Fishing Net Comparison Table

Here’s a handy table that will help you make a firm decision on the ideal landing net for fishing. Hopefully, you’ll find something that’s within your budget reach.

1. Plussino Nylon​

One thing we particularly like about this net is that it’s available in four different model sizes. Sizes 12/31, 16/40, 17/43 and 20/25. Of course, that means you can always find something that suits your needs no matter the fish species you’re targeting. Its pole is made from premium material and particularly high-density carbon fiber. As you might be aware, carbon fiber is one of the lightest yet durable materials on the markets.

And to make the deal even sweeter, the handle has an EVA grip. This is pretty comfortable and grippy. It also provides you with a better fighting chance. The net itself is made from a waterproof nylon mesh which also has a non-absorbent coating. This design comes in handy in preventing waterlogging. Most importantly, this net is foldable and extremely light in weight. As somebody who travels to fish frequently, that means a bit of an easier time in storing and transporting the net.

2. Wakeman Thermal​

Made from one of the best forms of thermal plastic rubber, the Wakeman is a cut above the rest. In fact, it also comes with a corrosion-resistant aluminum handle. So, if you’re looking for a net that you can use to subdue hard-fighting fish, this would be the best choice. It’s not only classy and good looking but also pretty durable.

Another advantage of it is that it has a well-made hoop. So, no matter the fish species you may be targeting, this one is sure to provide a good catching and releasing job. In fact, its well-thought-out design is particularly optimized for reducing and eliminating tangles. The net, further, has a wide opening which means that it’s accommodative to fish of different species.

3. SouthBend LN-250

4. Frabill Folding

Looking for a cheap fishing net? This one from Frabill might be the all-time solution you’ve been yearning for. Right off the bat, it’s clear that this net is specifically designed for small boat fishing. It has a small but powerful handle which comes in handy when taming feisty trout. Likewise, it has a high-quality and generally smooth net. This is gentle on your fish but also protective enough for all those catch and release tasks.

Further, this net boasts a 20 to 40-inch quick latch handle. The handle is not only convenient but also, as mentioned, quite powerful. The mesh stands out with its knotless design. It’s, however, important to note that this is a knotless micro mesh which is perfectly designed for capturing delicate fish. And with a hoop size of 18-inch x 16-inch, you’re bound to get a no-nonsense hoop that’s capable of punching well above its weight.

5. SF Soft Rubber ​

6. Fiblink Extendable Telescopic​

Fiblink is known for many things and compromise is certainly not one of them. As such, this net from them stands out all thanks to its good looks and a well-made handle. But with different models available, you may need to double-check just to make sure you’re getting the right one for the job. Actually, three models of this particular product exist.

Away from that, this fishing net comes with a corrosion-resistant, retractable aluminum alloy. This comes in handy when you need the net to last long. Further, it provides you with the extra power you need to tame an aggressive fish. Its hand-grip further packs a skid resistant design. This prevents it from sliding right off your hand even when your hand is wet.

Further, the next is made of waterproof nylon which goes a long way to prevent it from accumulating any water. With an extendable rod length, we think this net could be one of the finest options that trade at a cheap price. So, if shopping for a cheap fishing net that works well, you might want to give this one a shot.

7. EGO S2

Available in different hoop sizes, this net is easily the most versatile one on retail. Such flexibility makes it ideal to use in different conditions and even when targeting different fish species. One thing we really like about it is that it has a pretty generous handle. In fact, its handle spans 48-inches and can always be extended to 108 inches. That’s pretty long meaning that the unit can comfortably be used even for lake fishing.

8. Ranger Nets Rubber

As its name might suggest, this net is designed for a rugged lifestyle. Not only does it have a strong and stable handle but also a collapsible netting. Such a unique design makes it pretty easy to pack up when one needs to transport it through bass boats and kayaks.

Besides that, its handle is made from anodized heavy-duty metal. The same case applies to its hoop. But why does that matter? Because only such a well-made handle would easily survive tough times. Yet another thing that we like about it is that it features a knotless netting. This is the kind of net to go for if you want to avoid issues to do with tangling. Last but not least, the net is entirely Made in the USA. As you know, that provides you with the assurance that this net is built to the highest possible standards.

9. Frabill Heavy Poly​

Has your net worn out yet the handle and hoop look good to go? Perhaps all you need to get is a replacement net such as this one from Frabill. As you know, Frabill is one of the leading names in the production of award-winning nets. Therefore, the fact that you can get this replacement net for under 20 is such good news.

The net is meant to fit on hoops of up to 21-inch x 25-inch. That, therefore, makes it one of the most convenient nets available. A closer look at the netting reveals that it’s made from a high quality, heavy-duty poly. Such a wonderful piece of equipment to carry with you at all times.

10. South Bend

The South Bend landing net may not be the most popular on so far but it certainly is one of the best in terms of value. To begin with, it comes with an eye-catching flexible handle that’s made from anodized orange aluminum. This handle is pretty comfortable and, therefore, ideal for long-term use.

Most importantly, the handle is designed in such a manner that it’s extremely easy to store and transport. The hoop is tear-drop shaped, providing you with a 0.5-inch capacity which is accommodative of different fish species.

Fishing Nets - The Buying Guide

What factors should I consider when buying a fishing net? Well, the answer is simple – if you find the best, forget about the rest. But while at it you want to make sure that you only settle for a well-made handle.

The Perfect Handle

Remember that short handles are best suited for river fishing, near the kayak. Longer handles, on the other hand, are perfect for lake fishing. Another thing, short handles tend to give you more control over the fish than all other handle types. As far as the material of the handle is concerned, we’d recommend the following:

The Type of Mesh

You want to go for a knotless net that’s soft enough to protect even the most delicate fish species. Ideally, the net should either be rubber-made or nylon-made. Both of those materials tend to be waterproof.

Which One Is The Best?

The best fishing net in our opinion is the Frabill 18x16-Inch Folding Net with Telescopic Handle. That’s because it is quite tough, stable, and generally well-made. The net further boasts a telescopic handle. In terms of quality and value proposition, we have nothing but kind words for the Frabill.

Final Thoughts

It’s possible to up your fishing game if you invest in the right kind of fishing gear. You may need to do a bit of research, but ultimately, an investment in the right fishing net would be an ideal starting point.