7 Best Nets for Catching Fish That Protect Our Waters

Choosing the right fishing net can make the difference between landing your prize catch or telling another story about “the one that got away.” With countless options available, identifying the best net for your specific fishing needs might seem overwhelming.

In this guide, we’ll explore the seven most effective fishing nets on the market today, comparing their durability, ease of use, and suitability for different fishing environments. You’ll discover which nets excel for freshwater vs. saltwater use, which models professional anglers swear by, and which options deliver the best value for your investment.

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The 7 Best Nets for Catching Fish: An Angler’s Guide

1. PLUSINNO Fishing Net with Telescopic Pole

The PLUSINNO Fishing Net tops our list for its exceptional versatility and durability. It features a telescopic handle that extends from 24 to 47 inches, allowing you to reach fish in various water conditions. The non-slip EVA handle provides excellent grip even when wet, while the aluminum alloy frame offers surprising strength without adding excess weight. Perfect for both freshwater and light saltwater use, this net’s soft mesh protects fish scales during catch-and-release fishing.

2. KastKing Madbite Folding Landing Net

KastKing’s Madbite net combines portability with performance in a brilliant design. This net collapses to half its size for easy transport and storage in your tackle bag. The reinforced composite frame withstands repeated use in harsh conditions, while the rubber-coated mesh minimizes damage to fish. With weight capacity ratings up to 40 pounds, it’s ideal for bass fishing and medium-sized game fish. The non-slip handle features measurement markings for quick fish sizing.

3. EGO S2 Slider Landing Net

The EGO S2 Slider sets the standard for premium fishing nets with its innovative handle technology. Its modular handle extends from 29 to 60 inches with a simple button press, giving you unprecedented reach from boats or shorelines. The lightweight carbon fiber construction reduces arm fatigue during long fishing sessions. The clear rubber mesh maintains fish health while resisting hooks and lures, making it especially valuable for tournament anglers who need to keep their catch in pristine condition.

4. Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw

The Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw excels in landing monster fish with its unique claw-like design. The reinforced hoop and tangle-free mesh can handle large species like muskie, pike, and salmon. Its 36-inch handle includes a comfortable grip zone and power-lock extension system that prevents collapse during critical landing moments. The flat bottom net design keeps fish horizontal, reducing stress and making hook removal easier. This net’s rugged construction stands up to years of demanding use in extreme conditions.

5. SF Fly Fishing Landing Net

Specifically designed for fly fishing enthusiasts, the SF Landing Net combines elegance with functionality. The handcrafted wooden frame and clear rubber mesh create a beautiful yet practical tool for stream and river fishing. The magnetic quick-release holder attaches to your vest or pack, keeping the net accessible without interfering with casting. Its medium-sized hoop perfectly accommodates trout, grayling, and similar species. The soft rubber mesh minimizes fish handling and protects delicate fins and scales.

6. RESTCLOUD Floating Fishing Net

RESTCLOUD’s Floating Net solves the common problem of lost gear with its buoyant design. It floats when dropped overboard, giving you time to retrieve it. The telescopic handle extends to 50 inches and features a comfortable non-slip grip. The coated nylon mesh resists both freshwater and saltwater corrosion, making it versatile for various fishing environments. This affordable option delivers excellent value without sacrificing essential features, making it ideal for casual anglers and beginners.

7. Fiblink Folding Aluminum Landing Net

Fiblink’s Aluminum Landing Net delivers professional-grade performance for saltwater fishing adventures. The corrosion-resistant aluminum frame and handle withstand harsh marine environments, while the heavy-duty mesh handles large saltwater species. Its three-section folding design transforms from compact storage size to a full 36-inch handle in seconds. The reinforced joints prevent wobbling during critical fish landing moments. This net’s durability in saltwater conditions makes it a standout choice for coastal and offshore anglers targeting larger species.

1. Cast Nets: Perfect for Bait Collection

How Cast Nets Work

Cast nets are circular weighted nets designed specifically for catching baitfish. When thrown with proper technique, these nets open fully in mid-air before landing on the water’s surface. The weighted perimeter causes the net to sink quickly, closing around and trapping fish as you retrieve it. This efficient design allows you to collect multiple baitfish in a single throw, making your fishing expedition more productive.

Best Situations for Using Cast Nets

Cast nets perform exceptionally well in shallow, clear waters where baitfish congregate in schools. You’ll find them most effective in estuaries, bays, and coastal flats where visibility allows for accurate targeting. They’re particularly useful around mangroves and tide flats where baitfish naturally gather. For optimal results, use cast nets during calm water conditions when you can clearly spot fish movement below the surface.

2. Landing Nets: Essential for Catch and Release

Landing nets are crucial for successful and humane catch-and-release fishing. They reduce stress on fish by minimizing handling time and preventing damage to their protective slime coating, which significantly increases survival rates after release.

Features of Quality Landing Nets

Quality landing nets combine several key features for effective fish landing and release:

• Extended reach handles: Telescoping or extendable handles (20-36 inches) provide crucial distance when netting fish from boats or shorelines
• Ergonomic grips: Non-slip, molded rubber handles prevent accidents during critical landing moments
• Flat bottom design: Keeps fish stationary and prevents excessive movement that can cause injury
• Appropriate depth: Deep net bags (12-18 inches) securely contain larger fish without risk of escape
• Frame strength: Reinforced yokes and frames withstand pressure from fighting fish

Top Landing Net Materials

The material of your landing net directly impacts both fish health and your fishing experience:

• Rubber netting: Most fish-friendly option that minimizes slime loss and scale damage; prevents hook snags but creates more water drag
• PVC-coated mesh: Excellent durability with good fish protection; slightly more affordable than pure rubber
• Coated nylon: Lightweight with minimal water resistance; moderately gentle on fish while offering greater maneuverability
• Traditional nylon: Budget-friendly but rough on fish; prone to hook snags and can damage scales
• Knotless designs: Prevent fish from getting caught in mesh joints regardless of material type

When selecting your landing net, prioritize fish health with rubber or coated mesh options if you regularly practice catch and release.

3. Dip Nets: Ideal for Shore Fishing

Dip nets are extremely versatile tools that excel in shore fishing scenarios. These practical nets allow you to easily scoop up fish from both freshwater and saltwater environments without the need for complex equipment or techniques.

Advantages of Telescopic Handles

Telescopic handles dramatically extend your reach when landing fish from shore. The Whisker Seeker eXtender Landing Net features handles that extend up to 74 inches, letting you safely net fish without wading into deep water. These handles conveniently collapse for easy transport and storage while providing superior control when lifting large fish over gunnels or onto banks.

Best Dip Net Designs

The most effective dip nets feature wide, teardrop-shaped hoops that easily scoop larger fish. Look for nets with rubber-coated or knotless mesh materials that protect fish scales and reduce harm during catch-and-release. A sturdy DuraGrip handle paired with a reinforced yoke prevents failure when landing trophy fish. Deeper net bags (30+ inches) keep fish secure and prevent escape during the critical landing moment.

4. Seine Nets: For Serious Bait Gathering

Seine nets stand apart from typical fishing nets as they’re designed specifically for collecting baitfish in bulk rather than landing individual catches. These large, rectangular nets excel at gathering multiple small fish simultaneously, making them essential tools for anglers who need a consistent bait supply.

Setting Up a Seine Net Effectively

To set up a seine net properly, position two people about 10-15 feet apart, each holding one end of the net. Wade slowly through shallow water, keeping the bottom edge against the riverbed or lakebed. Maintain a slight curve in the net to create a pocket that traps fish as you gradually bring the ends together in a sweeping motion.

Popular Seine Net Sizes

Most recreational seine nets range from 4×4 feet for small creek use to 20×4 feet for larger waterways. The 8×4 foot size offers excellent versatility for most bait-gathering situations, while professional bait collectors often prefer 30-50 foot lengths. Mesh size typically varies between 1/8 to 1/4 inch, depending on your target baitfish species.

5. Gill Nets: For Passive Fishing Strategies

Gill nets represent a traditional passive fishing approach where vertical panels of netting hang in the water column to entangle fish as they swim through. Unlike the active nets mentioned earlier, gill nets work without direct manipulation once set.

Legal Considerations for Gill Net Use

Gill nets face strict regulations in most U.S. waters due to their potential environmental impact. Many states require special permits and limit their use to commercial fishing only. Before purchasing, check your local fishing authority’s guidelines as penalties for unauthorized use can include hefty fines and gear confiscation. Some protected waters ban gill nets entirely to preserve endangered species.

Proper Gill Net Maintenance

Inspect your gill net thoroughly after each use, looking for tears or weakened sections that could allow fish to escape or become unnecessarily injured. Clean nets immediately after use by gently rinsing with fresh water to remove fish scales, slime, and debris that can degrade the material. Store dry nets in a cool, dark location away from direct sunlight to prevent UV damage that weakens fibers and shortens the net’s lifespan.

6. Hoop Nets: Traditional and Effective

Hoop nets represent one of fishing’s most time-tested and reliable methods for catching fish. These cylindrical traps combine simplicity with remarkable effectiveness, making them popular among both recreational and commercial anglers.

Setting Hoop Nets in Various Water Conditions

Hoop nets perform exceptionally well in rivers, lakes, and coastal areas with varying depths. Position them in natural channels where fish naturally travel, ensuring the throat faces downstream in rivers to catch fish swimming against the current. For lakes, place nets near dropoffs, structure, or feeding areas where fish congregate, adjusting your depth based on seasonal patterns and target species.

Maximizing Your Catch with Hoop Nets

Select the appropriate hoop net size for your target species—larger nets like the BUBBA CARBON FIBER LANDING NET (20″ wide) excel for catfish and bass, while smaller designs work better for panfish. Use PVC-coated nylon netting to reduce hook snags and minimize fish stress during capture. Strategic baiting with species-specific attractants near the net entrance significantly increases catch rates, particularly when positioned along established fish travel routes.

7. Trawl Nets: Commercial-Grade Fishing Power

Trawl nets represent the heavy machinery of the fishing world, designed specifically for large-scale commercial operations rather than individual anglers. These powerful nets are towed behind boats to capture large quantities of fish in a single deployment.

Scaled-Down Trawl Options for Recreational Use

There are actually no recommended scaled-down trawl nets for recreational fishing. These commercial-grade tools aren’t practical for individual anglers due to their complexity, size requirements, and potential environmental impact. Recreational fishers are better served by landing nets, cast nets, or dip nets that match their specific fishing needs.

When to Choose a Trawl Net

You shouldn’t choose a trawl net for personal fishing activities. These nets are exclusively designed for commercial fishing operations with proper permits and licenses. For recreational fishing, consider alternatives like the Frabill Conservation PLD Net for overall use or the PLUSINNO Floating Folding Fish Landing Net for portability. These options provide the functionality you need without the regulatory and practical challenges of trawl nets.

Choosing the Right Fishing Net for Your Needs

Selecting the perfect fishing net can make all the difference between a successful catch and a disappointing one that got away. From the versatile PLUSINNO with its telescopic pole to the professional-grade Fiblink for saltwater adventures each option serves specific fishing scenarios.

Remember that material matters just as much as design. Rubber netting provides the best protection for catch-and-release while stronger frames support landing bigger fish. Consider your fishing location too when choosing between landing nets dip nets cast nets seine nets hoop nets or gill nets.

Your perfect net ultimately depends on your fishing style target species and environmental conditions. With the right net in hand you’ll not only improve your catch rate but also ensure the health of the fish you choose to release back into the water.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best fishing nets for catch-and-release?

Rubber nets are ideal for catch-and-release fishing. The PLUSINNO Fishing Net with soft mesh and the KastKing Madbite with rubber-coated mesh are excellent choices as they minimize damage to fish scales and slime coat. The EGO S2 Slider and Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw also feature fish-friendly designs with flat bottoms that reduce stress on caught fish.

How do I choose the right size fishing net?

Consider your target fish species and fishing location. For larger fish like bass or pike, choose nets with deeper bags and wider frames (at least 20 inches across). For smaller species, a compact net with a 15-inch hoop is sufficient. Also factor in your fishing environment—longer handles are better for boat fishing, while collapsible nets work well for shore anglers with limited space.

Are telescopic handle nets worth the extra cost?

Yes, telescopic handle nets like the PLUSINNO model and EGO S2 Slider offer significant advantages. They provide extended reach (some extending up to 74 inches) for landing fish from boats or when bank fishing in areas with steep drop-offs. This versatility justifies the slightly higher cost for most anglers, especially those fishing from various positions or targeting fish in hard-to-reach areas.

What’s the difference between a landing net and a cast net?

Landing nets are designed to secure individual fish that have already been hooked, featuring a handle and bag-shaped mesh. Cast nets are circular weighted nets thrown over schools of baitfish to capture multiple fish simultaneously. They serve different purposes—landing nets help finish the catch process, while cast nets are primarily used to collect live bait efficiently.

How do I properly use a cast net for catching bait?

Hold the cast net with the hand line properly coiled and the lead line arranged in your throwing hand. Swing the net in a circular motion and release it with a forward throwing action to create an even spread. The weights will pull the net down, trapping baitfish. For best results, practice in open areas and use in calm, shallow waters where baitfish are visible.

Which fishing net materials are most durable for saltwater use?

For saltwater fishing, choose nets with aluminum or fiberglass frames with corrosion-resistant coatings. The Fiblink Folding Aluminum Landing Net and RESTCLOUD Floating Fishing Net feature saltwater-ready construction. Look for PVC-coated or rubber mesh that resists salt damage, and always rinse your net with fresh water after saltwater use to extend its lifespan.

Are hoop nets effective for recreational fishing?

Yes, hoop nets can be highly effective for recreational anglers targeting catfish, crappie, and other species. These cylindrical nets with multiple hoops maintain their shape underwater and can be baited to attract fish. They work best in rivers and lakes with moderate current. However, check local regulations as permits may be required for their use in certain waters.

Do I need a permit to use gill nets?

Most likely, yes. Gill nets face strict regulations in U.S. waters due to their efficiency and potential environmental impact. Many states either prohibit their use entirely or require special permits with specific restrictions on location, timing, and net specifications. Always check with your local fish and wildlife agency before attempting to use any gill net for fishing.

What’s the best fishing net for shore fishing?

Dip nets with telescopic handles are ideal for shore fishing. The Whisker Seeker eXtender Landing Net extends up to 74 inches, allowing you to reach fish without wading into deep water. Look for nets with wide, teardrop-shaped hoops, rubber-coated mesh to protect fish, and sturdy construction. Folding models like the KastKing Madbite offer the added benefit of portability.

How should I maintain my fishing net?

Rinse your net with fresh water after each use, especially after saltwater fishing. Allow it to dry completely before storage to prevent mold and mildew. Regularly inspect for tears or damage to the mesh and frame. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can degrade materials over time. For wooden nets, occasional treatment with linseed oil will maintain their condition.