Nothing can be more disappointing or frustrating for an angler than to lose fish that they caught painstakingly. Between controlling the kayak, the paddles, the fishing rod, and yourself, you also need to grab the fish and then even be able to hold on to it. If you’ve ever lost your haul when you almost had it or struggled to land a fish knocked over stuff in your kayak, then you know how important fishing nets are. The best kayak fishing and landing nets are very handy for you to maintain your catch. What’s more, they also make it possible for you to catch a lot of fish that could be swimming around but are difficult to catch otherwise.
The entire point of you having sailed smack dab in the middle of a lake or a river is, ultimately, to catch fish. That said, we’ve also just mentioned how difficult it is to catch and manage live fish in a kayak. This is why we’re recommending the 13 best kayak fishing and landing nets in this article, along with a handy guide to buying the best ones on the market.
How To Choose The Best Kayak Fishing Nets?
Buying a kayak fishing net seems simple; after all, it’s just a net on a pole, right? But kayak fishing nets are so much more than just that, and there are a lot of things you need to keep in mind before you go buying one. It’s just like when you buy other kayak accessories such as the Best Kayaking Anchors or the Best Kayaking Cockpit Covers – you need to consider size, weight, features, and so much more. So, what should you look for in kayak fishing nets? Read on.
Type
If you want landing nets to work securely and safely during a catch, then you need to know the difference between a net that’s only for catching and releasing fish and that for solely catching fish. In addition, you might also be interested in catching the fish only with the net without using any other form of fishing gear such as a rod. While this is more difficult to use and execute, it is the most ideal fishing net for kayak anglers, especially if you’re sitting close to the water.
Material
Generally, kayak fishing and landing nets come in three kinds of mesh material – knotless, rubberized, or nylon or nylon-coated. By far, nylon mesh is the commonest of the three since it’s immune to damage caused by UV rays and saltwater. What’s more, it’s also resistant to hooks and lightweight. Knotless nets, on the other hand, are light in weight and cause less damage to the fish. They’re also less likely yo snag on hooks as opposed to knotted nets or get tangled, for that matter.
Finally, we have the more humane rubber mesh nets which are less likely to scrape off the natural mucus covering of the fish or damage its fins, scales, or gills. If you’re going the catch and release way, then go for rubber nets.
Size
Finally, size is an extremely critical factor while choosing fishing accessories, whether it’s fishing nets or the Best Kayak Bimini Tops and Canopies. To begin with, you should find out whether your entire fishing net can be fit into your kayaking or fishing backpack. Ideally, fishing nets should be of a reasonable size and should be extendable or collapsible that allows for easier storage. Thus, the best nets are telescoping or folding nets which can easily be transported anywhere. Another important size factor is the size of the mesh or hoop. The smaller the fish you want to catch, the smaller the net ought to be. In addition, the bigger the fish you want to catch, the wider the net and the bigger the holes should be.
What is the best kayak fishing net for fly fishing?
The best fishing net for fly fishing is undoubtedly the ODDSPRO Fly Fishing Landing Net. Not only is it a well-made landing net, but it also costs just $18! The lightweight and durable fishing net features a strong grip thanks to the non-slip coating and features a waterproof mesh that keeps waterlogging and odor at bay. It doesn’t get tangled either, thus keeping the fish safe. Finally, the handle can even be shortened tp fly fish more effectively.
KastKing MadBite Improved Fishing Net
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The KastKing MadBite Improved Fishing Net is one of the best kayak fishing nets for more than one reason. Firstly, it combines a convenient and lightweight folding telescopic design with a durable and robust build. The rubber-coated nylon fine-mesh that the landing net is made from is even resistant to tangles. What’s more, it prevents the hook points from getting stuck in the net and isn’t harmful to the fish’s gills or scales either. What’s even better is that the mesh coating prevents it from absorbing water, ensuring that it won’t become heavier when it’s immersed.
The fishing net’s pole folds down to a length of just 21 inches while extending up to a whopping 35 inches in length. Made from long-lasting E-glass, the MadBite’s pole is very sturdy and won’t bend or dent like aluminum. The net even comes with a rather handy belt clip that makes it easily portable. Finally, all of KastKing’s components are anti-rusting, saltwater-safe, and boast a non-glare finish.
Pros:
- Telescopic and foldable.
- Comes with a belt clip.
- Durable build.
- Fish-friendly.
- Tangle-resistant
Cons:
- Only one mesh size available.
Wakeman Fishing Accessories Classic Landing Net
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The Wakeman Fishing Accessories Classic Landing Net is a rather wonderful all-around net that is perfectly capable of handling a wide range of fish sizes. The rubberized net is ideal for catch and release recreational fishing, and is telescopic as well. So, you won’t have any problem folding it and storing it in your backpack. Made from high-quality thermal plastic-rubber, the net not only prevents your hooks from being caught in the mesh but also eliminates tangles and prevents damage to fish. Moreover, the wide net opening, along with the flat-bottomed basket, allows you to catch fish of all sizes.
The corrosion-resistant and retractable aluminum handle is 35 inches in length and extends to a whopping 56 inches in length when the handle is completely extended. So, it’s perfect for pulling in fish even if they’re farther away. All-in-all, the Wakeman Fishing Accessories Classic Landing Net is an excellent choice for those looking for a telescopic and lightweight fishing net.
Pros:
- Resistant to corrosion.
- Fish-friendly.
- Rubberized net.
- Long telescopic net.
Cons:
- None, really.
Wakeman Fishing Accessories Steel Frame Net
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Wakeman makes another appearance on this list of best kayak fishing nets with the Wakeman Fishing Accessories Steel Frame Net. If you’re looking for a fishing net that can handle catching heavier and larger river fish, then you’ll appreciate the robustness and the steel-headed construction of this Wakeman net. The landing net features a single-piece, 16-inch long aluminum handle as well as a larger and wider 10-inch deep net. Thus, it can take on the challenge of catching a large fish from the water and easily moving it onto your kayak.
Furthermore, the durable nylon net is particularly designed for catching larger fish, thanks to the 1-by-1 inch mesh. While it’s not exactly portable or lightweight, this strong and durable net is perfect for taking on the biggest of the fishes that the lake or the river throws at you.
Pros:
- 1-by-1 inch mesh is perfect for larger fish.
- Larger and wider 10-inch deep net.
- Sturdy aluminum and steel build.
Cons:
- Not rubberized or telescopic.
PLUSINNO Fishing Net
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If you want choices for sizes when it comes to fishing nets, then the PLUSINNO Fishing Net is one of the best kayak fishing landing nets as it comes in four different sizes. So, you’ll find a fixed pole with a 12-inch hoop size, as well as 2 and 3-section telescopic poles with 16-inch, 17-inch, and 20-inch hoop sizes. Hence, you can take the excellent features of the fishing net that come as standard and extend them to a design and size that suits you best. Notwithstanding the design and the size of the pole, every PLUSINNO net is crafted from high-density carbon fiber that’s beautifully blended with fiberglass to make the pole durable, robust, and solid.
Going further, the waterproof nylon that the mesh is made from doesn’t absorb water, so it won’t get heavy either. Moreover, the coating prevents the absorption of both odor and bacteria. The knotless design on the net also makes it easier on fish and prevents both the fishhooks and net from getting tangled. Finally, the optional telescopic and foldable poles also come with a belt clip for ease of transport and carry.
Pros:
- Belt clip.
- Non-absorbent coating.
- Knotless net.
- High-density carbon fiber construction.
Cons:
- Not rubberized.
KUFA Telescope Aluminum Landing Net
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Another of the best kayak fishing nets that’s easy to use and simple is the KUFA Telescope Aluminum Landing Net. Made from lightweight but strong and robust aluminum, the KUFA fishing net telescopes from a portable and storable 27 inches in length to a long, long length of 47 inches. The net is made from knotless nylon mesh, which makes it ideal for a catch and release recreational fishing expedition. What helps it further is the 16-by-16 inch triangular hoop.
Furthermore, the fishing net is a well-designed piece of equipment that’s easy to use too. The trick to folding back the entire contraption is to push down on the center flange where the net meets the handle until it releases the sides of the net. And voila, you have it pat down to a portable size.
Pros:
- Collapses down to a portable 27 inches.
- Knotless nylon mesh is ideal for catch and release fishing.
- Long telescopic 47-inch length.
Cons:
- Not rubberized.
SF Fly Fishing Catch and Release Net
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The SF Fly Fishing Catch and Release Net is best kayak fishing landing nets for catch and release anglers. if you’re someone who doesn’t want to cause damage to the fish you catch, then this fishing net is perfect. Crafted from a clear, soft, rubberized material, the SF net doesn’t harm the fish’s fins, scales, or gills. An additional advantage is that the fishing net doesn’t attract mildew, doesn’t rot, and neither does it tangle. The fishing net’s frame is made from hardwood and durable laminated bamboo. Furthermore, it comes in a teardrop, round head, and square head designs.
While it has limited reach due to the paddle design, it’s very advantageous for kayakers who have limited space onboard their kayak. What’s more, there’s even a magnetic clip attached to a safety cable connectable to the copper swivel at the handle’s end. It’s what keeps your net securely in your hand.
Pros:
- Has a safety clip.
- Comes in different head types.
- Durable hardwood build.
- Won’t rot or get tangled.
- Very fish friendly.
Cons:
- Limited range.
Fiblink Folding Aluminum Fishing Landing Net
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If you’re looking for a fishing net that’s longer and has a wider fishing range, then look no further than the Fiblink Folding Aluminum Fishing Landing Net. One of the best longest kayak fishing nets, the Fiblink net is designed from corrosion-resistant anodized aluminum alloy for both the loop and the handle. Moreover, the net can be folded down to an extremely portable 23 inches onto the rod for easy storage, while extending to a lengthy 37 inches for fishing.
The microfine mesh is not only knot-free but made from durable nylon, which makes it perfect for catch and release fishing. it’s also slightly kinder on the fish and their scales and gills. What’s more, the net itself features a non-absorbent coating, with all of its components being resistant to both saltwater, corrosion and rusting.
Pros:
- Non-absorbent.
- Folds down to 23 inches.
- Long 37-inch telescoping handle.
- Folding net.
- Anodized aluminum.
Cons:
- Practically none.
ODDSPRO Fly Fishing Landing Net
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If you’re looking for a budget kayak fishing landing net, then check out the ODDSPRO Fly Fishing Landing Net. Costing just $18, this is one of the best value-for-money fishing nets you can get. To begin with, the net boasts a loop and a handle that is made from premium-quality carbon fiber blended with fiberglass. Together, this build makes the net sturdy, impact-resistant, and ultra-light. There’s even a non-slip coating on the handle that ensures a better grip. Furthermore, the waterproof rubber coating on the nylon mesh helps prevent both bad odor and waterlogging.
What you’ll really like is that the mesh’s knotless design avoids fishhooks from getting tangled, which also prevents the slime coating of the fish from getting impacted. Thanks to the collapsible fly fishing net that can be clipped to your back or waist, the net is easy to carry. The handle is 8.5 inches in length, which can be shortened if you want to fly fish. Finally, the net features a universal middle size along with a hoop size that’s big enough to catch trout fish of most ranges.
Pros:
- Affordable.
- The handle has a non-slip coating.
- Knotless nylon mesh prevents fishhooks from tangling.
Cons:
- None!
ForEverlast Inc. Generation Floating Fishing Landing Net
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One of the best kayak fishing nets is from the ForEverlast brand. The ForEverlast Inc. Generation Floating Fishing Landing Net is one trusted angling companion for more reasons than one. To begin with, it has floatation capabilities as well as an extendable cord. Both of them ensure that you’ll never lose your net or your precious catch ever again. What’s more, the fishing net can also accommodate a wide variety of fish since it has a large opening for capturing fishes of all types and sizes. It’s no surprise that this fishing net won the award for ‘Best of Show Fishing Accessories’ in 2013 by ICAST.
Since the net boasts a lightweight design, it’s also easy to move around with and deploy too. The net’s handle is long and extended for reaching into the water easily, while the grip is solid and firm too. Rounding up the features are the rubber-coated fish-safe netting and the cord, which tethers the net to your wading belt for easy access.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to deploy.
- The net is fish-friendly and rubber-coated.
- Can catch a wide variety of fish.
Cons:
- Some users mentioned that durability is an issue.
RESTCLOUD Fishing Landing Net
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If a reliable and long-lasting product is what you want, then the best kayak fishing landing net is the Restcloud Fishing Landing Net. The net is designed from durable netting, complete with a corrosion-resistant aluminum handle for a long-lasting experience. So, you can use this net in both freshwater and saltwater. Thanks to the telescopic handle that can be extended from 18 inches to 36 inches, you can catch fish from far and wide.
Going further, what you’ll like is that the handle has a flip that locks the net into the said groove. It’s also fish-friendly, thanks to the soft and lightweight mesh that’s perfect for both professionals and beginners. Finally, the entire gear can be folded and retracted, and thus enjoys great portability too.
Pros:
- Very inexpensive for $11.
- Durable and long-lasting.
- Mesh is soft and lightweight.
- Portable.
Cons:
- Not as good as other nets on this list.
EGO S2 Slider Fishing Net
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The EGO S2 Slider Fishing Net is one of the most versatile kayak fishing nets that you can buy today. With this one, you never have to worry about losing your haul ever again. Not only is this a one-dimensional net, but it also comes with an inventive modular platform. It allows you to take off the net and apply over 30 interchangeable attachments! It’s what makes this gear, which is a blend of diversity and quality, so special. Furthermore, the revolutionary S2 Slider technology allows you to modify the net’s length with a simple pull or push.
Going further, this feature allows you to control the fishing rod like no other fishing net will. Moreover, the pole even boasts an amazing grip and is extendable from 29 inches to 60 inches. Rounding up the features is the varying types of mesh and interchangeable modular head, allowing you to hold up to 30 lbs. of fish!
Pros:
- Allows holding up to 30 lbs. of catch.
- S2 slider technology for changing the net length.
- Versatile.
Cons:
- The basket is a bit shallow.
Entsport Collapsible Fishing Net
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This collapsible Entsport Collapsible Fishing Net is amongst the best kayak fishing landing nets out there, thanks to the nylon mesh net build with tangle-free properties. What’s more, the mesh also features a non-absorbent coating that’s resistant to decay and wear and is waterproof as well. Plus, its soft mesh isn’t harmful to the fish or their gills and scales by any stretch, making it the perfect gear for catch and release. The folding pole is no less amazing, thanks to its strong aluminum build that is retractable and resistant to corrosion.
If that wasn’t enough, it even features a specially designed PVC grip that’s skid-resistant, allowing the net to be more in control, more comfortable, more durable, and more sensitive. Besides featuring a one-year warranty, the net can even be extended to a length of up to 40 inches!
Pros:
- Folding pole is strong, resistant to corrosion, and has a strong grip.
- Net is not harmful to fish.
- Net is waterproof and is resistant to wear and decay.
Cons:
- None, really.
Goture Magnetic Clip Fly Fishing Landing Net
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Finally, we come to the top of the list of best kayak fishing nets with the Goture Magnetic Clip Fly Fishing Landing Net. Armed with a foldable and flexible and foldable pole design, the length of the pole can be easily adjusted, thus making it perfect for storing and carrying easily. The net is made from natural rubber on a wooden frame that doesn’t damage the fish and its gills and scales, making it ideal for easy catch and release. Furthermore, the hook points are carefully designed so as to not stick to one another, ensuring that the net is harmless to both the fish and the angler.
However, that’s not all. The net’s handle is well-designed from a magnetic clip head, complete with a stretchable spring-cord for not losing it in the water and keeping it as close as possible. It can be extended to a length of 32 inches and boasts a diverse usage for activities ranging from shore fishing to fly fishing.
Pros:
- Foldable and flexible.
- Durable and strong.
- Not harmful to fish or angler.
- Reasonably priced.
Cons:
- None.
