Drop Nets
Drop nets are specialised landing tools designed for safely retrieving fish from elevated positions such as piers, harbour walls, boats, or high riverbanks. Built with a circular frame and a lowering rope system, they allow anglers to land fish without lifting them up by the line, significantly reducing stress and injury to the catch. Since 1988, we’ve supported anglers across the UK with dependable, fish-friendly drop nets that perform in both saltwater and freshwater conditions.
- Drop Nets
2 X Beach Summer Activity Crab Drop Net for Kids
Original price was: £12.99.£8.99Current price is: £8.99. *View On Amazon* - Drop Nets
SF Portable Crab Drop Net with Net Bait Bag & Rope & Line Handle for Crabbing Catch Fish Prawn Crayfish Lobster (Set of 2, W30cm x H25cm)
Original price was: £12.99.£12.34Current price is: £12.34. *View On Amazon* - Drop Nets
WSB Tackle Crab Drop Net
Original price was: £7.50.£6.99Current price is: £6.99. *View On Amazon*
Why Use a Drop Net?
In elevated or hard-to-reach fishing spots, safely landing fish can be a challenge. Drop nets provide a secure, low-impact way to retrieve your catch, especially when targeting species like bass, pollock, mackerel, or flounder from piers or sea walls. They are also useful in boat fishing when long-handled landing nets aren’t practical.
Benefits of using a drop net:
Prevents damage to fish from lifting by the line
Ideal for pier, dock, or harbour fishing
Safer for handling large or lively species
Reduces the chance of tackle failure during landing
Quick to deploy and retrieve
Buying Guide: Choosing the Right Drop Net
Key Features to Consider
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Rim size (typically 60–100cm) | Larger rims make it easier to land bigger fish or allow for rougher water |
| Fish-safe mesh | Reduces injury and stress to the fish during landing |
| Strong, saltwater-proof rope | Essential for durability and control when fishing from height |
| Weighted base ring | Helps the net drop open quickly and sit properly on the water’s surface |
| Folding or collapsible frame | Easier to transport and store |
Types of Drop Nets
Standard Pier Drop Nets – Circular nets with rope handles for saltwater pier or dock fishing
Folding Drop Nets – Designed for compact storage and easier carrying
Heavy-Duty Drop Nets – Reinforced frame and thicker rope for big fish or rough sea conditions
Livebait Drop Nets – Smaller designs for collecting shrimp, prawns or small baitfish
Use Cases
Sea fishing from piers or harbour walls
Urban canal fishing from high concrete banks
Boat fishing without extended net handles
Livebait collection in estuaries or docks
Expert Tips
Always secure the drop net rope to a fixed point before lowering
Lower the net gently to avoid spooking nearby fish
Add extra weight to the base if fishing in tidal or rough water
Rinse with freshwater after sea use to prolong net life
Store in a ventilated bag to prevent mildew or odour buildup
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Using a drop net with weak or frayed rope — always check before use
❌ Pulling the net too quickly — this can flip fish out or damage your tackle
❌ Using a drop net in fast-flowing current without enough weight
❌ Relying solely on the line to lift fish in elevated locations
❌ Using non-fish-friendly mesh that can damage scales or fins
Bestselling Drop Nets in Our Range
Shakespeare Salt Drop Net – Reliable and perfect for piers and harbours
Tronixpro Heavy-Duty Drop Net – Large diameter with reinforced rope system
Jarvis Walker Folding Drop Net – Compact design ideal for travelling anglers
NGT Drop Net with Cord – Great for beginners and light shore fishing
Fladen Bait and Crab Drop Net – Perfect for collecting livebait or crabbing with kids
Korda Urban Folding Drop Net – Lightweight, portable, and ideal for urban anglers
Drop Nets – FAQs
1. What is a drop net used for?
A drop net is used to safely land fish when fishing from high or difficult access points, such as piers, sea walls, or boats.
2. Can I use a drop net in freshwater?
Yes — drop nets are ideal for urban canal walls, river quays, or any elevated platform where traditional landing nets won’t reach.
3. Are drop nets fish-safe?
Most modern drop nets use knotless, soft mesh to minimise stress and injury. Always check the product description for “fish-friendly” materials.
4. What size drop net should I get?
A 60–80cm diameter net is ideal for most general fishing. Go larger if targeting bigger sea species or fishing in rougher water.
5. Do I need to weight the net?
Most drop nets include a weighted rim, but in strong currents or deep water, you may need to add extra weight to keep the net open and stable.
6. How long should the rope be on a drop net?
This depends on the height you’re fishing from. 10–15 metres is typical for piers and high quays, but check your location first.
7. Are drop nets legal to use in the UK?
Yes — for landing caught fish, they’re completely legal. However, for bait collection, some restrictions may apply, so check Environment Agency guidelines.
8. Can drop nets be used to collect livebait?
Yes — especially smaller drop nets designed for shrimp, prawns, or baitfish. Be sure to follow local conservation laws.
9. Are drop nets suitable for crabbing?
Absolutely. Many families and hobbyists use smaller drop nets for recreational crabbing from harbours and piers.
10. How do I care for my drop net?
After use, especially in saltwater, rinse with fresh water, air dry, and store in a cool, dry place to avoid rust and odour.
Final Thoughts
Drop nets are essential when fishing from elevated positions where standard landing nets simply can’t reach. Whether you’re landing a hard-fighting bass from a harbour wall or gently retrieving a catch from a quayside, a drop net ensures fish safety and tackle protection. With over 35 years of experience, we supply only tested, fish-safe drop nets suited to the unique challenges of UK shore and pier fishing.
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