Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post covering my 3 best kayak landing nets to scoop up this year. Along with other kayak requirements such as trolleys and tools, I consider a good landing net as another ‘must have’ when out on the water. Well it is for me anyway as one of the species we chase is quite adept at dropping the hook as we try and bring it on board. And for other fish types, it can be a lot easier to land once they have been caught than trying to lift them into an area around your feet where space is already limited.
A kayak landing net then simply makes fishing in a kayak a lot easier. And best of all, unlike most other options for a kayak, there is not a lot of variation in type so grab yourself a nice cold beverage and a snack and let’s see if we can get you setup with a good net for your kayak expeditions…
My 3 recommended kayak landing nets
I will review these in more detail below but if you just want to get moving without all the carry on, my 3 are listed here for your convenience:
| Â | Landing Net | Price | Get it |
|---|---|---|---|
 | PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | ForEverlast Inc. Generation 2 Floating Landing Net | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | PLUSINNO Folding Landing Net with Telescopic Pole | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are kayak landing nets?
When it comes to nets for the kayak, some call then landing nets whilst other (including me) call them fishing nets. However, for the purpose of this post we are discussing what is effectively a mesh material attached to a metal or plastic frame that allows you to scoop up a fish from the water once you have brought it to the surface.
Fishing nets on the other hand are the big nets that are used to catch fish.
Landing nets can provide the following advantages for kayaks:
- Allows you to bring fish onto the vessel without it ‘flopping around’ everywhere.
- Reduces the chance of the fish dropping the hook (getting away) as you lift if from the water.
- Keeps the fish in the one spot whilst you remove the hook/lure.
- Minimizes stress on the fish if you are looking to release it.
Trust me, once you have one, you will forever wonder how you would ever do without it!
What should you be looking for?
I mentioned above that there is not a lot of variation when it comes to landing nets for a kayak however the type you choose may depend on:
Size – Again, the main thing to consider when it comes to a kayak landing net is the space you have on board the kayak. It probably goes without saying then that the large nets for ocean fishing are going to be just a little large for use here. Stick to a model that is big enough for the fish you are trying to catch, but not too big to become uncomfortable to use on your vessel.
Netting – Landing nets can be made of a number of different materials such as nylon, reinforced cotton or a rubber material. I personally like the rubberized material as it is more resistant to getting hooks stuck in them.
Telescopic handle – As with the size discussions above, many nets contain a telescopic handle reducing its size whilst in transport with the ability to extend it whilst in use. This is also very handy if you do not have enough rod holders in your kayak to keep the net in whilst you move about.
At the end of the day, you need something that is lightweight and small enough to handle the size of your kayak and big enough to handle the size of the fish that you wish to catch.
What do I use?
I use a rubberized mesh net on my kayak with an extendable handle. It specifications are as follows:
- Frame – extendable aluminium – 68cm (26 inches) to 106cm (41 inches) extended
- Net – rubber mesh – 35cm (13 inches) x 45cm (18 inches) – Depth 30cm (11 inches)
- Handle – EVA
If I am being honest here, I chose this one as it was the best option for the price with rubber netting that I could find at the time. This was due to the fact that my previous one was made with a nylon net and the hook kept getting caught inside of it.
The extendable handle was not really a consideration for me as I have a spare rod holder but it would definitely be of advantage if I did not have one.
My three recommendations broken down
Luckily for us, there does not appear to the large variation of options with kayak landing nets than there is with other fishing accessories. I have however chosen three in an attempt to give you options based on the information above as follows:
1. PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net
For the price, this first one is a great option for those looking to get themselves a good fishing net at a good price. This one is a decent size and folds down completely making it good for those who do not have a rod holder to keep it in when paddling. Specifications as follows:
- Frame – Lightweight carbon fiber and fiberglass – extends to 28.34 inches (71cm)
- Net – Rubber coated nylon – hoop size 14 inches (35cm) – depth 14 inches (35cm)
- Handle – EVA
Other inclusions:
- Net floats when in water
- Foldable for easy transportation and storage
- Lightweight – 12.91oz (366g)
Why have I chosen it?
I like this one purely for its size, weight and composition for the price. It will fit all kayaks and great for those without a spare rod holder. It is light weight, easily stored and I think a good option for those who just want a good landing net for their kayak without too much fuss.
2. ForEverlast Inc. Generation 2 Floating Landing Net
This next one is good for those who want something a little smaller that can sit on the kayak without fear of it sinking if it falls overboard. And for those who want their net easily accessible, it also has a tethering strap so it can be tied to the side of the vessel for easy access as well. Its specs include:
- Frame – Lightweight EVA coated aluminium – 17 inches total length (43cm)
- Net – Rubber coated nylon – hoop size 15 inches (38cm) – Depth not stated
- Handle – EVA
Other inclusions:
- EVA covering of entire frame for added comfort
Why have I chosen it?
This is another great option for kayak fishermen who want something that is small enough for easy handling but large enough to land most decent sized fish. And if you have need for it in other areas it is light enough to be tied to your belt if you are standing as well.
3. PLUSINNO Folding Landing Net with Telescopic Pole
The third option I have chosen is the closest to the type I use with a telescopic pole for use on a rod holder and a rubberized mesh net. Its net size is a little larger than the others listed here so it can handle bigger catches whilst still small enough for use on all fishing kayak sizes (that have a spare rod holder that is). Is specifications include:
- Frame – Lightweight aluminium alloy – 44.5 inches (113cm) to 58.27 inches (148cm) extended (folds to 19.7 inches)
- Net – Rubber coated nylon – hoop size 19.7 inches (50cm) – Depth not stated
- Handle – EVA
Other inclusions:
- Net floats when in water
- Foldable handle for easy transportation and storage
- Lanyard cord with a clip for added attachment option
Why have I chosen it?
This is a great one for those looking for a little more quality or slightly larger specifications that make it a very versatile option for most conditions and needs in both inland and ocean settings – especially if you are lucky enough to catch the big ones.
Conclusion
And there it is – my 3 best kayak landing nets to scoop up this year. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
