Net

[mntraveler]

I know the question about what net to buy has been asked too many times already but I'm looking for some more specific guidance. The overwhelming concensus is to go with a Beckman or a Frabill from everything I've read. Looking at them in the stores I really like the system Frabill has for locking the handle (you don't have to search for the hole to lock the handle). However, there are several different models and I know I need to get a coated net, but what is actually coated? The Power Catch line has a "tangle-free knotless" bag, but I'm not sure if there are different gradations within the Power Catch models as to a true "coating" or not. Also, do these bags have small enough mesh so as to not damage fins? I know the Big Kahuna is definitely what I want, but not sure that $150 price is so appealing. Also, what do you guys do for covers? I know Beckman has a really nice cover, would this fit any of the Frabill nets, or is it just a waste of money? Finally, I have looked at the Stowmaster brand as well. Do any of you see an advantage there to having the folding net? Thanks for any responses.

[ARMAN-21]

I like Beckman, I own there biggest FIN SAVER net along with the net cover. It works great, I've never had a problem.

later

[Doonbuggy]

mntraveler - my recommendation is to go to fleet farm and get the biggest frabill net they have. it's $80 (I think it's their 'big game' net and it's awesome). It was used a couple of weeks ago and handled a 48" fish just fine.

I suppose you could pay more, but not sure if the additional benefits are worth another $70. (that same $70 gets you a new reel!)

DB

[buzzsaw]

Heres a great net!

Just be careful!

[JWB475]

Frabill Big Kahuna, there is no substitute....

[Random guy]

Buzzsaw, Have you ever had an "incedent" picking fish out of the water like in the photo? I have thought about it a few times but chicken out when I look at those hooks.

[mntraveler]

Thanks for all the replies...I know it was a redundant question. I did end up buying a Beckman here at lunch. One of the finsavers from Gander in Lakeville for $50. If anyone else is looking they have about a dozen and a half really nice, coated, large Beckmans and Frabills on clearance yet. I decided on the Beckman because I like the finsaver netting and from previous ones I remember using they changed the yolk to make the hole easier to find.

[markkstanley]

I hand land almost all my fish but then I typically use single hook bucktails and spinnerbaits. Depends on the musky is hooked. If it will need some work I'll use a net but I keep the net in the water. I have Lindy gloves in the boat great grip and hooks can't penetrate them. As soon as I grab the fish I release the spool and go to work. If you can, hold the musky upside down in the water. Usually works like a liplock on bass. I don't use the net to lift the fish out of the water for photos either. And always have a pair of bolt cutters handy. Hooks are easy to replace 40+ musky aren't.

[Random guy]

I got tangled up with a pike and a suick once and still feel hooks every time I go to grab fish. I even cut the hooks out of the net if there tangled before I lift the fish out. Plus I am super clutz so it just isn't a good idea to have sharp objects around me anyways.

[Random guy]

Well there you go... I jinxed myself from that prevous post. Last night on White Bear I had a newcomer to Musky fishing in the boat, and we were having the time of our lives catching fish. Next thing I know me the net and the fish were connected via a treble hook. It finally ended at the ER with my finger going under the knife to remove the deeply embedded hook. Doc said I do have very sharp hooks Dang that hurt. I would also like to thank the fishermen/women that let me jump line at the landing to get to the ER, I really apprecaite it. In conclusion net or no net I can still get in trouble