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Picking the right fishing net is like choosing the right pair of shoes for a hike — it can make the trip effortless or turn it into a struggle. A net influences how quickly you land a fish, how safely the fish survives a catch-and-release, and how comfortable you are on the water. Whether you’re grabbing a quick shore net or a pro-grade landing net for a tournament, the right hoop size, net depth, material, and handle length all matter. This guide walks you through where to buy nets in the US, what to compare, and which styles fit your fishing habits so you spend smart and catch more.
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are go-to retailers for anglers who want a wide selection from entry-level to tournament-grade nets. You’ll find names like Frabill, Berkley, and their house brands, with hoop sizes from about 12 inches up to 36 inches and handle lengths from 18 inches to 8 feet. These stores are great for trying different net feels in person and comparing aluminum frames to composite ones before you buy.
Academy is a practical choice for budget-minded anglers and weekend warriors, offering solid mid-range nets from established brands. Expect telescoping models in the 3-foot to 6-foot range and rubber-coated nets for catch-and-release. If you fish from a kayak or a boat and need a compact net that extends, Academy often carries a variety of telescopic and folding designs that balance price and performance.
Dick’s carries a curated selection of nets that appeals to both recreational and serious anglers. You can typically find lightweight aluminum frames and high-quality mesh nets with 18-inch to 28-inch hoops. Their selection often emphasizes ergonomic handles and durable net materials, making them a reliable stop if you want a comfortable net that won’t weigh you down on long fishing days.
REI caters well to fly anglers and outdoor purists. While their net selection is more niche, you’ll find higher-end frames and knotless, rubberized nets that are fish-friendly and reduce scale damage. REI is a great place to shop if you value materials like hardwood handles and compact nets that tuck easily into a vest or pack for riverside wading.
For the budget-conscious or last-minute buyer, Walmart and Amazon offer a massive range of nets, from inexpensive 12-inch dip nets to larger 30-inch landing nets. These platforms are useful for quick price comparisons and customer reviews, but you’ll need to be choosy — read specs carefully about hoop diameter, net depth in inches, and handle quality so you don’t end up with a floppy frame or a net that tugs apart.
Tackle Warehouse and local specialty shops are gold mines for anglers seeking performance nets or brand-new tech like collapsible carbon-fiber frames or ultra-soft rubber nets for catch-and-release. These stores often stock pro-level options and can advise on best fits for species like bass, trout, or striped bass. If you fish for larger freshwater species, specialty shops typically carry hoops of 26 inches and up, with deeper nets measured in feet for big fish.
Sportsman’s Warehouse focuses on serious outdoor anglers and hunters, offering heavy-duty nets and a solid range of sizes and materials. You’ll find everything from shallow dip nets for panfish to heavy, reinforced hoops for big catfish or carp, often with handle lengths designed for boat and shore use. Their selection leans toward durability and function for rugged conditions.
Don’t underestimate local tackle shops and flea markets for unique finds. These places can have handmade nets, vintage hardwood handles, or local brands that aren’t available in big-box stores. They’re also great for tailored advice on what works best in your local waters — for example, whether a knotless rubber net in a 20-inch hoop is a must-have for the trout streams nearby.
Landing nets are the bread-and-butter choice for anglers landing fish from a boat, shore, or kayak. They usually feature a hoop that ranges from about 12 inches to 36 inches and depths from 6 inches to 24 inches or more. Use a larger hoop for bass and catfish and a smaller hoop for trout and panfish. If you want one net to do most jobs, a 20-inch to 24-inch hoop with a 12- to 18-inch deep bag is a versatile compromise.
Rubberized and knotless nets greatly reduce damage to fish scales and remove hooks with less tangling, which is key for conservation-minded anglers. These nets tend to be slightly heavier but worth it if you practice catch-and-release. Many fly anglers and tournament fishermen prefer rubber nets in hoops of 16 inches to 22 inches because they protect delicate fish and make unhooking faster and cleaner.
If you fish from a kayak, backpack to remote streams, or have limited storage space, telescopic nets are lifesavers. Handles collapse from about 6 feet down to around 18 inches, and hoops often fold or detach. The trade-off can be slightly less rigidity compared to fixed-handle models, but modern telescopic designs have improved dramatically in strength and reliability.
Dip nets are shallow and used primarily from shore or docks to scoop baitfish or small catches, with hoop sizes often under 12 inches. Seine nets are larger and used for sampling or catching small schooling fish along shorelines. These are specialized tools and are typically found at specialty retailers or larger outdoors stores that carry a wide range of fishing gear.
Hoop size determines what you can land easily. A 12-inch hoop suits panfish, while a 30-inch to 36-inch hoop tackles larger bass and saltwater inshore species. Oval hoops can hug a fish’s body better and reduce escape chances, while round hoops are simpler and often lighter. Think about the biggest fish you expect to handle and choose the hoop size accordingly.
Mesh ranges from nylon to rubberized knotless nets. Nylon is lightweight and inexpensive but can tangle hooks and harm fish scales. Rubber or silicone-coated meshes are gentler and easier to clean. Mesh size or weave affects water resistance and drag; finer mesh is safer for smaller species and bait, while larger mesh reduces drag for quick scooping of bigger fish.
Handle length is about reach and leverage. For kayak or boat fishing, 18- to 36-inch handles are common. For shore fishing or landing big fish from a distance, consider 4-foot to 8-foot handles. Grip comfort matters too — textured, non-slip grips keep the net steady when wet, and padding reduces hand fatigue during long sessions.
Heavy-duty nets feel sturdy but can tire you out if you carry them all day. Look for a balance: lightweight aluminum or composite frames reduce fatigue; hardwood handles look great and offer durability for riverside use. If storage is limited, folding hoops or detachable handles that shrink down to 18 inches to 24 inches are ideal for car trunks or kayak compartments.
Fly anglers typically use smaller, shallow nets with hoop diameters around 12 inches to 18 inches and a 6-inch to 12-inch deep bag — just enough to cradle trout or grayling. Short handles and lightweight frames that fit on a vest or sling are preferred, and knotless rubber nets are popular to protect delicate trout scales and barbless hooks.
Bass anglers benefit from 18-inch to 26-inch hoops with moderate depth (12 inches to 18 inches). Rubber or fine nylon mesh is common, and telescopic handles that extend to 4 feet make reaching fish in heavy cover easier. Big freshwater targets like pike, musky, or carp need much larger frames, so bump your hoop up to 30 inches or more and consider reinforced frames.
Saltwater nets need corrosion-resistant materials like anodized aluminum, stainless fittings, or composite frames. Hoop sizes vary depending on target species, but a 24-inch to 36-inch hoop handles most inshore species. Deeper nets help avoid losing fish in chop, so look for 18-inch to 24-inch deep bags and ensure the handle length lets you reach over boat rails safely.
Kayak nets are compact and often telescopic, extending from about 18 inches up to 4 feet. Handles that store easily in kayak hatches and nets with quick-detach hoops are favored. A 16-inch to 22-inch hoop often strikes a balance between reach and stowability, and rubberized mesh keeps fish happier when you bring them into a small cockpit.
Ice fishing nets tend to be shorter — often under 24 inches in handle length — since you’re working close to the hole. Small hoop sizes work for panfish and lake trout, but anglers targeting larger species may use sturdier frames and deeper nets measured in inches and feet appropriate to the fish size. Portability and quick-dry materials are important when you’re dressing in layers on the ice.
Deciding where to splurge depends on how often and seriously you fish. If you head out once in a while, a dependable mid-range net from Academy or Walmart that offers a 20-inch hoop and a telescopic handle will do the job. If you fish competitively or practice catch-and-release frequently, invest in a quality rubberized, knotless net with a solid 24-inch to 30-inch hoop and a durable handle — the benefits to fish health and ease of use pay off.
Net maintenance is simple but essential. Rinse nets with fresh water after using them in saltwater to prevent corrosion and stiffened mesh, and hang them to dry fully to avoid mildew. Treat wooden handles with light oil occasionally to prevent splitting, and inspect attachment points and rivets every few trips. Proper care keeps a net usable for seasons instead of months and saves money over time.
Shop off-season for bargains — spring and fall clearances often yield great prices on last year’s models, and big retailers run sales around holidays. Compare specs like hoop diameter in inches, net depth, mesh type, and handle length across retailers like Bass Pro, Academy, and specialty shops. Read user reviews for real-world feedback on durability, and watch for package deals that include rod holders or carry straps to add value.
Choosing the right fishing net boils down to balancing size, material, portability, and budget to match your fishing style. Whether you shop big-box retailers like Walmart and Dick’s for a cost-effective option, specialty stores for pro-grade nets, or local tackle shops for personalized advice, the key is to identify your primary use — fly, kayak, saltwater, or bass — and let that guide hoop size and mesh choice. With the right net in hand, landing fish becomes smoother, safer, and more enjoyable.
Fishing nets are more than an accessory; they’re a practical tool that affects your catch rate, the fish’s chance of survival, and your comfort on the water. From big-box retailers to specialty tackle shops across the US, there’s a net for every angler and budget. Use the guidance here to compare hoop sizes in inches, select materials that match your fishing environment, and buy from stores that offer the mix of selection, price, and expertise you need. Now get out there and enjoy the simple satisfaction of a well-landed fish.
| Fishing Nets | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Bait Buster Minnow Cast Nets 1 4 Sq. Mesh Cbtbbm 10 Green | $ 310,- |
