landing nets

Landing Fish Over The Side

A deep, wide net with a short, strong handle is what you want afloat — you’re lifting straight up rather than reaching out, and a long handle just gets in the way on a crowded deck. Rubberised mesh is far kinder to fish you’re putting back and doesn’t tangle hooks the way knotted mesh does. Have the net ready before the fish is at the boat rather than hunting for it one-handed, and rinse it at the end of the day so it isn’t stiff with salt next time.