You hook a good fish, get it boat-side, and realize you’re sitting a foot off the water with a rod in one hand and no easy way to land a fish. The right net for kayak fishing fixes that.
We compared five of the best kayak fishing nets on hoop size, handle reach, the material of the net, buoyancy and how easily they stow on a kayak. Our list of the best kayak fishing nets includes a quick verdict, a side-by-side table, and honest pros and cons for every pick, so you can find the best options for your fishing trips.
How we researched this: We did not hands-on test these five nets for this guide. Scores are based on manufacturer specs, retailer listings, and published editorial and owner feedback. Each review says exactly what that means. Details are in How We Picked the Nets.
Quick Verdict
The YakAttack Leverage Landing Net is our top pick for most kayak anglers. The net is made from rubber, it folds, and its forearm grip is built so you can land a fish with one hand from a seat while the other hand holds the rod.
On a tighter budget, the KastKing Brutus is a folding fishing net that also telescopes, for a low price. If you want a net that floats, choose the PLUSINNO fishing net. For a bigger, deeper bag that floats, look at the EGO Wade Medium Nylon Net.
Top 5 Best Kayak Fishing Nets at a Glance
These are the top picks for anglers who need a net that fits the space on a kayak and is easy to carry to the launch.
| Rank | Product | Best for | Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | YakAttack Leverage Landing Net (12″ x 20″) | Best Overall | 8.5/10 |
| 2 | PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net | Best Floating Net | 7.8/10 |
| 3 | Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw | Best Compact Forearm-Support Net | 7.5/10 |
| 4 | KastKing Brutus | Best Budget (Foldable) | 7.1/10 |
| 5 | EGO Wade Medium Nylon Net | Best Deep-Bag Floating Net | 6.9/10 |
Comparison Table: Top Picks for Best Kayak Fishing Nets
| Product | Hoop size | Handle / length | Net material | Floats? | Folds? | Price guide* | Score | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YakAttack Leverage | 12″ x 20″ | 49″ overall, forearm grip | Full rubber | Not stated (foam-extension version exists) | Yes, hinged | ~$80 | 8.5 | Check price |
| PLUSINNO Floating | 11.8″ (fixed-pole version) | 16.7″ handle; 32.5″ extended | Rubber-coated mesh | Yes (foam) | Yes | ~$30 | 7.8 | Check price |
| Frabill Bearclaw | 14″ x 18″ | 18″ handle + forearm bar | Coated conservation netting | Not stated | Not stated | Check listing | 7.5 | Check price |
| KastKing Brutus | Varies by size | Telescoping on some models (to 75″) | PVC-coated nylon or silicone | Not stated | Yes | ~$24-$50 | 7.1 | Check price |
| EGO Wade Medium Nylon | 17″ x 19″ | 11″ handle, 28″ bag | Nylon mesh | Yes | No | ~$40 (stock varies) | 6.9 | Check price |
1. YakAttack Leverage Landing Net: Best Overall Net for Kayak Fishing
Score: 8.5/10
The Leverage was designed around kayak fishing. Its forearm grip lets you steady the net with your whole arm, so you don’t need a giant hoop when landing a big fish. The handle folds alongside the hoop, so this landing net is easy to store.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model reviewed | Leverage Landing Net, 12″ x 20″ hoop (SKU LLN122047, no foam extension) |
| Hoop size | 12″ x 20″ |
| Overall length | 49″ |
| Net | Full rubber |
| Handle | Forearm grip, hinged to fold alongside the net |
| Storage | Fits vertically in a standard milk crate (per manufacturer) |
| Warranty | “Built for Life” guarantee (per manufacturer) |
| Price (manufacturer listing) | $80 |
| Net depth / weight | Not listed on the manufacturer page |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Forearm grip gives strong one-handed control | Highest price in this guide |
| Folds for compact stowage | Net depth and weight aren’t published |
| Full rubber net can help limit hook snags | Hoop is narrow (12″) for very wide or bulky fish |
| Fits a milk crate, so it suits crate-based setups | Buoyancy isn’t stated for the base model |
Best for: Kayak anglers who want a purpose-built, one-handed net and will pay for it.
Skip if: You want a floating net as standard, or you’re on a tight budget.
Who should buy: Bass and inshore anglers who fish from a sit-on-top or sit-in and keep gear in a crate.
Who should skip: Occasional anglers, and anyone targeting very large fish that need a wide hoop.
Real-world use: The forearm design is meant for netting a fish while holding your rod, which is the situation most kayak anglers actually face.
Availability note: The 12″ x 20″ model (SKU LLN122047) is listed at $80 on YakAttack’s site. A 12″ x 20″ version with a foam extension is a separate listing that the site showed as “coming soon” when we researched this, and a wider-hoop Leverage is also sold. Make sure your link goes to the 12″ x 20″ model you want.
Owner and editorial feedback considered: Outdoor and fishing publications rank the Leverage among the top kayak nets. A reviewer of the wider-hoop version on a retailer page says it stopped treble hooks from snagging the net, which is one owner’s experience with a different hoop size, not a guarantee.
Testing disclosure: Not hands-on tested by Kayak Addiction. Rated on manufacturer specs and published feedback.
- REVOLUTIONARY GRIP – Built-in forearm grip delivers unmatched control and stability when landing fish
- FOLDS FLAT – Hinged design allows the handle to fold for compact stowage in your kayak or crate
- FOAM EXTENSION – Extended handle with foam grip stores vertically in rod holders and tube-style mounts
2. PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net: Best Floating Net
Score: 7.8/10
The PLUSINNO fishing net is a lightweight, foldable design with foam padding so it floats if you drop it. The mesh has a rubber coating, and the net is one of the lower-priced floating options here. It comes in several hoop sizes and handle styles, so check which version you’re buying.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Version reviewed | 11.8″ hoop, fixed-pole (“Size 1”) |
| Handle length | 16.7″ |
| Extended / collapsed length | 32.5″ / 15.8″ |
| Net | Rubber-coated mesh |
| Frame | Aluminum |
| Buoyancy | Foam padding for flotation (per listing) |
| Other versions | Telescopic poles and a 19.7″ hoop are also sold |
| Price | About $30 on recent listings; confirm on the product page |
| Weight | Varies by version; one retailer review lists about 12.5 oz |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Floats if dropped | Small hoop (11.8″) on the base version |
| Rubber-coated mesh is designed to resist treble-hook snags | Listings and versions vary, so specs are easy to mix up |
| Folds small for deck or crate storage | Not built for large, powerful fish |
| Low price for a floating net | Build quality at this price is a trade-off for long-term use |
Best for: Anglers who want flotation and compact storage on a modest budget.
Skip if: You target big fish or want a wide, deep hoop.
Who should buy: Panfish and small-to-medium bass anglers, and beginners who worry about dropping gear.
Who should skip: Musky, pike, striper or bigger saltwater anglers.
Real-world use: A floating, foldable net is easy to stow and hard to lose, which suits cramped decks.
Owner and editorial feedback considered: Gear roundups cite the float, the snag-resistant coating and the light weight, and they also note that the hoop is smaller than traditional landing nets.
Testing disclosure: Not hands-on tested by Kayak Addiction. Rated on listing specs and published feedback.
- 【Dimension of the Net】- 15.8″ x 11.8″ hoop, 11.8″ depth and16.7 inch handle. The classical shape and size of the fishing…
- 【Design to Float】- Designed with the wade fisherman in mind, the PLUSINNO floating landing net has foam padding to the h…
- 【Rubber Coated Non-snag Net】- The rubber coating net is hook/snag free. It keeps the fish safe for catch and release; No…
3. Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw: Best Compact Forearm-Support Net
Score: 7.5/10
The Frabill Trophy Haul Bearclaw net is built for the solo angler. A support bar rests on your forearm so you can lift a fish with your whole arm while the other hand holds the rod. The flat bottom of the net helps limit tangles, according to Frabill.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Version reviewed | Standard Bearclaw, 14″ x 18″ (not the lighted Net Vision / Night version) |
| Hoop size | 14″ x 18″ |
| Net depth | 11″ |
| Handle length | 18″ with forearm support bar |
| Net | Coated conservation netting, 0.5″ mesh |
| Hoop style | MeshGuard |
| Design | Flat-bottomed, asymmetrical net; over-molded rubber grips |
| Floats? | Not stated |
| Price | Varies by retailer; check the current listing |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Forearm bar makes one-handed landings easier | Compact hoop can feel small for bigger fish |
| Flat-bottomed netting is designed to limit tangles (per Frabill) | Net depth is only 11″ |
| Short handle keeps it manageable on a kayak | Flotation isn’t listed |
| Established brand in landing nets | Retailer listings disagree on whether the handle folds, so confirm before buying |
Best for: Anglers who want forearm support in a short, fixed-handle net for bass and panfish.
Skip if: You need a net that floats or one that clearly folds flat.
Who should buy: Solo kayak anglers who net fish while holding the rod.
Who should skip: Anglers targeting large saltwater or toothy fish.
Real-world use: The forearm bar is aimed at paddlers and anglers with one free hand. Compared with the foldable Leverage, the Bearclaw is listed with a fixed 18″ handle and a smaller hoop, so it trades some stowability and reach for a simpler design. It suits a fish in close proximity to the kayak but offers little reach.
Owner and editorial feedback considered: Field & Stream picked it as a top portable kayak net, and the same review noted the hoop is a little small.
Testing disclosure: Not hands-on tested by Kayak Addiction. Rated on manufacturer and retailer specs and published feedback.
- Frabill | Trusted By Anglers Since 1938
- Compact, efficient and powerful one-handed design, built for the one handed scoop | Handled yoke and support bar provide…
- Asymmetrical flat-bottomed net is made with conservation material and features a snag-proof fish slide to ensure your ca…
4. KastKing Brutus: Best Budget (Foldable)
Score: 7.1/10
The Brutus is a low-cost net with a folding hoop and, on some models, a telescoping handle. It’s the most affordable way into a collapsible net here.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Frame | 6063 aluminum alloy |
| Hoop | U-shaped, folds in half with a push-button release |
| Handle | EVA foam grip; telescoping on some models (up to 75″ on the boat-hook version) |
| Net options | PVC-coated nylon or clear silicone |
| Hoop sizes | Several; confirm the size and handle type on your listing |
| Capacity | Listed up to 33 lb (smaller size) or 44 lb (largest) |
| Floats? | Not stated |
| Price | About $24-$50 depending on size and net type (retailer listings) |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lowest price of the five | Not listed as floating, so tether it |
| Folds and telescopes for storage | One review says folding takes two hands and a bit of practice |
| Bright EVA handle is easy to spot | Folding mechanism can feel stiff when new, according to one review |
| Silicone net option for fewer snags | Many size and net variants make it easy to order the wrong one |
Best for: Budget-minded anglers who want a collapsible net with reach options.
Skip if: You need a net that floats or deploys instantly with one hand.
Who should buy: Beginners and weekend anglers who want a functional net without a big spend.
Who should skip: Anglers who want guaranteed buoyancy or a one-handed grab-and-net design.
Real-world use: Telescoping and folding make it easy to stow, but they add steps compared with a fixed-handle net when a fish is boat-side.
Owner and editorial feedback considered: Roundups credit the capacity and the price, and mention the stiff folding mechanism and the learning curve.
Testing disclosure: Not hands-on tested by Kayak Addiction. Rated on manufacturer and retailer specs and published feedback.
- High-quality Components: All KastKing fish landing nets are built with high-quality 6063 Aluminum alloy for exceptional …
- Foldable & Retractable: Using a u-shaped design net hoop, the KastKing Brutus landing net features a push-down switch fo…
- Environment Friendly & Stealth Design: Specially designed with two different net choices: nylon covered PVC or, silicone…
5. EGO Wade Medium Nylon Net: Best Deep-Bag Floating Net
Score: 6.9/10
This is a wade-and-kayak net, and a large net for its price. It floats, and its 28″ bag is the deepest of the five.
| Spec | Detail |
|---|---|
| Version reviewed | Wade Medium Nylon, 17″ x 19″ (MPN 71262-A) |
| Hoop size | 17″ x 19″ |
| Bag depth | 28″ |
| Handle | 11″ hexagonal aluminum |
| Net | Nylon mesh |
| Weight | 1.25 lb |
| Buoyancy | Floats |
| Tether | 11″ elastic, adjustable and removable, with clip |
| Price | $39.99 on Sportsman’s Warehouse (out of stock when checked) |
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Floats, so a dropped net stays on the surface | Nylon mesh can catch treble hooks, per an owner review |
| Large hoop and deep net for its price | Short 11″ handle limits reach |
| Includes a tether with a clip | One owner said the included tether needed an upgrade |
| Lower price than most rubber nets | Wade-style design doesn’t fold |
Best for: Anglers who want a roomy, floating net on a budget and mostly use single-hook baits or lures.
Skip if: You throw treble-hook lures or want a folding net.
Who should buy: Anglers fishing bait or single hooks for bass and similar species.
Who should skip: Anglers who want a rubber net or tight deck storage.
Real-world use: The big hoop and deep bag help hold fish, but the net doesn’t fold, so plan for where it will sit.
Availability note: On October 1, 2026, Sportsman’s Warehouse listed this net as out of stock and unavailable to ship to the ZIP code we checked. Stock varies by retailer, so link only to an in-stock listing, and consider swapping this pick if it stays hard to find.
Owner and editorial feedback considered: Owner reviews on retailer pages like the float and the price, and report hook snags and a weak tether. A rubber version of the net exists at a higher price.
Testing disclosure: Not hands-on tested by Kayak Addiction. Rated on manufacturer and retailer specs and owner feedback.
- Purpose: Fishing net handle gives anglers a compatible base for building or refreshing an EGO landing net, bait net, or …
- Compatibility: Works with compatible EGO S1/S2 net heads and attachments so you can change reach, hoop style, mesh, and …
- Handling: 17×19 Inch, 17 x 19, 17 X 19 in, 15 in, and 19 in so key details are easier for shoppers and quick comparisons…
How We Picked the 5 Best Kayak Fishing Nets
To find nets worth comparing, we built the list from published editorial roundups, manufacturer pages and retailer listings. We then compared specs and owner feedback side by side.
What was and wasn’t hands-on: None of these five nets were hands-on tested by our team for this guide. We won’t claim otherwise. Where a review mentions feedback, it comes from named source types, such as retailer reviews and gear roundups, and we paraphrase rather than quote.
What we checked: Hoop size, handle length and folding, net material, buoyancy, frame material, price and availability.
Why trust Kayak Addiction: We cover kayaks and kayak fishing gear, from what a fishing kayak is to rigging your kayak for fishing. We state clearly when something isn’t hands-on tested, and affiliate income doesn’t change rankings.
Rating Methodology
Each net is scored 1-10 on six criteria. We multiply by the weights below and add them up.
| Criteria | Weight |
|---|---|
| Build quality and durability | 25% |
| Fish handling and net design | 20% |
| Portability and storage on a kayak | 20% |
| Buoyancy | 15% |
| Ease of use | 10% |
| Value | 10% |
Scoring Results
| Product | Build (25%) | Fish handling (20%) | Portability (20%) | Buoyancy (15%) | Ease of use (10%) | Value (10%) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YakAttack Leverage | 9.0 | 9.0 | 9.0 | 7.0 | 9.5 | 6.5 | 8.5 |
| PLUSINNO Floating | 6.5 | 8.0 | 8.0 | 9.0 | 7.5 | 8.5 | 7.8 |
| Frabill Bearclaw | 8.0 | 9.0 | 6.5 | 5.0 | 9.0 | 7.0 | 7.5 |
| KastKing Brutus | 7.5 | 7.0 | 8.5 | 4.0 | 6.0 | 9.5 | 7.1 |
| EGO Wade Medium Nylon | 7.5 | 5.5 | 5.5 | 9.0 | 7.0 | 8.0 | 6.9 |
Example: YakAttack = (9.0 x 0.25) + (9.0 x 0.20) + (9.0 x 0.20) + (7.0 x 0.15) + (9.5 x 0.10) + (6.5 x 0.10) = 8.5.
These are editorial judgments based on research, not lab measurements. A criterion with no published data (for example, buoyancy for a net that doesn’t say it floats) is scored conservatively.
How to Choose the Best Kayak Fishing Net
Every fishing net comes with trade-offs, so start with three questions: what fish you chase, what type of kayak you paddle, and how much you want to spend. A fishing net is designed to keep a fish under control while you stay balanced, so the right kayak fishing net is the one that fits your setup.
Net size and hoop
Match the hoop to the fish you plan to catch. A net is the perfect size when the fish fits in the bag with room to spare, and a fishing net’s hoop should support the body of the fish rather than just its head and tail. The size of the net may decide whether you get the fish aboard at all, since using a small net for a big fish is a common way to lose it. The table below is a general guide, so adjust for the species you chase.
| Target fish | Typical hoop | Typical net depth |
|---|---|---|
| Panfish and other small fish | 12″-15″ | 10″-15″ |
| Bass, walleye, larger trout | 15″-20″ | 15″-24″ |
| Pike, musky, redfish and other big fish | 20″+ | 25″+ |
A forearm-style net like the Leverage can land fish with a smaller hoop because you control it with your whole arm. A wide hoop with a deep bag gives more margin for a big fish, but it takes up more room on deck. Fishing for bass? See our guide to bass fishing from a kayak.
Handle length
Short fixed handles (roughly 11″-24″) are quick and stay out of the way. Telescoping handles add reach, which helps on a large kayak or with a skittish fish. The type of kayak and the size of your kayak both matter, along with seat height, so see our comparison of sit-on-top vs. sit-in kayaks.
Floating Fishing Net vs. Non-Floating
A floating net stays on the surface if you drop it, so you can grab it. A net that sinks can be lost in deeper water. If your net doesn’t float, use a tether or leash.
Rubber vs. nylon
The material of the net affects hook snags, drying time and price. Some nets use solid rubber, others use a mesh net with a rubber coating, and many budget models use plain nylon. A rubberized net tends to snag fewer hooks than basic nylon.
| Rubber / rubber-coated | Nylon mesh | |
|---|---|---|
| Hook snags | Generally fewer | More likely, especially with trebles |
| Fish care | Often considered gentler on fish, though handling matters more than netting | Can be rougher on fish |
| Weight | Often a bit heavier | Often lighter |
| Drying and cleaning | Sheds water and debris easily | Holds water and grime longer |
| Price | Usually higher | Usually lower |
For catch and release fishing, many anglers prefer rubber or coated netting because it tends to snag fewer hooks. No net replaces good handling: keep the fish in the water when you can, use wet hands, release the fish quickly, and limit how long you hold a fish out of the water.
Storage and mounting
Space is tight on a fishing kayak, so look for a net with a lanyard or clip, a folding or telescoping design, and a spot you can reach one-handed. A fishing crate is a common home for a folding net, and our rigging guide covers deck layout.
Budget
Nets on the market vary widely in price. As a rough guide, from the nets above: about $24-$50 for collapsible entry nets, $30-$40 for floating nets, and about $80 for the Leverage. Check current prices before you buy.
Common Buying Mistakes
- Buying a hoop that’s too small for your target fish, which can mean fish lost at the kayak.
- Ignoring buoyancy, then losing a net that sinks.
- Choosing nylon for treble-hook lures, which tangle easily.
- Stowing the net out of reach, so you can’t grab it one-handed with a fish on.
- Picking a handle that’s too short for a high seat, or too long to store.
- Mixing up versions. Many fishing nets come in several sizes and net types, so check the listing before you order.
Alternatives to a Landing Net
Not every situation calls for a fishing landing net. Some anglers fish without a net for small fish, and a small fly fishing net can be enough when the fish are light. For toothy or larger species, the other options below may fit better.
| Option | When it makes sense | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Lip grippers | Toothy fish like pike, landed by the mouth | Don’t contain the fish; not for delicate-mouthed species |
| Landing by hand | Small fish, done quickly and gently | Needs care for you and the fish |
| Gaff | Harvesting large saltwater species where legal | Not for catch-and-release |
| Net-free release | Experienced anglers unhooking at the boat | Takes skill to limit stress on the fish |
For most anglers, a net is still the most forgiving tool, especially with larger fish.
Maintenance Checklist
- [ ] Rinse the net, frame and handle with fresh water after every trip, especially after fishing in saltwater.
- [ ] Rinse off slime, blood and bait residue.
- [ ] Let it air dry fully in shade before storing.
- [ ] Inspect hinges, locks and joints for corrosion or cracks.
- [ ] Wipe moving parts and apply a light silicone-based protectant if needed.
- [ ] Check netting for tears or hook damage and replace worn netting.
- [ ] Store it away from sharp objects and prolonged direct sun.
Frequently Asked Questions
What size net is best for kayak fishing?
For many freshwater anglers, a hoop of roughly 15″-20″ works well. Panfish and other small fish need less, and big pike, musky or saltwater fish may need 20″ or more with a deeper bag. Forearm-style nets can land fish with a smaller hoop.
Should a kayak fishing net float?
It’s a good feature, because a floating net stays on the surface if you drop it. If your net doesn’t float, add a tether. Of the nets here, the PLUSINNO and EGO list flotation.
Is a rubber net better than nylon?
Often, but not always. Rubber or coated netting tends to snag fewer hooks and sheds water, which many anglers prefer for catch-and-release. Nylon is usually lighter and cheaper but can tangle with treble hooks. Either way, quick, careful handling matters more than the mesh.
What’s the best fishing net for kayak beginners?
Look for a floating or tethered net with a medium hoop and a handle you can use one-handed. The PLUSINNO is an easy, affordable start, and the KastKing Brutus is a budget option if you’re comfortable with a folding hoop.
How long should the handle be?
A short fixed handle of about 11″-24″ is quick and compact. A telescoping handle that extends longer gives more reach, which helps on wide kayaks or high seats.
How do I store a net on a kayak?
Fold or collapse it, then clip or tether it where you can grab it one-handed, such as behind the seat, along the gunwale or in a crate. Some nets, like the Leverage, are designed to fit a standard milk crate.
Can I use a regular boat net on a kayak?
You can, but most are large and long. They’re awkward to store and hard to use one-handed in a small, low boat. A compact net that is designed for kayak use is usually easier.
What’s the best net for catch and release fishing?
Many anglers choose a rubber or rubber-coated net because it tends to reduce hook tangles. The Leverage, PLUSINNO and Frabill use rubber or coated netting. Whatever you choose, keep the fish in the water when possible, wet your hands, and limit time out of the water.
Do I need a net at all?
Not for every fish. If ysh on a kayak is harder than from a bigger boat, though, so for larger fish, or when you need to unhook one safely, it’s smart to use a net.
How do I net a fish from a kayak safely?
Wait until the fish is tired and close, then keep the net in the water and guide the fish headfirst into the bag. Keep your weight centered, stay seated, and avoid leaning over the side. If the fish bolts, let it run. Lift only once the fish in the net is calm, and wear a life jacket on the water.
Conclusion: The Best Net for Kayak Fishing
The best net depends on how you fish. Our top pick is the YakAttack Leverage, because it was designed for the kayak and the forearm grip suits one-handed landings. It costs the most and its depth and weight aren’t published.
If you want flotation and low cost, the PLUSINNO is a good fit for smaller fish. The Frabill Bearclaw suits solo anglers who want forearm support in a compact net, the KastKing Brutus is the cheapest way to get a collapsible net, and the EGO Wade Medium Nylon gives you the roomiest floating bag, with the trade-off of nylon snags.
These five nets to land fish from a kayak each trade something off, so confirm the size, version and stock on the listing before you buy.
Final Recommendation
Ready to buy? For the best net for anglers who want one-handed control, start with our top pick, the YakAttack Leverage Landing Net, or jump back to the comparison table to find the net that fits your budget and target fish.
