Product Review: The latest on the new Z-Man ChatterBait Elite EVO
"Z-Man has merged the past and future of Ned rigging into a singular series of light-line, finesse lure spinning rods. Designed by finesse fishing guru Drew Reese himself, these ultra-sensitive, featherweight rods merge the original art of Midwest finesse with impeccable rod-building brilliance." Z-Man®
Introduction
When it comes to finesse fishing, precision and sensitivity are paramount. Enter the Z-Man Drew’s Ultimate Ned Rig Rod, a masterpiece designed by none other than the finesse fishing authority himself, Drew Reese. At first glance you notice no reel seat and it appears to be shorter than the standard 6.5’ to 7’ bass fishing rods. That's because it is short, and it doe not have a reel seat. A solid Tennessee style cord handle allows you to place a spinning reel wherever it balances best for different size reels.
There are two versions, a 5’10” Medium Light, and a 5’4” Medium Light. Grabbing the rod in-hand, it feels remarkably light weight, which is a culmination of the 12k High Modulus Blank, Stainless steel guides, and the lack of reel seat components. Respectively, the 5’4” comes in at a staggering weight of just 1.75oz, and the 5’10” model comes in at 2.2oz The idea surrounding this concept is nothing new. The obligatory, less is more concept goes a long way. These fundamentals translate to a profound sensitivity for both bottom feel and sensing bites.
Drew’s Ultimate Ned Rig Rod: Build out
Designed by Drew Reese: This rod is the culmination of Drew’s expertise in finesse fishing and his passion for innovation.
Toray 12K High-Modulus Fiber Blanks: These advanced rod blanks boast tensile strength ratings over 640 Ksi, ensuring both strength and sensitivity.
Super-Lightweight SSR Stainless-Steel Guides: Impact-proof performance is guaranteed, even when battling feisty fish.
Tennessee-Style Full-Cork Handle: Reduced weight and heightened sensitivity make this handle a game-changer.
No Reel Seat: Instead, attach your reel using electrical tape for customizable balance.
Line Wt. | 4-8 lb (5'4") and 4-10 lb (5'10") |
Pieces | One |
Power Rating | Medium Light (Both) |
Taper | Fast (Both) |
MSRP | $169.99 (5'4") 179.99 (5'10") |
The Story: Smallmouth Ballet on Lake Champlain
Setting the Scene
It’s a crisp morning on Lake Champlain. A friend has invited me on the boat to sneak in a rare oppotunity to open water fish in the middle of February. When we arive, the air bites at exposed skin, and the water temperature hovers at a chilly 36 degrees Fahrenheit. The lake’s surface reflects the brisk cold air into the bright draw of the warming sun. As we back the boat down slowly, we break a thin layer of ice that has gathered on the shorline by the ramp from the long winter night. Both of us eager and chompin at the bit, hoping the fish will do the same.
The Cast
When we arrive at our first location, I can't help but remember the ice-cream headache I got as a kid. The ride was colder than I had anticipated, but its been a long few months with my boat in storage and I am ambitious to get a line in the water. I thread a Z-Man TRD soft plastic (Green Pumpkin) onto my Finesse ShroomZ Jighead (1/5oz), my Drew’s Ultimate Ned Rig Rod poised for action. The rod feels like an extension of my arm—light, responsive, and ready for whatever the lake throws my way.
The Bite
Opening the bail, I whip back and let one fly. I cannot help but notice how easy it is to throw lighter jigs. As I drag the Ned Rig along the rocky bottom, I feel every subtle nuance of the rock vane we are fishing. After three casts I find a sweet spot, the rod tip quivers, transmitting every nuance of the lake floor. Smallmouth bass are notorious for their delicate bites, but with the Ultimate Ned Rig Rod, I’m dialed in. I set the hook, and the battle begins.
The Dance
The smallmouth dances—a silver blur beneath the boat. The rod bends, absorbing every headshake, every surge. Typically this time of year, the smallmouth tend to be a bit lathargic, but not this one. The Tennessee-style cork handle warms in my grip, and I adjust the reel position for perfect balance. The fish fights, but the rod whispers its secrets—the underwater ballet of fins and scales.
The Triumph
Finally, the smallmouth breaches the surface—a bronze beauty against the wintry backdrop. The rod’s sensitivity allowed me to finesse the fight, keeping tension on the light line. I cradle the fish, its cold scales a testament to the season. The Ultimate Ned Rig Rod delivered, and I’m left in awe.
Conclusion
Whether you’re battling smallmouth in frigid February waters or exploring the finesse game year-round, the Z-Man Drew’s Ultimate Ned Rig Rod is your ally. It’s more than a tool; it’s an invitation to dance with the fish—to feel every heartbeat of the lake. So, next time you’re out there, remember Drew Reese’s creation and savor the magic of finesse fishing.
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