That crucial moment, getting that fish into the net. So much hard work has been put in to get to this moment, from the early planning stages pouring over maps, the new gear, the travel, cast, hook set and strenuous battle. Now’s not the time to fluff it up…
BY CHRIS DORE
SIX TIPS ON HOW TO NET A FISH
1. Wait for the moment and don’t rush it. Going in for the shot while the fish is still hot doesn’t often end well, as they are fast and powerful creatures. This said, always be prepared for if a cheap shot presents itself early in the fight. Getting the fish to the net earlier is better for both the fish, and our own nerves.
2. Wherever possible, net the fish head first. The tail on a bigger fish can easily ride the water right back out of the net. Get the fish moving towards you, lift the head and win.
3. Use their own momentum. Keep your rod low and out to one side to draw the fish wide, then smoothly bring your rod across to the other side, turning the fish and drawing him towards the net. Fish can’t swim in reverse so you only have to be prepared for a sideways evasion.
4. Stay low in the later stages of the fight. If they see you they won’t want a bar of you.
5. Pick your spot. A, B, and C. If you’ve seen softer water a little downstream you’re better off leading him there rather than going for the shot in that heavy water you’re currently battling him in. Constantly revise your planned landing spot. Our fish are strong and can easily blast past plan A, and plan B.
6. And finally, don’t lunge at him. That never ends well. Instead, have the net waiting beneath the surface and as the fish draws across the mouth of the net, simply lift vertically to entrap him.
Once netted just sit there and chill a while, with the fish in the soft mesh, in gently flowing water. Give him a chance to revive a little, and for your adrenaline to die down. Handling fish when you’re pumped will often result in squeezing the fish, potentially damaging internal organs. Remove the fly while the fish is still in the net, then securely replace your forceps, and place your rod, line and leader somewhere safe and out of the way.
Now say cheese!
The Gear//
The size of your net matters. The larger the mouth the easier it is to get fish, particularly big trophy brown trout, into. However, larger nets and net bags create a lot of drag in the current, so find something large enough, but easy enough to comfortably handle.
It is important to easily access your net when needed, and for my money, both the C&F Design, and Loon Magnetic release systems fit the bill.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Chris Dore is a battle-tested fly fishing guide with over 15 years of professional guiding experience, battling the demanding, ever-changing conditions that our New Zealand rivers throw at us.
In 2006 Chris became one of the first New Zealanders to successfully pass the internationally recognized Federation of Fly Fishers Certified Casting Instructors examination and has since taught many thousands of anglers to up their skillset.
For more in person and on river fly fishing advice and upskilling why not book Chris for a day or three?
