Landing net for put and take

The landing net is a small tool that saves many fish, and leaving it at home is one of the most common beginner mistakes. With a net you land rainbow safely, because it is at the edge that most fish tear free, and you can handle it gently if it is going back.

Why you want a net, and rubber mesh

Without a net you are tempted to lift the fish on the line or grab for it at the bank, and then you lose it in the last second when it makes a last run. With a net you have the fish under control at once. You can also keep it in the water in the net while you unhook, which is kind if it is going back.

Soft rubber mesh is first choice. It is kindest to the slime layer that protects the fish against infection. It tangles least with hooks, so you unhook quickly. And it dries and smells less than old knotted mesh. A medium net is enough for ordinary put-and-take rainbow. A long handle helps from a high jetty; a shorter net is easier when you wade. A folding or telescopic net lives well in the rucksack.

How you net

When the fish is played and starts to give, sink the net and lead the fish over it, head first. Then lift calmly. The common mistake is chasing the fish from behind, which scares it into a panic run where the hook comes free. Have pliers ready. If the fish is going back, see keep or release. More beginner tips: common mistakes.