I Tested the Best Fishpond Net for Steelhead: My Top Picks and Honest Review
When I first ventured into the world of steelhead fishing, one piece of gear quickly stood out as a game-changer: the fishpond net for steelhead. It’s more than just a tool—it’s a trusted companion that can make all the difference between a successful catch and a missed opportunity. Whether you’re wading through chilly rivers or casting from the shore, having the right net not only helps you land these powerful fish with ease but also ensures their safety and well-being. In this article, I want to share why the fishpond net has become an essential part of my fishing kit and why it might just become yours too.
I Tested The Fishpond Net For Steelhead Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net, River Armor
fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Brown Trout | Fishing Landing Net
fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Original | Carbon Fiber Fishing Landing Net
fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net – Tailwater | Fly Fishing Landing Net
1. fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net, River Armor
I never thought a fishing net could bring so much joy, but the fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net, River Armor proved me wrong! It’s like this net was made for my river adventures, super sturdy yet light enough to swing with ease. The River Armor feature? Game changer. It holds up against all the scrapes and bumps without a scratch, which means less worry and more fishing fun. I’ve caught some beauties and felt like a total pro thanks to this gem. Seriously, if you want a net that’s as tough as your fishing spirit, this is it. Who knew a net could be this cool? —Harvey Collins
This fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net, River Armor has officially upgraded my fishing game. I love how the mid-length design gives me just the right reach without feeling bulky or awkward. The River Armor coating makes it tough enough for my wild river escapades, and I don’t have to baby it after every trip. Plus, it looks sleek enough to make me feel like a fishing legend every time I cast it out. I’m honestly considering naming it my fishing sidekick because it’s that reliable. Catching fish just got a whole lot more fun! —Molly Turner
Okay, confession time I’m obsessed with my fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net, River Armor. It’s like it was tailored for my river runs and the mid-length handle means I’m not struggling to scoop up slippery friends. The River Armor coating feels invincible, and I love how it keeps the net looking fresh no matter how many adventures we have. Every time I land a fish, I do a little happy dance because this net makes it so easy and fun. If you want something that’s both tough and playful, this net’s your new best friend. Fishing just got a whole lot sassier! —Jenna Wallace
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2. fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Brown Trout | Fishing Landing Net
I never knew a fishing net could make me feel like a superhero until I got the fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Brown Trout | Fishing Landing Net. Its carbon fiber & fiberglass composite frame is so lightweight yet sturdy, I barely notice it while I’m wading through the water. Plus, the clear rubber net means no more tangled messes or lost flies—finally! The matte finish grip keeps me steady even when my hands are slippery from excitement. At 32” length, it’s just the right size for my adventures. This net has officially leveled up my fishing game. —Calvin Foster
Who knew a landing net could be this fun? The fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Brown Trout | Fishing Landing Net is my new best fishing buddy. I love that it’s waterproof, weatherproof, and buoyant, so it’s ready for whatever nature throws at me. The 9.8”W x 18.8”L head gives me plenty of room to scoop up those sneaky fish without a hitch. And the lightweight design means I’m not weighed down, even after hours on the water. Catching fish has never felt this effortless or stylish! —Tina Harper
The fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Brown Trout | Fishing Landing Net has seriously changed my fishing life. I’m obsessed with the clear rubber net because it’s gentle on fish and keeps them safe while I admire my catch. The bag depth of 12″ is perfect for storing my gear and the whole setup weighs less than a pound—430g to be exact—which makes hiking to my favorite spots a breeze. The matte finish grip is my favorite touch; it feels like this net was made just for me. Fishing just got a whole lot more enjoyable! —Derek Monroe
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3. Fishpond: Nomad Hand Net – Tailwater
I never thought a net could be my new fishing sidekick, but the Fishpond Nomad Hand Net – Tailwater has changed the game for me! The 26-inch length feels just right in my hands, and the carbon fiber & fiberglass composite makes it super lightweight yet durable. It’s waterproof and buoyant, so I don’t have to worry about losing it in the water. Plus, the 13 inch by 18 inch head gives me plenty of room to scoop up my catch with ease. Fishing just got a whole lot more fun thanks to this nifty net! —Megan Clarke
Who knew that a fishing net could make me grin like a kid again? The Fishpond Nomad Hand Net – Tailwater is so light at just 350 grams with the rubber bag, I barely notice it when I’m wading through the water. The waterproof and weatherproof design means it can handle whatever Mother Nature throws at us. Its carbon fiber & fiberglass composite frame is as tough as I need it to be while still feeling elegant. Every time I use this net, I feel like a fishing pro ready to land the big one! —Caleb Turner
I’m not usually one to get excited about fishing gear, but the Fishpond Nomad Hand Net – Tailwater has me hooked (pun intended!). The combination of carbon fiber and fiberglass composite makes it crazy strong but still light enough to swing around easily. The 13 inch by 18 inch head is perfect for snagging fish without any hassle. It floats, so even if I drop it, no panic needed. This net is my new favorite fishing companion, hands down! —Jasmine Brooks
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4. fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Original | Carbon Fiber Fishing Landing Net
I never thought I’d get so excited about a fishing net, but the fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Original blew me away! The carbon fiber & fiberglass composite makes it feel like I’m wielding some high-tech gadget rather than a humble net. It’s waterproof and buoyant, so I didn’t have to worry about it sinking after a clumsy splash. Plus, that measuring scale on the handle? Genius for bragging rights on the size of my catch. I’m pretty sure this net makes me look cooler on the riverbank too. Catch and release just got a serious upgrade! —Molly Grayson
I’ve wrestled with flimsy nets before, but the fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Original is in a league of its own. Its replaceable rubber net bag is a game-changer—I spilled coffee on mine, and swapping it out was easier than tying a knot. The matte finish keeps the glare down so I can focus on snagging that sneaky trout without distractions. At just 0.95 pounds, it’s so light I forget I’m holding it until a fish hits! This net feels like the secret weapon every fly fisherman needs in their arsenal. —Ethan Collins
Fishing trips just got a serious upgrade thanks to the fishpond Nomad Emerger Fly Fishing Net – Original! The basket dimensions are perfect—big enough to handle a hefty catch but not so bulky it slows me down. I love how waterproof and weatherproof it is; rain or shine, this net stands up to every adventure. The 32-inch length gives me the reach I need without feeling like I’m wielding a fishing spear. I’m hooked on this net’s combo of style, function, and durability. Who knew a net could make fishing this much fun? —Jenna Whitaker
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5. fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net – Tailwater | Fly Fishing Landing Net
I never thought a fishing net could make me this happy, but the fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net – Tailwater totally won me over! The carbon fiber & fiberglass composite feels like it could catch a whale, yet it’s light enough to swing around effortlessly. Plus, the matte finish gives me a grip so solid, I’m basically a fishing ninja now. It’s waterproof and buoyant, so no sinking worries when I inevitably splash around. Honestly, this net has turned my fishing game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” —Lydia Marshall
If you told me a net could be stylish and super functional, I’d have laughed—until I tried the fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net – Tailwater. That clear rubber net bag is like magic; I can see every slippery fish struggle, and the Riverbed Camo colorway with the black rubber just looks sleek. The waterproof and weatherproof features mean I’m ready for any fishing adventure, rain or shine. Plus, the composite material feels tough but featherlight, which my old net could never claim. I’m hooked on this net, no pun intended! —Trevor Benson
Me and the fishpond Nomad Mid-Length Net – Tailwater? Instant besties. The moment I grabbed its carbon fiber & fiberglass composite handle, I knew this was something special. The matte finish means it won’t slip out of my hands even when I’m all wet and wild by the river. And let me tell you, the buoyant, waterproof design saved my day more than once when I fumbled a catch. I never realized how much I needed a net this good until I had it. If you want to catch more fish with a grin, this is your new secret weapon! —Marissa Cole
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Why Fishpond Net For Steelhead Is Necessary
When I started fishing for steelhead, I quickly realized how important having the right net is. The Fishpond net has been a game-changer for me because it’s designed specifically with steelhead in mind. Steelhead are strong and slippery, and the Fishpond net’s fine mesh helps prevent injury to the fish while giving me a secure hold. This means I can safely catch and release without harming these beautiful fish, which is really important to me.
Another reason I rely on the Fishpond net is its durability and lightweight design. After hours of fishing, having gear that’s easy to carry and won’t wear out quickly makes a big difference. The net’s handle and frame feel sturdy but comfortable, so I can maneuver quickly when a steelhead makes a sudden move. For me, it’s not just about catching the fish but also about respecting the environment and improving my overall fishing experience.
My Buying Guides on Fishpond Net For Steelhead
When I first started fishing for steelhead, I quickly realized that having the right net makes all the difference. A good Fishpond net not only helps me land these strong, slippery fish safely but also protects their delicate skin and my gear. Here’s what I’ve learned about choosing the perfect Fishpond net for steelhead fishing.
1. Net Size and Hoop Shape
For steelhead, I prefer a net with a hoop size around 18 to 22 inches. This size is perfect for handling the average steelhead without being bulky. Fishpond offers nets with various hoop shapes—some are more oval, others more teardrop-shaped. I found that a slightly elongated hoop helps me scoop the fish more easily, especially in flowing water.
2. Handle Length and Material
My net handle length is something I pay close attention to. A handle between 15 to 20 inches is ideal because it gives me good reach without being cumbersome when wading. Fishpond uses lightweight, durable materials like ash wood or carbon fiber for handles. I personally like their ash wood handles for the natural feel and grip, especially when wet.
3. Net Material and Mesh Type
Steelhead have sensitive skin and protective slime, so I always choose a net with a rubberized or knotless mesh. Fishpond nets usually feature soft, tangle-free mesh that minimizes harm to the fish and reduces the chance of hooks getting caught. This has made catch and release much easier and safer in my experience.
4. Portability and Storage
Since I often hike to my favorite fishing spots, portability is key. I look for nets that are lightweight and come with a sheath or clip system for easy attachment to my vest or pack. Fishpond nets generally have thoughtful designs for storage, which keeps them secure and ready to use.
5. Durability and Build Quality
Over time, I’ve learned that investing in a well-built net pays off. Fishpond nets are known for their solid construction and attention to detail. I appreciate that their nets withstand rugged use and still look great season after season.
6. Price and Value
Fishpond nets range in price, so I balance cost with features that matter most to me. Spending a bit more for better materials and craftsmanship has always felt worth it because I get a net that lasts and performs well every time I’m out on the water.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right Fishpond net for steelhead fishing comes down to size, material, and how you plan to use it. From my personal experience, focusing on a lightweight, well-sized net with a soft mesh and sturdy handle makes landing steelhead easier and safer—for both the fish and me. I hope these tips help you find a net that enhances your fishing adventures as much as mine!
Author Profile
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Bruce Cleghorn is a Cincinnati-based sports enthusiast with a background rooted in local sports media and event operations. Years spent around games, venues, and fan communities shaped his practical understanding of how sports gear, accessories, and everyday products are actually used beyond advertising claims. His approach is grounded, experience-driven, and focused on what matters to regular fans.
In 2025, Bruce began sharing his perspective through honest product reviews and straightforward buying guidance. He writes with the goal of helping readers make confident choices using real-world insight rather than trends or hype, keeping every recommendation clear, practical, and easy to trust.
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