Do you have trouble catching fish in your kayak? You need the best kayak fishing net in the market to change your fortunes.
Why do I need a kayak fishing net? The answers are quite simple, and they are three of them. It is better for the catch and release type of fishing, you can easily land fish, and lastly, safe for you.
Certainly, it will be frustrating to lose a fish that you struggled to get. You will want to maintain your balance and control of the rod while fishing. Therefore, having your kayak net in your hand means you can lock the rod in a rod holder and easily pull your catch onto the kayak.
There are many fishing nets in the market, but some may frustrate you as the others impress you. To help you purchase the right kayak fishing net, we will look at different factors and types of fishing nets.
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How to Choose the Best Kayak Fishing Net
The guide below will help you check on several important features before purchasing a kayak fishing net. The following factors are vital to buying a quality kayak fishing net.
Size of the Mesh
The mesh size is important when considering the type of fish you wish to catch. Before you buy one, check the diameter of the holes in the net.
For small delicate fish, you will need a micro-mesh net. A 3/16-inch net is the best recommendation in such situations.
If you like the larger fish, like bass, catfish, or crappie, you should go for a mesh with larger holes. A one-inch size holes net is the best here.
Type of Fishing
You will have to decide whether to get a fishing or landing net. All these will depend on whether you will be using the net to catch fish near the water or slide the hook towards your kayak.Go for nets that will suit your fishing most of the time.
Materials
Everybody will wish for a high-quality fishing net because of its durability and reliability. Aluminum or carbon fiber for the handle is the best material when looking at the weight. They will keep the overall weight low so that it does not become bulky.
When fishing for larger fish, a wooden handle would come in handy as it gives you the leverage you need. However, wooden handles are more prone to damage due to exposure to elements without protection.
If you use your net for a technique such as catch and release fishing, it will have to be rubberized. Frequent revarnishing is important when you use your net a lot.
Cotton, nylon, and any other synthetic nets are mostly more abrasive than rubber nets. They disturb the protective slime on fish and catch hooks during important moments. You should therefore go for rubberized nets.
Handle
The net handles are vital for kayak fishing. A short handle is easier to manage and move around in a kayak. Longer handles can help you reach out for fish that is far away. However, longer handles hang up on items on a kayak and take up a lot more space.
Retractable handles are the best solution as you can make them longer or shorter at any time. Choose your handle according to the type of fishing, fishing requirements, or personal preferences.
Storage
You will need a net that is easily stored in a fishing kayak. Usually, a kayak has small storage compartments. It is thus advised to go for foldable kayak fishing nets. Retractable handles allow you to reduce the length of the handle for easier storage.
The negative thing with foldable nets is that they are less strong and durable.
Size of hoop
A hoop is the opening to the fishing net. If the net is too small, it will make it easy to lose fish when trying to get it in the net. Also, a very large hoop easily interferes with the other equipment on your kayak. It is quite uncomfortable.
Product Reviews of the 5 Best Kayak Fishing Nets
This is a high-quality thermal plastic-rubber net featuring a retractable aluminum handle. The rubber prevents damage to fish caught and eliminates tangles that may occur. Also, it prevents the hooks from being caught in the mesh.
The net can handle various fish sizes and a wonderful all-round net. It is tubular with concentric sections sliding into each other and rubberized. These features make the net best for catch-and-release kayak fishing.
With a wide opening (20 inches), you can catch fish of almost all sizes. Further, the flat-bottomed basket allows you to land fish of different sizes.
The retractable aluminum handle is corrosion-resistant, making it more durable. It extends up to 56 inches from 35 inches when fully extended. This makes it best for pulling fish that is far away. It also provides a firm hold and excellent balance. The retractable design allows for ease of storage in smaller spaces.
It is lightweight therefore suitable for kayak fishing. You will need light gear so that your kayak does not sink.
Pros
- It has a rubberized net
- Friendly to the fish
- Resistant to corrosion
- Long tubular and flat bottomed net
Cons
- Not particularly fair when it comes to portability
A kayak fishing net made from strong and high-quality materials. The landing net is made of strong silicone netting woven together sturdily. The silicone material is non-toxic, durable, waterproof, and corrosion-resistant. On the other hand, the handle is made of corrosion-resistant aluminum to ensure durability and reliability.
The foldable design for the fishing net and pole makes it easy to fit it in smaller compartments. You can store it in rod lockers, backpacks, garages, and other storage places. Also, being around 420 grams makes it portable and thus can be carried anywhere.
You can use the net for various fishing styles. The micro-fine net will cause no damage to the fish caught.
The handle is uniquely designed to make it more efficient. A non-slip coating provides the best grip even when wet, thus suitable for water use. This makes it also suitable for catching big fish. There is a safety lanyard to make sure you do not lose your net.
It has a one-year warranty, and you should therefore not worry about the non-artificial damages that may occur. The net makes a perfect gift for a kayaker.
Pros
- Features a long stretching handle
- Durable
- Foldable design for easy storage
- Easily portable
Cons
- Lacks rubber for efficient catch and release fishing
This another kayak fishing net suitable for multiple fishing techniques. The soft, clear rubberized net material is gentle to the fish. Also, it will not rot, tangle or mildew. The small net holes prevent the small fishes from going through the net.
The frame for this net model is made from long-lasting laminated bamboo and hardwood. The head can come in 3 designs; round head, square head, or teardrop head.
The laminated bamboo and hardwood are easy to grip and also very comfortable. A special coating is added to the surface to make the net more durable, waterproof, and abrasion-resistant.
For safety, the net features a magnetic clip that is attached to a safety cable. The copper swivel on the end of the handle connects with the safety cable. This will keep the net secure in your hands.
A lightweight design makes it widely used and portable. You can easily carry it when going on any fishing expedition. You can use it in rivers, lakes, or fly fishing in any stream.
Pros
- Durable
- It does not damage fish
- Available in multiple head types
- Features a clip for safety
Cons
- It has limited length range as it does not have an extendable pole
The net model is available in different designs, and it is up to you to choose what fits you. The various sizes include;
● Fixed pole with a 12-inch hoop size
● A two-section telescopic pole with a hoop size of 16 inches
● A three-section telescopic pole with a hoop size of 17 inches
● A three- section telescopic pole with a hoop size of 20 inches
Regardless of the design and size, the net is made of durable materials. The pole is constructed from a high-density carbon fiber that is blended with fiberglass.
The net is made from waterproof nylon material. This means it will not absorb water which ends up making it heavy. The coating on the net is also for protection against bacteria and prevents odor absorption.
A net knotless design will make fishing easier and prevents tangling of the net itself and the fishhooks.
The telescopic poles are foldable, making them convenient for transportation. A specially designed belt clip also aids in transportation.
You can gift it to your buddies who like catch and release fishing. The net is fish-friendly and can be used in various waters.
Pros
- Made from durable material
- Available in different styles
- Features a belt clip
- Knotless net
Cons
- It lacks a rubberized net
To ensure long-term use and reliability, the net is made of sturdy netting and an aluminum handle. It is best suited for catching small fish in freshwater and saltwater.
The telescopic handle can extend up to 36 inches from 18 inches. Together with the hoop, you get around 50 inches. This will give you extra reach to get your catch that is further away.
Light and soft mesh allow you to catch fish without damaging them. It makes it suitable for different fishing techniques and also for kayak fishing beginners.
The foldable feature for the net and the handle’s retractable design makes it easier to store the kayak fishing net. You can put it in a storage compartment or a rod locker.
There is a flip on the handle. Its function is to open and lock the net into its groove.
Pros
- Foldable for easy storage
- Portable
- Extends to reach far places
- Durable
Cons
- It does not come in different sizes
FAQs
What is the Importance of a Kayak Fishing Net?
When using a kayak, a fishing net is vital for fishing efficiently. It is difficult to get the leverage you require to pull fish that you hook into in a kayak. You may lose a lot of fish. Having a net makes it easier when scooping fish out of water. Also, a soft fishing net is good for a technique such as catch and release, as it does not damage the fish.
How Do I Clean a Kayak Fishing Net?
The rubberized fishing nets are resistant to mildew and odors. The only thing to do to make them clean is to wipe and rinse them. Nylon fishing nets, however, will require thorough cleaning, which is a process.
You would ideally put first in water to kill germs and remove most of the dirt. The next thing is to wash it with a brush that will eliminate anything that you do not want.
It would be great to eliminate germs to eliminate odor too. This makes it enjoyable when you use it next time on your kayak.
Is a Kayak Fishing Net Safe?
The kayak fishing nets are not only gentle to the fish but also the angler. A rubberized fishing net will not damage the fish. The slime coating and scales remain intact on the fish allowing it to live well after being released.
For the kayaker, a kayak fishing net makes it easier for you to land fish on the kayak. The kayaker is less likely to end up in the water when trying to haul the struggling fish onto the kayak.
Conclusion
To enjoy your next kayak fishing adventure, you will need a high-quality fishing net. You will secure almost all the fish that you catch during kayak fishing. You must choose the right kayak fishing net that matches the fish you wish to catch and other personal preferences. We hope the above guide has already given you an idea of how the best kayak fishing nets look like.