Need to find the perfect trolling net

[j9f]

OK, my bonehead buddies finally lost my landing net last night. I rigged it up so it would float, next time I need to add some florescent orange so I can find it when I circle back. I even through out a life vest to mark the spot and punched it into the GPS. At least I found the life jacket.

Anyone know of a net that meets my wish list:

1. Telescoping handle to 8' minimum.
2. 20" - 24" hoop
3. Hex handle or some feature so I can "hit the hole"
4. Strong (so the handle doesn't bend making it hard to retract)
4. Floating (optional) I can make it float.
5. Orange (optional) I have paint or tape.

I have a couple telescoping hex handle salmon nets that I really like, they are just too big for eyes. I guess they will work until I find my dream net.

[Toolman]

j9f,

Frabill Powercatch. Not sure of the model I have, but it has an 8' t-scopic handle, scooper-type frame and "hook-proof" bag (as hook-proofproof as nylon netting can be ;)) It has a triangular handle so you don't have to search for the hole. I looked at a lot of nets before deciding on this one. Lots of guys like the Beckman nets. My problem with them is the round handle.

Tim

[Tom (mich)]

I've been using the Stowmaster for a couple of seasons and am happy with it. It at least meets all of your criteria. The hex handle is a plus. The bag is coated, and is at least as hook-proof as our Beckman's, but in reality we get hooks stuck in all of them. It's a bit pricey, but no more so than the other premium nets on the market.

[pwrfshn]

Stowmaster or Beckman

I own both and they have their +/-s but the Stowmaster meets all of your needs.

The Customer Service that Stowmaster has provided has been excellent.

Good luck,

[redbone]

i like my ranger, hex handle, telescoping, good hoop size, light weight and its only $30.00 at cabelas.

[RKG]

Look at the Frabill Tru- Trax telesoping net. It is available in acouple of different configurations.

[J.J. Mac]

I have a just a hex Cummings. I replaced the net bag with the snag proof and it works great for eyes. I got the killer Beckman for Christmas last year and haven't used it yet because I can't give the old one up.

[Frabill.....]

I like the Frabill with the 8' telescoping handle, folds up really nice for storage and has a couple of EVA foam grips.

[eyeman_1]

If I ever need to do it again I'll buy another Beckman. I have one that's now going on 12yr...it is their Pro Walleye. This net extends to right around 10', has a large diameter hoop...all welded to the yoke and the hook proof bag that is increadably deep. I've used it all over the great lakes on eyes to lakers to kings and it's been wonderful. I've even replaced the bag on my Frabil bass size net with the Beckman bag I liked it so much. Give Beckman a look!

[Capt. Paul]

Buy the big Beckman, you will not be disappointed

[MAZ]

Beckman.....

[j9f]

Thanks for everyones input. I ended up with the Frabil. I like the way it extends and the fact that you can make it any length between 4 - 8'. I do like the ranger and cummings nets.... I have one of each for Salmon. I held a beckman when I was at Galyans buying the net. I just wish they had a feature that would keep it aligned while extending the handle.

Just need to customize it now...... pipe insulation on the handle, great stuff inside the handle, orange tape over the foam and a planer board release on the handle to hold the net bag out of the water and release once the fish is in the bag.

[Dan from Mi]

I like the Ranger for the money, the hex handle is def. a plus. I have a Ranger Salmon net, works great for all walleyes, except the small ones that get stuck in the mesh. I like to fish for bigger eyes than that anyhow.
Dan