Ever fought a trophy fish, felt that heart-pounding pull, only to watch it slip through your fingers right at the kayak? It’s a frustrating moment every angler knows. Landing a big catch from a small craft like a kayak presents a unique challenge. You need the right tools, and perhaps the most overlooked tool is the net.
Choosing a net for kayak fishing is tricky. You worry about size—too big, and it won’t fit. Too small, and you risk losing your prize. Then there’s the material; you need something that handles sharp fins but is safe for the fish. These small decisions can mean the difference between a great story and an empty cooler.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes a perfect kayak fishing net. You will learn about the best materials, ideal sizes, and essential features that make netting fish easy, even when you are perched on the water. Get ready to secure every fish you hook.
Top Net For Kayak Fishing Recommendations
No. 1
KastKing Pontus Fishing Net, Foldable & Lightweight Landing Net with Built in Length Scale, Strength Aluminum Handle, Fishing Gear and Gift for Men
- High-quality Components & Floating Design: KastKing Pontus fish landing nets are built with high-quality 6063 Aluminum alloy handle and durable FBR frame for exceptional performance. The extension handle of 61in is equipped with a reinforced aluminum rib for added strength. The net is designed with floating EVA foam padding, allowing for effortless retrieval from the water while minimizing the risk of loss. Remember: hold the handle and extension pole with both hands and drag the net laterally.
- Foldable & Retractable: Using a triangle-shaped design net hoop, the KastKing Pontus landing net features a push-down switch for convenient storage. Quickly and easily pull down the release button to fold the net frame. In addition to the retracting handle, the net frame folds to reduce the size for easy storage and transportation.
- Environment Friendly & Measure Design: Specially designed with nylon covered PVC These quality materials guarantee snag and tangle-free performance. KastKing fishing net is fish-friendly so that it reduces harm to fish if you are planning to release your catch. With a convenient length measuring scale included on the net, this fishing net allows fish to be measured without ever being taken out of the bag (or the water for that matter).
- Bright Color EVA Handle：The bright orange EVA foam handle allows you quickly find the landing net in just a few seconds, even in low light conditions. And this comfortable EVA handle provides a firm handgrip and makes the handle much easier to hold without slipping when your hand is wet or in cold weather.
- Multiple Choices & Easy For Carry: The KastKing fishing net comes with a convenient storage bag to protect the net when not in use. The 36in and 61in landing net features a second extension handle to adjust the length for a longer reach. Easily carry this fishing net on your belt or backpack with the belt clip feature, freeing up your hands for other gear. Choose the right size for fishing style – bank fishing, boat fishing, large fish & smaller fish.
No. 2
PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead, Salmon, Fly, Kayak, Catfish, Bass, Trout Fishing, Rubber Coated Landing Net for Easy Catch & Release, Compact & Foldable for Easy Transportation & Storage
- 【Dimension of the Net】- 15.8" x 11.8" hoop, 11.8" depth and16.7 inch handle. The classical shape and size of the fishing net will surely look good in your pictures. Long handle with excellent grip afford plenty of leverage to land the next fish.
- 【Design to Float】- Designed with the wade fisherman in mind, the PLUSINNO floating landing net has foam padding to the hoop and providing buoyancy. The floating design makes it easy to retrieve encase the net dropped or blown overboard. So you'll never have to worry about losing it!
- 【Rubber Coated Non-snag Net】- The rubber coating net is hook/snag free. It keeps the fish safe for catch and release; Non-absorbent coating also prevents the net from waterlogging or odor absorption.
- 【Lightweight and Foldable】- The handle utilizes a strong, lightweight aluminum design that provides economical and dependable functionality. The 12.5 ounce weight and foldable design makes it compact for easy transportation & storage.
- 【PATENT DESIGN 】-PLUSINNO is committed to developing and manufacturing the most suitable fishing gear for all anglers. The unique designed PLUSINNO floating fishing net is great to use on any boat, kayak, canoe, and in any streams, rivers, ponds and the ocean. Suitable for both fresh and salt water. It would be a great Christmas gift or birthday gift for boyfriend, husband, father, son and your friends.
No. 3
KastKing Titanet Fishing PVC Net - 32" Full
- Durable & Strong Handle: The KastKing Titanet landing net features a high-quality 6063 aluminum alloy handle with a custom-engineered tube profile for enhanced strength. A durable molded locking head ensures a secure and reliable hold when landing fish.
- Fish-friendly Coated Net – The PVC-coated nylon net reduces fish stress and minimizes stress and potential harm to the fish, making it perfect for catch-and-release fishing. The tangle-free design minimizes snagging and is ideal for tournament bass fishing and other conservation-focused angling.
- Foldable & Easy Storage: Designed for convenience, the Titanet fishing net folds in half using a sliding lock collar. Simply slide the collar toward the handle and fold the net for compact storage. Includes a storage bag to keep the net protected and ready for your next fishing trip.
- Secure & Comfortable Grip: The handle is crafted from a durable elastomer material with a textured pattern for a non-slip grip, even in wet or cold conditions. The hi-vis orange handle makes the net easy to locate on a boat deck or in low-light situations.
- Versatile & Convenient Accessories – Comes with an elastic lanyard and carabiner for quick attachment to waders, kayaks, or tackle bags. A built-in belt clip secures the net to your belt or backpack, keeping it accessible for hands-free fishing. Ideal for Kayak Fishing, Lake Fishing, Fly Fishing, or River Fishing. The smaller design is perfect for species such as Trout, Walleye, Bass, and Panfish.
No. 4
PLUSINNO Fishing Net Fish Floating Landing Net, Kayak Nets with Fixed Foldable Telescopic Pole Handle,Bass Trout Fishing Nets with Nylon Mesh for Pond Lake River,Fishing Gear Gifts for Men,Black 0.8M
- 🎣 Warm Prompt: Four models are offered, please choose the exact size model you need in the "select" section. A. 12"/31 cm Hoop Size fixed non-telescopic pole; B. 16"/40 cm Hoop Size 2 section telescopic pole; C. 16.2"/41cm Hoop Size 3 section telescopic pole; D. 20"/52 cm Hoop Size 3 section telescopic pole.
- 🎣 Premium Material: High-density carbon fiber mixed with fiberglass pole, durable nylon and strong hexagonal structure mesh, skid-resistant EVA handhold makes the fishing net solid and durable.
- 🎣 Waterproof Nylon Mesh: Non-absorbent coating prevents the net from waterlogging or odor absorption.
- 🎣 Foldable Fishing Nets and Ultralight Weight: Easy to carry and storage. The special designed belt clip has the advantage of convenience in carrying and transportation.
- 🎣 It's the best gift to send father, son, husband, fiancé, boyfriend for the upcoming Father's Day. Ideal Setup for Fish Catching and Releasing: Knotless nylon mesh prevents fishhooks from getting tangled. The net is excellently fish friendly which will not be harmful to fish scales, suitable for sea fishing, river fishing, lake fishing, boat fishing etc.
No. 5
Beyond Braid Floating Fishing Net with Handle – Folding Fishing Net for Easy Storage – Telescopic Landing Net for Bass, Trout, Kayak & Boat Fishing – Durable, Lightweight & Fish Friendly
- STAYS AFLOAT ON ROUGH WATER – Say goodbye to sinking nets and panicked recoveries. With built-in foam around the hoop, our floating fishing net is designed to stay on the surface—even when conditions get rough. Paired with a safety lanyard and secure clip, it stays firmly attached to you so you’re always ready for the next big catch.
- RETRACTIBLE DESIGN FOR ALL TYPES OF FISHING – Whether you’re casting from a kayak, drifting on a boat, or fishing from the bank, the Beyond fishing net with handle adapts to the moment. The telescopic handle extends for those hard-to-reach landings, while the foldable hoop and rotating lock make storage simple and travel a breeze.
- LIGHT TO THE TOUGH TOUGH ON THE CATCH – Built from rugged, corrosion-resistant aluminum alloy, our folding fishing net offers serious strength without weighing you down. It’s tough enough to land larger fish and light enough to carry comfortably from sunrise to sunset—perfect for anglers who go the distance.
- TANGLE FREE AND GENTLE ON FISH – Built with non-snag rubberized mesh, the Beyond fishing net protects delicate scales and fins while making hook removal quick and hassle-free. Whether you're practicing catch-and-release or landing your next trophy fish, the soft mesh reduces stress on the fish and keeps tangles to a minimum—no more fighting with snarled hooks or damaged gills.
- BUILT FOR EVERY FISHING MISSION – From bass in freshwater lakes to redfish in coastal flats, our folding fishing net is up for the challenge. Designed for use in kayaks, canoes, boats, or right off the bank, it’s your all-in-one landing solution for both saltwater and freshwater species. Rugged, reliable, and always ready when the action hits.
No. 6
PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead, Salmon, Fly, Kayak, Catfish, Bass, Trout Fishing, Rubber Coated Landing Net for Easy Catch & Release, Compact & Foldable for Easy Transportation & Storage
- ?Dimension of the Net?- 15.8" x 11.8" hoop, 11.8" depth and16.7 inch handle. The classical shape and size of the fishing net will surely look good in your pictures. Long handle with excellent grip afford plenty of leverage to land the next fish.
- ?Design to Float?- Designed with the wade fisherman in mind, the PLUSINNO floating landing net has foam padding to the hoop and providing buoyancy. The floating design makes it easy to retrieve encase the net dropped or blown overboard. So you'll never have to worry about losing it!
- ?Lightweight and Foldable?- The handle utilizes a strong, lightweight aluminum design that provides economical and dependable functionality. The 12.5 ounce weight and foldable design makes it compact for easy transportation & storage.
- ?Durability makes versatility?- The unique designed PLUSINNO floating fishing net is great to use on any boat, kayak, canoe, and in any streams, rivers, ponds and the ocean. Suitable for both fresh and salt water. It would be a great Christmas gift or birthday gift for boyfriend, husband, father, son and your friends.
- International products have separate terms, are sold from abroad and may differ from local products, including fit, age ratings, and language of product, labeling or instructions.
No. 7
PLUSINNO Fishing Net Fish Floating Landing Net, Kayak Nets with Fixed Foldable Telescopic Pole Handle, Bass Trout Fishing Nets with Nylon Mesh for Pond Lake River,Fishing Gear Gifts for Men,Blue 0.9M
- SECOND GENERATION FLOATING FISHING LANDING NET -A new floating net head. Two float tubes added to two of the three triangular sides which can provide buoyancy. With the added floats, there is no need to worry about the net sinking or getting dropped of your kayak or boat.
- FOLDABLE,RETRACTABLE & EASY TO USE - Triangular Shape Design. Telescopic handle. Hoop size: 15.5", depth:14.5''; full length: 28.34''-34.45'', weight: 14.11oz/400g . The net is telescopic and foldable, lightweight, easy for transport and storage.The classical shape and size of the fishing net will surely look good in your pictures.
- RUBBER COATED NON-SNAG NET - Made from snagless coated nylon and strong hexagonal structure mesh that is very fish friendly. Gentler on the fish’s skin, protect the fish, avoids snagging the treble hooks on your baits, aiding in the catch and release process, enhance the success of a fish’s release back into the water.
- LIGHTWEIGHT & STRONG - Combines the sturdy handle build with a mixture of carbon fiber and fiberglass, durable coated nylon and strong hexagonal structure mesh, skid-resistant EVA handhold. From tip to toe the whole net compresses to fit conveniently in your boat, kayak, car, or anywhere else compact.
- PATENT DESIGN - PLUSINNO is committed to developing and manufacturing the most suitable fishing gear for all anglers. PLUSINNO Triangular Floating Fishing Nets provide maximum performance and strength for all anglers looking for victory. It is the best all-around fishing net for every angler. Great to use on any boat, kayak, canoe, or in any streams, rivers, ponds or the ocean. Suitable for both fresh and salt water.Best father day gifts!
No. 8
GOODCAT Fishing Landing Net, Black Rubber-Coated Mesh with Aluminum Frame, 17x12.4 Inch Hoop, 32.5 Inch Extended Handle, Foldable Floating Design with Magnetic Release for Kayak Fly Fishing
- DIMENSIONS: 17" x 12.4" hoop with 12.4" depth and extendable handle from 15.4" to 32.5", perfect for handling large fish while maintaining portability
- ADVANCED CONSTRUCTION: Enhanced aviation aluminum alloy frame with rubber-coated mesh provides durability while keeping the net lightweight at just 0.86 lbs
- INNOVATIVE FEATURES: Auto-locking folding mechanism and floating design make it ideal for kayak, boat, and shore fishing with easy storage
- ERGONOMIC DESIGN: EVA anti-skid handle with belt clip for convenient carrying, plus magnetic release system with coiled lanyard for hands-free access
- VERSATILE USE: Tangle-free rubber mesh with 12.4" basket depth, suitable for both freshwater and saltwater fishing environments
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Net for Kayak Fishing
Landing a big fish from a kayak can be thrilling! But a small net can make that victory frustrating. You need a net designed for the unique space and needs of kayak fishing. This guide helps you pick the perfect one.
Key Features to Look For
A good kayak fishing net needs specific traits to work well in tight spaces. Focus on these main features when shopping:
Size and Depth
- Net Head Size: Look for a net head that is wide enough to scoop your target fish easily. Too small, and you risk losing the catch near the kayak.
- Basket Depth: A deeper basket holds slippery fish securely once they are in the net. This prevents them from flopping out while you secure your rod or paddle.
Handle Length and Grip
- Telescoping or Short Handle: Kayaks offer limited room. A long net handle gets in the way. Choose a short, fixed handle or one that telescopes (slides in and out) for easy storage and quick deployment.
- Comfortable Grip: The handle should feel good in your hand, even when wet. A rubberized or textured grip helps you hold on tight when fighting a fish.
Attachment Points
- Look for built-in holes or loops. These allow you to quickly attach the net to a bungee cord or a specialized net release tool on your kayak.
Important Materials Matter
The materials determine how long your net lasts and how it handles wet conditions.
Frame Material
- Aluminum: This is a top choice. Aluminum is light, which is important when maneuvering on a kayak. It also resists rust very well, which is crucial near saltwater.
- Fiberglass: This material is also strong and lightweight. It often provides good shock absorption.
Netting Material
- Rubber or Silicone Nets: These are the best options for fish health and ease of use. They do not snag hooks easily. They also dry fast.
- Knotless Nylon: If you choose nylon, ensure it is knotless. Knots can scrape off a fish’s protective slime layer.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Not all nets perform the same way. Pay attention to these details:
Quality Boosters
- Coated Hooks/Fasteners: Check any metal clips or screws. Quality nets use stainless steel or heavily coated parts to fight corrosion.
- Reinforced Joints: Where the handle meets the net head, the joint must be strong. A poorly made joint breaks under the weight of a heavy fish.
Quality Reducers (What to Avoid)
- Heavy Wood Handles: While traditional, wood gets waterlogged. Heavy, waterlogged nets are hard to manage when you are paddling.
- Deeply Colored Mesh: Darker nets (like black rubber) can sometimes heat up the water inside the net if the fish stays submerged for a moment. Lighter colors are often preferred if you practice catch-and-release.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you fish. This affects your net choice.
Catch and Release Anglers
If you release your fish, prioritize a rubber or silicone net. These materials are gentle on the fish’s skin and scales. They allow for quick, safe removal and release.
Shoreline/Bank Access
Even if you use a kayak, sometimes you pull up near the shore. A net with a slightly longer reach (maybe 3-4 feet total length when extended) helps bridge the gap between the kayak hull and a slightly higher bank.
Storage
Kayak decks are crowded. Nets that fit easily under a seat, clip to a side rail, or collapse small are winners. Measure the storage space you have before buying a large model.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Kayak Fishing Nets
Q: What is the ideal net length for a kayak?
A: Most kayak anglers prefer a net with a total length (handle plus head) between 24 and 36 inches. Telescoping models that shrink down to 18 inches for storage are excellent.
Q: Should I get a rubber or nylon net for my kayak?
A: Rubber or silicone nets are generally better. They reduce hook snags significantly, and they do not absorb water, making them lighter to handle.
Q: Can I use a standard landing net on my kayak?
A: You can, but standard nets are often too large or have handles too long for the tight space on a kayak deck, making them awkward to use.
Q: How does saltwater affect my net choice?
A: Saltwater demands rust resistance. You must choose frames made of aluminum or stainless steel. Avoid nets with many steel clips that are not heavily coated.
Q: What is a ‘scoop’ net versus a ‘wading’ net?
A: A scoop net is usually wider and shallower for quick landing. A wading net often has a deeper bag and a longer handle, designed for standing in the water, which is less common for kayak use.
Q: Do I need a net with a lanyard or clip?
A: Yes. A clip or lanyard lets you secure the net to your PFD (personal flotation device) or a bungee cord on the kayak. This keeps it from falling overboard when you are busy fighting a fish.
Q: How big should the net opening be?
A: If you mainly target bass or medium inshore fish, an opening around 16×20 inches works well. If you target larger species like redfish or snook, look for openings closer to 20×25 inches.
Q: Will a heavy net make my kayak unstable?
A: A heavy net adds weight, but the issue is more about placement. If you keep the net low and secured, it will not affect stability much. Keep it low when you are moving.
Q: How do I clean my kayak fishing net?
A: Rinse the net thoroughly with fresh water after every saltwater use. If you used it in muddy rivers, use a mild soap and scrub the mesh gently before rinsing well.
Q: Are magnetic net releases good for kayaks?
A: Magnetic releases are very popular for kayaks. They allow you to quickly grab the net from your back or side and then snap it back into place with one hand when you are done.