First Impressions of EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head enters a market saturated with landing nets, but promises a unique blend of durability, tangle-free netting, and compatibility with EGO’s modular handle system. Coming from years of battling stubborn fish and equally stubborn net tangles, the allure of a reliable, snag-resistant landing solution was impossible to resist. I’ve spent countless hours on the water, and a dependable net is as crucial as a good rod and reel.
My fishing experiences range from freshwater trout streams to saltwater flats, each demanding different net characteristics. I was specifically looking for a net head that could handle a variety of fish sizes without being unwieldy, and that would minimize the frustrating hook snags that seem to plague traditional mesh nets. The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head, with its advertised non-tangle rubber mesh and convenient size, seemed like a promising solution to my netting woes.
The net head arrived in a simple, no-frills package. My initial impression was positive, noting the robust PVC construction and the feel of the rubberized mesh. The black and red color scheme is aesthetically pleasing without being overly flashy, a characteristic I appreciate in my gear. Compared to my older nylon mesh nets, which felt flimsy and prone to tearing, the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head felt significantly more substantial.
I had been considering the Frabill Conservation Series landing net and the YakAttack Leverage Landing Net, both popular options in the fishing community. I opted for the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head primarily due to its compatibility with the EGO handle system, allowing for a modular and customizable setup. The promise of a tangle-free netting experience also played a significant role in my decision. The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head inspired confidence right out of the box, a feeling that my previous nets failed to deliver.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test of the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head took place on a local reservoir targeting largemouth bass. Conditions were partly cloudy with a moderate breeze, creating a slight chop on the water. Paired with my existing EGO S2 Slider handle, the net felt well-balanced and easy to maneuver.
The first bass I landed was a respectable 3-pounder. The non-tangle mesh performed admirably, with the hook sliding free with minimal effort. This was a stark contrast to my experiences with traditional nylon nets, where hook removal often required pliers and considerable frustration. The PVC head felt sturdy and capable of handling the weight of the fish, and the 17-inch hoop size provided ample room to secure the bass.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head continues to impress. I’ve used it to land everything from panfish to catfish, and the net has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the PVC head, and the rubberized mesh remains in excellent condition.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick rinse with fresh water after each use is all that’s required. This is a welcome change from the tedious cleaning and drying process associated with nylon nets, which are prone to mildew and unpleasant odors. Compared to my previous landing nets, the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, ease of use, and tangle-free performance. It’s a noticeable upgrade that has made my fishing trips more enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head
Specifications
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head boasts a range of features designed to enhance the angler’s experience. The Manufacturer is EGO Fishing, known for its innovative and high-quality fishing accessories. The color scheme is a sleek Black/Red combination. The medium-sized hoop measures 17 inches in diameter, providing a good balance between maneuverability and fish-holding capacity.
The mesh bag is constructed from lightweight, non-tangle, deep rubber mesh. This design minimizes hook snags and protects the fish’s slime coat, promoting catch-and-release practices. The bag depth is 24 inches with a flat bottom, allowing fish to rest comfortably without being cramped. The large hoop size is actually 22″ x 23″. The net head is designed to fit all S1 Genesis and S2 Slider Handles, offering versatility and customization options. An innovative grip design provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet conditions.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The rubber mesh significantly reduces hook snags, saving time and frustration on the water. The flat-bottomed net bag provides ample space for fish, minimizing stress and injury. The compatibility with EGO handles allows anglers to create a customized landing net system tailored to their specific needs.
Performance & Functionality
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head excels in its primary function: landing fish safely and efficiently. The rubberized mesh prevents hooks from becoming entangled, making hook removal quick and easy. The net’s depth and flat bottom provide ample space to cradle fish of various sizes, reducing the risk of injury.
The net head is easy to maneuver in the water, even in tight spaces. Its lightweight construction minimizes fatigue during extended fishing sessions. A minor weakness is the relatively small hoop size compared to some other landing nets, which may require more precise netting technique for larger fish. Overall, the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head features a robust and functional design. The PVC head is durable and lightweight, providing a solid foundation for the net. The rubberized mesh is gentle on fish and minimizes hook snags.
The innovative grip design provides a comfortable and secure hold, even when wet. There is a slight learning curve associated with using a rubberized mesh net, as the fish may not settle as easily as in a traditional nylon net. However, the benefits of tangle-free performance and fish-friendly design far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
Durability & Maintenance
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. The PVC head is resistant to impact and abrasion, and the rubberized mesh is less prone to tearing and damage compared to nylon. With proper care, the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is typically sufficient to remove dirt and debris. Occasional scrubbing with mild soap and water may be necessary to remove stubborn stains.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head is primarily designed for use with EGO’s line of handles, specifically the S1 Genesis and S2 Slider Handles. This modular system allows anglers to customize the length and functionality of their landing net. The net head itself does not offer any additional customization options.
Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head
Pros
- Exceptional tangle-free performance: The rubberized mesh significantly reduces hook snags.
- Fish-friendly design: The rubberized mesh protects the fish’s slime coat.
- Durable construction: The PVC head and rubberized mesh are built to last.
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver: Minimizes fatigue during extended fishing sessions.
- Easy to maintain: A quick rinse with fresh water is all that’s typically required.
Cons
- Hoop size is only medium: A larger hoop size would be beneficial for landing very large fish.
- Can be tricky with certain fish species: Requires slightly different fish landing technique than traditional nets.
Who Should Buy EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head?
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head is perfect for anglers who prioritize tangle-free performance and fish-friendly practices. It is an excellent choice for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, and is well-suited for targeting a wide variety of fish species. This net head is particularly beneficial for anglers who practice catch-and-release, as the rubberized mesh minimizes stress and injury to the fish.
Anglers who primarily target very large fish (over 10 pounds) may prefer a net head with a larger hoop size. Those who are accustomed to traditional nylon nets may need some time to adjust to the feel of the rubberized mesh. A must-have accessory is a compatible EGO handle, such as the S2 Slider or S1 Genesis.
Conclusion on EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head
The EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head is a worthwhile investment for any angler seeking a durable, tangle-free, and fish-friendly landing net solution. The rubberized mesh performs exceptionally well in preventing hook snags, and the PVC head is built to withstand the rigors of regular use. While the hoop size may be slightly small for some anglers, the benefits of this net head far outweigh any minor drawbacks.
The price is justified given the quality of construction and the innovative features offered. I would highly recommend the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head to any angler looking to upgrade their landing net system. Say goodbye to frustrating tangles and hello to more enjoyable and successful fishing trips. Invest in the EGO Fishing S2 Medium 17in PVC Head and experience the difference a quality landing net can make.