Net mesh matters
Knotless rubber or rubberised mesh protects the slime coat and scales and does not tangle hooks. Knotted nylon mesh abrades fish and catches trebles. For fly fishing, a shallow rubber net keeps the fish in water while you unhook.
Gear guide
Landing Nets & Fish Care
The gear that decides whether a released fish actually survives.
Last reviewed 26 September 2026 · Editorial policy
Fish-care equipment is not an accessory. If you release fish, the net, the mat and the handling method determine the outcome far more than anything else in your tackle box.
Detail
What each part does
Unhooking gear
Long-nose pliers or forceps, a disgorger for small coarse fish, and side-cutters strong enough to cut a treble if a hook is in an awkward place. Cutting a hook is almost always faster and less damaging than working it out.
Handling
Wet your hands or gloves first. Support the body horizontally, never hold a big fish vertically by the jaw, and keep the fish out of water for the shortest possible time — a good rule is no longer than you can comfortably hold your own breath.
Reviving a fish
Hold the fish upright facing into gentle current until it kicks away under its own power. In still water, move it slowly forward only; never move a fish backwards through water.
Comparison table
Side by side
| Species | Net size | Mesh | Also needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Trout (stream) | Small, shallow | Rubber | Forceps, wet hands |
| Bass | Medium, deep | Rubberised | Pliers, lip grip optional |
| Pike | Large 42"+ | Rubberised, deep | Wire cutters, unhooking mat, long forceps |
| Carp | 42" specimen net | Soft micromesh | Unhooking mat, carp care kit, weigh sling |
| Catfish | Large | Rubberised | Grip behind pectorals, pliers |
Decisions
Choose this if
Pick by situation
- You release most fish: rubber mesh, every time.
- You target pike or carp: a large net and a mat are minimum kit, not upgrades.
- You fish alone: practise one-handed netting before you need it.
Common mistakes
- Knotted nylon mesh, which removes slime and tangles trebles.
- Holding big fish vertically, which can damage the jaw and internal support.
- Long photo sessions with the fish out of water.
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