Why Use a Rubber… Landing Net Basket

Now, before you start giggling in the back, let's get serious for a moment. We're talking about the material in your landing net, not... well, you know. Though, ironically, both serve a pretty important protective purpose. But I digress!

We're passionate about fishing. Like, really passionate. And just like any good angler, we know that a successful day isn't just about the catch, it's about the release too. That's why we're big believers in the power of a rubber landing net basket.

When it comes to landing nets, you've got options. Traditional nylon, knotless nylon, and then there's our champion: full rubber baskets. So, why do we sing the praises of rubber so loudly? It all boils down to one crucial factor: fish health.

The Scales of Justice: Why Traditional Nets Fall Short

Imagine this: you've battled a beautiful trout, brought it to the net, and now you're ready for that perfect photo and a gentle release. But what if your net is actually causing more harm than good?

• Abrasion Nation: Traditional knotted nylon nets, while seemingly innocuous, can be incredibly abrasive to a fish's delicate scales and slime coat. This protective slime is a fish's first line of defense against disease and infection. When it's stripped away, you're leaving the fish vulnerable.

• Fin Fiasco: Fins are another area of concern. The knots and weave of traditional nets can easily snag, bend, or even tear a fish's fins, leading to injury and impaired swimming ability.

• Gill Grief: In the worst-case scenarios, a fish's gills can get caught in the mesh, causing significant stress and potential damage.

Rubber to the Rescue

This is where rubber baskets shine. Their inherent properties make them the ultimate choice for catch-and-release fishing:

1. Gentle on Scales and Slime: Rubber is incredibly smooth and pliable. When a fish is in a rubber net, its scales and protective slime coat remain largely undisturbed. This minimizes stress and injury, giving the fish the best possible chance of recovery after release.

2. Fin-Friendly: The larger, softer mesh of rubber baskets is far less likely to snag or damage fins. Fish can rest more comfortably and safely in the net.

3. Hook-Free Zone: One of the most frustrating things about traditional nets is getting your hook tangled in the mesh. With rubber, this is a non-issue! Hooks rarely, if ever, get stuck, making for quicker, less stressful unhooking and release.

4. Odourless and Easy to Clean: Rubber doesn't absorb fish odours and is incredibly easy to clean. A quick rinse is usually all it takes to keep your net fresh and ready for the next catch. Plus, it dries quickly, preventing mildew.

The Bottom Line

Choosing a landing net with a rubber basket isn't just a preference; it's a responsible choice for any angler committed to ethical catch-and-release practices. It's a small investment that makes a huge difference to the well-being of the fish we all love to pursue.

So, next time you're gearing up for a fishing trip, consider the rubber. Your next fish will thank you.

Ready to upgrade your net and protect your catch? Shop Our Landing Nets

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Sources

• https://chinookobserver.com/2017/12/19/study-takes-a-look-at-best-landing-nets-to-reduce-harm-in-catch-release-fisheries/

• https://www.keepfishwet.org/keepemwet-news-1/2019/4/18/finsights-16-net-mesh-types

• https://blog.vailvalleyanglers.com/why-choose-a-rubber-bag-landing-net-for-fly-fishing/

• https://www.adh-fishing.com/adh-world/adh-world-expert-advice-5-reasons-for-rubber-nets