Best Fly Fishing Nets of 2025
A fly fishing net is an essential tool for every angler, helping to safely land a fish and get it back in the water quickly. Unlike a landing net for other types of fishing, a fly fishing net is designed to be lightweight, easy to handle, and gentle on the fish. The best nets feature a soft, knotless rubber or silicone bag that protects the fish’s delicate slime coat and prevents hooks from getting tangled. They come in various sizes and handle lengths to suit different fishing styles and environments, from small streams to large lakes. Choosing the right net gives you the confidence to land your catch safely, ensuring the health of the fish and the success of your day.
1. Fly Fishing Net – Collapsible Foldable Tenkara Landing Net
- Material: Sturdy alloy frame and ABS handle
- Net Mesh: Soft hexagonal rubber-coated mesh
- Dimensions & Weight: 8.7 × 5.9 × 2.2 in (closed), 18 × 9.7 × 7.9 in (open), 7.4 oz weight
- Features: Collapsible and ultralight design for portability
The Fly Fishing Net for Backpacking is an excellent choice for anglers who need a compact and ultralight net for stream and creek fishing. Weighing only 7.4 ounces, this collapsible net is designed to be easily stored in a backpack, vest pocket, or luggage, making it perfect for hiking, traveling, or Tenkara adventures. The foldable design allows it to shrink down to a compact 8.7 × 5.9 × 2.2 inches, yet it expands instantly to a full 18 inches, ready to land a trout, bass, or other small freshwater catch. The ultralight construction ensures that you can carry it all day without feeling weighed down, and its one-handed operation is a major benefit when you need to quickly land a fish.
The net is built with a sturdy alloy frame and a non-slip ABS handle, which provides a secure and comfortable grip even in wet conditions. The soft hexagonal rubber-coated mesh is a key feature for catch-and-release fishing, as it protects the fish’s scales and minimizes injury. This fish-friendly design is ideal for ensuring the health of the fish you release. The rubberized mesh also prevents hooks from getting tangled, which is a major time-saver on the water. This net is a versatile and practical tool for any angler who values portability and a fish-safe design. It’s not just for Tenkara; it’s a great compact net for any fly angler on the go.
- Pros: Extremely lightweight and compact for travel; fish-friendly rubber mesh; durable and non-slip handle; folds easily for storage.
- Cons: Small size may not be suitable for larger fish; the ABS handle is less traditional than cork or wood.
2. Riverruns Carbon Fiber Landing Net
- Material: Carbon fiber and fiberglass composite frame
- Net Mesh: Soft rubber trout net mesh
- Dimensions & Weight: 37.2″ length with a 19.2″ handle
- Features: Non-slip handle with precise measuring lines
The Riverruns Carbon Fiber Landing Net is a high-performance net designed for anglers who need a longer reach and a lightweight, durable build. Its frame is constructed from an advanced composite of carbon fiber and fiberglass, which provides optimal strength and performance while remaining incredibly lightweight. This combination of materials makes the net both strong enough to handle a variety of fish species and light enough to be carried comfortably. At a length of 37.2 inches with an extended 19.2-inch handle, this net allows you to reach deeper into the water, making it perfect for wading in larger rivers or fishing from a high bank. The extended handle also provides a more comfortable grip and makes it easier to net a fish without a struggle.
One of the most useful features of this net is the precise measuring lines on the handle, which allow you to quickly and accurately measure your catch without needing a separate measuring stick. This is a great benefit for anglers who like to keep track of their catches or participate in tournaments. The soft rubber trout net mesh is a key feature for catch-and-release, as it is gentle on the fish and prevents hooks from getting tangled. The handle also has a non-slip coating, ensuring a secure and comfortable grip even in wet or slippery conditions. The Riverruns Carbon Fiber Landing Net is a top-tier choice for anglers who want a lightweight, durable, and functional net with added features for convenience.
- Pros: Lightweight and strong carbon fiber composite; extended handle for better reach; includes a measuring line on the handle; fish-friendly rubber mesh.
- Cons: Larger size is less portable than a compact net; the long handle may be cumbersome in small streams.
3. Trademark Innovations Fly Fishing Fish-Safe Net
- Material: Burl wood with durable construction
- Net Mesh: Fish-safe, soft rubber mesh
- Dimensions: 20″ net area, 15″ handle with marks
- Features: Integrated measuring stick on the handle
The Trademark Innovations Burl Wood Fly Fishing Net is a classic and functional choice for anglers who appreciate a traditional aesthetic with modern features. The net is constructed from a beautiful burl wood finish, giving it a timeless look and a durable build. The lightweight construction ensures it won’t be a burden to carry all day. A standout feature is the integrated measuring stick, with marks at 5 and 10 inches on the 15-inch handle, allowing you to quickly and easily measure your catch without a separate tool. The net’s area is 20 inches, which is a great size for landing most trout and other small to medium-sized fish.
The rubber net bag is a key feature for ethical catch-and-release fishing. Unlike traditional mesh or nylon bags, the rubber is gentle on a fish’s delicate slime coat, preventing harm and ensuring a healthy release. The clear rubber material also has the benefit of “vanishing” underwater, which reduces the chance of spooking a wary trout when you are trying to land it. This feature, combined with the snag-free design, makes it an excellent tool on the water. For anglers who love the classic look of a wood net but want the modern benefits of a fish-safe rubber bag and an integrated measuring stick, the Trademark Innovations net is a perfect choice that balances style and function.
- Pros: Classic and durable burl wood design; fish-safe rubber net bag; includes an integrated measuring stick; rubber bag won’t snag hooks.
- Cons: Heavier than an aluminum or carbon fiber net; the handle is not as long as a boat net.
4. SF Fly Fishing Landing Net
- Material: Laminated bamboo and hardwood frame
- Net Mesh: Soft, clear rubberized mesh
- Dimensions: 8.3″ handle, 15.4″ x 10.6″ hoop
- Features: 360-degree copper swivel ring and included magnetic release
The SF Fly Fishing Landing Net is a great choice for anglers who want a traditional wood net that is equipped with modern, convenient features. The net’s frame is constructed from a solid and sturdy combination of laminated bamboo and hardwood, which provides a classic look and a durable build. The soft, clear rubberized net material is a key feature for catch-and-release, as it is gentle on the fish and won’t tangle, rot, or mildew. The clear color of the mesh is also a benefit, as it virtually disappears underwater and won’t spook fish. This makes for a more efficient and stress-free landing process.
The net is designed for convenience with a 360-degree copper swivel ring at the bottom of the handle, which is perfect for pairing with the included magnetic net release. The magnetic release is made from aviation aluminum, making it strong, rust-resistant, and less prone to corrosion. The included stretchy spring cord can extend up to 102.4 inches, ensuring you have enough reach to grab the net when you need it. This hands-free carrying system keeps the net out of your way until you need to land a fish. This net is a perfect combination of classic materials and modern features, making it a great choice for a variety of fishing environments.
- Pros: Classic laminated wood frame; fish-friendly and tangle-free mesh; includes a magnetic release and lanyard; copper swivel ring for easy attachment.
- Cons: Laminated wood frame is heavier than aluminum; the magnetic release may not be strong enough for very large nets.
5. GOODCAT Fly Fishing Net
- Material: Enhanced aviation aluminum alloy frame
- Net Mesh: Soft and clear rubber mesh
- Dimensions & Weight: 17″ x 11.5″ hoop, 24.6″ extended length, 0.95 lb weight
- Features: Foldable design with magnetic release and lanyard
The GOODCAT Fly Fishing Net is a lightweight and highly portable net that is packed with features for the modern angler. Its enhanced aviation aluminum alloy frame makes it incredibly light yet rigid and strong enough for even the largest fish. The foldable design with a Toray PP lengthen lock allows you to collapse the net with one hand, making it easy and convenient to store and carry. When collapsed, it takes up minimal space and is perfect for wading, kayaking, or storing in your car. At just under a pound, it’s an ultralight option that won’t weigh you down during a long day on the water.
The net features a soft and clear rubberized mesh material, which is very gentle on fish and won’t tangle, rot, or mildew. The clear color is a great feature, as it is virtually invisible underwater and won’t spook fish. The net comes with a magnetic release and a stretchy spring cord, both made of aviation aluminum for strength and corrosion resistance. The aluminum alloy buckle at the bottom of the handle makes it easy to clip to your vest or pack, keeping your hands completely free. For anglers who need a lightweight, strong, and highly portable net with a hands-free carrying system, the GOODCAT Fishing Net is an excellent choice that offers great performance and convenience.
- Pros: Extremely lightweight and portable; foldable with one-hand operation; fish-safe rubber mesh; comes with a strong magnetic release and lanyard.
- Cons: The folding mechanism may be a point of weakness over time; the small size is not ideal for very large fish.
6. PLUSINNO Fly Fishing Net (Folding)
- Material: Aluminum alloy frame
- Net Mesh: Rubber mesh that is gentle on fish
- Dimensions & Weight: 16″ x 13″ hoop, 28″ extended length, 0.95 lb weight
- Features: Foldable design with a belt clip and magnetic release
The PLUSINNO Folding Fly Fishing Net is a very practical and convenient tool for anglers who value portability and ease of use. At just 0.95 pounds, it is an ultralight option that won’t add any significant weight to your gear. The foldable design makes it very compact for storage and easy to carry on a hike or when wading in a stream. A special designed belt clip is included, which makes it easy to clip onto your belt or pack for convenient transportation. The net features a rubber mesh that is gentle on the fish and prevents tangles, making it a great choice for catch-and-release fishing. This net is a versatile option, suitable for use in streams, rivers, or from a kayak or boat.
The included magnetic release and sturdy carabiner clip are excellent features that help you keep your hands free and avoid losing your net in the water. The strong magnetic connection ensures that the net stays securely attached to your vest or pack until you need it. The net is well-sized for trout and bass, with a hoop of 16″ x 13″ and a depth of 10 inches. The PLUSINNO Folding Net is a fantastic choice for any angler who needs a lightweight, compact, and reliable net that is easy to carry and provides a safe landing for fish. It is also an affordable option that provides a lot of value and convenience.
- Pros: Ultralight and portable folding design; included magnetic release and belt clip; fish-safe rubber mesh; very affordable.
- Cons: The frame is not as rigid as a solid-frame net; the magnetic release may not be as strong as other premium models.
7. PLUSINNO Fly Fishing Net (Wooden Frame)
- Material: Solid and sturdy wooden handle and frame
- Net Mesh: Soft, clear mesh that won’t spook or harm fish
- Dimensions: 28″ length, 13.5″ width, 14″ depth
- Features: Strong magnetic clip and a quick release lanyard
The PLUSINNO Wooden Frame Fly Fishing Net is a great choice for anglers who prefer the classic look and feel of a wood net with the added convenience of modern accessories. The net features a solid and sturdy wooden handle and frame, which is easy to grip and provides a classic, balanced feel. This durable construction ensures the net will last for a long time. The net bag is made from a soft, clear mesh that is gentle on fish and provides great assistance when removing hooks. The clear mesh is a major benefit for catch-and-release, as it won’t spook fish and makes the landing process smoother. This net is perfect for a variety of environments, including streams, rivers, and from a kayak.
The net is designed for portability, with a lightweight and compact size that makes it easy to carry. It comes with a strong magnetic clip and a quick-release lanyard, which is a must-have for any angler. The aviation aluminum magnets are less prone to rust and have a powerful magnetic strength, ensuring the net stays securely attached to your vest or pack. The lanyard has no problem holding the net and is easy to reattach when needed. This net is a perfect combination of a classic, reliable wooden frame and the modern convenience of a hands-free carrying system. It’s an excellent choice for a new angler or for someone who wants a dependable and stylish net without a high price tag.
- Pros: Classic and durable wooden frame; fish-friendly and tangle-free mesh; strong magnetic clip and lanyard included; easy to carry and use.
- Cons: The wooden frame is heavier than an aluminum or composite frame; the handle is not as long as a boat net.
How to Choose a Fly Fishing Net?
A fishing net is more than just a tool to scoop a fish from the water; it is a critical piece of gear that ensures the safe and ethical landing of your catch. The net provides a secure way to control a fish, allowing you to quickly unhook it, take a photo if you wish, and release it without causing unnecessary harm. For the catch-and-release angler, a good net is non-negotiable. But with a wide variety of materials, sizes, and designs on the market, choosing the right net can be a confusing task. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider, from the type of net bag to the frame material and handle style, helping you find the perfect net to match your fishing style and protect the fish you catch.
Understanding Net Bag Materials
The material of the net bag is the most important factor to consider for the health of the fish. Traditional nets often use knotted nylon or cotton, which can be harsh on a fish’s delicate slime coat, leading to potential infections. Modern nets, however, are designed to be much more fish-friendly.
Rubber and Silicone Bags
Rubber or silicone bags are the gold standard for catch-and-release fly fishing. These nets are made from a soft, flexible material that is gentle on a fish’s slime coat, which is its primary defense against infection. The smooth surface of a rubber or silicone bag also prevents the fish’s fins from getting tangled, reducing stress and injury. Another major advantage is that hooks almost never get tangled in these bags. When you are trying to land a feisty fish, the last thing you want is a fly tangled in the netting. A rubber bag makes it easy to quickly and safely unhook the fly and get the fish back in the water. For any angler who practices catch and release, a rubber or silicone bag is a must-have.
Knotless Nylon Bags
While knotted nets are generally a poor choice, some manufacturers offer “knotless” nylon nets. These are a step up from traditional knotted nets and are softer on the fish. They are often a more affordable option than rubber nets and are lighter. However, hooks can still get tangled in the nylon mesh, and they are not as gentle on the fish’s slime coat as a rubber or silicone net. They are a decent alternative on a budget, but a rubber net is always the better choice for the health of the fish.
Choosing the Right Handle and Frame Style
The handle and frame of the net determine its durability, weight, and how easy it is to carry and use. The best choice depends on where you fish and the type of fish you target.
Hand Nets and Short-Handle Nets
For anglers who fish in small streams and target small to medium-sized trout, a hand net or a short-handle net is the most common choice. These nets are compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry on your vest or attached to your back with a magnetic release or a lanyard. The short handle makes it easy to scoop the fish in close quarters without getting in the way. They are a great choice for wading, as you can keep the net out of the way until you need it. The frame is often made of wood or laminated wood for a classic look and feel, but a growing number of manufacturers are using aluminum for its durability and light weight.
Long-Handle and Boat Nets
When you are fishing from a boat, float tube, or on a large river, a long-handle net is the ideal choice. The longer handle allows you to reach out and scoop a fish without leaving your boat or bending over too far. These nets often have a larger hoop size to accommodate bigger fish like salmon, steelhead, or bass. The handles can be made of wood, aluminum, or a composite material. Aluminum handles are very popular for their durability and light weight. For anglers who fish from a boat, a net with a built-in lanyard or clip is a great way to keep it secure and within reach.
Material and Construction of the Frame
The material of the net frame is a key factor in its durability, weight, and aesthetics. The most common materials are wood, aluminum, and composite materials.
Wood Frames
Wood nets have a classic and beautiful aesthetic. They are often made from laminated woods like maple, walnut, or cherry, which makes them very strong and durable. While they are generally heavier than aluminum nets, they have a timeless appeal and a warm feel in your hand. Many anglers choose a wood net for its classic look and feel. They are a great choice for anglers who fish small streams and appreciate the traditional look.
Aluminum and Composite Frames
Aluminum frames are a popular choice for their durability and lightweight construction. They are often anodized to be corrosion-resistant, making them a great choice for saltwater fishing. Aluminum frames can be made with a variety of designs, including a folding or telescoping handle, which adds to their portability. Composite frames are also a great option, as they are often very lightweight and strong. They are a good choice for anglers who want a durable, modern, and lightweight net that can stand up to a lot of use without a lot of weight.
Key Features to Look For
Beyond the basic materials, a few key features can make a net more functional and convenient for a fly angler. Pay attention to these details when making your choice.
Net Shape and Size
Nets come in a variety of shapes, from circular to tear-drop. The best shape is a matter of personal preference, but the size of the net hoop is a crucial decision. You should choose a net with a hoop size that is appropriate for the fish you are targeting. For small trout, a small hoop is fine. For larger fish, a larger hoop is necessary. Always make sure the net is big enough to safely and easily land the fish without causing it harm. You can also choose a net with a flat bottom, which is great for safely holding the fish while you unhook it and take a photo.
Magnetic Net Release or Lanyard
For hands-free carrying, a magnetic net release or a lanyard is a fantastic accessory. These devices allow you to hang the net on your back or from your vest, keeping it out of the way until you need it. A magnetic release is very convenient, as it allows you to quickly detach the net with one hand when you hook a fish. A lanyard is a simpler option that keeps the net secure but may be slower to use. Both are great for keeping your net from floating away if you drop it.
