First Impressions of EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net promises to be the solution for anglers like myself who need a reliable, lightweight net that won’t sink when wading. I’ve spent years fumbling with bulky, cumbersome nets that become waterlogged and difficult to maneuver in the stream. The EGO Fishing net boasts an intriguing combination of durability and buoyancy, a claim I’m eager to test.
My desire for this net stemmed from countless frustrating experiences attempting to land fish while simultaneously managing a sinking net and maintaining my balance in swift currents. I needed something that offered convenience and wouldn’t become a liability. The promise of a floating net was a major draw.
Unboxing the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net, I was immediately struck by its lightweight construction. The anodized aluminum handle feels sturdy yet surprisingly light, and the net itself appears to be made from a durable, fish-friendly mesh. The included quick-clip elastic lanyard also seemed like a practical addition.
Compared to my older, heavier rubberized net and a friend’s wooden-framed model, the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net stands out due to its focused design for wade fishing. The others lacked the specific features, like flotation and a compact size, crucial for this application. I chose this net because of its advertised floating capability and its manageable size for navigating tight streams.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The lightness and design were encouraging, but the real test would be how it performed in the water with a thrashing fish inside. I was hoping it would live up to its promises and make my wade fishing experiences significantly more enjoyable.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net on a recent trip to the Ausable River in the Adirondack Mountains. The river offered a mix of shallow riffles and deeper pools, providing ample opportunity to assess the net’s performance in various conditions. The water was cold, and the rocks were slick, making maneuverability essential.
The net performed admirably in both wet and cold conditions. Its lightweight design made it easy to swing and position, even with wet hands. I didn’t need much time to get used to it.
The biggest surprise was how well it floated, as promised. After landing my first rainbow trout, the net remained buoyant, allowing me to focus on unhooking the fish instead of struggling to keep the net afloat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net continues to impress. It has become an indispensable piece of my fishing gear. I’ve used it in a variety of streams and rivers, from slow-moving meadow creeks to faster, rockier rivers, and it has consistently performed well.
Durability has also proven to be a strength. The anodized aluminum handle shows no signs of wear, and the net material has held up well despite repeated use and exposure to the elements. Cleaning the net is simple; a quick rinse with water is usually sufficient to remove any debris.
Compared to my old rubberized net, the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net is a significant upgrade. It is lighter, more maneuverable, and, most importantly, it floats, making it far more practical for wade fishing. It has definitely exceeded my expectations and has made landing fish a smoother, more enjoyable process.
Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net
Specifications
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net features a fixed 11″ anodized octagonal aluminum handle. This handle design offers a secure and comfortable grip, even with wet hands. The net has a 28-inch bag depth and measures 17 x 19 inches.
This size provides ample space for landing most trout and smaller game fish. The overall length is 32 inches, with a height of 2 inches, and width of 17 inches. The fact that the net is designed to float is a major plus for wade fishing, enhancing usability and convenience. Finally, the Manufacturer states the weight is only 1 oz.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the net’s performance and user experience. The lightweight aluminum handle and floating design make it easy to maneuver in the water. The generous net depth ensures that fish are securely contained while you prepare to release them.
Performance & Functionality
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net excels at its primary function: landing fish. The large net opening and deep bag make it easy to scoop up fish of various sizes. The net material is gentle on fish, minimizing the risk of injury.
One slight weakness is that the net can occasionally snag on rocks or submerged vegetation, but this is a common issue with most nets. Overall, the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net meets and exceeds my expectations for a wade fishing net. It’s reliable, easy to use, and performs consistently well.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net is excellent. The materials used feel durable and well-made. The anodized aluminum handle is both lightweight and strong, and the net material is soft and fish-friendly.
The net is incredibly user-friendly; there is virtually no learning curve. Its design is simple and effective. The handle is comfortable to grip, and the net is easy to maneuver in the water.
Durability & Maintenance
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net is designed to last. The aluminum handle is corrosion-resistant and the net material is resistant to tearing. With proper care, this net should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintaining the net is simple; a quick rinse with water after each use is typically sufficient. Periodically checking the net for any damage and repairing it as needed will help prolong its lifespan.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net comes with a quick-clip elastic lanyard for easy attachment to wade belts and other apparel. This is a very useful addition. While there aren’t many customization options for a landing net, some anglers might choose to add a magnetic release to the lanyard for even quicker access.
The net is compatible with most standard wade belts and vests, making it easy to integrate into your existing fishing gear. I personally use it with my Simms wading belt and find it to be a perfect fit.
Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver, even in fast-moving water.
- Floating design prevents the net from sinking, freeing up your hands.
- Durable anodized aluminum handle provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Fish-friendly net material minimizes the risk of injury to fish.
- Quick-clip elastic lanyard allows for easy attachment to wade belts.
Cons
- The net can occasionally snag on rocks or submerged vegetation.
- The fixed handle length may not be ideal for all anglers.
Who Should Buy EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net?
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net is perfect for fly fishermen and wade anglers who prioritize lightweight, maneuverability, and convenience. It’s also a great choice for anglers who frequently fish in rivers and streams where a floating net is essential. This is an ideal tool for any pro angler looking to up their game.
Anglers who primarily fish from boats or prefer a longer-handled net might want to consider other options. Those who require heavy-duty nets for larger species might also find this net to be too lightweight. A must-have accessory is a good pair of wading boots.
Conclusion on EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net
The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net is an excellent choice for wade anglers seeking a lightweight, durable, and convenient net. Its floating design is a game-changer. The net is well-built, easy to use, and performs consistently well in a variety of conditions.
At $44.99, the price is justified given the net’s features, durability, and overall performance. The EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net provides excellent value for the money, it’s an investment in a more enjoyable and efficient fishing experience.
I would highly recommend the EGO Fishing Medium Wade Landing Net to any angler who values lightweight performance and the convenience of a floating net. This is a well-designed product that delivers on its promises and will undoubtedly enhance your time on the water. Grab one and experience the difference!