It’s so annoying when you can’t catch a fish before having a chance to reel it in, isn’t it?
You should make sure to bring a fishing net along with your other equipment.
Kayaks are relatively small, which makes catching fish a challenge. Incorporate maintaining equilibrium, managing your paddle and the fishing line, and managing a living snare into your activities– and you understand what I’m getting at.
It almost sounds impossible, right?
Take a step in the right direction and select the ideal kayak fishing net for both you and the fish!
Do I Need A Net For Kayak Fishing?
Essentially, you only require a rod to be able to fish. Managing live fish in a little plastic vessel is usually far more difficult than most individuals think.
Don’t believe me? Well, kayak anglers let me ask you something:
Have you ever unsuccessfully attempted to catch a fish while in your kayak, only to get it onto the deck of the boat but then it would flop around and fling itself out of the kayak, returning to the water?
It is an upsetting moment, right? Particularly if you had worked hard to accomplish it.
A net is not indispensable, but it definitely makes it easier to snag a fish, and lowers the possibility of letting it go. In the majority of cases, it’s also safer for you — particularly if the fish you’re handling are sizable and equipped with teeth or their pointy fins may cause injury.
In catch and release fishing, a net is essential for success.
It is a lot more efficient to use a net to capture the fish instead of struggling to unhook it while it flops around on the kayak’s deck.
How To Choose The Best Kayak Fishing Net: All Your Questions Answered
Are you confident that you can pick out the correct fishing net for your particular purpose?
What Is The Best Size Of A Fishing Net?
It is essential to think about how big your kayak fishing net should be – primarily depending on the type and size of fish that you aim to catch.
If you want to catch a large fish, then you need to use a larger net. The first guideline to follow is to ensure that the tank you choose is the correct size because this will reduce the chance of the fish getting out.
Make sure that you look at the diameter and depth of the fishing net’s circle.
Next, check the size of the actual mesh.
If you are expecting to hook minnow or other small fish, make sure that the openings in the net are narrow enough to hold them, instead of allowing them to swim away. In contrast, saltwater creatures that are bigger in size require mesh holes that are more substantial, which will make the net more maneuverable while it is in the water.
What Is The Best Material For Fishing Nets?
The net used for fishing will be constructed of a mesh fabric. The real question is:
What kind of mesh fabric?
In many cases, the piece of equipment features a nylon mesh covering, but some versions might contain an extra layer of plastic too.
Now, here’s something to keep in mind:
Try to acquire a fabric for the netting that is gentle and won’t hurt the fish, particularly if you plan to return the fish back into the lake unscathed.
Rubber-coated nylon is preferable when thinking of the safety of the fish because uncoated nylon is often quite rough. Go for mesh construction that will not become entangled in the hooks for the most beneficial outcomes.
It is largely a personal choice as to what material the handle should be made of. The market currently contains two primary choices – aluminum and a mixture of carbon fiber and fiberglass.
What’s The Right Handle Length For A Fishing Net?
Using shorter handles is a benefit when it comes to catching fish that are nearer by, and it is simpler to store them in a kayak. However, using handles of increased length enables you to stretch out farther and retrieve fish that is more distant or lower down in the water.
The pond or lake where you are angling is an important element. Handles that are extended in length are most appropriate for open bodies of water, whereas those that are shorter are more suitable in smaller bodies like creeks or ponds.
It is clear that this is an issue of mobility.
You should think carefully to decide if the fishing net will fit in the fishing kayak since it is larger than a typical recreational kayak, but there is still not a lot of room.
It is recommended to search for handles that can be compacted or folded up if you are concerned about consuming deck or portability area on the kayak. Telescopic handles that can be expanded depending on the situation are a reliable choice.
Is The Net Floatable?
When you’re fishing from a kayak, the odds are in favor of some of your equipment ending up in the drink; it is what it is. It’s pretty apparent why having a net that floats would be highly beneficial:
Should you unintentionally let your net fall into the water, it will be easier to recover than one that does not float.
In other words, if you like a particular fishing net, not having a floatable design may not be a make-or-break factor. You might be able to create your own floating net by connecting a piece of foam from a pool noodle on to the handle or securing some foam onto the lanyard.
In any case, there is a straightforward way to deal with the conundrum of design that cannot be floated.
How To Clean Kayak Fishing Nets?
Fishing nets are usually very durable and intended to bring in fish, however, sometimes there are some stubborn dirt and smelly deposits that need to be taken care of. Otherwise, you’ll be left with a stinky, germ-filled net likely smelling like spoiled fish.
Sounds lovely, huh?
The great news is that it is typically simple to clean nets.
For rubber-coated nets, rinsing them in clean water and cleaning them after each use typically suffices.
If you have a net made from nylon, more care must be taken to maintain it, as the material is known to trap unpleasant odours and germ particles. Start out by immersing the item in hot water, and then use a brush to clean off any grime and any other obstructions.
Once you’ve completed, hang the item up to dry in the air – it’ll be all set for your next fishing adventure.
Top 5 Best Fishing Nets For Kayakers
1: ForEverlast Inc. Generation 2 Pro Non-Snag Floating Fishing Net (Best Overall)
- Length: 29 inches
- Weight: 12 ounces
- Hoop Size: 16 inches
This Fishing Net provided by ForEverlast Inc. is lightweight and intended for anglers who use kayaks. It has a key attribute in that it is designed to be buoyant, meaning you can attach it to the side of your boat and let it drift in the water if you want.
The vivid emerald hue of the product makes it easier to find in the case that it is misplaced.
The mesh has a large oval-shaped hole that measures 16 inches across and is a bit longer than 19 inches. This item has a depth of 18 inches, which can be just right for luring in large bass. Crappie and walleye can be quite content in an environment of this size.
The net is crafted from nylon that is covered in rubber to prevent snagging. It is effective in both saltwater and freshwater.
This landing net has an advantageous aspect in that it includes a removable elastic cord in the handle. You can attach this to any of your gear, or even secure it to your kayak.
Features
- Highly visible
- Floats
- Non-snag mesh
- Large net
2: EGO S2 Slider Fishing Net
- Length: 29 to 60 inches (handle)
- Weight: 2.5 pounds
- Hoop Size: 17 to 24 inches
If you’re in the market for a fishing net with a changeable handle, the EGO S2 Slider may be a great choice. This handle can be increased from 29 inches to 60 inches in length, making it perfect to have along for both small storage and fishing on a lake. One may make alterations to the handle by pushing or pulling it out with a button.
You can pick from various hoop sizes for the EGO S2, with 17 inches as the smallest, so you can select the most suitable one for the kind and size of fish you plan to capture. This item is made of a PVC coated mesh which is suitable for both saltwater and freshwater conditions, but it also comes in a range of mesh materials to fit personal preferences and uses.
This landing net consists of a pole which can be exchanged with other gear, like a deck brush and a lure retriever, both sold separately.
Features
- Extending handle
- Interchangeable with other compatible products
- Ideal for freshwater and saltwater
- Large hoop sizes
3: Plusinno Foldable Fishing Net
- Length: 27 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
- Hoop Size: 12 inches
The PLUSINNO Foldable Fishing Net has been created with portability and lightweight materials, making it ideally suited for people who enjoy Kayak Fishing. This item is able to be compacted for convenient keeping on the deck and it reduces to a mere 17 inches when folded.
A twelve-inch hoop might be ideal for capturing smaller bass and panfish since the net has a depth of seven and a half inches. This implies that this could not be appropriate for some greater species, like huge catfish or muskie.
This knotless net has a waterproof coating to keep hooks from snagging and increase the net’s longevity. The pole is fashioned out of carbon fiber and fiberglass in order to achieve maximum durability, and the handle has been designed with an EVA foam grip for enhanced grip and more comfortable handling.
Features
- Collapsible design
- Ideal for pond fishing
- Lightweight
- Knotless mesh
4: San Like Folding Fishing Net
- Length: 31.9 inches
- Weight: 13.5 ounces
- Hoop Size: 13 inches
This San Like Folding Fishing Net would be great for fishing in a kayak in lakes and rivers. This item is light in weight and has a foldable aluminum bar, making it easy to store and also comes with a grip that cannot slip.
When folded, the pole measures just under 17 inches. It is possible to quickly fold the item with the push of a button.
The net, measuring 13 inches in width, has an approximate depth of 12 inches and can be used to catch a variety of freshwater animals. This net is designed to be watertight, featuring a rubber coating to guard against injury to fish scales, enabling it to be used in a more secure manner for recreational fishing where the caught fish are released back into the water. This should also help avoid snagging your hooks on the net.
Features
- Non-slip handle
- Rubberized mesh net
- Foldable
- Extending handle
5: Sougayilang Fishing Landing Net (Best Budget Net)
- Length: 28.3 inches
- Weight: 11 ounces
- Hoop Size: 14.5 inches
This Sougayilang Fishing Net can be a terrific option for anglers who are on a limited budget but want to go kayak fishing. It can be folded into a small, manageable size that is ideal for fitting in your kit bag or tying down on the deck. The net and pole, folded, measure 16.9 inches, but the handle can be extended, making it more accessible for use in larger bodies of water or smaller ponds.
A 7 inch EVA handle provides a pleasant hold on the landing net. A nylon web with a waterproof rubber finish, crafted to protect fish scales, constitutes the construction of the net. The net is 12.9 inches deep and is appropriate for both small and medium sized fish.
This item is equipped with a clip that can be connected to a lanyard, allowing you to fasten it firmly onto your fishing vest or kayak.
Features
- Affordable
- Rubber coated nylon mesh
- Compact when folded
- EVA foam handle
Wrapping Up
We highly recommend the ForEverlast Generation 2 Pro landing net as the best kayak fishing net available right now. It is brightly colored for increased visibility. This product is light and also has a knotted, tough mesh material with rubberized nylon that adds longevity and helps prevent any kind of harm.
This item has a lanyard that can be drawn up, and it is buoyant, making it advantageous for kayak angling.
Plusinno Fishing Net is another great option, due to its retractable design. It is an ideal size for being placed in your gear bag or having it on your boat’s deck. Kayaking in small lakes or streams is an ideal activity for anglers because the specially designed knotless mesh can keep hooks from becoming tangled.
It’s important to find the kayak landing net that is best for you, regardless of what products are listed in our top five. It is worth verifying that the net picked is ideal for the species and size of fish that is to be caught and is suitable for catch and release if applicable.
