For the modern angler, practicing catch and release is a commitment to conservation and the future of the sport. The right landing net is a critical tool in this effort, designed to secure your prize catch while minimizing stress, scale loss, and slime coat damage to ensure the fish swims away healthy. With so many options on the market, from telescoping handles to rubber-coated mesh, selecting the perfect net can be as nuanced as the fishing itself.
This roundup focuses on nets built with the fish’s safety and your convenience in mind. We’ve evaluated key features like tangle-free materials, portability, and durability across various fishing styles. Whether you’re wading a trout stream, kayaking on a lake, or fishing from a boat, one of these nine top-rated nets will be your ideal partner for a successful and sustainable outing.
Our Top Picks for Catch and Release Fishing Nets
- Collapsible Fishing Net – 56-Inch Retractable Landing Net by Wakeman
- Foreverlast Generation 2 Non-Snag Floating Fishing Landing Net
- Frabill Conservation Series Landing Net with Camlock Reinforced Handle
- Fly Fishing Net with Handle – Soft Mesh Catch and Release Net by Wakeman
- Frabill Power Stow Poly Net | Foldable Fishing Net for Easy Storage
- PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead, Salmon, Fly, Kayak Fishing
- BUBBA Large 24 Inch Carbon Fiber Fishing Net – Durable, Corrosion Resistant
- Ego S2 Slider Fishing Net, Ultimate Fishermen s Tool, Telescoping Handle
- KastKing Madbite Folding Rubber Fishing Net
Collapsible Fishing Net – 56-Inch Retractable Landing Net by Wakeman
This net solves the common problem of storing long-handled gear on a small boat or kayak. Its telescopic aluminum pole extends to 56 inches for long reach but retracts down to a compact 35 inches for easy transport and storage. The corrosion-resistant build makes it a reliable choice for both freshwater and saltwater environments.
An ergonomic EVA foam grip provides comfort and control during use, helping to reduce hand fatigue on long fishing days. The nylon netting is designed to be strong and tangle-resistant, which helps you land fish quickly and with minimal fuss, supporting good catch and release practices.
Foreverlast Generation 2 Non-Snag Floating Fishing Landing Net
Wade fishermen will appreciate the peace of mind this bright orange net provides. Its integrated flotation design means if you drop it, the net will stay on the surface for easy retrieval. A included tether cord allows you to secure it to your wading belt, keeping it accessible without needing to carry it in your hands constantly.
The net features a large opening suitable for a variety of fish species, from trout to redfish. Its lightweight construction and simple, effective floating design make it a dedicated tool for anglers who spend hours in the water and need a net that is both secure and instantly ready.
Frabill Conservation Series Landing Net with Camlock Reinforced Handle
Built with longevity and fish safety as priorities, the Frabill Conservation Series is a robust option. Its patented MeshGuard hoop secures the netting inside the rim, protecting both the net material from fraying and the fish from abrasive edges. The matte black finish is also less likely to spook wary fish.
The Cam-Lock telescoping handle provides a secure extension when you need it and features a unique Pow’R Lok Yoke system that allows the handle to slide through for compact storage. Corrosion-proof stainless steel hardware ensures this net can handle saltwater use, making it a versatile choice for serious anglers.
Fly Fishing Net with Handle – Soft Mesh Catch and Release Net by Wakeman
This net combines classic aesthetics with fish-friendly functionality. The sturdy hardwood frame and ergonomic wooden handle offer a traditional feel that many fly anglers prefer. A safety lanyard is attached to the handle, providing security to prevent accidental loss in moving water.
Its deep, tangle-free net bag is made from non-absorbent rubber material. This coating is gentle on fish slime and scales, supports quick releases, and prevents the net from becoming waterlogged and heavy. It’s a practical and attractive net for river and stream fishing.
Frabill Power Stow Poly Net | Foldable Fishing Net for Easy Storage
The Frabill Power Stow is defined by its clever folding design. The hoop collapses into a much more manageable size, making it exceptionally easy to stow in a gear bag, car trunk, or small boat compartment. This is a major advantage for anglers with limited storage space.
Despite its foldable design, it opens to a full-sized 20″ x 24″ hoop capable of landing substantial fish. The poly netting is durable for general use. This net prioritizes convenience and space-saving above all, without sacrificing a functional landing area.
PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead, Salmon, Fly, Kayak Fishing
PLUSINNO’s offering incorporates two key features for the active angler: flotation and fish-friendly netting. Foam padding integrated into the hoop provides reliable buoyancy, a critical feature for kayak or wade fishing where dropping gear is a real risk.
The net bag is coated with a non-snag rubber material that is easy on fish and prevents hooks from tangling. This coating also resists absorbing water and odors. With a classic shape and a comfortable grip on the handle, this net is a well-rounded choice for various fishing styles.
BUBBA Large 24 Inch Carbon Fiber Fishing Net – Durable, Corrosion Resistant
For anglers targeting larger species, the BUBBA net provides serious capability. Its expansive 24-inch hoop and six-foot handle are designed to manage big fish up to 75 pounds. The entire structure is built from corrosion-resistant carbon fiber, making it both incredibly strong and surprisingly lightweight for its size.
The textured, non-slip grip ensures secure handling even when wet, giving you confidence when battling a trophy catch. This is a specialized tool for saltwater anglers or freshwater fishermen pursuing pike, musky, or large catfish where strength and a big landing area are non-negotiable.
Ego S2 Slider Fishing Net, Ultimate Fishermen s Tool, Telescoping Handle
The Ego S2 Slider stands out for its innovative and versatile design. Its S2 Slider technology allows you to smoothly adjust the handle length from 29 to 60 inches with one hand, meaning you may not need to put your rod down to adjust your net. This can be a significant advantage during a active fight.
Beyond just a net, it functions as a modular platform. The net head is removable and can be replaced with over 30 different attachments, from fish grippers to measuring tapes. This adaptability makes it a multi-purpose tool for the angler who values gear that can perform multiple functions.
KastKing Madbite Folding Rubber Fishing Net
KastKing’s Madbite net focuses on practical, space-saving design combined with fish-safe materials. Its folding mechanism allows the net hoop to collapse, making it highly portable and easy to pack along for hiking or biking to remote fishing spots. This design is ideal for the mobile angler.
It features a rubber-coated, non-tangle mesh that is gentle on catch-and-release fish and helps hooks slide free easily. The handle typically includes a comfortable grip for control. As a balance of compact storage, fish-friendly materials, and trusted brand reliability, it is a strong contender for general use.
How to Choose a Fishing Net for Catch and Release
Picking the right net isn’t just about landing the fish; it’s about giving it the best shot at swimming away healthy. I’ve learned that the wrong net can strip a fish’s protective slime coat, damage fins, or cause unnecessary stress. When I’m looking for the best fishing nets for catch and release, my checklist always starts with the bag material. Rubber or rubber-coated mesh is my top choice. It’s gentle on scales and slime, doesn’t get hooks tangled, and is just easier on the fish. Knotted nylon mesh, the old standard, is what I avoid—it can do a number on a fish’s protective layer and is a nightmare with treble hooks.
Next, I think about size and shape. A net that’s too small means more handling and a higher chance of losing the fish at the boat or bank. I look for a deep, wide bag that allows the fish to rest comfortably in the water without being crammed in. The hoop shape matters too. For bass and other larger freshwater species, a wide, flat-bottomed hoop is great. For longer fish like pike or in streams with current, a deeper, tear-drop or oval shape helps guide the fish in smoothly.
The handle is all about where and how I fish. From a kayak, a short 4- to 6-foot handle is manageable. On a bigger boat or for shore fishing, a longer handle, maybe 8 feet or more, gives me the reach I need. I also check the grip and overall weight—a comfy, non-slip grip and a light net make a long day on the water much better. Finally, I consider durability. A solid, one-piece aluminum or carbon fiber handle usually holds up better than a telescopic one with lots of moving parts, though collapsible nets are super convenient for storage. By focusing on these features—gentle material, proper size, and a handle that fits my style—I know I’m making a choice that’s good for me and the fishery.
FAQ
Why is rubber mesh better for catch and release?
Rubber or rubber-coated mesh is significantly gentler on a fish. It doesn’t scrape off the protective slime coat that guards against infection, and hooks don’t get stuck in it nearly as often. This means you can get the fish unhooked and back in the water faster and with less harm, which is the whole point of a responsible release.
What size net do I actually need?
Bigger is usually better, within reason. You want a net bag deep and wide enough that the fish isn’t bent or folded. A good rule I use is to have a net hoop that’s at least as wide as the longest fish I typically catch. For general freshwater fishing, a hoop around 20″ x 23″ is a versatile starting point. It’s one of the key features to check when reviewing the 9 best fishing nets for catch and release.
Are folding or telescoping nets reliable?
They can be, but you have to choose carefully. Many anglers love them for kayaks or backpacks because they save space. Look for models with robust locking mechanisms and quality materials. Sometimes, the convenience of a compact net is worth a slight trade-off in ultimate durability compared to a one-piece handle.
How do I clean and maintain my catch and release net?
It’s simple but important. After each trip, I rinse the net with fresh water, especially if I’ve been in saltwater or muddy conditions. I let it air dry completely before storing it to prevent mildew. For rubber nets, I occasionally wipe the bag down with a mild soap solution to remove any grime. Avoid harsh chemicals or power washers that can degrade the material.
Can I use the same net in both freshwater and saltwater?
You can, but you need to be diligent. Saltwater is corrosive, so you must rinse the entire net—handle, hoop, and bag—thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater use. If you fish saltwater frequently, consider a net specifically built with corrosion-resistant components like anodized aluminum or stainless steel.