Fishing is a test of one’s patience. Going into berserk mode like an Evangelion is not an option, but you can definitely fish in EVA style thanks to DRESS, a Japanese fishing and outdoor brand. And no, it does not sell dresses—though it does sell practical apparel. DRESS is an acronym for “Develop Rig for Extra Stage Supply,” which, to be honest, I have absolutely no idea why. The company says the outfit is based on the concept of “taking fishing to a special stage,” but I guess it is trying to say fishing is an actual culture and lifestyle, or something like that.
Anyhoo, in this final collaboration between Neon Genesis Evangelion and DRESS, the brand has released a set of squid jigs (or egi [エギ] in Japan), specialized artificial lures designed specifically for catching squid, in colors inspired by two EVA units—namely, Evangelion Test Type-01 and Evangelion-02 Production Model—as well as the Fourth Angel, a.k.a. Sachiel from Rebuild of Evangelion (Sachiel was the Third Angel in the OG series, btw).
This is not the first EVA-themed squid jig from DRESS. Previously, it released a size 3.5 squid jig. This latest addition comes in the more versatile size 3, designed for a wide range of eging fields, including breakwaters, rocky shores, and rivers. The set includes three squid jigs, each featuring a different design representing Unit-01, Unit-02, and the Fourth Angel. But not all three are the same type of egi.
EVA x DRESS EVA-Q Unit-01 Color [Easy Q Magnet TG (Magpata)]
The Unit-01 color model is based on the Easy Q Magnet TG (Magpata), suited for rocky shores and breakwaters where long-distance casting is required. It features DUEL’s unique “tungsten x magnetic center of gravity shifting mechanism” that enables it to achieve the longest recorded flight distance in Patapata history.
It weighs 15 g, offering a sink rate of around 3.8 s/m. It has a maximum casting distance of over 50 meters (164 feet). This egi further features DRESS’s Patapata Foot, which leverages water resistance to create subtle vibrations. Combined with realistic legs and UV-reactive coating, it stimulates the predatory instincts of squid.
The lure also boasts a patented “Snagless Bumper” to help prevent snagging.
EVA x DRESS EVA-Q Unit-02 Color [MAG Q Tungsten]
The Unit-02 color egi is based on the MAG Q Tungsten. It also features the “tungsten x magnetic center of gravity shifting mechanism,” but it is tuned for sharp darting performance and has a maximum casting distance of over 60 meters (197 feet). It does not have shrimp legs, but it does feature Patapata Fins, which vibrate subtly even in slight currents. It weighs 15.5 g, affording it a sinking speed of 3.5 s/m.
EVA x DRESS The Fourth Angel Color [EQ (Egi Original) No. 3]
Finally, we have the EQ (Egi Original) No. 3 in the Fourth Angel color. This special-edition squid jig focuses on light handling and stable fall performance. It rocks the Patapata Fin Wide, designed to capture currents and attract squid with powerful wave action. It tips the scales at 14.5 g and offers a sinking rate of around 3.7 s/m.
All three models feature Trick Hooks with UV-reactive coating, which are highly appealing to squid while also drastically reducing snags and improving retrieval rates.
Pricing and availability
The Evangelion x DRESS EVA-Q Size 3 three-piece set is available in Japan for 5,940 yen [JP] (around US$41) for the set of three. The EVA Unit-01 and EVA Unit-02 models can also be purchased individually for 2,035 yen (around US$14) and 1,980 yen (around US$13), respectively. At the time of this post, the individual EVA-01 model is already sold out.
Details in Japanese presented in graphics can be found below.
Images: DRESS [JP].