Tips to Netting Fish like a pro

The person netting your fish can be the make or break of landing a new PB. If they don't know what they are doing more times than not you are hooped! 

Netting fish actually takes skill and patience when anglers are fighting fish and it's nearing the end of the fight and almost time to net the fish this is a critical point. 

The School of Fishing has created some great key points and tips to making sure that you can land that fish like a pro. Here are 10 tips to help you net a fish properly, ensuring both a successful catch and minimal stress for the fish:

1. Choose the Right Net: Use a net that matches the size of the fish you're targeting. Rubber or knotless nets are ideal because they reduce damage to the fish’s scales and slime coating.

2. Position the Net in the Water Place the net in the water before attempting to net the fish. This minimizes splash and keeps the fish calmer, making it easier to guide it into the net.

3. Lead the Fish Head-First into the Net Always try to net the fish head-first, as fish tend to swim forward. This approach reduces the chance of them escaping.

4. Avoid Chasing the Fish with the Net Don’t chase the fish around with the net. Instead, let the fish tire out, and gently guide it toward the net with your rod.

5. Keep Your Net Low and Steady Hold the net just below the surface, keeping it as still as possible.Sudden movements can spook the fish, causing it to dart away.

6. Wait Until the Fish is Ready Let the fish tire itself out before attempting to net it. When it's ready, it will swim more slowly and be easier to guide into the net.

7.Use the Current to Your Advantage If you're fishing in moving water, position the net downstream. This way, you can guide the fish into the net without fighting the current.

8. Control the Fish with Your Rod Use your rod to steer the fish toward the net. Maintain tension to prevent slack in the line, which could cause the fish to shake the hook loose.

9. Lift the Net Gently but Firmly Once the fish is in the net, lift it out of the water in a smooth, upward motion. Avoid jerking, as this could cause the fish to escape or injure itself.

10. Minimize Time in the Net Quickly but carefully remove the hook and release the fish, if you're practicing catch-and-release. Minimize the fish's time in the net to reduce stress and maximize its chance of recovery.

By following these tips, you’ll improve your chances of landing the fish safely and handling it responsibly.