SQUARE-ringed keepnets are intended for match and pleasure anglers who need to hold fish for relatively short periods.
Your net must be correctly submerged and not collapsed. Nearly all commercials set limits on the maximum weight that can be placed in a single net.
Here are four of the best keepnets available, and a checklist of the features to look for...
MIDDY STARGRIP 5IFTY KEEPNET
THE 2.7m StarGrip 5ifty is made from a thick polyester carp sack material and is designed to attach perfectly to any seatbox. The attachment thread is fixed, but is fitted on to the top ring at a
five-degree angle which sets the net to the perfect level for introducing fish.
The bottom rings are super-strong, with a steel clamping device that also keeps them weighted down. The compact size of the StarGrip 5ifty is ideal for fishing multiple keepnet set-ups.
Price: £59.99, www.middytackle.com
CONCEPT GT KEEPNETS
IF YOU only rarely use a keepnet and don’t want to fork out a substantial amount of cash for one, these Concept GT offerings are well worth taking a look at.
They’re light and compact, with a hard-wearing mesh, and even though they cost far less than some of the other keepnets in this guide they still have useful features such as a heavy-duty top ring with a screw-tight multi-angle fitting, and pegging points on the bottom ring so they can be pegged out to dry properly.
In 2.5m and 3m lengths.
Price: £29.99 2.5m, £31.99 3m, www.leeda.co.uk
PRESTON INNOVATIONS QUICK DRY KEEPNETS
THESE are made from a brand-new material which is extremely durable. Each rectangular ring on the net features rubber protector corner sleeves, and you’ll also find a fixed angle locking mechanism, pull-through handles and a built-in rod rest on the top ring.
The 2.5m model is the ideal length for fishing close in or down the edge, while the 3m version is an excellent all-rounder and the 4m net is ideal for high banks or shallow venues where the extra length is needed.
The net comes in 2.5m, 3m and 4m versions.
Price: From £49.99 to £59.99, www.prestoninnovations.com
DAIWA N’ZON MICROMESH KEEPNET
THIS 2.5m net is perfect for fishing commercials and stillwaters, because its smaller mesh pattern allows water to pass through at a slower rate.
It can be attached securely to your seatbox or bankstick via Daiwa’s unique locking block, and it features two strong top rings and three bottom rings, all made of aluminium, to create a sturdy frame.
To simplify pulling the net out of the water there are two handles inside the bottom third ring, and it comes in a zippered bag.
Price: £59.99, www.daiwasports.co.uk
