Landing nets compared for estuary, kayak and boat fishing — mesh type, handle length, hoop size and fish-friendliness.
Frabill Conservation Series
Wilson Fish Friendly Net
| Option | Price | Key specs | Best for | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frabill Conservation Series Net | $70–$110 | Knotless mesh, multiple sizes | Catch and release fishing | 8.8/10 |
| Wilson Fish Friendly Rubber Net | $40–$60 | Rubber mesh, aluminium handle | Estuary and kayak | 8.4/10 |
| Environet Telescopic Landing Net | $50–$80 | Collapsible handle, knotless mesh | Land-based and rock fishing | 8.3/10 |
$70–$110 · Knotless mesh, multiple sizes
The net that ends the unhooking-a-net-full-of-trebles problem forever.
Search Amazon AU listings$40–$60 · Rubber mesh, aluminium handle
The budget rubber net that covers bream to flathead without complaint.
Search Amazon AU listings$50–$80 · Collapsible handle, knotless mesh
The bank and rock angler's pick — long when you need it, short when you don't.
Search Amazon AU listingsKnotless rubber or silicone mesh is the modern standard: trebles don't tangle in it, it doesn't remove fish slime, and it lasts. Old knotted nylon nets snag every lure and damage fish you intend to release.
Hoop size should match your target: a 40 cm hoop suits bream and flathead; 50–60 cm covers snapper, barra and mulloway; big kingfish and cod nets are specialised items.
A net you can't reach is useless. Kayak fishers need short handles and a way to tether the net; bank fishers benefit from telescopic handles that collapse for the walk in.
A 40–45 cm hoop with a shallow rubber bag handles flathead to 70 cm comfortably. Big crocodiles over 80 cm deserve a 50 cm+ net.
Yes — rubber and silicone mesh removes far less slime and scales than knotted nylon, which matters for released fish survival.
A big rubber net for fish being released; a gaff only for fish you're keeping, placed behind the head in firm flesh.
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