Carrying a fly fishing net shouldn't be a wrestling match. Traditional methods, like tucking the net into your belt, often lead to clumsy movements, accidental face-plants, and frustrating snags. This not only disrupts your fishing flow but also poses a safety risk, particularly when wading or navigating challenging terrain. The constant worry of your net getting in the way or even lost can significantly detract from the enjoyment of a day on the water.This comprehensive review tackles this common fly fishing frustration head-on. We delve into three popular net-carrying solutions – the magnetic holder, the net holster, and the innovative Lively Legs system – providing a detailed comparison to help you choose the best option for your needs and budget. From cost-effectiveness to security and overall ease of use, we examine the pros and cons of each system, empowering you to select the perfect net holder and finally enjoy a snag-free, worry-free fishing experience.
Pros And Cons
- Combines features of magnet and holster systems
- Secure attachment
- Strong magnet holds in place
- Includes a clip for mounting onto a belt
- Good quality bungee included, extras available for purchase
- Requires drilling holes into the net to attach
- More secure than the magnet system
- Holds the net higher on the back
- Keeps the net out of the legs
- Inexpensive (~$10)
- Not very maneuverable
- Can get stuck and hit the user in the face or back
- Can catch on rocks
Read more: 5 Best Fishing Nets for Catching Trout
The Problem: Carrying a Fly Fishing Net
Carrying a fly fishing net can be cumbersome. Traditional methods often involve tucking the net into your belt, which can lead to awkward movement and accidental face-smacks or snags on rocks.
The net can get stuck, and its unpredictable movement makes it a hazard while wading or climbing. Finding a better solution is crucial for a smooth fishing experience.
This issue prompted me to explore different net carrying solutions available to fly fishermen, resulting in this comprehensive review of three popular options.
Option 1: The Magnetic Net Holder
The cheapest option is a magnetic net holder, costing around $10. It features two magnets; one attaches to your back (suspenders or belt), and the other to the net handle.
You can position the net either low, hanging behind you, or higher on your back. This method has a risk of losing your net if the magnets fail, so you can attach additional security.
As a bonus, attaching bungee cords to secure the net offers an additional safety net to prevent loss.
Option 2: The Net Holster
A net holster provides more secure storage. It's similar in concept to the belt-tuck method but offers more stability and keeps the net higher up and out of the way.
The higher positioning reduces the risk of the net getting tangled in your legs, and it provides a more stylish look, akin to drawing a sword!
Net holsters are typically priced around $25.
Option 3: The Lively Legs Net Attachment System
Lively Legs offers a unique system that combines features of both magnetic and holster systems. It uses a strong magnet for attachment, a bungee for security, and a specialized clip for your belt.
The system requires drilling holes into your net handle for attachment, which might be a drawback for some net types (like carbon fiber nets).
Despite needing to modify the net, the system excels in stability and security. The additional bungee offers additional safety and prevents loss.
Conclusion: Which Net Holder is Best?
The best net holder depends on your budget and net type. The magnetic holder is the cheapest and easiest to implement but is least secure. The holster offers a nice balance between cost, security, and style.
The Lively Legs system provides maximum security but requires modifying your net, making it less suitable for high-end nets. Consider the trade-offs in security, cost, and net modification before making a choice.
All three options offer improvements over the traditional belt-tuck method, greatly enhancing the fly fishing experience by preventing accidental drops and ensuring convenient access to your net.