He uses a piece of string or twine to attach the hook to the nail, and then wraps the string around the nail to secure it. The rig is then finished with a small piece of foam or a plastic bag to create a soft, rounded nose.
The Origins of the Ned Rig
The Ned rig, a popular fly-fishing lure for smallmouth bass, has its roots in the early 2000s. Rich McElligott, a renowned fly fisherman, is credited with creating this innovative lure. McElligott’s design was inspired by a combination of his own fishing experiences and observations of the behavior of smallmouth bass.
Key Features of the Ned Rig
Over 80 years of promoting conservation, education, and recreation in the Chicago-area fishing community.
A Brief History of Shabbona Lake Sportsman Club
The Shabbona Lake Sportsman Club has been a staple in the Chicago-area fishing community for over 80 years. Founded in 1939, the club has a rich history of promoting conservation, education, and recreation. The club’s early years were marked by a focus on practical projects that benefited the local community.
Early Years and Community Involvement
Conservation Efforts
The Shabbona Lake Sportsman Club has a long history of conservation efforts, with a focus on protecting and preserving the lake’s ecosystem. Some notable initiatives include:
“It was a lot of money, but it was worth it.”
The Early Days of Artificial Reef Construction
In the 1960s, the concept of artificial reefs began to take shape in the United States. The idea was simple: create man-made structures that would attract marine life and provide a habitat for fish and other species. The first artificial reefs were constructed using a combination of materials, including concrete, steel, and rock.
Materials Used
He eventually settled in the western suburbs of Chicago, where he lived for over 40 years.
Childhood and Early Life
Growing up in Chicago, McElligott was exposed to the city’s vibrant music scene. He attended the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, where he studied music and began to develop his skills as a musician. After college, he worked as a musician and music teacher, eventually landing a job at the University of Illinois as a music instructor.
The Early Years of the Chicago Blues
In the 1960s, McElligott became involved in the Chicago blues scene, where he met and befriended many notable musicians, including Buddy Guy, Otis Rush, and Magic Slim. He played with these musicians, learning from them and contributing to the development of the Chicago blues style.
The Formation of the McElligott Band
In the 1970s, McElligott formed his own band, which he called the McElligott Band.
McElligott’s goal is to get kids to fish, but he also wants to educate parents on the importance of fishing for their children’s health and well-being. He believes that fishing can be a great way to teach children about responsibility, self-reliance, and the importance of conservation.
The Origins of the Fishing League
In 1997, McElligott, a passionate advocate for fishing, teamed up with fisheries biologist Karen Rivera to launch a fishing league that would change the lives of countless children and families. The league’s primary objective was to engage parents in fishing clinics, providing them with the knowledge and skills necessary to introduce their children to the sport. McElligott’s vision was not only to get kids hooked on fishing but also to educate parents on the numerous benefits of fishing for their children’s health and well-being.
The Benefits of Fishing for Children
Fishing offers a wide range of benefits for children, including:
He’s been a member of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources since 2001 and has been involved in the conservation of the state’s fish populations.
A Passion for Fly Fishing and Conservation
As a seasoned fly fisherman, McElligott has spent countless hours on the water, reeling in a variety of fish species. His passion for fly fishing extends beyond the thrill of the catch, however, as he is also deeply committed to the conservation of Illinois’ fish populations.
