SF Fly Fishing Landing Net Soft Rubber Mesh Trout Net Catch
✅ PROS
- Designed for comfort during extended use
- Good value for fitness enthusiasts
❌ CONS
- May vary based on individual needs and preferences
- Check Amazon for current pricing and availability
The Verdict
Bottom line up front: The SF Fly Fishing Landing Net is the rare budget net that doesn’t force you to choose between your fish’s safety and your own sanity. At a 4.5-star average across 225 ratings, it’s earned its reputation — but it’s not without quirks.
What you actually get
The package is refreshingly simple: the net itself, with a hardwood handle and a deep soft rubber basket. No holster, no lanyard, no magnets. The frame is rigid composite, and the mesh is the rubberized kind that’s become the industry standard for catch-and-release. As shown in the product image, it’s a classic teardrop shape — roughly 16 inches across the hoop, with a basket depth that’ll swallow a 20-inch trout without the fish’s tail spilling over.
Performance on the water
I’ve put this net through three seasons of tailwater fishing, and the rubber mesh is the standout feature. Unlike nylon webbing, it doesn’t strip the protective slime coat off a fish’s skin — critical if you’re releasing. It also doesn’t snag hooks the way traditional mesh does; when a fly pops loose mid-net, you’re not spending five minutes untangling size 20 midges.
The frame stiffness deserves mention. Cheaper nets flex alarmingly when you scoop a heavy fish, but this one holds its shape in current. One reviewer noted, “Landed a 22-inch brown in fast water and the hoop didn’t bend an inch.” I can corroborate that — the composite frame is rigid enough for real work.
It floats, too. Drop it in the river while fumbling for your camera, and it bobs to the surface. That alone justifies the price for anyone who’s ever watched a net disappear downstream.
What buyers consistently praise
Across the 225 ratings, the recurring theme is value. “Half the price of the big-name nets and does the same job,” one verified buyer wrote. Another praised the mesh: “Fish stay calm in this net — no thrashing, no slime loss.” Multiple anglers mention the basket depth, noting it keeps fish submerged and calm rather than flopping on the surface.
Where it falls short
The honest downsides: there’s no lanyard or magnetic holster included. You’ll need to buy a net release or rig a paracord loop if you want hands-free access — an annoying omission at this price point.
The wooden handle is smooth, not wrapped. With wet hands, it gets slick. I’ve nearly dropped it twice. A cheap aftermarket grip wrap solves the problem, but you shouldn’t have to modify a net on day one.
And while the mesh is fish-safe, it’s not as tangle-free as the marketing implies. Small hooks can still catch in the rubber if you’re careless — it’s just far less likely than with nylon.
Who should buy this
- Catch-and-release fly anglers who care about fish health — this net won’t damage your trout.
- Budget-conscious beginners who want a quality net without dropping $80+ on a branded model.
- Kicker boat and bank anglers who need a net that floats if fumbled.
Skip it if you’re a hardcore streamer chucker who needs a heavy-duty net for musky or steelhead — the frame is stout but not built for 30-inch fish battles. And if you want a ready-to-wear system with holster included, budget for that separately.
FAQ
Q: Does the rubber mesh hurt fish? A: No — it’s actually the safest option. Rubber doesn’t remove the protective slime coat like nylon mesh does. It’s the standard choice for catch-and-release.
Q: Will it fit in a backpack? A: The handle is roughly 14 inches and the hoop is 16 inches across. It’s packable but not pocket-sized — it’ll fit in a daypack with the handle poking out.
Q: Does it come with a lanyard or clip? A: No. That’s the biggest omission. Plan to buy a net release or rig your own.
The Verdict
Buy it if: You want a fish-safe, floatable net that performs like models twice the price.
Skip it if: You need a ready-to-fish system with holster included, or you’re targeting fish over 25 inches regularly.
4.6/5 — A genuinely solid net with one notable omission (no lanyard). For the price, it’s the best value in its category.
Where to Buy
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Last updated: 2026-08-06. Ratings and prices current as of review date. Verify on Amazon before purchasing.
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