EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net Review

First Impressions of EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net is a specialized piece of gear designed for anglers who prefer to wade in rivers and streams or fish from kayaks. Marketed by EGO Fishing as a lightweight, durable, and floating net, it promises to be a valuable tool for landing fish in challenging environments. After years of using larger, bulkier nets, I was eager to see if this smaller, more specialized net could improve my catch-and-release experience.

I’ve often found myself fumbling with larger nets while wading, struggling to maneuver them in tight spots and often spooking the fish in the process. The promise of a compact, floating net with an adjustable tether seemed like the perfect solution to this problem. I was particularly interested in the innovative grip design and the overall build quality, hoping it would provide a more secure and comfortable hold in wet conditions.

Upon unboxing the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net, my initial impression was positive. The aluminum handle felt sturdy yet surprisingly light, and the black and red color scheme gave it a sleek, professional look. Compared to my old, heavier rubberized net and a friend’s bulky, collapsible net, the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net immediately stood out for its compact size and apparent ease of handling. I chose this net because I wanted something that wouldn’t weigh me down or get in the way while wading, and this seemed to fit the bill perfectly. I was excited to see how it would perform in the water.

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Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net was on the Deschutes River in Oregon, known for its strong currents and challenging wading conditions. I primarily targeted trout and steelhead. The 11″ elastic adjustable tether proved invaluable, keeping the net securely attached to my wading belt while allowing for easy access when needed.

The net performed well in the wet conditions. The innovative grip design provided a surprisingly secure hold, even when my hands were wet and covered in fish slime. The small size and light weight made it incredibly easy to maneuver in the water, and I was able to land several trout and a small steelhead with minimal fuss. One minor issue I noticed was that the nylon mesh seemed to snag slightly more easily on submerged rocks and branches compared to my old rubberized net.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the handle or hoop, and the mesh bag, while showing some minor signs of abrasion, remains intact. Cleaning the net is a breeze; a quick rinse with fresh water is usually sufficient to remove any fish slime or debris.

Compared to my previous experiences with larger, more cumbersome nets, the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net is a clear winner in terms of portability and ease of use. It has definitely outperformed my expectations. Its compact size and lightweight design have made wading and kayaking much more enjoyable.

Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net

Specifications

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance.

• Manufacturer: EGO Fishing
• Color: Black/Red
• Max Load Capacity: 30lbs. This specification indicates the net is suitable for most freshwater game fish and smaller saltwater species.
• Designed to float: An essential feature for wade and kayak fishing, preventing loss if dropped.
• Mesh Bag: Nylon Mesh. Nylon mesh is lightweight and dries quickly, though potentially more prone to snagging than rubberized alternatives.
• Bag Depth: 20″. This provides ample space for landing fish of various sizes while minimizing the risk of escape.
• Hoop Size: Small 14″ x 16″. The compact hoop size makes it ideal for tight spaces and easy maneuverability.
• Handle Length: 11″. The short handle is specifically designed for one-handed operation while wading or kayaking.
• 11″ Elastic Adjustable & Removable Tether: Ensures the net remains secured while allowing for easy access.
• Aluminum Clip: For attaching the tether to a belt or vest.
• Unique Hoop Scoop Design: Aids in scooping fish from the water.
• Innovative Grip Design: Provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet conditions.
• Minimal Water Drag: Makes it easier to maneuver the net in strong currents.

These specifications combine to create a net that is lightweight, durable, and highly functional for wade and kayak fishing.

Performance & Functionality

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net excels at its primary job: landing fish efficiently and safely. The unique hoop scoop design makes it easy to scoop fish from the water, and the 20″ bag depth provides ample space to secure them before handling. The net’s strengths lie in its portability, ease of use, and secure grip.

One area for potential improvement is the nylon mesh, which can snag more easily than rubberized alternatives. Overall, the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net meets and exceeds expectations for a specialized wade and kayak landing net.

Design & Ergonomics

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net is well-designed and ergonomic. The aluminum handle feels solid in hand, and the innovative grip design provides excellent comfort and control. The compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry and maneuver, even in tight spaces.

There is virtually no learning curve. It’s intuitive to use right out of the box.

Durability & Maintenance

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net appears to be quite durable. The aluminum frame and nylon mesh are both resistant to wear and tear, and the overall construction feels solid. With proper care and maintenance, this net should last for many seasons.

Cleaning is simple. A quick rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient.

Accessories and Customization Options

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net comes with a pre-attached, adjustable elastic tether and aluminum clip. There aren’t many customization options available for this particular net, as its design is fairly streamlined. However, anglers could potentially add a small float to the handle for added buoyancy or replace the clip with a more robust carabiner.

This net is primarily designed for use as-is. It doesn’t require additional accessories to function effectively.

Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net

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Who Should Buy EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net?

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net is perfect for anglers who frequently wade in rivers and streams or fish from kayaks. It’s especially well-suited for those targeting trout, bass, and other similarly sized freshwater species. This net is also an excellent choice for anglers who prioritize portability and ease of use.

Anglers who primarily target very large fish (e.g., trophy pike, musky) or prefer using rubberized nets should skip this product. Additionally, those who primarily fish from boats may find the shorter handle less convenient.

A must-have accessory for this net is a high-quality wading belt or vest to attach the tether.

Conclusion on EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net

The EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net is a well-designed and functional tool that excels at its intended purpose: landing fish while wading or kayaking. Its lightweight design, durable construction, and innovative features make it a valuable addition to any angler’s gear. The price of $39.99 is justified by the net’s performance and overall quality.

I would personally recommend the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net to anyone who enjoys wade or kayak fishing. If you’re looking for a portable, reliable, and easy-to-use landing net, this is an excellent choice. Upgrade your fishing experience today and get the EGO Fishing Small Wade Landing Net. You won’t be disappointed!