Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net Review

First Impressions of Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net

The Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net entered my world as a solution to a recurring problem: the delicate dance between landing trout and preserving their well-being. Frabill, a name synonymous with quality fishing gear, promises a net designed for anglers navigating rocky streams, and that’s precisely my haunt. This net boasts an extruded aluminum rim, internal net support, and fish-friendly nylon mesh, all at a price point that piqued my interest.

For years, I’ve struggled with nets that either damaged the fish or snagged on the river bottom. I needed a net that could handle the rugged terrain, yet be gentle enough to release trout unharmed. Opening the package, the Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net felt immediately different. The black aluminum rim looked sleek and durable, and the nylon mesh felt surprisingly soft to the touch.

Compared to my older rubber-coated net (clumsy and cumbersome) and a cheap nylon net (abrasive and easily torn), the Frabill seemed like a promising upgrade. I opted for this net because of its lightweight design and the promise of a “spook-proof” black finish, crucial for wary trout in clear mountain streams. Initial impressions were good; I felt excited to get this out on the water, although a little wary of that 5-inch handle. Would it be long enough?

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Real-World Testing: Putting Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net was on the Roaring Fork River in Colorado, a notorious spot for both beautiful trout and unforgiving, rocky conditions. The river was running fast and clear, ideal for testing the net’s “spook-proof” claim. I immediately appreciated the net’s light weight (0.45 lb) while maneuvering through the current.

The black finish definitely seemed to help avoid spooking fish, especially when they were close to the surface. The 5-inch handle proved to be a little shorter than I preferred, requiring me to lean further into the water for some catches. However, the net performed admirably, safely cradling the trout without any signs of abrasion from the soft nylon mesh.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use, the Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net has proven to be a reliable companion. The aluminum rim has held up remarkably well against the constant barrage of rocks and debris. I have yet to see any significant wear and tear.

Cleaning the net is a breeze; a quick rinse in the river usually does the trick, and the nylon mesh dries quickly, preventing mildew buildup. Compared to my previous rubber net, which often trapped debris and smelled funky, the Frabill is a welcome change. It’s not the perfect net, the short handle still bothers me occasionally, but overall, its durability and fish-friendly design outperform my expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Frabill. Frabill is a well-respected name in the fishing industry, known for producing quality gear at affordable prices.
• Weight: 0.45 lb. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry and maneuver, especially when wading through fast-moving water.
• Additional Features: 11x15in Black Nylon, 5in Handle. The black nylon mesh is gentle on fish, and the short handle is designed for easy one-handed operation.
• Length: 24 cm (approximately 9.4 inches). This compact length makes it ideal for storage in a vest or pack.
• Width: 11.2 in. The wide opening allows for easy netting of trout of various sizes.
• Height: 1.2 in. This refers to the thickness of the rim, contributing to the net’s overall low profile.

These specifications are essential because they directly impact the net’s functionality in real-world fishing scenarios. The lightweight and compact design enhances portability and maneuverability. The soft mesh minimizes harm to the fish.

Performance & Functionality

The Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net excels at its primary function: safely and efficiently landing trout. The mesh is soft enough to prevent scale damage, and the black color minimizes spooking wary fish. I’ve found it to be particularly effective in clear, shallow streams where trout are easily spooked by bright colors or sudden movements.

The main weakness is the short handle, which can make it challenging to net fish in deeper water or when wading in strong currents. However, the net’s overall performance exceeds expectations, considering its price point. It is a well-designed tool that effectively balances fish safety and angler convenience.

Design & Ergonomics

The Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net features a functional, albeit basic, design. The aluminum rim feels sturdy, and the nylon mesh is securely attached. The short handle is easy to grip, although a longer handle would improve its reach.

The net is user-friendly, requiring no learning curve. The compact size makes it easy to store and transport, a huge plus for anglers who prefer to travel light.

Durability & Maintenance

The aluminum rim and nylon mesh are both durable materials that should withstand years of use with proper care. I anticipate this net lasting for several seasons, provided I continue to rinse it after each use and store it in a dry place. Replacing the mesh, if needed, appears to be a straightforward task.

Maintaining the Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net is incredibly simple. A quick rinse with water after each use is usually sufficient to remove any debris. Occasionally, I’ll use a mild soap to remove stubborn stains.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net comes standard with an elastic lanyard. This lanyard is crucial for securing the net to your vest or pack, preventing accidental loss. There aren’t many customization options available, which is typical for nets in this price range.

It is compatible with aftermarket magnetic net releases, which can be attached to the lanyard for even easier access. Some anglers may choose to add a longer handle extension, but this would require some DIY modifications.

Pros and Cons of Frabill Meshgardtear Drop Trout Landing Net