Z-Man Finesse TRD™ (8-pack)

Z-Man Finesse TRD: The "Real Deal" for Finesse Fishing

The Z-Man Finesse TRD (The Real Deal) is a 2.75-inch stick bait designed specifically for the Ned Rig technique. Made from proprietary ElaZtech material, this bait is 10X tougher than traditional plastics and is naturally buoyant, allowing it to stand straight up off the bottom. This vertical posture is a key trigger for Bass, Walleye, and Panfish, especially in high-pressure or cold-front conditions.

Proven Rigging Methods

The Finesse TRD is synonymous with the Ned Rig, but its unique material makes it effective for several other finesse presentations:

• Ned Rig: Pair it with a mushroom-style jig head like the Finesse ShroomZ. The flat head ensures the buoyant bait stands perfectly upright on the bottom.

• Drop Shot: Rig it nose-hooked rather than wacky-rigged. Because it's shorter, nose-hooking allows the bait to swing freely and maintain a horizontal profile in the water column.

• Neko Rig: Insert a small nail weight into one end. This creates a unique "bottom-pecking" action that is deadly for smallmouth bass.

• Split Shot Rig: Use a small weight 12-18 inches above the bait. The TRD's buoyancy will cause it to float and flutter behind the weight as you drag it along.

Pro Tip: The "Salt Cleanse" for Maximum Float

Z-Man Finesse TRDs come impregnated with salt to help them sink at a specific rate, but over time, that salt can slightly weigh down the plastic.

The Secret: If you want your bait to stand up perfectly vertical or even float a light hook, stretch the bait out between your hands a few times before rigging it. This stretches the ElaZtech pores and helps shed some of the salt. This makes the bait even more buoyant and "lively," which is a game-changer when you are dead-sticking (letting the bait sit perfectly still) for finicky fish.