A proper landing net matters more than most beginners realise – the wrong net (or no net at all) is one of the most common causes of lost fish and unnecessary fish injury in UK angling. This list covers the net types that suit different UK fishing situations.
1. Carp Landing Net (36-42in Arm, Rubber Mesh)
The standard modern carp net, with a deep, wide bag and gentle rubber mesh to protect fish during landing and unhooking.
2. Specimen Net for Barbel and Big River Fish
A slightly more compact net designed for river bank access, still deep enough to safely land powerful fish like barbel without an overly long handle becoming awkward.
3. General Coarse Landing Net (Smaller Bag)
A smaller, lighter net suited to general coarse fishing for roach, bream, and tench, where landing very large fish is less of a concern than manageable size and weight.
4. Pike Landing Net (Extra Deep, Reinforced)
A reinforced, extra-deep net designed to safely handle pike’s size and teeth, with mesh gentle enough to avoid damaging fins while remaining robust enough for the fish’s weight and thrashing.
5. Telescopic Landing Net Handle
A separate telescopic handle that extends for reach and collapses for transport – a practical addition for anglers who move between swims and want to avoid carrying a fixed-length pole.
6. Folding/Travel Landing Net
A net with a folding arm frame for easier transport, useful for anglers travelling to different waters or carrying gear a distance from the car.
7. Match Fishing Landing Net (Compact)
A smaller, quick-to-use net suited to match fishing pace, where fish need landing and returning quickly without the bulk of a full carp net setup.
8. Sea Fishing Drop Net
A different design entirely for pier and harbour fishing, lowered on a rope or pole to retrieve fish from well below the angler’s standing position – essential where the water is far below the bank or pier.
9. Stink Bag / Net Float Combo
Not a net itself, but a practical accessory – a floating retainer that keeps a landed fish safely in the net and in the water briefly while unhooking mats and cameras are readied.
10. Replacement Net Mesh (Rubber, Various Sizes)
For anglers with an existing net frame in good condition, a replacement rubber mesh upgrade is a cheap way to improve fish welfare without buying an entirely new net.
Mesh Matters More Than Frame
Rubber or rubber-coated mesh is now the clear standard recommendation across UK fishing for fish welfare – it is significantly gentler on slime coats and fins than older knotted nylon mesh. See our landing nets guide for sizing and technique.