The Best Net For Steelhead And Why a Good Steelhead Net Actually Matters

Steelhead fishing is a game of moments. You grind all day for that one grab. The fight can be pure chaos. And when the fish finally slides into range, everything comes down to what happens in the last 10 seconds. If you’ve been there you know how quickly things can go wrong!

That’s where a good net matters more than most anglers realize. I’ve watched too many great fish lost at the bank because of a flimsy hoop, shallow bag, or a handle that just won’t quite reach. Worse yet, I’ve seen fish mishandled because the net wasn’t built with the fish in mind.

A steelhead net shouldn’t just land fish, it should protect them, protect your gear, and give you control when things get hectic.

Lightweight, Because Fatigue Is Real

If you’re swinging flies, nymphing with beads, or running plugs all day, ounces turn into pounds. A heavy net hanging off your shoulder wears you down fast. It can also affect your ability to net a steelhead when your arms are fully extended reaching for those last few inches. That’s why weight matters.

The Adamsbuilt steelhead net is built on a lightweight yet durable aluminum frame and handle, coming in at just over a pound (1 lb. 10 oz). You don’t notice it during the day, but you sure appreciate it when it’s time to move fast and finish the job.

 

 

A Hoop Big Enough for Real Fish

Steelhead aren’t your average fish, and your net shouldn’t be either. This net features a huge 24” x 21” hoop with a deep 24” bag, which does two critical things:

1. It actually fits large fish without folding them in half
2. It gives the fish room to settle, reducing thrashing and stress

That deep hoop buys you time – time to control the fish, time to breathe, and time to get a solid grip and grin before the release.

Fish-Safe Netting That Works

Heavy knotted mesh nets are so out!  Rubberized netting is not only lighter, but so much healthier on the fish! This netting is extremely safe for fish because there is no knotted mesh to tear fins, and it doesn’t snag flies or hooks, and there’s minimal slime loss to the fish.

It’s better for the fish and way less frustrating for the angler. That alone is worth its weight.

 

 

Reach When You Actually Need It

Steelhead don’t always come to you politely. With a 47.5” handle that extends out to 73”, this net gives you reach when you’re standing on a high bank, in awkward water, or trying to keep pressure on a hot fish. The twist-lock throat makes extension quick and solid, no wobble, no guessing.

Thoughtful Details That Matter

This is where good gear separates itself from average gear. A few other aspects that you might find useful:

• 36” measuring scale printed on the handle  quick checks, no guessing
• Large, comfortable rubber grip  secure even with cold or wet hands
• Totally sealed frame and handle  the net floats (yes, that matters)

Every one of these details shows up when things go sideways, and steelhead fishing has a way of doing that.

Final Thoughts

A steelhead net isn’t just a tool. It’s the final step in a hard-earned moment.  When you finally slide that fish into the bag, you want confidence…not chaos. You want something light, strong, fish-safe, and big enough to do the job right. That’s exactly what the Adamsbuilt Steelhead Net was built for. Because losing a steelhead at the net is painful!