Fresh & Saltwater - LANDING NETS

by Terry Tuma

Choosing the right landing net can make a big difference to both the angler and the fish. Not all nets perform the same nor are they suitable for every type of angling style. Major differences exist. Here's a quick guide to choosing the proper net to match different angling styles.

Choosing the Right Net Size
Too often, fishermen try to make one style of net work for every application. Choose a net size that matches the typical size fish you normally catch. If the average fish you catch is 14"-20", a 17" x 19" hoop is adequate or go to a 20" x 23" which allows more room for the occasional oversized fish. Net depth is also a critical point. Longer bodied fish like musky, pike, or salmon require a larger hoop and deeper bag depth. Choose a net bag that typically matches the average length of fish you catch. The smaller the fish, the shallower the bag.

Mesh Sizes
The most common size mesh for freshwater applications and small to medium sized fish is 1". Larger fish require heavier netting and larger mesh ranging in size from 1.25" to 2". Mesh size should increase in proportion with hoop size and net bag depth.

Types of Netting & Mesh Size
Not all netting suits every fishing application. Netting materials vary greatly and knowing the differences can improve performance and fish care. Netting falls into one of two basic categories, knotted and knotless. Knotted nets are the most common but they are also more likely to rough up a fish because of the raised edges which scrape scales and protective slime coat. Knotted nets are best for anglers who keep their catch. Unknotted mesh styles are preferred by anglers who regularly practice Catch & Release.

Knotless Mesh Styles
More anglers are switching over to knotless netting especially for Catch & Release applications because it's more fish friendly. There are several styles to choose from.

• Micro Mesh- a smaller and softer knotless mesh that's ideal for delicate baitfish, trout, and other soft, fine-scaled species.
• Tangle-Free Micro Mesh- dip treated small knotless mesh ideal for Catch & Release. Popular with bass and walleye anglers.
• Tangle-Free Knotless- dip treated extra strong knotless netting ideal for big fish Catch & Release applications. Popular for musky, pike, trophy catfish and saltwater species.
• Pro-Tech- cushion coated protective netting designed by Frabill especially for Catch & Release applications.
• Tangle-Free Rubber Mesh- an elastic, soft netting of molded rubber that prevents roughing. A favorite with bass and walleye anglers.

Hoop Shapes and Sizes
Hoops come in a variety of shapes and sizes. A teardrop shaped hoop is the most popular. It works well for a variety of species and angling styles. The second most popular is the scooper shape. This style is popular with trolling anglers because of its flatter front leading edge and shovel shaped curvature. Trollers typically net fish a farther distance away from the boat. The scooper shape allows the net to be placed under the fish more effectively at a distance. D-shaped hoops are favored for extreme shallow water angling as their flat front rim creates a perfect netting profile when rested on the bottom. These nets are also very popular for trapping fast moving baitfish in bait wells and tanks.

Choosing Handle Length & Style
Handle length plays a crucial role in successfully landing fish. Choose a length and style to match the way you fish. Anglers fishing from lower profile bass or Jon boats do not require a longer handle. Generally a 30"-36" handle is adequate. If fishing from a higher sided boat (like deep "V's or runabouts) a longer 48" handle is preferred. Pontoon and trollers prefer longer telescoping style handles that extend from 72" to 96" or longer.

Shore fishing usually calls for a minimum of 36" to 48" but many anglers prefer the longer telescopic handles so they can reach from high banks or elevated positions like break walls or docks. Cam-Lock handles are the easiest nets to operate with a simple twist, extend, and lock operation. Wading and float tube anglers prefer handles 5" to 15" for easy transport and handling. Anglers can choose from one piece fixed handles, or sliding collapsible models. Fixed handle styles are typically used on lower priced nets. Slide handle nets are preferred by boating anglers for more compact storage.

Mesh Quality
Netting comes in a variety of materials, colors and quality levels. You generally get what you pay for. For novice anglers, a less expensive, general-purpose polyethylene knotted mesh net works fine. Avid anglers typically prefer the improved performance and higher quality offered by Tangle-Free nylon netting.

Tangle-Free dipped nets are treated with a coating that seals individual net strands. This prevents hooks from penetrating the mesh and causing severe tangles. Not all tangle proof nets are the same. To check quality, twist the strands of a net against the direction of their normal twist. If the strands separate or unravel, this is usually a sign of a lesser quality treated net.

Pro Note:
If you're a multi-species angler, one net won't do it all. That's why I use several different styles. One day I may be fishing for walleyes and bass, the next for musky. Having a selection of different nets lets me customize my selection for the job at hand.