When most think of the basics needed for a productive day on the water, they think of a rod, reel, line, some quality flies, waders and some boots. Polarized glasses are also important, but don't forget to clip a quality net on your fly pack as well. I've had numerous nets in my 25-plus years on the water, but I think I've finally found a net that will be my ally for years to come.
Featuring many choices, OtterNets offers numerous sizes and wood finishes. I personally enjoy the Silver Creek paired with maple wood and a clear rubber net. Gone are the days of snagging secondary flies in the net as I land quality browns that couldn't resist one of my quality lead Umpqua flies. Back in the day, I don't know how many times a spunky 15-inch brown decided to go crazy in my net tangling flies in the net material.
My retired net not only loved to eat flies, but it also loved to pull loose from my pack and get lost. On four sperate occassions my net pulled loose and I noticed it was missing the next time I went to use it. Once on the Dream Stream where some sage grabbed it, once on the Poudre where a branch got it and twice it came loose on the water and I managed to get it down river. That's right, it floated downriver at Deckers, found it in an eddy about a 1/2-mile down river and once on the Slough in Yellowstone. I lost it at the first meadow and found it in the campground area on some rocks a half day later. Now it will be handed down to my 5-year old. Even though it is ugly, it still is lucky.
I don't see this net ever pulling loose thanks to quality components and sturdy contruction. So, that means no more wasted time looking for a lost net, but at the sametime, no more fun stories of floating nets to share. I can live with that.
As for the Silver Creek from OtterNets, this new net features an 18-inch x 9-inch hoop with an overal 26-inch length. It can be fitted with a rubber net for a retail price of $140. At 18 inches, it's the perfect length for measuring fish in the Rockies. We all strive for 18 inchers all day, but with an overall length of 26 inches, we've got a reference point should you catch something special on the Taylor, Blue or Platte.
Otternets can customize your net for you. They offer maple, myrtle and walnut. All nets feature six coats of hand rubbed
marine grade polyurethane to hold up to the toughest conditions for years of adventures. If you own a business, Otternets can even include a company brand on the wood.
If you would like a handcrafted, custom net, check out the options at OtterNets. They are made to last and will help you land and safely release your catch for years to come. For more information contact Otternets at (208) 409-5820 or drop Curt a line at Otternets@gmail.com.
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