First Impressions of EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh landing net promises to be the perfect companion for anglers who wade rivers or fish from kayaks. This net, manufactured by EGO Fishing, boasts a lightweight aluminum handle, a rubber-coated mesh bag, and an innovative grip design, features designed specifically for the demands of water-based fishing. The inclusion of a floating design and a tether further piqued my interest; in my experience, those details can make all the difference between a frustrating day and a seamless one.
My fishing adventures often involve navigating rocky riverbeds or maneuvering in tight kayak spaces, making a reliable and easily manageable net essential. I was searching for a net that was lightweight, durable, and minimized water drag, problems I have experienced with other nets on the market.
Unboxing the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh, my first impression was positive. The net felt surprisingly light yet sturdy, the rubber coating on the mesh exuded quality, and the grip felt secure and comfortable in my hand. The black color is sleek and understated.
Compared to my older, heavier aluminum net with a traditional nylon mesh, the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh immediately felt like an upgrade. I was also considering the Fishpond Nomad Hand Net and the Orvis Clearwater Rubber Net, both popular choices, but the EGO Fishing net’s larger hoop size and floating design ultimately swayed me. It seemed like the best combination of size, weight, and practical features for my style of fishing.
Initial excitement was high; this net seemed like it had the potential to solve many of the frustrations I’ve encountered with other landing nets. I was eager to put it to the test in real fishing scenarios.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh was on a local trout stream, known for its strong currents and slippery rocks. I primarily targeted rainbow trout and brown trout, wading through the river and casting to likely holding spots.
The net performed admirably in the challenging conditions. The lightweight handle and minimal water drag made it easy to maneuver even in fast-flowing water, and the rubber-coated mesh ensured the fish were handled gently. I found that the grip stayed secure even with wet hands.
The initial use revealed no immediate issues, although I noticed that the 31″ bag depth might be a bit excessive for smaller trout. However, this depth proved to be an advantage when landing a larger-than-expected brown trout.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh has proven to be a reliable piece of gear. The aluminum handle has shown no signs of bending or weakening, and the rubber coating on the mesh remains intact, resisting snags and tears.
The net is holding up well to regular use and exposure to the elements. I’ve noticed no significant wear and tear, even after dragging it across rocks and through brush.
Cleaning the net is a breeze; a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient to remove any debris or fish slime. The rubber coating prevents the mesh from absorbing odors, a common problem with traditional nylon nets. It definitely outperforms my older nylon net in terms of ease of maintenance and reduced odor.
Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh
Specifications
Manufacturer: EGO Fishing crafted this net with the angler in mind. The reputation of the manufacturer is always important.
Color: Black. This understated color blends seamlessly with the natural environment.
Fabric/Material: Rubber Coated Mesh. The rubber coating is gentle on fish and reduces the risk of hook snags.
Mesh Bag: Rubber Coated Nylon Mesh. This specific construction balances durability and fish-friendly properties.
Bag Depth: 31″. This generous depth accommodates larger fish, but might be excessive for smaller catches.
Hoop Size: Large 19″ x 21″. This is a good size for most trout, bass, and other common game fish.
Handle Length: 11″. This length is ideal for wading and kayak fishing, providing sufficient reach without being cumbersome.
11″ Elastic Adjustable & Removable Tether: This allows the net to be secured to the angler, preventing loss. The tether is a crucial feature for wade fishing.
Aluminum Clip: This allows for easy attachment to a vest or pack. The aluminum material adds to the overall durability.
Unique Hoop Scoop Design: This facilitates easier landing of fish. The scoop design assists in guiding the fish into the net.
Innovative Grip Design: This provides a comfortable and secure hold. This is critical, especially when hands are wet.
Minimal Water Drag: This makes it easier to maneuver the net in currents. This is a highly desirable feature for any wading angler.
These specifications contribute to the overall performance and user experience by providing a lightweight, durable, and easy-to-use landing net. The rubber-coated mesh is gentle on fish, while the aluminum handle ensures longevity, and the tether prevents loss.
Performance & Functionality
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh performs its job exceptionally well. It facilitates the quick and easy landing of fish, minimizing stress on both the angler and the catch.
The net’s strengths lie in its lightweight design, minimal water drag, and fish-friendly rubber coating. It allows for effortless maneuvering and gentle handling of fish. A weakness is the potential for the deep net bag to make releasing smaller fish slightly more challenging.
The net meets and, in some aspects, exceeds my expectations. It provides a significant upgrade over my previous landing nets in terms of weight, maneuverability, and fish care.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh boasts a well-thought-out design. The materials used are of high quality, the net feels balanced in hand, and the grip is comfortable and secure.
The net is very user-friendly, requiring no learning curve. The intuitive design allows for immediate and effective use, even for novice anglers.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience thus far, the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh is built to last. The aluminum handle and rubber-coated mesh are both durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintaining the net is simple; a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient. The rubber coating prevents odors and minimizes the need for harsh cleaning agents.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh comes with a built-in 11″ elastic adjustable & removable tether and an aluminum clip. These components offer immediate utility.
While the net itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the tether and clip provide flexibility in how it’s carried and secured. It is compatible with most standard fishing vests and packs.
Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver. The aluminum handle and minimal water drag make it a pleasure to use, even in strong currents.
- Fish-friendly rubber-coated mesh. This protects the fish’s slime coat, increasing their chances of survival after release.
- Durable construction. The aluminum handle and rubber-coated mesh are built to withstand regular use and exposure to the elements.
- Floating design. This prevents the net from sinking if accidentally dropped in the water.
- Secure grip. The innovative grip design provides a comfortable and secure hold, even with wet hands.
Cons
- Bag depth might be excessive for smaller fish. Releasing smaller fish from the 31″ deep bag can be slightly cumbersome.
- Price point. At $62.99, it is more expensive than some basic landing nets, but the quality justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh?
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh is perfect for wade anglers, kayak fishermen, and anyone who prioritizes lightweight design, durability, and fish-friendly handling. It is ideally suited to anglers targeting trout, bass, and other common game fish in rivers, streams, and lakes.
Those who should skip this product might be anglers on a very tight budget. Also, anglers who primarily fish from boats and prefer a longer-handled net might find the 11″ handle too short.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality fishing vest or pack to attach the net to. A pair of quality wading boots or kayak fishing shoes would complete the setup for maximum comfort and performance.
Conclusion on EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh
The EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh is a well-designed and well-built landing net that offers a significant upgrade over traditional nets. Its lightweight design, fish-friendly rubber coating, and durable construction make it a pleasure to use and a reliable piece of gear.
The price of $62.99 is justified by the quality of materials and construction, as well as the net’s performance and functionality. It’s a worthwhile investment for anglers who want a reliable and fish-friendly landing net.
I would personally recommend the EGO Fishing Large Wade Rubber Coated Mesh to any angler looking for a high-quality landing net for wade or kayak fishing. It provides exceptional value and performance, making it a valuable addition to any angler’s gear arsenal. If you are an avid fisherman looking for a reliable, lightweight net that is gentle on fish, then this is the net for you. Go get one!