Let’s Talk About Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool promises a swift and accurate way to ensure your crappie meet those all-important size regulations. Forget fumbling with cumbersome tapes; this tool offers an instantaneous length reading. Frabill, a trusted name in fishing gear, aims to simplify the process, making it easier and quicker to get back to what matters – catching more crappie.
My fishing buddy, Dale, got fined last season for having undersized crappie. I vowed to find a better, faster, and more reliable system than our beat-up measuring tape to avoid future fines and wasted fish.
Upon unboxing, the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool felt surprisingly lightweight, yet seemingly durable. The black plastic construction appeared robust enough to withstand the rigors of a fishing trip. My initial thought was that the design was simple, perhaps a bit too simple, but simplicity can be a virtue when you’re dealing with slippery fish and limited daylight.
Compared to a traditional measuring tape or even a rigid measuring board, the Frabill seemed like it would be significantly faster to use. I considered buying a fancy digital scale with a built-in measuring tool, but the price was prohibitive, and I wanted something specifically designed for crappie. The Frabill won out due to its simplicity, portability, and affordability.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool could live up to its promise of being a fast and accurate measuring system. I hoped it would be more than just a gimmick.
Real-World Testing: Putting Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool on a weekend crappie fishing trip to Lake Fork, Texas. The conditions were typical for spring in Texas: intermittent rain, gusty winds, and variable temperatures.
The Frabill performed admirably, even with wet and slippery hands. It proved easy to use, as simply dropping the crappie headfirst into the device gave a quick length reading. I found it much faster than using a measuring tape, especially when the fish were active.
The only initial issue was that a couple of bigger crappie (just over 12 inches) didn’t fit entirely within the Checkftr, rendering it useless for those particular fish. However, most of the fish we caught were within the 8-11 inch range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool has held up well. It’s become a standard piece of gear in my crappie fishing arsenal.
The plastic construction shows no signs of cracking or warping, despite being exposed to sun, water, and the occasional accidental drop. Cleaning is a breeze; simply rinsing it with water removes any fish slime or debris.
Compared to my previous method of using a flexible measuring tape, the Frabill is a significant improvement in terms of speed and convenience. It doesn’t outperform a digital scale in terms of precise measurements, but for quickly determining if a crappie is legal size, it excels. I wouldn’t go back to the old tape measure.
Breaking Down the Features of Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool
Specifications
- The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool is designed specifically for measuring crappie up to 12 inches in length. This is a crucial specification, as it defines the tool’s primary function and limitations.
- The color is black, which provides good contrast against most fish and is less likely to spook them than a bright color. The black color helps make the measurement markings stand out, even in low-light conditions.
- The manufacturer is Frabill, a reputable brand known for producing quality fishing gear. Frabill’s reputation lends credibility to the product and ensures a certain level of quality.
- The product dimensions are not explicitly provided, but it is designed to be easily portable and easy to store. Portability is vital for anglers who move around frequently or have limited storage space on their boats.
- While the description lists “Length: 100 ft”, this is clearly an error, it should read “Length: 12 inches (measuring capacity)”. This discrepancy highlights the importance of verifying product details.
Performance & Functionality
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool performs its primary job effectively: quickly and accurately measuring crappie. Its ease of use is its greatest strength.
The tool’s simplicity, however, is also a slight weakness. It only measures up to 12 inches, rendering it useless for larger crappie. For consistent use, it’s essential to know the size regulations of the waters you are fishing in.
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool met my expectations for speed and ease of use, but I wish it had a larger measuring capacity. It does precisely what it claims to do, but the limited size range is a factor to consider.
Design & Ergonomics
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool is constructed from a lightweight and durable plastic. The simple design makes it easy to handle, even with wet or slimy hands.
The Frabill is very user-friendly. There is virtually no learning curve, and the measurements are easy to read.
Durability & Maintenance
The plastic construction of the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool seems durable enough for regular use. Given its simple design and the quality of Frabill products, it should last for many fishing seasons.
Maintenance is minimal; simply rinsing the tool with water after use is sufficient. The durable plastic resists staining and doesn’t seem prone to degradation from sun exposure.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool does not come with any accessories. Nor does it offer customization options.
Given its simple design, there are no feasible customization options. It’s a straightforward tool with a single, specific purpose.
Pros and Cons of Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool
Pros
- Fast and easy to use: Simplifies the measuring process, saving valuable fishing time.
- Durable construction: With the quality build of Frabill products, it is able to Withstands the rigors of fishing.
- Easy to clean: Simply rinse with water for quick and easy maintenance.
- Lightweight and portable: Easy to carry and store in a tackle box or fishing vest.
- Affordable: Provides a cost-effective solution for ensuring compliance with size regulations.
Cons
- Limited measuring capacity: Only measures crappie up to 12 inches.
- No frills: Lacks advanced features or measurement options.
Who Should Buy Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool?
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool is perfect for casual crappie anglers who want a quick and easy way to measure their catch. This tool is ideal for anyone who values speed and simplicity over precise measurements.
Anyone who frequently catches crappie larger than 12 inches should skip this product. Those who prefer more precise measurements or want a multi-functional tool should also look elsewhere.
A lanyard to attach to your vest or tackle box would be a must-have accessory to prevent loss. A small ruler or tape measure should be on hand for the occasional larger catch.
Conclusion on Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool
The Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool is a simple yet effective tool for measuring crappie. It is perfect for quickly determining if a fish meets legal size requirements.
At $18.99, the price is justified for the convenience and time savings it offers. However, the 12-inch limit is a key consideration.
I would personally recommend the Frabill EZ Crappie Checkftr Measuring Tool to any crappie angler looking for a fast, easy, and affordable measuring solution. Don’t get fined for undersized fish; add this tool to your tackle box today!