Landing net
Also called fish landing net, rubber net, trout net
A landing net is a handled hoop with mesh used to control and lift a fish at the end of the fight. In fly fishing it’s mainly about safer releases and fewer lost fish at close range.
- Group
- Tools & accessories
- Category
- Gear & tackle
- Level
- Beginner
- Water
- Fresh & salt
Last updated
What Landing net means
The last few feet of a fight are where fish come unbuttoned. A landing net gives you a controlled way to bring a fish to hand without squeezing it, beaching it, or chasing it around in shallow water.
Most fly anglers use a rubber or rubber-coated mesh net because it’s less abrasive than knotted nylon and it tangles less with hooks. Net size matters. Trout nets are usually smaller and lighter. Nets for steelhead, salmon, carp, or saltwater fish need a wider hoop and deeper bag so the fish can sit in the mesh without folding or thrashing.
Use the net only when the fish is ready. Lead the fish head-first over the hoop, then lift. In current, keep the fish in the water while unhooking when possible, and avoid dragging the mesh across rocks or gravel.
Why it matters on the water
A net changes how many fish make it to the release. When a fish rolls at the surface or makes a last-second surge, the net gives a clean “end point” instead of a hand grab that can pop the hook or break tippet.
It also changes fish handling. A fish supported in the water in a deeper, softer bag usually stays calmer, which speeds up unhooking and reduces time out of water. That matters on warm days, in low water, and any time a fish is already stressed.
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- NippersNippers are small line cutters used to trim tag ends and cut tippet or leader on the water. Most are spring-loaded and clip to a zinger, pack, or vest.
- WadersWaterproof pants (often chest-high) that let you wade in rivers and lakes while staying dry and warmer. Most fly-fishing waders are worn with separate wading boots.
- Wading staffA wading staff is a collapsible or fixed pole used for balance and footing while wading. It gives a third point of contact in current, slick rocks, mud, or uneven bottoms.