Best Fishing Nets for a Large Catch

Fishing is undoubtedly a fun outdoor activity. But if you remember during our days, when we went home after spending hours at the lake with our fishing rods, we always had that same old story that “the big one got away.” Nowadays, this story isn’t very common because of high-tech fishing tools such as fish finders and advanced fishing reels that have been introduced for better angling. A Fishing net, to be precise, is designed to help you hold all your fish in place, preventing them from jumping back into the water after all that hard work.

Beyond that, fishing nets also allow you to protect your catch and aid release of species that you are not interested in. You will find many coated nets that are designed to be gentle on the fish’s skin and protects your hands from those sharp hooks.

Wondering how you can get a good fishing net out there? Well, don’t worry. We have taken it our job to research on your behalf, narrowing down the best fishing nets to ensure you get the right fit. And yes, we also have a buying guide for you should you need a few pointers to keep in mind when out shopping.

Top 10 Fishing Nets of 2020 Reviewed

1. RESTCLOUD Fishing Landing Net

Best Fishing Net for Salty Water

Featuring a corrosion-resistant aluminum handle and sturdy netting, the RESTCLOUD Fishing Landing Net is great for use in both fresh and saltwater. Thus, you can use it for fishing on river banks and the sea as well. This also lends credence to the net’s reputation as a long-lasting and reliable net. In addition to being sturdy, the mesh is also lightweight. It delivers the fish undamaged. Whether you are a newbie or seasoned fisherman, you will find this net very useful when it comes to landing fish of all sizes.

Another thing about this fishing net is that it is retractable and foldable. Essentially, you can fold the net and store it in a rod locker or luggage. It wouldn’t really matter where you will be fishing. You can carry the net with you everywhere you go.

You will love the net’s telescopic handle which doubles in length from 18 inches to 36 inches. Regardless of where you are standing, you can fish further away in the water. Also, the net is suitable for use by both children and adults. Not many nets are designed for use by both of these age groups.

RESTCLOUD Fishing Landing Net with Telescoping Pole Handle Extends to 50 Inches

Pros:

  • Suitable for use in fresh and saltwater
  • Has a handle that doubles in length
  • Foldable to make storage easy

Cons:

  • Some users have complained about the net being unsuitable for the big jobs
  • The handle may snap out

2. Giraffe-X American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net

Best Polymer Fishing Net

The care that goes into handmade products of whatever kind is just incomparable. For a fishing net made with the highest level of attention to detail, the Giraffe-X American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net is great for bait fishing. It will work perfectly for both the seasoned as well as newbie fishers. The co-polymer monofilament mesh not only means you have a durable net but also one that’s extremely easy to throw.

For the environmentally-conscious individuals, this net does not contain any material that may cause pollution. That includes the mesh material as well as that used to make the sinker. The net quickly sinks while tightly holding the bait at the bottom and preventing it from escaping. You can, therefore, be sure of baiting and catching the fish you are looking for.

You will find this net in five different sizes determined by the radius, which could be 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 feet. The hand line is a standard 32 feet across all the sizes. In simple terms, you get to choose the net size that perfectly works for you.

Giraffe-X American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net for Bait Trap Fish

Pros:

  • A hand-crafted, durable fishing net
  • The sinker is made of environmentally friendly material
  • It is available in five different sizes

Cons:

  • Doesn’t have enough weights to enable efficient throwing
  • Made of thin, easy-to-tear filament

3. Magreel Fish Landing Net

Best Retractable Fishing Net

One of the things to look at when shopping for a fishing net is the collapsibility and retract-ability of the handle. The reason for this is that you need a net you can easily pack away after use. It should retract to a small size that you can easily carry. With the Magreel Fish Landing Net, you get all that and much more. You can easily carry it with you on a fishing expedition in a pond, stream, river, lake, ocean or boat.

The non-slip PVC handle ensures you have a firm grip on the net. If you combine that with the spring cord, you clearly have a net that is both easy to use and control. Whether you are standing on firm ground or in a boat, this is a feature you want every fishing net to have.

Here is a durable fishing net that features heavy-duty nylon material. It has a waterproof coating that prevents it from absorbing water, rotting, or building mildew. The material is soft enough not to hurt the fish scales making it easier to capture and release the catch.

Magreel Fish Landing Net,Portable Trout Catching Releasing Fishing Net with Collapsible Telescopic Pole Handle

Pros:

  • Handle made of anti-slip PVC material making it easy to control
  • A retractable, collapsible net that’s easy to pack and transport
  • The heavy-duty nylon mesh doesn’t rot, absorb water or build mildew

Cons:

  • Not steady enough for heavy fishing
  • Some users have complained that the handle is too short

4. PLUSINNO Fishing Net

Best Fishing Net for Large Fish

Every fisher deserves a landing net that not only scoops fish out of the water but also lands it safely. The PLUSINNO Fishing net can claim to do all that and more. It is capable of handling the small as well as large fish without much of a hassle. Its unique design starts from its comfortable handle which sits at the end of a carbon fiber pole. Not only is the handle light but it is also highly durable.

The net is available in four different sizes, which means you can use it both in a river or the sea. The nylon mesh is waterproof. Since it doesn’t absorb water, the net does not rot. It is resistant to the development or growth of bacteria. That makes it a very durable fishing/landing net.

To make it easy for fishermen to carry the net, it is designed to be collapsible. Once you are through with fishing, collapse and attach it to a belt clip or simply sling it. If fishing is all you intend to do, you shouldn’t bother packing the net in your luggage. Apart from the knotless mesh is gentle to the catch, it prevents the tangling of fishing hooks.

PLUSINNO Fishing Net Fish Landing Net

Pros:

  • Collapses into a size you can easily manage to carry
  • Has a knotless design idea for quickly releasing the catch
  • Suitable for open water and pond fishing

Cons:

  • The package doesn’t include a carrying case
  • Some users have said the net is clumsy

5. ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Net

Best Telescoping Fishing Net

Made of nylon mesh that’s waterproof, the ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Net is resistant to the build-up of bacteria, waterlogging, and formation of odor. No matter how long you use it, the net will remain sanitized. The nylon mesh is durable. It is made in a sturdy quadrilateral structure to enable you to easily scoop fish from the water. Add to that the skid-resistant handhold with a retractable aluminum rod, and you have a solid fishing net. If you need a net to last for a long time to come, this is it.

So, where will you be fishing next? The detachable fishing net is extremely easy to store and carry. You may easily carry them as part of your luggage to whatever location you will be fishing.

From its name, this is clearly a fishing net for kids. However, there is nothing about it to show that. In fact, it looks more like a fishing net for the adults. For the kids, this fishing net is as professional as they come. The next time you go fishing, don’t leave the kids behind. The handle is easy to adjust from 29.2 inches to 42.2 inches to meet the needs of the kids.

ODDSPRO Kids Fishing Net with Telescopic Pole Handle

Pros:

  • Made of durable, long-lasting nylon mesh
  • The handle can be retracted to enable kids to fish
  • Waterproof nylon which prevents bacteria build-up

Cons:

  • Stops adjusting once it accumulates sand in the groves
  • Some users have complained about the handle being too long

6. Yvleen Foldable Fish Landing Net

Best Foldable Fishing Net

Featuring a durable nylon mesh and corrosion-resistant handle that does not crack or bend, the Yvleen Foldable Fish Landing Net is suitable for hauling the big catches. Corrosion resistance means the net is suitable for use both in fresh and saltwater. You can use it while fishing in a river, lake or sea. It doesn’t matter if you are standing on the shores or atop a boat. The handle length can extend from 23.6 inches to 39.3 inches. The maximum depth of the net is 11.8 inches.

Sometimes, you have no intention of killing the fish after capturing them. What you need is a specially-designed net that doesn’t harm the fish nor removes the scales. That’s what the Yvleen Foldable Fish Landing Net promises to do. The mesh is non-absorbent and waterproof meaning it does not encourage the growth of harmful bacteria.

If you are one of the people who go fishing a long distance away, this is the perfect net for you. The pole is foldable and lightweight. Once you fold it into place, use the belt clip to conveniently and safely store and carry it. You could even pack it together with the rest of your luggage.

Folding Fishing Net - Yvleen Foldable Fish Landing Net Robust Aluminum telescopic pole handle

Pros:

  • A sturdy, strong fishing net
  • Designed to prevent injury to the fish
  • Foldable and easy to carry

Cons:

  • It may not last for as long as you wish
  • May disintegrate if left in the sun

7. KastKing Madbite Fishing Net

Best Light Weight Fishing Net

Which kind of fish do you like to catch? This question is important to ask before buying a fish landing net. The KastKing Madbite Fishing net is strong enough to accommodate even the largest fish in a pond, river, lake or sea. The lightweight aluminum handle doesn’t make the net look like it can pull off a major fish haul. When combined with an industrial-strength graphite folding center yoke, the handle can carry the heaviest fish.

There are different models of this fishing net with the first designed to extend up to 45 inches and the second up to 76 inches. In storage, one model measures 27 inches and the other 33 inches. After folding, put the net in a designated storage case and carry it with you. Depending on your fishing needs, simply pick a model that best works for you and use it to maximum effect.

The mesh is rubber-coated and hook-friendly. You will never have to worry about the hooks getting entangled in the mesh. The mesh does not hurt the fish either. If you are interested in metrics such as the length of the fish, the handle has a ruler printed on it.

KastKing Fishing Net Folding Landing Net

Pros:

  • After landing the fish, you can easily measure the length
  • Quickly folds down
  • The extendable handle is great for use on a boat
  • The nylon mesh is waterproof

Cons:

  • Not good for smaller fish

8. SF Fly Fishing Landing Net

Best Fishing Net for Fly Fishing

The SF Fly Fishing Landing Net is hailed as one of the softest on the market thanks to the rubberized material. In addition to gently handling the fish, the net doesn’t tangle, rot or develop mildew. To prevent it from spooking the fish, the clear mesh blends in with the water. If it works well for beginners who have no idea how to approach the fish stealthily.

To ensure the net is capable of lifting even the largest fish, the frame is made of hardwood and laminated bamboo. When buying this net, you will be forced to choose between a round head or square head. It all boils down to your individual needs and personal preferences.

If you prefer fly-fishing in a stream, river or lake, this is the best net for you. At the end of the handle, there is a 360-degree copper swivel which together with a combo kit that features the SF magnetic release clip ensure the net remains intact after use. It is hard to find a net that’s as strong, sturdy, and durable as this one.

SF Fly Fishing Landing Net Soft Rubber Mesh Trout Net Catch and Release Net

Pros:

  • Ideal for fishing in the river or lake
  • The mesh material is not easy to tangle
  • Comes with a safety copper swivel

Cons:

  • The handle is short and finicky

9. Fiblink Folding Aluminum Fishing Landing Net

Best Aluminum Fishing Net

The reason manufacturers make collapsible or foldable nets is to ease your movement from home to your favorite fishing location. That’s exactly what the makers of the Fiblink Folding Aluminum Fishing Landing Net had in mind when they were making this net. You can easily fold the net to only one-third of its full size, sling it, and get going on your next fishing expedition. It could be in a freshwater pond, river, lake or saltwater sea or ocean.

When it comes to fishing locations, it is expected that you will keep changing them from time to time. For that reason, the net is expandable to enable you to fish off the boat. If you are fishing trout off the riverbank, you may want to collapse it a little bit.

Since fishing takes place in water, it easy to understand why this net was made from waterproof material. Essentially, the material has a non-hydrophilic coating that makes it impossible for the net to be waterlogged. The small, strong mesh structure is designed to prevent unnecessary entanglement no matter how big or small the fish is. In addition to its flexibility, the aluminum handle is also strong enough for the big fish.

Fiblink Folding Aluminum Fishing Landing Net Fish Net with Extending Telescoping Pole Handle

Pros:

  • Made of a nylon mesh that hardly stresses the fish
  • A retractable, foldable net that’s easy to carry
  • The aluminum frame is corrosion resistant

Cons:

  • The handle may not lock if not rotated

10. Goture Portable Folded Fishing Net

Best Portable Fishing Net

You have just landed your fish haul atop your boat. Can you quickly and easily let out the prey? The Goture Portable Folded Fishing Net comes with a large zipper so that you can easily remove the prey. It could be crawfish, lobster, shrimp, minnows, or crab. The net is designed to make it easier for you.

When you buy this fishing net, you get it in an easy-to-use form. It requires no installation but will automatically be opened with the simple pulling of a string. When through with fishing, simply toggle an automatic button. For easy packing and transportation, fold the net into a small portable size.

The net’s unique design features six sides and 12 holes. It is 39.37 inches in diameter and 12.60 inches in depth. When closed, it has a maximum length of 31.50 inches, which is small enough to sling and go. When you consider its 310-gram weight, you have a compact, easy to carry net. Its 360-degree coupled with the double-decker design makes it great for fishing as well as catching seafood. If you do more than just fishing, this is the net for you.

Goture Portable Folded Fishing Net Fish Shrimp Minnow Crayfish Crab Baits Cast Mesh Trap Automatic

Pros:

  • Suitable for catching crawfish, shrimp, minnows, lobster, and crab
  • Designed with a zipper for quickly and easily removing prey
  • Folds to a small, compact, easy to pack load

Cons:

  • The string is likely to break after being in use a few times
  • May crumble under the weight of many fish

How to Choose the Best Fishing Net: The Ultimate Buying Guide

Whether you are a seasoned angler or have just begun your fishing escapades,  you need a properly functioning net. There is no other way to succeed in your fishing endeavors. Clearly, you need to carefully choose a fishing net. But just what are some of the factors you should consider when making this choice? In this write-up, we reveal to you some of the most important considerations when choosing a fishing net.

Type of Net

In the market, you are likely to come across four main types of nets, including landing, baitwell, casting, and seines nets. Here is a detailed look at each of these types of fishing nets.

  • Landing Nets

Landing nets are designed to capture fish that’s already caught on a hook. But landing nets are not all the same. For fly fishing, you will find a number of small, compact models. If you are a super-sized fisher, you will be much at home with nets designed for use in saltwater. Choose this kind of net if you intend to use it to catch hooked fish.

There is no alternative for this type of nets mainly because the options are larger and do not have handles. So of the most important things to look out for in this kind of nets include the netting material, mesh size, hoop size & shape, length of handle and material. All of these factors play an important role when it comes to the overall performance of the net.

  • Baitwell and Dip Nets

Designed to seize fish from a tank or bucket, baitwell nets are great for baiting fish. The same applies to dip nets. Compared to landing nets, the mesh on baitwell nets might not be qualitative. If you intend to use it in a bucket, then a teardrop-sized net will do the trick. For a flat-sided tank, you are better off with a D-hoop net. If you need a net that’s ever at your fingertips, buy one designed to float. When on a fishing expedition, keep several of these nets in your boat. You never know when you will need them.

  • Cast and Seines Nets

Cast and seines nets are two of the most popular methods of capturing fish. They are suitable for large fish hauls. To keep the net balanced, put weights around the perimeter of the net. Every time you want to retrieve fish, you have to retrieve the throw line. Cast nets tend to lose shape if the mesh remains untreated. However, with the right treatment, it will maintain the shape and ensure it opens quickly and evenly. Important things to consider include adequately secured weights, reinforced stitching, and a properly woven mesh. These are the things that define a quality net.

If you can’t find a cast net, you should consider a seine net. Basically, the netting is stretched between two poles. While the bottom of the net has evenly-lined weights, the top features a number of floats. A seine net may require one or two people to operate it. Based on the design, it is ideal for small ponds and streams. Simply move the net against the river current and lift it to trap fish. Seine nets are easy to choose. Simply look for floats properly held in place. If the weights are hard to break, that is the right net to buy. Don’t forget the quality of the mesh which ensures you get the fish you are looking for.

Mesh Material

The most common types of mesh material include non-coated nylon, coated nylon, and rubber. It is not just a matter of the type of material. Nets may also be referred to as knotted or knotless. Among these three, the smoothest is rubber and coated nylon. Nets with knotted, non-coated nylon material are usually abrasive. They are known to damage fish by removing scales together with the protective layer. When harvesting fish from a pond, that may not be a major issue. However, if all you want is selected harvest where you catch and release some, treated nylon, rubber or knotless nets are the best.

A treated-mesh net with special or rubber coating is the best performing. It is semi-rigid and rarely entangles hooks. That’s because the coating ensures that hooks cannot penetrate the mesh upon the thrashing and landing of a fish. Nets with coated mesh may cost you more but will save you in terms of the time taken disentangling it. You will have nothing else to focus on but fishing. On some nets, you are likely to find a coated hoop for more durable construction.

Does the Size of the Mesh Affect the Catch?

The size of the mesh holes of a net determines the kind of fish you can catch. Micro-mesh is suitable for fishing small-stream trout while a heavier mesh is best for walleye and bass. In that case, you will need mesh holes with diameters of between 1.5 and 2 inches. Larger mesh holes reduce the water resistance making it easier to move the net in the water.

Shape and Size of the Hoop

Also important to the size of fish you intend to catch is the hoop size. For small fish, a hoop with a small diameter is the best bet. Larger fish will require something a little bigger. However, if you usually catch different types of fish, then you must buy several nets. Consider that as you go shopping for a fishing net.

The size of the net goes hand in hand with the type of fish you intend to catch. Carp nets may have a 42-inch diameter at the very best. On the other hands, trout nets will feature several openings through which the fish can pass. The best net for bass is one that’s 2 feet wide at most.

Handle Material and Length

This factor applies mainly to landing nets. If you want a compact net that’s easy to maneuver, buy one with a short handle. However, you can only net the fish when in close proximity. If you like fishing off your boat or in bigger waters, buy a net with a long handle. In this case, choose nets with sliding, folding or telescoping handles. When not in use, you may retract the net for storage and easy transportation. Once you get to your fishing point, you can extend the length of the handle so that it reaches far off.

Most fishnet handles are made from wood, aluminum or a fiberglass composite. When well-crafted, wood nets are strong and lightweight. Besides, their esthetic appeal is natural. They are perfect for anglers with kayaks and canoes. When the foam is added to the handle, the net can easily be converted to a floating model.

When buying a fishing net, the type of handle does not have a huge bearing. It is the sturdiness of the handle that really matters. Fishing big fish requires a net with propped construction for durability and strength. Even though expensive, nets with telescopic handles and treated mesh are the best. You will discover that you saved a lot of money in the end.

The shape of the Net

Nets are by their nature shaped differently. You are likely to find a teardrop, circular, oval or flat-bottom net. If you intend to fish in shallow water, choose a net of diameter between 10 and 12 inches when circular or teardrop-shaped. Such nets are also great with small fish. Flat-bottomed fishing nets are great for catch-and-release fishing expeditions. As such, they work very well with larger fish. Since you have a good view of the fish, you get to choose which to keep and which to release.

Budget

You may not afford a fishing net if the price is way beyond your budget. More than anything else, the price of a fishing net should of necessity fall within your budget. Once you have established the amount of money you are willing to spend, choose several nets that fall within that price bracket. Then, compare the nets in terms of the other factors while considering your personal needs. When you find a net that fits the bill in terms of the other factors and budget, go ahead and buy it.

Conclusion

The fishing net you buy is largely determined by how you intend to use it. As such, you cannot walk into a shop and randomly pick fishing nets. Assess the brands we reviewed above to know one that best works for you. More precisely, use the criteria in the buying guide before settling on a workable option.