep the small perch from biting. I’ve used mostly floating worms like GrandeBass and Squirrel tail. Have also used crayfish plastics (3 inch Savage Gear 4D craw).  They definitely work! 

My cousin used to put a finishing nail in a plastic worm for creek smallmouth before the term Neko ever came about. So yeah it works just fine I’m sure. I’ve never tried it personally, they still bite them just fine with regular rigging methods also