Best Kayak Fishing Net (The Top 5 in 2022 Reviewed)
As any kayak angler knows, the fishing net for kayak fishing is the most essential piece of equipment for securing those pesky fish after a long day on the water. Fishing in a kayak can be a tricky feat anyway; balancing, rowing, and navigating can all be difficult enough without the goal of the day slipping through the net! So how do you know which is the best fishing net for kayaks?
That's why we have assembled this handy guide for fishing nets for kayaks to ensure that you have the best equipment available. Nobody wants to be just left with wet clothes and a dirty kayak at the end of a long day at the fishing hole. Read on to find the best kayak fishing net suitable for you!
Do You Need a Net for Kayak Fishing?
Absolutely, positively YES. YES. YES!!! Well, that's if you want to be a successful kayak fisher and catch fish consistently. Kayak fishing nets will help you catch fish easier and quicker with less effort and who doesn't want that?
There is nothing more frustrating than watching the fish you have baited and chased slip through your fingers, all because you left your net at home.
Kayak Fishing Nets Buying Guide
Buying the best fishing net for kayaks seems relatively straightforward, doesn't it? We have all done it since we were children, buying the rods/poles to go fishing at the local beach, seeing what wonders we can uncover.
If it was as easy as that, everybody would be doing it. There are a few more considerations to take before making your purchase. Taking the time to research your needs will help you in the long run and may even save you a pretty penny. Read on to see the essential considerations before committing to your purchase.
1. Type of Net Mesh
In a general sense, there are three types of net mesh to consider for kayak fishing: Nylon/Nylon-coated, rubberized and knot-less. Each has its own benefits and disadvantages.
Nylon/Nylon-Coated
This is probably the most common net material and as such is lightweight, hook-resistant, and does not experience damage from the water's salt or the sun's UV rays.
Rubberized
This type of net mesh is perhaps the most humane of the options. Having a softer set, they are less likely to tear the scales from a fish you have just caught. This is only a concern for those who are fishing as a hobby and seek to release the catch afterward.
Knotted vs Knotless
The ultimate question. This choice definitely comes down to what you are intending to fish. Knotted fish net meshes tend to be stronger and more durable, though you do face the risk of getting tangled with your hook. Knotless fishing net meshes tend to have more sizes available and are considered much more humane. If you are looking for the catch and release style of fishing then these are the nets for you.
2. Size of Mesh
Once you have decided on what type of mesh you prefer, size is going to be the next issue. This mostly comes down to what you are fishing for and what you are comfortable with.
If you are sticking to kayak river fishing or smaller fish then a net with a mesh grid of 3/16 inches will be adequate for your expeditions. It goes without saying that larger fish, those found in the sea or larger lakes will require a larger net mesh up to one-inch grids.
One thing to consider, of course, is that if you prefer a rubber net mesh then this will expand when weight is applied to it. This can mean that you don't need to splash out on a super large net if your rubber net is going to expand around your catch.
3. Hoop Size
We all know what they say about those with a large net mesh..... they need a large hoop size. Hoop size is a deliberation that also must be taken before you buy. This will all come down to the size of fish you are looking to catch. You don't want to be trying to catch a herring with a net and a hoop sized for trout. you would spend your day watching all your catches wave at you as they coasted down the river.
4. Handle Material
As well as focusing on the net of your fishing equipment, the handle also needs to be considered. The materials of the handle tend to be either wood, aluminum, or carbon fiber. Wood is the heaviest of the three and can gain weight if it is exposed to water and the elements. However, wood does grant you that flexibility when dealing with larger fish.
If your net sees a lot of action and use, it will need to be re-varnished to avoid lasting damage. This adds an extra cost that isn't accrued through the aluminum or carbon fiber options.
5. Portability
Another concern for you before you go fishing in your kayak is the portability and transportability of your nets. Never forget that you will have your kayak and other fishing equipment with you (such as your tackle box), so the lightweight option may be the best for you. The last thing you want is a net to take up all of your space when you are already limited by your kayak.
One way in which companies are attempting to help in this regard is to make the net more portable through telescopic or folding handles. Though it is always best to check the handle length against the size of your kayak before committing to a purchase.
Kinds of Fishing Nets
What kind of fishing nets will suit you best? Well, here we discuss the different kinds that are available as well as which fishing they are best suitable for.
Fixed Frame
Fixed Frame nets come in many different shapes and are lighter compared to their folding fishing net counterparts, they are also a lot more robust and they are likely to be much more stable especially if you are trying to catch a larger fish or whole horde.
Folding
A simpler way for you to carry your equipment. Some fold just in half, while some are intended to continually fold into themselves saving huge amounts of storage space. This can be a godsend on those fishing trips that require more travel
Fly Fishing
The fly fishing net is lighter than the other two. It is able to be carried and used in the water rather than just from the kayak. It is also just as durable
The 5 Best Fishing Net for Kayaks
So here is the moment we have all been waiting for. Our top 5 best kayak fishing nets.
1. Plusinno Rubber Coated Floating Fishing Net
This second-generation fishing landing net has all the features you could want, need or desire all for a reasonable sum. A triangular-shaped hoop of 14 inches gives a reasonable size for all your fishing needs whilst two of the sides have been bolstered by the attachment of flotation tubes to prevent you from losing your fishing net in the water when you are at the most crucial stage of your trip.
This kayak fishing net has a foldable handle and is easy to use as well as store, making it a perfect companion for many seasoned anglers and those just starting. The handle is made from a mixture of fiberglass and carbon fiber keeping it lightweight and portable.
All in all, Plusinno has made this fishing net perfect for any outing, particularly on a kayak, whether you are out on the freshwater or braving the seas. Its rubber coated net means that it is fish-friendly and can ensure a fun and safe journey for one and all.
SF's Catch and Release net features a clear, soft rubberized net material that is delicate to fish and their scales but also won't rot or tangle. The clear color does not spook the fish as it camouflages itself in the water helping to trap your catch.
It features a wooden handle frame made from a mix of bamboo and hardwood, allowing for a flexible and durable finish, perfect for when you are fishing those larger fish. It is a perfect kayak fishing net and can be used as a fly fishing net and an onboard one.
This product has a new stronger and more durable carabiner quick-release magnetic clip allowing for swift net release and easy attachment.
Whilst slightly more expensive than the other options, SF is a brand dedicated to providing quality kayak fishing nets to anglers. This is one of the best available on the market and is highly durable. You won't need to replace this one as often as you might with others.
Ego have thought of it all on this one. When it comes to kayak fishing and fishing nets, there is nothing worse than not having the space for other equipment or having forgotten to bring something. Well, sacrifice no more. The S1 Genesis Floating Fishing Net boasts a variety of component attachments, varying sizes of handles, and the ability to change nets to suit whichever fishing trip you are going on.
This fishing net boasts promises maximum performance with a modular platform allowing for component interchangeability. Four landing net hoop sizes, five handle lengths, and multiple attachments promise to deliver the best kayak fishing net for any kayak fishing trip that you go on.
A more costly option but it promises to give you options and availability for all kinds of fishing. This landing net will ensure that you are not left out in the cold on the water and can bring a multitude of dinners back for the family. A truly versatile option.
YVLEEN's Floating Fishing Net provides a brilliant budget option. However, don't let this budget price make you think that it is a budget product. This premium product possesses a lightweight and fold-able style perfect for a fishing trip at any time of the year, at the spur of the moment. The rubber coating mesh protects the fish that you catch if you wish to release them or prevents any harm to your quarry. Finally, its floating ability prevents you from losing it, especially in those quick currents.
A perfect beginner's option for those just seeking to get into kayak fishing. Its weight clocks in at 0.73lbs meaning it does not take up any unnecessary space or add to that pesky weight capacity. At this budget price, this fishing net is not to be sniffed at. whether you are looking for a fishing net or a landing net, YVLEEN has certainly delivered a product for all. Just grab that lightweight handle and jump right in.
This Folding Fishing Landing Net by Goture is one of the most versatile around. It features a collapsible landing net to make your trips that much easier!
This landing net is composed of a rubberized coating net, which is soft enough to protect fish from being harmed and also can usefully prevent the hook from getting caught and tangled in the net in those most crucial moments.
Goture has designed their folding fishing net using a one-piece reinforced aluminum pole handle design to prevent damage during those rougher currents and to ensure durability. The lightweight triangular net frame provides robust support for the handle as well as being corrosion and impact resistant. Used in a variety of activities including river, lake, saltwater, ice and pond fishing, this truly is a dynamic choice.
As far as a fishing net goes this one is surely one to be looked at. Whilst it costs more than the average net, its durability can pay it off in the long run!
Our Pick!
Whether you are just putting your toe in the water of kayak fishing or a seasoned pro, you will always need reliable kayak fishing nets. The versatility of the Ego S1 Genesis Floating Fishing Net allows for it to be suitable for all kinds of fishing as well as being easy to store and carry. Extendable with exchangeable handles can ensure that no matter the fish, you should have no trouble in scooping it out of the water and celebrating after every attempt. Easy to use and at a mid-price benchmark, this fishing net is the one for you! This is why we do not doubt that this is the best kayak fishing net on the market right now.
So get yourself a fishing net and head down to your local watering hole! There is fish to be caught and trips to be had. Especially now that you can bore all your friends on the best fishing net for kayaks and why you have all of the fish.