Kayak Fishing With a Landing Net

December 16, 2010

Question: After carefully reading the saltwater fishing regs, I’m convinced that I need to carry a net while I’m out bobbing the bays in my float tube. Here’s the pertinent language from page 51 (section 28.65) “No person shall take finfish from any boat or other floating device in ocean waters without having a landing net in possession or available for immediate use to assist in landing undersize fish of species having minimum size limits; the opening of any such landing net shall be not less than eighteen inches in diameter.” Does this apply to a float tube, too? (Larry S.)

Answer: Yep!

I have been checked by fish and GAME several times and not once had a net on board. Never has it been an issue for me. Just sayen...

Is there some size standard?  Like would I be legal if I brought an aquarium net?  I use my hands for small and big fish, which is way better for fish than a net.  Space is limited on a kayak.  I don't like bringing things just for looks.

Is there some size standard?  Like would I be legal if I brought an aquarium net?  I use my hands for small and big fish, which is way better for fish than a net.  Space is limited on a kayak.  I don't like bringing things just for looks.

18" minimum diameter.

For surf launches it's almost a safety issue.  A net should not be required for human powered boats.

For surf launches it's almost a safety issue.  A net should not be required for human powered boats.

Nets should not be required for the rational provided by the regs - to assist in landing undersized fish.  You should never net a fish you intend to release.  It's a dumb regulation.

I have been checked by fish and GAME several times and not once had a net on board. Never has it been an issue for me. Just sayen...

How often do you fish in San Luis Obispo County? They have here.

Nets should not be required for the rational provided by the regs - to assist in landing undersized fish.  You should never net a fish you intend to release.  It's a dumb regulation.

Exactly.

Mesh divers bag with an 18" opening.
regs don't specify net has to have handle.
done and in compliance.

before I caught fish big enough to gaff I used it all the time .