Are you searching for the best rubber fishing net? We have compiled a list of the top-recommended options available today.
Fishing is one of the most enjoyable hobbies. And nothing is more exciting and satisfying than catching and landing your fish. Using a fishing net is one of the ways to enhance your chances of having a successful catch and land.
That said, nets are made from various materials such as nylon, coated, and rubber. With all these, rubber nets are the best. This is because they are soft and cause no harm to the fish. Rubber is less damaging to small-scaled fish and more sensitive fish like trout.
Moreover, having a rubber fishing net means you are worry-free about the hooks getting lodged in the net. Rubber nets are usually white or transparent, meaning they do not spook the fish.
However, so many rubber fishing nets are available, and getting the perfect one may be overwhelming. Look at the best rubber fishing nets you can pick from.
Best Rubber Fishing Net-Our Top Picks
1) PLUSSINO Fly Fishing Net
This is a portable net for catch-and-release trout and bass fishing. It can be used for wading, streaming, kayaking, boating, ice fishing, and outdoor traveling. It has a super soft rubber texture that causes no damage to delicate fish.
The teardrop-shaped baskets ensure that fish are secure. Also, the net has a comfortable skid-resistant handhold to ensure you never lose your trout fishing net. Nonetheless, the fishing net has 2 super-strong magnets that close tightly to ensure that the net stays safe and secure.
Features
- Easy to carry due to the special belt clip that adds convenience
- Fine rubber mesh that is gentle on fish and won’t get tangled up with hooks and tandem rig
- Sturdy carabiner to enable you to clip the net to the D-ring on your pack or vest
- Foldable hence convenient storage
- Measures 16.6x 12.4x 1.8 inches
Pros
- Easy to carry
- Teardrop-shaped baskets that guarantee the fish is secure
- Comfortable and nice handhold
- Impressively soft rubber texture
- Easily folds for storage
Cons
- Does not include a carrying case
2) SF Fly Fishing Landing Net
The landing net comes in a 2-piece set with a strong and durable magnetic net release. It has a frame made from laminated bamboo and hardwood, which feels comfortable and is easy to grip. The frame is waterproof and abrasion-resistant, as the wooden surface has a special coating.
Additionally, the landing net has a soft rubber mesh that is not only soft but flexible to ensure that fish is not injured and is released easily and quickly.
Features
- Rubberized net material that is soft and clear is gentle on the fish and doesn’t tangle, rot, or mildew.
- Frame is made from laminated bamboo and hardwood and is comfortable
- Has a clear color that doesn’t spook as it virtually disappears underwater
- Strong and durable carabiner
- Multifunctional, as it can be used with pliers, nippers, and other tools
Pros
- Laminated frame so that it is water-resistant and rot proof
- Bamboo frame is ergonomically designed
- Can be used in a river or lake with ease
- Doesn’t tangle
- Net comes with a magnetic release
Cons
- It may not be deep enough to prevent fish from jumping out
3) SF Fly Fishing Net for Catch and Release
The frame nets are virtually invisible in the water thanks to their clear rubber mesh. Whether you intend to release or eat your catch, you want to keep it undamaged. For that, you will love this 2-piece fly fishing net. It combines premium nets with magnetic net release to keep your fish and net safe from loss or harm.
The net is built to endure due to the hardwood, burl wood, and carbon fiber frames. Besides that, they are specially made for an easier, safety catch.
Features
- Made with clear rubber mesh, the tangle-free net virtually disappears in the water and doesn’t frighten nor damage fish
- Soft sturdy mesh and strong hardwood frame ensure that the net is wear and decay resistant
- Sturdy carabiner that ensures that you can easily clip the magnetic release to your pack or vest
- 9”-96” retractable coil secures the net
- Tough construction ensures that it comes through for you for a long time
- Super soft rubber texture so that it doesn’t damage delicate fish
- Teardrop-shape baskets ensure that fish stay secure
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Ergonomic grip
- Clear rubber mesh that makes it invisible in water
Cons
- The handle may be too short for some
4) EGO S1 Genesis Floating Fishing Net
This net is designed to float for easy recovery in case it is dropped or blown overboard due to a solid foam core body that ensures this. It delivers a great performance as the modular platform enables the handle to detach, providing component interchangeability with four landing net hoop sizes, five handle lengths, and multiple accessory attachments.
Besides, the S1 Genesis handle utilizes a strong, lightweight hexagonal extruded aluminum design, ensuring dependable and economic functionality.
Features
- Measures 23x 15x 2.6 inches
- Fixed handle with a replaceable head
- Made with high-quality, durable materials
- Solid foam core body ensures that the net floats
- Handle that transforms in the twist of a wrist
- Great for use on any boat, canoe, kayak, or jet ski and in streams, ponds, rivers, and oceans
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry
- Great grip
- Available in various hoop sizes
- Has a long handle
- Comes in various net depths
Cons
- Net may start sinking after some time
See Also
Factors to Consider When Selecting the Best Rubber Fishing Net
Net size
The size of the net depends on the fish you intend to catch. Most rubber fishing nets come in varying sizes, so you should not find it hard to create a repository of different-sized nets for different fish species. Nets to catch trout usually have short handles and large mouths, while bass nets have long handles.
Handle length
Short handles are perfect for stream fishing, while long handles are great for boat fishing. Look for extendable handles if you enjoy boat fishing because you don’t want to lean over too much from your boat. Also, remember that short handles are not susceptible to failure like long handles are.
Net shape
Most anglers prefer teardrop-shaped nets, but flat-bottomed nets are recommendable if you are into catch and release. Teardrop-shaped nets are more apt for shallow water where the fish is small, while flat-bottomed ones are preferable for large fish.
Storage
If you need your network to be stored in a compartment in your boat, you must get a net with a handle that collapses into the hoop. It is very common to have a handle with a spring button that locks into the yoke. This is a convenient and trouble-free design.
Color
Many anglers say that you should have a black colored net, especially for pike or muskie fishing, so that you don’t poke the fish when netting them. This is worth keeping in mind.
Net hole size
Nets with larger holes are easier to maneuver and lift heavier fish in the water. Bigger fish typically means a deeper bag depth for the larger fish species. Smaller fish means you don’t require as large a hole size or bag depth.
Size and shape of the hoop
The size and shape of the hoop also determine its effectiveness. A smaller-sized hoop is perfect for smaller fish. This typically means that the larger the fish size you choose, the bigger the hoop should be. You may want to invest in multiple fishing nets for varied sizes.
Pros of Best Rubber Fishing Net
- Highly durable
Rubber nets are durable, unlike nylon and string nets. Because they are rubbery and stretchable, they tend to be a lot stronger. They are also less prone to being cut from hooks as they tend to get tangled up. They give you a good time of usage. If used with care, they can easily last a long time.
- Worth the money
Rubber fishing nets cost more than normal fishing nets. However, they are worth the money, and purchasing them is a good investment. They make your life easier and ensure the fish is protected from harm. They save you time, enabling you to move to the next fish. Moreover, you should go for a rubber net if you habitually break your nets or lose them in your fishing adventures.
- Saves the slime
A fish’s skin is protected by mucus, also known as slime, which prevents impurities from forming inside or on the fish’s skin. The slime gets damaged with other fishing net materials as they have rough textures and thin knitted strings. Compared to other materials, rubber fishing nets don’t damage the slime. This is because rubber nets are smooth and slide on easily. They do not cause harm to the slime.
So, using a rubber fishing net increases the chances of survival of fish as it doesn’t put any stress on them.
- Saves time
Most anglers use more than two hooks to be used as droppers. The second hook gets tangled in the fishing net when a fish is inside the net. This typically means you spend much time getting that second hook out of the net. Using a rubber net, you will not face this problem. This means you will spend more time fishing and less time fixing the gear, which is pretty amazing.
Cons of Best Rubber Fishing Net
- Expensive
One downside of rubber fishing nets is their price. They are a bit costly compared to the others, which makes them unaffordable to some.
FAQs on the Best Rubber Fishing Net
1) Are rubber nets better for fish?
Yes absolutely. Rubber nets are better for fish as they tend to be gentler on the fish skin when the fish is caught and released into the water easily. They also cost a little more, but they are worth the money. A rubber net will also last a long time.
2) Can nets be replaced?
Yes absolutely. While the exact process varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, it is pretty common for anglers to replace the bag on their nets rather than buy a whole new net. It is also common for fishermen to replace the stock net with something less stressful for catch-and-release fishing.
3) How do you maintain fishing nets?
Rinsing a fishing net after each use is one of the greatest ways to keep it in good condition. This normally removes the corrosive substances that could cause damage. Moreover, adequate storage is required, especially if the item will not be used for an extended period. This includes techniques such as minimizing prolonged exposure to direct sunshine, which can deteriorate materials and cause breakage.
4) What is the lifespan of a rubber fishing net?
These types of nets usually last for a long duration but this depends on the care and attention they receive. A well-taken-care-of plastic fishing net will last anywhere from 3 to 5 years
Conclusion
Rubber nets are the best type of fishing nets as they are less punitive and do not tear the gills and scales of fish. Even though they are a bit more expensive compared to the others, they are worth it. A rubber fishing net is an excellent investment for anyone who loves fishing. Get yourself any rubber fishing nets illustrated above, as they are the best.