Top 5 Long Handle Fishing Nets: Buyer’s Guide

Have you ever felt that satisfying tug on your line, only to watch your prize fish slip away right at the boat? It’s a frustrating moment every angler knows too well. Landing a big catch requires the right tools, and often, the unsung hero is the long handle fishing net.

Choosing the perfect net can feel overwhelming. Do you need a deep bag or a shallow one? What about the frame material—aluminum or durable composite? Selecting the wrong net means missed opportunities and damaged fish. We understand the struggle to find a net that is strong enough for that monster bass but light enough to carry all day.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down everything you need to know about long handle fishing nets—from understanding net sizes to choosing the best materials for your fishing style. By the end of this post, you will confidently select the net that guarantees more successful landings.

Top Long Handle Fishing Net Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1
Fiblink 118 inches Folding Fishing Landing Net Fish Net with Extending Telescoping Aluminum Pole Handle (59-118 inches)
  • Warm Reminders:We have three different models of landing nets. This is for 3-section foldable fishing net: Extend Length max.: 118" | Handle Length: 40"-100"(extendable) | Net Depth: 17" | Perimeter of the triangle Hoop: 65" | 40" when fully collapsed
  • Material:Corrosion resistant anodized and retractable aluminum alloy Pole & hoop helps prolong its service life and increase the carrying capacity. Skid-resistant PE handgrip prevents the skidding when your hand is wet
  • Nylon Small Mesh:Non-hydrophilic coating can protect the net from Waterlogging, go deep into water faster. The mesh structure - stable hexagon has the advantage of stability and good firmness. Durable, tangle-free coated fine mesh net makes it easier to capture small or big fish
  • Feature:Reasonable structure can be folded and stretched out. Convenient to carry or keep. Special fish entrance design protected the fish body from damaging
  • Multipurpose: Saltwater and freshwater are both applicable. Suitable for stream fishing, sea fishing, river fishing, lake fishing, boat fishing etc. It also can be used to scoop up algae from river
Bestseller No. 2
Fishing Landing Net with Telescoping Pole, Strong Stainless Handle Full Extended to 48 Inches
  • Fishing landing net is made of sturdy netting and strong stainless handle, it does not bend or broke, ensure long term performance and reliable use. Great for use fishing in salt water and fresh water!
  • The telescopic handle extends from 18" to 36", total handle with hoop expend to 48 inches, allows for the extra reach needed to get to your catch, great for kids and adults.
  • Lightweight soft mesh will not damage fish, making it a perfect tool for both beginner and advanced fishermen to use for catch and release.
  • Fishing net with handle is foldable and retractable, easy fit into a storage or rod locker.
  • Twist to left is to release; twist to right is to lock. Lockable and collapsible. Easy to assemble and use.
Bestseller No. 3
Riverruns Long Wooden Net Fly Fishing with Measuring Dots on Handle Soft Rubber Bag (Long Handle Wooden Net)
  • Size: The handle measures 20 inches in length, the hoop size measures 13.8 x18.5 inches , the depth is 10.63 inches, and the overall length is 38.58 inches.
  • Long handle design: The unique long handle design not only provides a wider operating range, but also ensures a comfortable grip. Users can easily reach distant targets while maintaining good posture, making the wooden net more versatile and user-friendly in various scenarios.
  • Clear Aluminum Scales: Clear aluminum nail scales are designed on the handle of the fly net. The distance between each scale is 1 inch, and the scale measured varies depending on the product model.
  • Comfortable Hand Feeling: The frame is made from hardwood. Sleek wooden finish with light weight, durable construction. Stabilized and laminated hardwood, ergonomic handle, comfortable feeling.
  • Soft Rubber Mesh: Knot-less rubber net soft and gentle great for catch and release. No tangle with lines or snag on hooks, virtually disappears underwater as ghost!
Bestseller No. 4
SEASPRO Red Telescoping Rubber Fishing Net Aluminum Alloy Fish Net - Adjustable Length Lightweight Foldable Large Fishing Net with Handle Collapsible Extendable Fishing Accessories
  • 1.VERSATILE AND PORTABLE DESIGN The Fishing Net Offers Versatile Functionality And Portability With A Large Size And A Telescoping Handle That Extends From 37.8 Inches To 63.8 Inches, Allowing You To Reach Difficult Spots Easily.Whether You're Fishing In A Fishpond Or Out On The Open Ocean, This Net Is Suitable For Various Fishing Needs. It Is Also Foldable And Lightweight, Making It Easy To Carry And Store.An Excellent Addition To Any Angler's Gear.
Bestseller No. 5
SAN LIKE Fishing Net Fish Landing Nets Ice Fishing Collapsible Telescopic Sturdy Pole Handle for Saltwater Freshwater Extending to 36/43/71/98inches (49inch-Black)
  • PREMIUM FIBERGLASS METERAIL : Featured with High-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass pole which makes the fishing net solid and durable, ensure long term performance and reliable use.
  • DURABLE RUBBER COATED MESH : Waterproof and non-absorbent rubber coating is knotless to prevent fishhooks from getting tangled.Lightweight soft mesh will not damage fish. This fishing net can be widely used for saltwater, freshwater, boat fishing, etc.
  • TELESCOPIC FISH LANDING NET : Foldable design, retractable pole and ultralight framework ensures you can carry and keep this net with ease. Skid-resistant EVA handle help you catch fish safely and stably. Extended length 51". Folded length: 17". Loop size:17''. Net depth:15''.
  • EASY TO OPERATE : Specially designed with rotary switch for easily locking and fastening.You can easily adjust the pole to a suitable length.
  • Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions for product of you buy. We will reply your email solve your problem within 24 hours.
Bestseller No. 6
Fishing Landing Net with Aluminum Telescoping Pole 75" Long Handle,Rubber Coated Nylon Mesh,for Steelhead,Salmon,Fly,Kayak,Catfish,Bass,Trout,Shrimp,Crab,for Easy Catch & Release,Extend to 75 Inch
  • 【4-section telescopic design】 Dimension :The 4-section telescopic handle extends from 19 in to 49.2 in, The sturdy aluminum alloy handle can be extended to 74.8 in, long enough allows the extra reach needed to reach your reach. The durable, tangle-free, coated fine mesh net makes it easy to catch large or small fish.
  • 【Safe catching and quick releasing】 With intensive honeycomb structure and ideal depth, it is not easy to escape the fish, the net makes it easy to catch and release. The soft and durable net will not hurt the fish scales. The fishing mesh fabric is designed to be less easily hooked, and the locking mechanism for the telescopic pole is not a plastic switch, its special coating prevents the hook points from getting stuck in the net, easy to open and hold .
  • 【Folding handle】 14.6 in wide and 15.8 in deep, fishing net weight: 1 lb, the frame is not heavy. Retractable design, the fishing net folds up at the push of a button for simple storage in your fishing tool bag, on the boat, in your garage or at home. It takes up less space and is easy to store, convenient to carry.
  • 【High-quality material】 The strong hexagonal structure mesh make the fishing net solid and durable. Retractable aluminum pole, non-slip and comfortable rubber handle.Special materials do not harm fish scales and can effectively prevent the odor.Made of durable 4mm fishnet nylon mesh, the landing net of wading has a large load capacity, the net can support up to 20lb and the pole can support up to 4.4 lb.
  • 【Wide Range of Applications】 Also makes a great net for both beginner,fisherman and experienced anglers. Suitable for stream fishing, river fishing, lake fishing, boat fishing, etc. great for catching large fish such as carp, trout, etc., as well as small creatures such as birds, butterflies, dragonfly, etc.
SaleBestseller No. 7
High Strength Large Landing Net - Fishing Net with Long Telescoping Handle and Soft Rubber Netting, Dip Net for Fishing, Ideal for Boat, Pier, River Angling (L - Full Rubber Netting)
  • 💎【Superior Durability and Strength】 Made entirely from high-strength aluminum alloy, this landing net ensures unmatched durability. The ring frame boasts a diameter of 0.52 inches, which is 30% thicker than similar products, providing enhanced resilience and stability during intense fishing sessions. With its robust construction, this net can handle heavy loads effortlessly. Total length: 45–60 in, hoop (L × W): 23 × 18 in
  • 🎣【Optimal Net Design for Maximum Catch】 The 19.5 inches deep soft rubber mesh with a mesh size of 1.2 inches is designed to securely hold fish of various sizes without causing harm. Silicone material minimizes tangling and hook snags, making it an ideal choice for both catch and release and keeping your catch in pristine condition. Experience smoother and more efficient fishing with this thoughtfully engineered landing net.
  • 🔗【Aluminum Alloy Connectors for Reliable Performance】 Unlike other nets that use plastic connectors, our landing net features all-aluminum alloy connectors. This ensures consistent performance and reliability under heavy loads, reducing the risk of breakage during critical moments. Whether fully extended or not, this net remains sturdy and dependable, offering a max load capacity of 18 pounds fully extended and 28 pounds when not extended.
  • 💡【Lightweight for Effortless Handling】 Weighing only 1.85 pounds, this landing net is designed for ease of use and fatigue-free handling. The length can be adjusted freely between 45 and 60, with internal rotation locking for greater firmness and stability. Its lightweight nature doesn't compromise on strength, ensuring you can maneuver and operate it comfortably during long fishing trips.The balance between weight and strength makes it a perfect companion for anglers of all levels.
  • 🌟【Convenient and Portable Design】 The 2-section retractable pole allows for easy storage and transport, reducing its size to a compact 26.2 x 18inches. Perfect for anglers on the go, this fishing net can be effortlessly stored in your vehicle or fishing gear bag. Despite its compact size when stored, it extends to a full length of 60 inches, giving you ample reach for all your fishing needs.
Bestseller No. 8
KastKing Brutus Fishing Net with Boat Hook, Foldable, Extendable, Lightweight & Strong Fish Landing Net, Non-Slip & Bright Orange TPR Handle, Fishing Gift for Men
  • High-quality Components: All KastKing Brutus Folding Landing Nets are built with high-quality 6063 Aluminum alloy for exceptional performance, reliable use, and durability. This material is stronger than other Aluminum alloys and can resist bending and cracking.
  • Foldable & Retractable: Using a u-shaped design net hoop, the KastKing Brutus Folding Landing Nets feature a push-down switch for convenient storage. This switch is connected to the net frame and reinforced with four stainless screws. Quickly and easily pull down the release button to fold the net frame. In addition to the retracting handle, the net frame folds in half to reduce the size for easy storage and transportation.
  • Bright Color TPR Handle with Built-in Boat Hook: The bright orange non-slip TPR handle ensures quick visibility in low light and provides a comfortable, firm grip that prevents slipping. The handle features a multi-functional boat hook, which can be easily activated or deactivated with a single button press, making docking easy, retrieving objects safely, and clearing obstacles. With a pull strength of up to 220 lbs, it provides robust performance for various tasks.
  • Environmentally Friendly & Stealth Design: Specially designed with two different net choices: nylon covered PVC or, clear silicone. These quality materials guarantee snag and tangle-free performance. Especially the soft silicone material that is fish-friendly so that it reduces harm to fish if you are planning to release your catch. That is a perfect choice for avid anglers practicing catch and release. The clear rubberized nets won’t spook the fish during the landing process.
  • Enhanced Features: KastKing Brutus Folding Landing Nets feature a telescoping handle design; the second extension handle can extend to a full 75" long for longer reach. Comes with a convenient storage bag, which protects the net when not in use. The end of the handle features a durable, molded butt cap for clearing obstructions and minimizing slippery pushing when using the boat hook, with molded grooves for better surface contact and a widened contact surface for improved stability.

Casting the Right Net: Your Guide to Long Handle Fishing Nets

A long-handle fishing net is a fantastic tool for any angler. It helps you safely land your catch without leaning too far over the boat or bank. Choosing the right one means better success and happier fish (if you plan to release them!). Here is everything you need to know before you buy.

Key Features to Look For

When you shop, focus on these important parts of the net:

  • Handle Length: This is the most important feature. Measure how far you usually need to reach. Shorter handles (around 3-4 feet) work well from small boats. Longer handles (6-8 feet or more) are great for high banks or wading in deeper water.
  • Net Hoop Size and Shape: The hoop is the ring that holds the net bag. Bigger hoops catch bigger fish. Square or triangular hoops often fit better in tight spots than perfectly round ones.
  • Net Depth: A deep net bag holds the fish securely. A shallow net might let a lively fish flop out easily.
  • Telescoping vs. Fixed Handle: Telescoping handles collapse for easy storage. Fixed handles are often stronger because they have fewer moving parts.

Important Materials Matter

The materials determine how long your net lasts and how heavy it is.

Handle Materials

Most modern long handles use aluminum or fiberglass. Aluminum is very light and strong. Fiberglass is durable and resists bending, especially when wet. Avoid cheap plastic handles; they often break under pressure.

Net Bag Materials

The material of the net bag affects fish health and snagging. Look for rubber-coated or clear nylon nets. Rubber-coated nets protect the fish’s slime coat, which keeps them healthy if you release them. They also resist tangling with hooks much better than traditional knotted nylon.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Good quality nets offer better performance. Poor quality nets frustrate anglers quickly.

Quality Boosters:
  • Strong Connections: Check where the handle meets the hoop. Strong metal joints (like stainless steel or reinforced aluminum) last longer.
  • Comfortable Grip: A foam or rubber grip near the top of the handle prevents slipping, especially when your hands are wet or cold.
  • Easy Deployment: If the handle telescopes, make sure it locks firmly in place. A net that collapses while you are landing a fish is useless.
Quality Reducers:

Cheap plastic hinges wear out fast. Thin aluminum handles can bend if you accidentally step on them or try to net a very heavy fish. Knotted nylon nets snag hooks easily and can damage sensitive fish fins.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about where and how you fish. This dictates the best net for you.

Bank Fishing (Shoreline):

You need reach. A longer, perhaps telescoping, net is essential here. You must reach out over rocks or steep drop-offs. Lightweight design is important because you carry it a lot.

Boat Fishing (Kayaks or Small Boats):

Shorter, fixed-length nets often work best. You need quick access. A net with a slightly wider hoop helps you scoop fish quickly in the confined space of a boat.

Catch and Release:

If you practice catch and release, prioritize rubber-coated or silicone nets. These materials minimize stress and injury to the fish, increasing their survival rate. Avoid nets with sharp edges or rough knots.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Long Handle Fishing Nets

Q: What is the ideal handle length for general-purpose fishing?

A: For general use from a dock or small boat, a handle between 4 to 6 feet works well. This gives you enough reach without becoming too heavy or awkward to manage.

Q: Should I choose a fixed or telescoping handle?

A: Telescoping handles save space when traveling or storing the net in a small kayak. Fixed handles are generally more rigid and reliable over long periods of heavy use.

Q: How do I keep my net from smelling bad?

A: Rinse your net thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater or muddy trip. Hang it up to dry completely. Rubber nets tend to retain less odor than traditional nylon nets.

Q: What size hoop do I need for bass fishing?

A: For common freshwater fish like bass or trout, a hoop diameter between 16 to 20 inches is usually sufficient to comfortably net the fish without stressing it.

Q: Are metal nets better than carbon fiber nets?

A: Aluminum or stainless steel nets are very durable and cost less. Carbon fiber nets are significantly lighter, which is great if you walk long distances, but they can be more expensive.

Q: What is a “landing net”?

A: A landing net is simply a fishing net used to safely bring a hooked fish out of the water. Long-handle nets are a specific type of landing net designed for extra reach.

Q: Can I use a long handle net in saltwater?

A: Yes, but you must choose materials resistant to corrosion. Look specifically for stainless steel hardware or coated aluminum handles to prevent rust from the salt.

Q: How does net material affect hook removal?

A: Rubber or silicone nets allow you to easily slide the hook out without deeply embedding it in the netting material. Knotted nylon nets often wrap around the hook, making removal difficult.

Q: What is the weight capacity I should look for?

A: Most quality nets are rated to handle at least 15-20 pounds. If you target very large fish, check the manufacturer’s specifications for the maximum load rating.

Q: Is a long handle net necessary if I only fish from a pier?

A: A long handle net is highly recommended for piers. It lets you reach down past the pier structure or railings where the fish often swim, preventing them from escaping right next to the structure.