Top 5 Kayak Fishing Nets: Essential Gear Review

Ever landed that perfect fish, only to watch it slip right back into the water because you didn’t have the right net? That moment of frustration is something every kayak angler knows too well. When you’re balancing on a small craft, every piece of gear matters, and a flimsy or poorly designed net can turn a victory into a near miss.

Choosing the best kayak fishing net isn’t as simple as grabbing the first one you see. You need a net that’s lightweight, easy to deploy with one hand, and strong enough for your target species—all while fitting neatly into your kayak’s limited storage space. The wrong choice means more lost fish and more hassle on the water.

This guide cuts through the confusion. We break down the essential features, materials, and sizes you need to consider. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what makes a net perfect for your kayak setup, ensuring you land your next big catch securely and easily.

Top Kayak Fishing Nets 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.

SaleBestseller 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!
?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. 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

Bestseller No. 4

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

Bestseller No. 5

KastKing Brutus Fishing Net, Fish Landing Net, Lightweight & Portable Fishing Net with Soft EVA Foam Handle, Holds up to 44lbs/20KG, Fish-Friendly Mesh for a Safe Release, Silicone M

High-quality Components: All KastKing fish 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. The wall thickness of the handle is 1mm that can support up to 44lbs/20KG while still maintain lightweight. (Model #Largest Size: 33lbs/15KG)
Foldable & Retractable: Using a u-shaped design net hoop, the KastKing Brutus landing net features a push-down switch for a convenient storage. This switch was connected to the net frame and reinforced with four stainless screws. Quickly and easily pull down the release button to retract the net frame. In addition to the retracting handle, the net frame folds in half to reduce the size for easy storage and transportation.
Environment Friendly & Stealth Design: Specially designed with two different fishing net choices: nylon covered PVC or, 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.
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: The KastKing landing net for fishing is available in 2 types. The net comes with a convenient storage bag to protect the net when not in use. The Largest size landing net features a second extension handle to adjust the length for a longer reach. Choose the right size for fishing style – bank fishing, boat fishing, large fish & smaller fish.

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

PLUSINNO Fly Fishing Net, Trout Bass Fish Landing Net Soft Rubber Mesh Catch and Release (16" x 13" Hoop Size)

Hoop size：16" x 13", Extend Length: 28", Collapsed Length: 17", Net Depth: 10", Weight: 0.95 lb.
Rubber Mesh : Gentle on the Fish and Won't Tangle. Great to use for wading, stream, shore or fly fishing, kayaking, boating and more.
Foldable Fly Fishing Landing Net and Ultra Light Weight : Portable Storage and Easy Carry. The special designed belt clip has the advantage of convenience in carrying and transportation.
Convenient Magnetic：With our sturdy carabiner , you can easily clip our magnetic release to your vest or pack. Never lose your net or other gear in water.
It's the best gift to send father, husband, fiancé, boyfriend for the upcoming Father's Day.

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 Ultimate Kayak Fishing Net Buying Guide

Landing a fish from a kayak can be tricky. A good net makes the job easy and safe for both you and the fish. This guide helps you choose the perfect kayak fishing net.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping for a kayak net, several features really matter. Think about how you will use the net and what fish you target.

1. Net Size and Depth

Basket Size: The opening of the net needs to be big enough for your biggest expected catch. Small trout nets won’t work for big bass or pike.
Net Depth: A deeper net holds slippery fish better, preventing them from flopping out when you secure them.

2. Handle Length and Design

Telescoping Handles: These are great for kayaks. They extend for landing the fish and collapse for easy storage in small spaces.
Grip: Look for a non-slip, comfortable grip, especially if your hands will be wet or cold.

3. Attachment Points

You must keep your net secure. Good nets have strong loops or holes built into the handle. This lets you attach a lanyard or carabiner easily.

Important Materials Matter

The materials determine how long your net lasts and how well it treats the fish.

Frame Material

Aluminum: This is the top choice for kayak anglers. Aluminum is lightweight, strong, and resists rust from saltwater exposure.
Fiberglass: Fiberglass handles are also strong and often used for longer, telescoping models.

Netting Material (The Bag)

This is perhaps the most critical choice for fish care.

Rubber or Silicone Nets: These are the best for catch-and-release. They do not harm the fish’s protective slime coat. Hooks release easily too.
Knotless Nylon: This is a good budget option. Ensure the nylon is knotless; knots can scrape scales off the fish. Avoid traditional knotted mesh if you plan to release most fish.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Quality comes down to construction and design choices.

Improving Quality:

Corrosion Resistance: All metal parts, especially screws and rivets, must be stainless steel or coated to prevent rust.
Strong Joints: If the handle telescopes, the locking mechanism needs to be secure so it doesn’t collapse mid-scoop.

Reducing Quality (What to Avoid):

Heavy Wood Handles: While traditional, wood gets waterlogged, making the net heavy and hard to manage from a kayak seat.
Dark, Fine Mesh: Very dark, thin netting can trap heat, which is bad for the fish if you are landing them in hot weather.

User Experience and Use Cases

How you fish from your kayak directly influences the best net choice.

Kayak-Specific Needs

Space is limited on a kayak. You need a net that stores flat or collapses small. A very long, fixed-handle net will constantly get in the way.

Landing Technique

If you often fight fish near the boat, a shorter, sturdy net works well.
If you prefer to bring the fish alongside and use a net to scoop from above, a slightly longer handle gives you better reach.

Always practice netting *before* you hook a big one. A smooth scoop is faster and reduces stress on the fish.

Kayak Fishing Net FAQs

Q: What is the ideal net length for kayak fishing?

A: Most kayak anglers prefer a handle between 2 to 4 feet long when fully extended. Telescoping models that collapse under 2 feet when stored are highly recommended.

Q: Is a rubber net better than a nylon net?

A: Yes, for fish health, rubber or silicone nets are better. They protect the fish’s slime layer and prevent hooks from getting hopelessly tangled.

Q: Can I use a standard landing net from a canoe?

A: You can, but standard nets are often too large or have handles too long for the tight space of a kayak or canoe cockpit. Kayak-specific nets are designed to be more compact.

Q: How do I prevent my net from falling overboard?

A: Always attach a strong, coiled lanyard or a retractable clip to the net handle and clip the other end securely to your PFD (Personal Flotation Device) or a kayak mounting point.

Q: Does saltwater require a special net?

A: Yes. Saltwater is highly corrosive. You must choose nets made entirely of aluminum, stainless steel, or high-grade plastics. Avoid any nets with standard steel hardware.

Q: How deep should the net bag be?

A: For average freshwater fish (bass, walleye), 12 to 15 inches of depth is usually sufficient. If you catch large, deep-bodied fish, look for 16 inches or more.

Q: Should the net be heavy?

A: No. Lightweight materials like aluminum keep your kayak stable and make one-handed netting much easier when you are balancing.

Q: What is “catch and release friendly”?

A: This means the net material will not damage the fish. Rubber and knotless silicone/nylon nets are considered catch-and-release friendly.

Q: How do I clean my kayak fishing net?

A: After saltwater use, rinse the entire net thoroughly with fresh water. Allow it to air dry completely before storing it to prevent mildew or corrosion.

Q: Are magnetic releases good for kayak nets?

A: Magnetic releases are very popular on kayaks. They allow you to quickly pull the net off your gear loop and secure it back just as fast, often with one hand.