Inflatable fishing kayaks have become increasingly popular, thanks to their portability, affordability, and stability on the water. Whether you’re casting in calm lakes or exploring coastal inlets, having the right gear makes all the difference—and one essential piece of equipment that many beginners overlook is a fishing net.
A landing net might seem simple, but it plays a huge role in safety, efficiency, and fish handling. Here’s why every inflatable fishing kayak angler should carry one.
1. Protects Your Inflatable Kayak From Damage
Inflatable kayaks are made with tough, puncture-resistant materials, but hooks, flailing fish, and sharp fins can still cause trouble.
A net allows you to secure the fish without bringing sharp objects too close to your fishing kayak’s surface. When a fish thrashes, the hooks can come loose and scrape the side of your inflatable kayak—something you definitely want to avoid.
A landing net acts as a safe buffer, preventing accidental punctures and prolonging the life of your inflatable fishing kayak.
2. Makes Landing Fish Much Easier
Trying to pull a fish into your fishing kayak by hand is difficult, especially when you’re sitting low to the water. A net gives you control and leverage, helping you scoop fish quickly without losing balance.
Benefits include:
- Less risk of dropping fish at the last moment
- Faster, cleaner landings
- Better success with soft-mouthed or lightly hooked fish
For many anglers, once they start using a net, they wonder how they ever fished without one.
3. Improves Safety for the Angler
On a small kayak, especially an inflatable one, stability matters. Leaning too far over the side to grab a fish can cause imbalance or even a capsize.
A net allows you to keep your center of gravity stable while landing fish.
You stay seated, stay balanced, and stay safe.
4. Helps With Catch-and-Release
If you practice catch-and-release, a net is essential for minimizing stress and injury to fish.
Modern fishing nets—especially rubber-coated or knotless nets—protect the fish’s slime coat and reduce fin damage.
This makes it easier to:
- Keep fish in the water during hook removal
- Handle fish gently
- Release them in better condition
Using a net is one of the simplest ways to improve your conservation practices.
5. Saves Valuable Time While Fishing
Landing a fish without a net can take much longer, especially with active species like bass, trout, or redfish. A fish can make last-second runs or jumps, and a missed grab means you start all over again.
With a net, you can:
- Secure the fish on the first attempt
- Move quickly to unhooking and releasing or storing
- Spend more time fishing and less time struggling
Efficiency matters, especially when kayak fishing often involves drifting, wind, and limited space.
6. Keeps Your Gear Organized and Your Hands Free
Kayak anglers already have limited space. A landing net keeps your workflow smooth. Once the fish is netted, the net holds it securely so you can:
- Reach for pliers
- Open your tackle box
- Take photos
- Prepare for release
Some nets also float, which is a lifesaver in case you drop them in the water.
7. Ideal for Larger or Hard-Fighting Fish
Inflatable kayaks can handle surprisingly big fish, but landing them by hand is another story. A net is almost mandatory when targeting:
- Pike
- Bass
- Walleye
- Large trout
- Inshore saltwater species
These fish fight hard and thrash unpredictably. A net helps you control the situation without risking your kayak or your safety.
A fishing net may seem like a small accessory, but on an inflatable fishing kayak, it’s one of the most essential tools you can bring. It protects your fishing kayak, keeps you safe, helps land fish efficiently, supports ethical fish handling, and ultimately makes your whole fishing experience more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned kayak angler, investing in a good landing net is one of the smartest upgrades you can make.