To catch a fish you need a rod and a line but to land it you need a fishing net. Without this essential piece of gear, you can forget about easily showing off your trophy fish for the camera or effortlessly releasing your catch. There are a huge range of nets and some are more versatile than others. Your choice of net will depend on what style of fishing you prefer and what you’re hoping to catch.
Wherever you cast your rod though, it’s good to look for a net that is easy to use and doesn’t get in the way of you scooping up your prize catch. Portability is important as some of the best fishing spots aren’t easy to access and so you need to haul your gear there. You want your net to be durable too, of course with a sturdy handle and tough net. If you favor catch and release, it’s important the net is designed to minimize harm to the fish too. Here are the fishing nets we recommend.
PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net
Compact, foldable net for catch and release
This rubber-coated landing net is designed to float so you don’t have to worry about losing it. It’s lightweight and foldable and perfect for steelhead, salmon, fly, kayak, catfish, bass, and trout fishing. The classic shape and size combined with durable construction make this a versatile net that won’t let you down when you land your next fish.
Wakeman Fishing Retractable Rubber Landing Net
Tangle-free net with retractable handle
Ideal for catch and release, this thermal plastic rubber net is designed to eliminate tangles. The retractable aluminum handle makes this 56 inches long when fully extended and 35 inches when retracted. The net has a wide opening with a flat bottom basket that can take fish of all sizes.
RESTCLOUD Bait Net and Fishing Landing Net
Tough net and stainless steel handle for sea fishing
Made of sturdy nano mix netting with a corrosion-resistant stainless steel handle, this net is ideal for salt water and fresh water use. The telescopic handle extends from 15 inches to 59 inches and the soft durable net won’t harm your catch. When you’re finished finishing, the handle folds away for storage.
SF Fly Fishing Landing Net
Tangle-free net that’s easy on the fish
The clear, soft rubberized landing net makes this gentle on fish and tangle-free. The classic square head design is transparent underwater so it won’t spook fish. A durable magnetic release helps keep your net safe and the laminated hardwood handle is easy to grip. Perfect for fly fishing on your favorite river, it’s easy to carry with a total length of 24 inches.
Bottom line
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Every angler needs a good fishing net to land their fish. Chose the net that suits your style of fishing and looks for a versatile model if you want to use it whenever there’s an opportunity to go and catch some fish. We recommend PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for most people. It’s a solidly designed net that will work well for catch and release across most types of fishing. The fact it floats means no sinking feeling when it accidentally slips into the water.
For fly fishing, the SF Fly Fishing Landing Net is a good pick. Its rubberized netting means you won’t harm the fish you land, allowing safe releases and the chance to catch that monster fish again!
