First Impressions of R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net promises to be a specialized tool for live bait enthusiasts. Manufactured by R & R Lotion, a company known for… well, lotions, this venture into fishing gear sparked immediate curiosity. This net boasts a double fine mesh, suggesting it’s designed for delicate handling of smaller, fragile bait, a crucial feature for keeping bait alive and appealing to finicky fish.
My primary reason for seeking this specific bait net stems from a recurring problem: baitfish mortality. Standard nets often damage scales and fins, leading to stressed or dead bait, which, as any seasoned angler knows, translates to a less productive day on the water. I was specifically looking for a gentler solution to scoop and transfer live bait from my tank to the bait bucket, and hopefully this would prevent the bait from injuring itself on the net.
Upon unboxing, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net felt surprisingly lightweight. The mesh itself appeared exceptionally fine, almost like silk, a stark contrast to the coarser nets I’ve used in the past. The build quality seemed decent, although the handle felt a little less robust than I expected for the $59.99 price tag.
Compared to a standard Frabill net and a generic nylon bait net I already own, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net stood out due to its advertised mesh fineness. The Frabill, designed for larger fish, was clearly too rough for delicate baitfish, while the nylon net, although softer, lacked the double-layered protection. I chose the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net hoping its unique design would minimize stress and injury to my live bait, resulting in a more successful fishing trip.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The fine mesh was promising, but the lightweight handle and the brand’s unfamiliarity in the fishing gear market left me slightly skeptical. I was eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net took place during a weekend fishing trip to a local reservoir. The target species were largemouth bass, and the bait of choice was live shiners. Water conditions were relatively calm, but the weather was overcast and drizzly.
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net proved remarkably gentle when scooping shiners from the bait tank. The fine mesh glided through the water with minimal resistance, and the shiners appeared less agitated compared to when using my older, coarser net. There were also no noticeable scale losses or other immediate injuries after scooping with the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net has held up surprisingly well. There are no signs of tears or fraying in the mesh, and the handle, despite feeling lightweight initially, hasn’t shown any signs of weakening or breaking. The materials in the net also hold up great when exposed to sunlight.
Cleaning the net is relatively simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use effectively removes any scales or debris. Compared to my previous bait nets, which often became slimy and smelly, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net remains much cleaner and fresher with minimal effort.
While not a game-changer, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net has noticeably improved the quality of my live bait. The reduced stress and injury have resulted in livelier, more active baitfish, which I believe has contributed to an increase in my catch rate. It performs better than my old nylon net.
Breaking Down the Features of R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net
Specifications
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net has several key specifications worth noting. It’s manufactured by R & R Lotion, a brand branching out from its core product line. The net weighs only 1.9 oz, making it incredibly lightweight and easy to maneuver.
The net’s length is 36 cm, its width is 13.5 inches, and its height is 2 inches. These dimensions make it suitable for scooping bait from most standard-sized bait tanks and buckets. The key feature is its double fine mesh, designed to minimize scale loss and injury to delicate baitfish.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the net’s usability and effectiveness. The lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use, while the fine mesh protects the bait’s health and vitality. This is critical for ensuring that the bait remains appealing to the target fish.
Performance & Functionality
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net performs admirably in its intended role. It scoops bait smoothly and gently, significantly reducing stress and injury compared to coarser nets. The mesh doesn’t seem to spook the bait as much as larger diameter nets.
The primary strength lies in its exceptionally fine mesh, which minimizes abrasion and scale loss. A minor weakness is the handle’s perceived fragility. Overall, it meets my expectations for a specialized bait net designed for delicate handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net has a fairly simple design, prioritizing functionality over aesthetics. The lightweight materials make it comfortable to use for extended periods, but the handle could benefit from a more ergonomic grip. There’s no significant learning curve involved, as it functions much like any other bait net.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net appears to be reasonably durable. The mesh has resisted tearing and fraying, but the handle’s long-term durability remains a question mark. Maintenance is simple, requiring only a quick rinse with fresh water after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available. Its straightforward design focuses on its core function of gentle bait handling. It is not really compatible with additional accessories.
Pros and Cons of R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net
Pros
- Extremely fine mesh minimizes scale loss and injury to delicate baitfish.
- Lightweight design reduces fatigue during extended use.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
- Noticeably improves the quality and liveliness of live bait.
- Effective at gently scooping even small baitfish.
Cons
- Handle feels less robust than expected for the price.
- Limited to small baitfish due to net size.
Who Should Buy R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net?
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net is perfect for anglers who prioritize the health and vitality of their live bait. It’s particularly well-suited for those targeting species that require delicate baitfish, such as trout, panfish, or finicky bass. This net is also good for use when fishing for crappie.
Those who primarily use larger, hardier baitfish or who require a heavy-duty net for larger fish should skip this product. There are no must-have accessories or modifications needed.
Conclusion on R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net
The R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net is a specialized tool that delivers on its promise of gentle bait handling. While the handle’s perceived fragility is a minor concern, the net’s effectiveness in minimizing stress and injury to delicate baitfish justifies its price.
I would personally recommend it to any angler who values the quality of their live bait and is willing to invest in a tool that can make a noticeable difference in their fishing success. If you want to keep your bait alive and kicking, give the R & R Lotion Double Fine Mesh Bait Net a try – you might be surprised at the difference it makes!