First Impressions of EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net promises a simple solution for a common problem: retrieving bait from a live well without spooking the fish or getting soaked. The EGO Fishing brand is known for its quality fishing accessories, and this net appears to be a convenient addition to any angler’s gear. I’ve always struggled with the awkward reach-and-splash method, often resulting in more water outside the well than inside, so I was eager to see if this net lived up to its potential.
For years, I’ve been using a standard, short-handled net to grab baitfish from my livewell. I was hoping to find a solution that allowed me to reach deeper into the well, minimizing splashing and the stress on the bait. The extending handle was the key feature that drew me to the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net.
My first impression upon unboxing was that it felt lightweight and relatively sturdy. The extendable handle initially felt a bit stiff, but seemed promising. Compared to my fixed-length net and a cheaper collapsible net I’d previously tried (which quickly fell apart), the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net seemed to strike a good balance between portability and build quality. I chose it specifically because of the EGO Fishing reputation for durability and the promise of a rust-resistant design.
Initially, I was cautiously optimistic. The weight was surprisingly light, and the extension mechanism seemed smooth enough. I wasn’t blown away, but I was definitely interested to see how it performed on the water.
Real-World Testing: Putting EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test came during a weekend fishing trip on Lake Fork, known for its largemouth bass and the need for lively shad as bait. I primarily used the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net to retrieve shad from my 30-gallon live well throughout the day. The weather was typical Texas: hot and humid.
The extendable handle was immediately useful, allowing me to reach the bottom of the well without leaning precariously over the edge. It was easy to scoop up the shad without causing too much disturbance. The net itself was gentle enough that I didn’t notice any scale loss or other damage to the baitfish. However, I noticed that the twist-lock mechanism for the extension felt a bit insecure at times, especially when the net was fully extended and loaded with several shad.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several fishing trips, the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net has become a regular part of my tackle. The rust-resistant coating on the wire and handle has held up well, even with constant exposure to freshwater. I rinse it off after each trip, but I haven’t been particularly meticulous about drying it.
The handle extension is still functional, though the twist-lock does feel a bit looser than when it was new. There are a few minor scratches on the handle from rubbing against other gear in my boat, but nothing significant. While it outperforms my old fixed-length net in terms of reach and convenience, the slight wobble in the extended handle keeps it from being a perfect solution.
Breaking Down the Features of EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net
Specifications
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net is designed for anglers needing to retrieve bait from live wells. It features an extendable handle that reaches up to 5 feet, providing ample length for most live well sizes. The net itself is 12 inches deep, allowing for a decent scoop of baitfish. Its weight is a mere 0.7 oz, making it incredibly lightweight.
The handle and net are made with rust-resistant materials. The specifications matter because the extendable length allows anglers to easily reach into deeper live wells, minimizing splashing and stress on baitfish. The lightweight design reduces fatigue during long fishing trips, and the rust-resistant materials ensure longevity, even with frequent water exposure.
Performance & Functionality
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net performs its job reasonably well. The net is gentle on baitfish, and the extendable handle is a definite advantage. However, the twist-lock mechanism for the handle could be more secure.
Its strengths include its reach, lightweight design, and rust resistance. The primary weakness is the slightly wobbly feel of the extended handle and the less-than-perfect locking mechanism. It largely meets expectations, but the handle issue prevents it from being outstanding.
Design & Ergonomics
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net has a simple, functional design. The materials feel reasonably durable for the price point. The light weight is a major plus, making it easy to maneuver even when fully extended.
There’s minimal learning curve; it’s intuitive to use. However, the twist-lock handle requires a bit of getting used to.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its price point, the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net seems reasonably durable. The rust-resistant materials are a definite advantage. With basic care (rinsing after use), it should last for several seasons.
Maintenance is simple: just rinse with fresh water and allow it to dry. There are no user-serviceable parts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net is a standalone product, with no included accessories or customization options. There aren’t any readily available aftermarket modifications for this type of net. The EGO Fishing brand does offer a variety of other fishing accessories, such as tackle bags and pliers, which could complement this net.
Pros and Cons of EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net
Pros
- Extends to 5 feet, offering excellent reach.
- Lightweight design minimizes fatigue.
- Rust-resistant materials ensure durability.
- Gentle net material reduces stress on baitfish.
- Affordable price point.
Cons
- Twist-lock handle can feel wobbly when fully extended.
- The locking mechanism is not the most secure.
Who Should Buy EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net?
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net is perfect for anglers who frequently use live bait and need a convenient way to retrieve it from a live well. It’s particularly beneficial for those with larger live wells or boats where reaching the bottom can be challenging. This net is also a good choice for anglers on a budget who want a functional and durable option.
Those who prioritize absolute stability and are willing to spend significantly more for a higher-end net with a more robust locking mechanism might want to skip this product. A must-have addition would be a small carabiner clip to attach it to the boat for easy access and prevent it from being misplaced.
Conclusion on EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net
The EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net offers a good balance of functionality, durability, and affordability. While the twist-lock handle could be improved, the net’s reach, lightweight design, and rust resistance make it a worthwhile addition to any angler’s tackle. At around $20, the price is certainly justified.
I would recommend the EGO Fishing Pro Bait Well Net to most anglers looking for a simple and effective bait retrieval solution. Grab one and say goodbye to awkward splashing and spooked baitfish – your fishing experience will thank you!