Choosing the best walleye net is imperative and will make your life a lot easier on the water. It is important to consider the netting material, net length, net basket size and depth, and flotation prior to selecting a net for walleye fishing. After analyzing each of these variables, we have comprised a list of 3 of the best fishing nets for walleyes that cover a variety of situations.
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Rubberized Mesh Fishing Nets For Walleyes
Most walleye fishing nets have transitioned from the traditional rope materials to rubberized mesh. Rubberized coatings are much easier on the fish and help to protect their skin and slime layer. Rubberized nets also do not have knots like traditional nets, further preventing abrasion to the fish. Opting for a rubberized net is extremely important for conservational minded anglers, since catch and release mortality can be decreased by doing so. Furthermore, you’ll get an added bonus of far fewer hook tangles, especially with treble hooked baits. I highly suggest switching from conventional to rubberized nets for walleye fishing, hence the reason for all of my recommendations being rubber nets. For more information on rubberized fishing nets, check out this article.
Net Length For A Walleye Net
One of the most important factors when selecting the best fishing nets for walleyes is its length. I have overlooked just how important this is and have found myself reaching around the outboard motor with a short net and trying to net a thrashing walleye. The boat that you have and method that you generally fish with dictate the length of net to choose. For anglers with larger boats or anglers that predominantly troll, I recommend a net with at least 48” in length. For shore fisherman or anglers in kayaks and canoes, a net less than 48” in length will be much more manageable.
Basket Size And Depth For A Walleye Fishing Net
Another important factor when choosing a walleye net is its basket size and depth. The optimal size for a walleye net in my opinion lies somewhere around 20”. When trolling, I would recommend opting for a slightly larger size. If fishing from a kayak or shore, a net slightly smaller will due just fine.
The depth of the net is also somewhat dependent on the fishing method. A good all-around depth is in the neighborhood of about 15”. Once again, I recommend choosing a slightly deeper net for trolling applications.
Flotation
Flotation is another option that differentiates some of the current nets on the market. I would recommend choosing a net for walleye that floats if you primarily fish from a kayak, canoe, or really anywhere that the net could accidentally get dropped in the water.
Specific Walleye Nets
Frabill Conservation Series Landing Net (Best Budget Walleye Net)
General Information: 20″ x 23″ Hoop Size, 16″ Net Depth, and Telescoping Handle Length of 24″-48″
Pros: Budget friendly and good all around walleye size
Cons: Doesn’t float
Ego S2 Slider Fishing Net (Most Versatile Walleye Net)
General Information: 17″ Hoop Size, Extendable Handle With Various Lengths, and Interchangeable Heads
Pros: Very versatile with lots of customization options, floats, and comes with 2-year warranty
Cons: Slightly more expensive, and net size may be small for trolling applications
Frabill Trophy Haul Fishing Net (Best Trolling and Night Fishing Walleye Net)
General Information: 21″ x 24″ or 18″ x 21″ Hoop Sizes Available, 17″ Hoop Depth, Flat Bottom Net For Easy Fish Handling, and 48″ Length Handle
Pros: Has an integrated light to help during low-light conditions, and large basket size and handle length
Cons: Net is quit heavy and bulky
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If you want to see more walleye related review, check out the Best Walleye Rods Under $100 and Best Walleye Spinning Reels Under $100
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