Top 5 Kayak Fishing Nets: Essential Gear Guide

Ever land that perfect fish, only to fumble at the last second because your net just wouldn’t cooperate? That heart-stopping moment is all too familiar for many kayak anglers. Landing a fish from a low-sitting kayak presents unique challenges. You need a net that is easy to reach, strong enough for your catch, and compact enough not to clutter your small fishing space. Choosing the wrong net can mean losing your trophy or simply making the landing process a frustrating struggle.

That is why finding the right kayak fishing net is not just about having a piece of gear; it’s about securing your success on the water. We know you worry about durability, length, and whether the net will fit perfectly in your kayak’s storage. This detailed guide cuts through the confusion. By the end of this post, you will understand exactly what features matter most for kayak stability and fish handling.

Ready to upgrade your landing game? Let’s dive deep into the best kayak fishing nets available and discover the perfect tool to ensure every catch makes it safely aboard.

Top Kayak Fishing Net Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

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.

Bestseller No. 2

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!

Bestseller No. 3

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

SaleBestseller No. 4

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.

Bestseller No. 5

Foreverlast G2 Pro Non-Snag Floating Landing Net for Wade, Fly, Kayak Fishing - Camo

Never worry about losing your favorite fishing net again! The ForEverlast floating net is right there when you need it with the tethering cord and flotation capabilities.
Features a large opening to land fish of every size and type! Great as a fly fishing net, trout fishing net, saltwater fishing net, freshwater net, kayak fishing net, wade fishing net, and more
Easy to use and transport! Lightweight fishing net that includes a cord that tethers the net to your wading belt for quick access
Long handle with excellent grip and leverage will help you to catch that next fish! Rubber coated non-snag fish netting helps keep the fish safe for catch and release
Our G2 Non-Snag Floating Fishing Landing Net was the WINNER of the 2013 ICAST Best of Show Fishing Accessories category

SaleBestseller No. 6

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.

Bestseller No. 7

Calamus Triangle Floating Fishing Net, Lightweight & Strong Fishing Net with Non-Slip Elastomer Handle, Fish Friendly PVC Coated Nylon Net, Built-in Elastic Lanyard and Belt Clip

PVC-coated Nylon Mesh: Crafted with a PVC-coated nylon mesh that helps prevent hooks from snagging, this catch-and-release-friendly design protects your gear and reduces harm to fish. The smooth coated surface also makes clean-up quick and easy, so you can focus on reeling in your next catch.
6061 Aluminum Handle: Engineered from 6061 aluminum with an anodized finish, this robust handle resists rust and corrosion in both freshwater and saltwater. Despite its durability, it remains lightweight for effortless handling, ensuring you enjoy reliable performance.
Foldable & Space-saving Design: Featuring a foldable frame with a secure locking collar, this net collapses in half to save space when you’re on the move or storing it among your fishing gear. Simply slide the collar to fold, and the net instantly becomes more compact—ideal for anglers with limited storage or for easy transport.
Bright Blue Elastomer Grip: Designed with a bright blue elastomer grip, this fishing net stands out among your accessories and provides a reliable non-slip surface. Whether conditions are wet or cold, the comfortable handle ensures a firm hold, allowing you to land fish with ease.
Hands-free Attachment: Keep your net secure and your hands free with the elastic lanyard with carabiner and built-in belt clip. Attach it to waders, backpacks, or belts for easy access at crucial moments. This convenient design lets you focus on casting, retrieving, and enjoying a more efficient fishing experience.

SaleBestseller No. 8

GOODCAT Fly Fishing Net, Bass Trout Landing Net, Folding Fishing Nets Fresh Water, Safe Fish Catching or Releasing, Fly Fishing net Magnetic Release (A:Square-Extend Length:24.6")

Rubber Mesh：GOODCAT fly fishing net is made of soft and clear rubberized net material, which is gentle on the fish and won't tangle, rot, or mildew. The newly-updated small mesh design is very practical and the clear color won't spook fish as it is virtually-disappear underwater.Great to use for wading, stream, shore or fly fishing, kayaking, boating and more
Hoop size:17" x 11.5“", Extend Length:24.6“, Collapsed Length:17", Net Depth:10", Weight: 0.95 lb.
The bottom end of the handle with a aluminum alloy buckle that can match with a coiled lanyard and magnetic net release which keeps your hands completely free and avoid losing your net. Perfect for fly fishing on rivers, lakes, or streams.
Stretchable spring-cord length 35 cm(13.7inch) and extends to a maximum length of 2.5m(100 inches). Multi-functional uses more than a net release. Using it with pliers, nippers & other tools is also excellent
Magnets and sturdy carabiner clips are both made of aviation aluminum, which helps the net be less prone to rust and have the strongest powerful magnetic strength.

The Essential Kayak Fishing Net Buying Guide

Landing your catch smoothly is key to a great day on the water. A good kayak fishing net makes that process easier and safer for both you and the fish. This guide helps you pick the best net for your kayak adventures.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a kayak fishing net, several features really stand out. These make the net work well when you need it most.

Net Size and Depth

Size Matters: Think about the fish you usually catch. A small trout needs a smaller net. Landing a big bass or pike requires a larger hoop.
Basket Depth: Deeper nets hold fish securely. This stops them from flopping out while you unhook them.

Handle Length and Grip

Reach: Kayaks can be tippy. You need a long enough handle to reach the water without leaning too far over. Too short, and you struggle. Too long, and it gets awkward to store.
Grip Comfort: Look for non-slip grips, often made of foam or rubber. Your hands get wet, so a secure hold prevents accidents.

Attachment Points

You must keep your net handy. Good nets include strong attachment points, like a lanyard loop or a magnetic release clip. This lets you quickly grab the net and secure it back to your kayak when you are done.

Important Materials for Durability

The material determines how long your net lasts against sun, saltwater, and sharp fish fins.

Frame Material

Aluminum: This is very popular. Aluminum frames resist rust and keep the net lightweight. It handles many fishing trips well.
Fiberglass or Carbon Fiber: These materials offer excellent strength without adding much weight. They are great choices for serious anglers.

Netting Material

The type of netting is crucial for fish health and your convenience.

Rubber or Silicone Nets: These are the best choice for catch-and-release fishing. They do not damage the fish’s protective slime coat. Hooks slide out easily, too.
Knotless Nylon: This is a budget-friendly option. Ensure the knots are very smooth. Sharp knots can scrape the fish.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Not all nets perform the same way. Small design details really change the quality.

Quality Boosters

Telescoping Handles: These handles collapse down for easy storage in tight kayak spaces. They must lock firmly in place when extended.
One-Handed Operation: Some nets use quick-release clips or self-opening mechanisms. These features improve quality by letting you land a fish with one hand free.

Quality Reducers

Weak Hinges: If the net folds, check the hinge. A flimsy hinge will break under the stress of a large fish.
Cheap Plastic Components: Plastic parts often degrade quickly in UV light (sunlight). Look for metal or high-grade composite plastics instead.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you use the net on your kayak affects which model you should choose.

Shore vs. Kayak Use

A net designed for shore fishing often has a very long handle. This is too cumbersome for a kayak. Kayak nets need shorter, sturdier handles that allow you to scoop upward easily from a seated position.

Handling Different Fish

Spotted Fish: If you target fish with sharp spines (like catfish or walleye), choose a deep, strong rubber net. The rubber prevents spines from poking through the mesh.
Quick Landings: For fast-paced lure fishing where you need to net the fish quickly, prioritize a lightweight net with excellent balance.

10 Frequently Asked Questions About Kayak Fishing Nets

Q: What is the best net material for fish safety?

A: Rubber or silicone netting is the best. It protects the fish’s natural slime layer and keeps hooks from getting tangled.

Q: Should I get a folding net for my kayak?

A: Yes, folding or telescoping nets save valuable space on a kayak. Make sure the locking mechanism feels very secure.

Q: How long should the handle be?

A: For most kayaks, a handle between 24 and 36 inches works well. This gives you reach without being too long to store.

Q: Can I use a standard landing net on a kayak?

A: You can, but standard nets often have handles that are too long and heavy. A dedicated kayak net is usually lighter and more compact.

Q: What is a magnetic release for a net?

A: It is a strong magnet system that attaches your net to your kayak’s frame or gear tracks. This keeps it secure but allows you to pull it free instantly when you need it.

Q: How do I clean a rubber net?

A: Rinse the rubber net with fresh water after every use, especially if you fish in saltwater. Air dry it completely before storing it.

Q: Does the net color matter?

A: The color of the netting does not significantly impact fish behavior. However, lighter-colored rubber nets make it easier for you to see hooks and knots.

Q: What is the difference between a scoop net and a cradle net?

A: A scoop net has a deep bag for quickly landing active fish. A cradle net has a shallower, often flat bottom designed to safely hold a fish while you unhook it.

Q: Are aluminum frames strong enough for big fish?

A: High-quality, thick-walled aluminum frames are very strong. Always check the manufacturer’s weight rating before buying.

Q: How important is the grip material?

A: The grip material is very important. Wet foam or textured rubber grips prevent the net from slipping out of your hand when you are fighting a strong fish.