First Impressions of EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net immediately caught my eye as a potential solution to a problem many wade and kayak anglers face: a cumbersome, easily tangled net that’s difficult to maneuver. EGO Fishing promised a lightweight, durable net with a clear rubber basket designed for minimal water drag and ease of use, features that resonated with my decade-plus experience navigating rivers and streams. I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype, especially compared to the clunky, traditional nylon nets I’ve wrestled with for years.
For too long I’ve been searching for a wading net that doesn’t feel like a drag, literally. I needed something that could handle decent-sized trout without becoming a tangled mess or creating excessive water resistance.
The moment I unboxed the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net, I was struck by its lightweight feel and sleek design. The hexagonal aluminum handle felt sturdy yet comfortable, and the clear rubber mesh looked far more tangle-resistant than the nylon nets I’m accustomed to. This was definitely a step up in build quality compared to the cheap, collapsible nets I’ve tried in the past.
Compared to my old Frabill nylon net, the EGO Fishing net felt significantly lighter and less bulky. The clear rubber mesh was also a huge selling point, as I’d heard it was much gentler on fish and less prone to snagging hooks than traditional nylon. I almost opted for a similar net from Fishpond, but the EGO Fishing net’s innovative grip design and included tether swayed me. I was genuinely excited to put it to the test.
Initial impressions were positive; the net felt well-built, lightweight, and thoughtfully designed. My excitement was high, bordering on “finally, a net that won’t frustrate me!”
Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net on a recent fly fishing trip to the Madison River in Montana. The conditions were typical for that area: swift currents and fluctuating water levels.
The net performed admirably. The clear rubber mesh created significantly less water drag compared to my old nylon net, making it much easier to maneuver in the current. The net proved easy to use right out of the gate, requiring no real “getting used to.”
One pleasant surprise was how easily the fish slid into the net, and how smoothly they were released thanks to the clear rubber coating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the mesh or handle, despite being subjected to rocks, branches, and the occasional accidental dunk.
Cleaning the net is a breeze; a simple rinse with water is usually sufficient to remove any debris or fish slime. Compared to my previous experiences with nylon nets that required extensive scrubbing to remove algae and odors, the EGO Fishing net is a dream to maintain. It definitely outperforms my old net in terms of ease of maintenance and overall durability.
Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net
Specifications
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net boasts a handful of key specs. These features make the product the high-performing fishing companion it is.
- Lightweight Construction: The net weighs in at a mere 1.3 ounces, making it virtually unnoticeable when wading or kayaking. This lightweight nature is a critical advantage for anglers who prioritize mobility and minimizing fatigue.
- Durable Aluminum Handle: The hexagonal extruded aluminum handle provides a solid and comfortable grip. The handle gives the user the needed stability to catch those tough to reach catches.
- Clear Rubber Mesh: The snag-free, fish-friendly clear rubber mesh minimizes water drag and protects delicate fish scales. This feature protects the fish, while enabling quick and safe catch and release.
- Medium Hoop Size: With a 17″ x 19″ hoop, this net is ideal for landing trout, bass, and other medium-sized fish. The medium hoop size provides a sweet spot between portability and catch capacity.
- Adjustable Tether: An 11″ elastic adjustable and removable tether keeps the net securely attached while allowing freedom of movement. This keeps your net on you, so that you don’t have to worry about losing it out on the water.
Performance & Functionality
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The minimal water drag makes netting fish in swift currents far easier than with traditional nets.
Its strength lies in the balance between being lightweight and durable. While it may not be suitable for landing exceptionally large fish (over 30 lbs), it excels at handling the typical catches of wade and kayak anglers. It meets and exceeds expectations, especially in terms of maneuverability and fish-friendliness.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net showcases a thoughtful design. The handle’s hexagonal shape offers a comfortable and secure grip, even with wet hands.
The clear rubber mesh is not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, providing a clear view of the fish being netted. This net is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no assembly or special knowledge to operate effectively.
Durability & Maintenance
The materials used in the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net suggest excellent longevity. The aluminum handle is resistant to corrosion, and the rubber mesh is unlikely to tear or degrade easily.
Maintenance is simple; a quick rinse after each use is usually all that’s required. Proper storage out of direct sunlight will further extend its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net comes with an 11″ elastic adjustable and removable tether, secured with an aluminum clip. While there are no specific customization options for this particular net model, the tether can be replaced with a longer or different style of lanyard.
The net is compatible with most standard wading belts and kayak attachment points, allowing for versatility in how it’s carried and secured.
Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net
Pros
- Lightweight and Maneuverable: Minimal water drag for easy netting in currents.
- Fish-Friendly Clear Rubber Mesh: Protects fish scales and reduces hook snags.
- Durable Construction: Aluminum handle and robust rubber mesh for long-lasting use.
- Comfortable Grip: Hexagonal handle provides a secure hold, even when wet.
- Convenient Tether: Keeps the net secure and readily accessible.
Cons
- Can’t Handle Extremely Heavy Fish: Might not be suitable for very large species exceeding 30 lbs.
- Not Collapsible: Lacks a folding design for ultra-compact storage.
Who Should Buy EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net?
The EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net is perfect for wade anglers, kayak fishermen, and anyone who values a lightweight, maneuverable net that’s gentle on fish. It’s ideal for targeting trout, bass, and other medium-sized species in rivers, streams, and lakes.
Anglers who primarily target very large fish (e.g., salmon, musky) might want to consider a larger and more heavy-duty net. Those who need a net that can be easily stowed in a small pack might prefer a collapsible option.
A quality pair of nippers for cutting tangled line is a must-have accessory for any angler using this net.
Conclusion on EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net
Overall, the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net is an excellent piece of gear. It’s a well-designed, durable, and highly functional net that significantly improves the angling experience.
At $68.99, the price is justified by the quality of materials and the performance benefits it offers compared to cheaper alternatives. I would absolutely recommend it to any wade or kayak angler looking for a reliable and fish-friendly net.
If you’re tired of wrestling with clunky, tangled nets, the EGO Fishing Medium Clear Rubber Wading Net is a worthwhile investment that will enhance your time on the water. Go get yours today!