Preston 3.5m Dura Keepnet – Quick Dry Mesh

Preston 3.5m Dura Keepnet – Quick Dry Mesh

The Preston 3.5m Dura Keepnet is a high-performance solution for match and pleasure anglers who require a net that can survive the rigors of modern fishing. Built with the “Dura” philosophy, this net addresses the most common cause of keepnet failure: mesh abrasion. By utilizing exposed aluminium rings, the outer metal takes the impact and friction from the lake bed or bank, protecting the soft mesh inside from holes and fraying.

This model features the Quick Dry Mesh, a fine, synthetic weave that refuses to hold water. This makes it a firm favorite for anglers who want to minimize the “wet net” smell in their cars and speed up their pack-away time at the end of a session. At 3.5m, it offers the perfect balance of length—long enough for most commercial platforms and natural banks, while remaining compact enough for easy transport.

Detailed Specifications

Key Features

• Exposed Outer Rings: The aluminium frame is positioned on the outside of the mesh, acting as a protective shield against abrasive concrete, stones, and gravel.

• Quick Dry Technology: The specialized mesh sheds water rapidly, meaning the net is significantly lighter when you leave the peg and dries in a fraction of the time of standard nets.

• Adjustable Angle Lock: Features a robust, oversized tightening wheel that allows you to set the entry angle perfectly to match your seatbox or bankstick height.

• Versatile Length: The 3.5m reach is the “goldilocks” length for the majority of UK venues, offering plenty of space for fish without being unwieldy.

Pro Tip

Pro Tip from Gerry’s Fishing: To maximize the lifespan of your Quick Dry mesh, always store it in a Preston Dry-Net Bag between sessions. Even though it dries fast, keeping it in a dedicated EVA bag prevents any accidental snags on zips or tackle in your car. When setting up, ensure the weighted bottom rings are pulled tight to prevent the net from bunching, which ensures the fish have the most comfortable environment possible.

Examples of Use

• Commercial Silverfish Matches: The fine Quick Dry mesh is perfect for skimmers, roach, and hybrids, ensuring their delicate fins don’t get caught.

• Natural Canals and Rivers: The 3.5m length is ideal for most towpaths, providing enough depth to keep fish safe in the marginal flow.

• F1 Carp Sessions: The robust construction handles high numbers of F1s with ease, while the quick-dry properties make post-match cleanup a breeze.

• Multi-Net Setups: Its compact top-ring profile makes it easy to position alongside a second or third net when fishery rules require weight splitting.

FAQs

Q: Does the Quick Dry mesh have a strange smell?

A: Quite the opposite! Because the material doesn’t absorb water or organic matter as much as traditional fabrics, it stays much fresher and is far easier to rinse clean.

Q: Can I use this for big carp?

A: While the Dura frame is certainly strong enough, the Quick Dry mesh is finer. If you are specifically targeting large carp in heavy bags, we recommend the Carp Mesh version of this net for its larger, heavy-duty weave.

Q: Will the aluminium rings scratch my seatbox legs?

A: The rings are smooth and rounded; however, the net is designed to be attached to an accessory arm or bankstick. It should not come into direct contact with your seatbox legs during use.

Q: Is the angle lock sturdy enough for heavy weights?

A: Yes, the Preston angle lock is one of the most reliable on the market, designed to stay locked in position even when the top of the net is supporting the weight of several fish during the transfer to the weigh-in bag.