The Real Scoop On Landing Nets

by Terry Tuma

The proper landing net can be a valuable angling accessory but choosing the right net for the job at hand can be confusing. As fishing has become more specialized so has the choice in landing nets. major performance differences exist in net styles, components and specialized applications. Here is a quick reference guide to help you make the right net selection.

Hoop Styles And Sizes

Most nets come in one of three basic shapes. Either a teardrop, a scooper or a D-hoop configuration. The most popular choice is the teardrop. It works well for a variety of multi-species applications.

The Scooper shaped hoop is the next most popular. It features a flat leading edge and more of an angled shovel shaped hoop. This shape is popular with upper Midwest anglers especially with walleye fishermen that troll and typically net fish further away from the boat. The scooper shape is viewed as providing a better netting angle to get up and under the fish from a distance.

The D-hoop shape is sometimes preferred for shallow water use where the flat front rim can be rest on the bottom to provide a more favorable landing angle. This shape is also the most popular for live bait nets and nets used in bait tanks or live wells because the flat front edge can capture bait against the walls of the bait tank.

Hoop Sizing
Regardless of the style, hoop size plays an important role in netting efficiency. Many anglers make the mistake of choosing too large a net. Why take up the extra space? Rule of thumb is to choose a net based on the average size fish you normally catch. No one net style is ideal for all applications. Many multi-species anglers own different styles and sizes of nets for the specific species they fish. The landing nets center is the sweet spot. If the average size fish you catch is 12"-20" then a net with a hoop size of 17" x 19" or a 20" x 23" would be more than adequate. There's usually plenty of extra room to handle the occasional larger than average fish. The depth of the nets mesh bag also plays a major role in successfully landing fish. Longer bodied fish like Musky, Pike and Salmon require a deeper net. Remember the bigger the fish, the deeper the net bag.

Types of Netting and Size

Knotted Mesh Styles
There are numerous types of knotted netting material available. Less expensive nets typically offer a general purpose polyethylene or other inexpensive plastic type knotted mesh. This netting works fine for most novice anglers but is not ideally suited for the more experience angler looking for higher performance and improved product longevity. Nets designed for bigger fish and extend life typically offer a stronger, more durable nylon netting. These nets usually offer a special "dipped" coating that seals the individual net strands to prevent hooks from penetrating the mesh and snagging up. most avid anglers prefer the Tangle Free netting, however, not all dipped nets are created equal. Major differences exist in quality and feel. To make sure your net is of the highest quality take the netting in your hand and twist the net strands opposite the direct of the other twist. If the net strands separate or unravel, chances are the netting is not of the quality you need nor do they prevent hooks from tangling.

Knotless Mesh Styles
If you are on the many anglers who regularly practices Catch and Release chances are a traditional knotted mesh net is not the ticket. Knotted mesh nets can rough-up game fish removing their scales and protective slime coat, scratching eyes and splitting fins. Net-roughed fish, especially trophy sized specimens, run greater risk of contacting a fungus or infection which can make them a casualty thus defeating the purpose of Catch and Release. Most C & R anglers prefer a totally knotless mesh that's smoother and designed to minimize roughing. Some popular knotless mesh styles include:

Mesh Size
Mesh sizes vary. Most landing nets designed for standard freshwater applications for small to medium size fish utilize a 1" mesh. As you move up in hoop size and larger fish , the mesh will be heavier and range from 1-1/4" to 1-3/4". On larger hoops and deeper net bags the mesh size should be larger to reduce drag and overall weight. The larger mesh allows for an easier sweep and quicker drainage.

Handle Length and Styles
All landing nets feature some sort of handle. Choosing the right length and style can dramatically improve your netting efficiency. The most common handle length is typically 10" to 36". The is the perfect length for anglers fishing out of low profile bass and Jon boats. For anglers fishing from higher sided deep-V's, pontoon boats or a runabout, a longer 48" length is preferred. For trolling applications a longer telescoping handle is ideal to reach further back behind the boat to net surface thrashing fish. A 72" to 96" extended handle is ideal for these application s as well as for fishing off elevated structures where extra reach is required. Trout fishermen and other wading or float anglers typically prefer a shorter handle length of 5" to 15". Once piece fixed handle designs are most commonly found on the less expensive type nets.

A must feature for any boater is a net that offers a sliding handle design. This allows the net to collapse down for easy storage and transport. Having the right landing net for the situation can maximize your fish catching success and convenience on the water.