If you’re a regular fisher like me, you would agree that fly fishing is the most convenient way to lure bait. When doing so, hooking up the fly fishing net might give you a hard time. So, keep reading to get pro tips on how to carry the fishing net for a better experience!
Why Fly Fishing Nets And Wading Nets Are Ideal For Fishing
Fly anglers prefer fly fishing nets as they are lighter than other baiting equipment. They allow you to carry your landing net on yourself without putting it down at each spot or getting heavy.
Carrying a fly fishing net on you will ensure you don’t leave your net behind while chasing after a fish, especially a big trout.
I’ve always been particular about hanging my net and how. It really makes all the difference. It prevents you from getting your net damaged or from fearing leaving the net behind after fishing.
Hooking Up The Fly Fishing Net: 4 Possible Ways
The best way to carry a net is to secure it with a magnet. Here are some other ways to attach your net effectively.
A Lanyard, Hip Pack, or Sling Pack
When going to the stream, river, or lake, I always think about a sling pack or a lanyard. It’s the modern way of hooking the net with less chance of getting damaged. You can simply secure the trout net with a bungee or elastic lanyard to prevent it from floating away.
A Net Holster
A built-in net hostler in your belt, fishing pack, or fly fishing vest can make it easy to hook up a fly fishing nest. This helps keep the mesh away from getting into the trees and branches that might lead to damage to the net.
Personally, I’ve tried the FishPond Net Holster and the Smith Creek Net Holter for net carrying. They can be added to the wading belt and help keep the net upright.
Magnetic Net Release On Fishing Vest
To carry your net, you can also hang it to a magnetic release like the one I use from Orvis Magnetic Net Release. But there are better ways of using it to make it easy to grab the net when catching a fish.
Hanging your net off your back with the mesh down might not be a great idea. When the mesh hoop hangs low, it keeps swinging near your butt, catching on all the nearby branches and increasing the risk of you ripping the net or falling.
You can net a fish more easily by hanging the nets from the top or side of the hoop and connecting it to the back of your neck. After spending so many years applying the wrong tactics, this is the best thing I’ve learned. When the handle is near the butt, it helps to grip the hand net better.
Wading Belt
Like net holsters, longer nets can be attached to the back of your wader belt. The major issue, however, with this method is that long-handled nets keep sagging from one side to another. This can limit your focus while fishing and give you back pain that won’t go that easily.
Things To Consider When Buying Fly Fishing Net
Fishing situations vary with locations and weather. Thus, having the best fly fishing net puts you on the safer side with factors such as:
An appropriate size and depth of net to catch your target fish with ease.
Fish-friendly materials to avoid any harm to the fish while catching.
Easy to tuck, carry, and transport.
A handle length that is not too long or short to comfortably reach the water.
Best Fly Fishing Nets of 2024
Since I started my fishing journey, I’ve been suggested a million fly fishing nets from the Frabill Power Catch to O’Pros Driftless Dry Fly. Here are the options that really worked out for me:
Longer Handle: Fishpond Nomad Emerger
Easily attachable to fly fishing vests, the Fishpond Nomad Emerger is the most durable and lightweight fly fishing net I’ve come across. If money isn’t your issue and catching big trout is your passion, this brand offers the best features.
However, when my short-heighted friend( 5’3″) used it, he complained that it was huge for his size and got in the way while fishing.
Perfect Net Leash: Aventik Carbon Fiber Landing Net
Like the Fishpond Nomad Emerger, the sleek, lightweight design of the Aventik Landing Net, made from Carbon fiber, helps catch big fish. It comes with a net made of clear rubber to hold the fighting fish and prevent them from jumping.
This affordable net is the perfect choice for those who prefer shorter handles. But if you are a longer handle kinda person, targeting a larger range, this might not be for you.
To Catch Larger Fish: Brodin Eco Clear
Known for its classic wooden handle, the Brodin Eco Clear comes in different sizes and shapes. The nets are replaceable, and the clip can be attached to vests or wading jackets. The wooden handle also provides more grip when transferring fish.
Key Takeaways
I tried and tested it, and the best way to hook up the fishing net is to wear a vest and connect a magnetic release on the back. However, many professionals believe that holsters are a great way to carry a net.
Remember, when choosing the right fishing net, keep your location and the specific fish you’re after in mind. This makes it easier to get the best gear for your target.
