For big salmon and steelhead, you want a rugged, long-reach landing net with a fish-friendly mesh. The key specs to prioritize are a large hoop, a deep dunk, and a rubber or rubber-coated mesh to protect the slime and scales while you land a strong fish. Here’s a practical guide and solid picks to consider.
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Size and depth to handle big fish
- Hoop size: look for at least 18 x 18 inches, with 23 x 18 inches being ideal for large salmon and steelhead. A deeper net (18–24 inches) helps keep the fish secure once you scoop them.
- Handle length: a telescoping or fixed long handle to 60–82 inches gives you reach from a boat or bank without crowding the fish.
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Mesh and material
- Material: rubber or rubber-coated nylon mesh is preferred. It’s gentler on the fish, reduces slime loss, and minimizes scale abrasion compared to knotless fabrics.
- Coating: rubber-coated nets are excellent for big, slippery fish and make cleaning easier after a long day on the river.
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Build and durability
- Frame: corrosion-resistant aluminum frames hold up to salt and water exposure and keep the weight manageable for long fights.
- Fold/Collapsible: a foldable or telescoping design helps with transport and storage on a boat or in a car.
Top picks (real-world options you can compare):
- High Strength Large Landing Net – Long telescoping handle, hoop about 23 x 18 inches, full rubber netting for big fish. Great balance of reach and protection. High Strength Large Landing Net - Fishing Net with Long Telescoping Handle
- PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead – Rubber-coated, floating design, hoop around 15.8 x 11.8 inches with a 16.7 inch handle. Ideal when you’re chasing steelhead and want a lightweight, fish-friendly option. PLUSINNO Floating Fishing Net for Steelhead, Salmon, Fly, Kayak, Catfish, Bass, Trout Fishing, Rubber Coated Landing Net
- SEASPRO Rubber Fishing Net – Rubber-coated, deep enough to cradle big fish, 23 x 18 inch hoop and a telescoping or long handle option. Durable for river use. SEASPRO Rubber Fishing Net with Telescoping Handle
- Blue Billow Rubber Fishing Net – Large, foldable net with a 67-inch extended reach and 23 x 18 inch hoop; rubber netting protects fish during landing. Blue Billow Rubber Fishing Net Large Folding Landing Collapsible Aluminum Pole Handle
- Smarkey Fish Landing Net – Heavy-duty design, extendable to about 82 inches; great for boat or bank fishing where reach matters. Smarkey Fish Landing Net with Extendable Aluminum Telescoping Handle
Tips for using your net with big salmon/steelhead:
- Net the fish quickly, keep the head or body in the water if possible, and slide the net under them to avoid stressing the gills.
- Keep the net ready in the water or on the side of the boat so you can scoop smoothly as the fish tires.
- If you’re fighting a big fish on a windy day, extend the handle to maintain control and reduce line pressure on the fish.
- After landing, rinse the net and air-dry to prevent slime buildup and corrosion.
With the right size, a rubber-coated mesh, and a sturdy, long handle, you’ll improve your landing success and keep the salmon/steelhead in great shape for release or photos. Tight lines and good nets out there! 🎣💪
