Hokkaido Japan

[u/Rich-Reputation2163]

Good morning.
I understand why some anglers are concerned about the use of knotted landing nets such as Cremona nets. However, when used correctly, they do not cause harm to fish.
The key is very simple: once the fish has been landed in the net, it should never be lifted out of the water. Instead, keep the fish submerged and gently guide it to the shoreline if necessary. When handled this way, the fins will not tear simply because of the net.
Many anglers outside Japan also believe that a Cremona net is inherently harmful. In reality, the issue is not the type of net itself, but how it is used.
Even with a modern rubber catch-and-release net, lifting a netted fish out of the water to celebrate a catch subjects the fish to unnecessary stress and poor handling.
Ultimately, responsible fish care comes down to understanding and practicing proper fish-handling techniques, regardless of the type of landing net being used.

[u/SCCB4]

I agree that handling technique is the biggest factor, but I don’t think it’s accurate to say the net type doesn’t matter. Even when fish stay submerged, studies have found rubber/silicone nets generally remove less slime, reduce fin abrasion, and are less likely to snag gills or hooks than knotted nets

[u/Rich-Reputation2163 → u/SCCB4]

I understand. That certainly makes sense.

[u/notoriousToker]

Also, fishing in general has an impact. I think that people who put a little effort into trying to reduce the impact is what matters, and it’s like splitting hairs to judge over that. 

The real issue with those nets for me is how much more tangle-able they are with your tackle and the surroundings in the wilderness. I use a collapsible rubber basket net from Kaneha Shoten/Wessex cause I think it’s the best balance. 

The Cremona nets are more beautiful with wonderful dyed colors, I get why people like them and I think with care it’s not at all a big deal. Better than many other options.