Best Fishing Nets For Sale NZ: Top Brands & Where To Buy

Selecting the right fishing net can make all the difference between a rewarding day on the water and a string of missed opportunities. Whether you’re after a feed of flounder in the shallows, hunting snapper off the coast, or gathering whitebait during the spring run, the gear you choose must match your target species, your fishing environment, and your own practical needs. From the intricacies of mesh size to the durability of net materials and the need to follow New Zealand’s legal regulations, there’s more to picking the ideal net than meets the eye.

Before you invest, it pays to understand the unique advantages of each net type—be it a set net for flounder, a cast net for live bait, a landing net for catch-and-release, or a traditional customary net supporting tangata whenua practices. This guide walks you through the 12 best fishing nets for sale in New Zealand, highlighting essential specs, strengths and drawbacks, price ranges, and where to buy from trusted local suppliers. You’ll find practical advice on care, maintenance, and biosecurity, ensuring your gear lasts and your fishing remains responsible. Ready to find the net that suits your next adventure? Let’s get started.

1. Flounder Fishing Nets

Flounder nets are a cornerstone for anglers targeting these flat, bottom-dwelling species in New Zealand’s coastal shallows. Built on decades of commercial insight, modern flounder nets combine robust materials with designs fine-tuned for local conditions. Before you cast, understand the features that boost catch rates and the obligations that come with set-net use.

Key Features

• Lead-core bottom rope for consistent seabed contact
• Floating top rope to maintain net mouth shape
• Built-in pockets that guide and trap flounder
• NZ-made design drawing on over 40 years of commercial experience

Available Sizes & Mesh Options

• Lengths: 20 m, 30 m, 40 m, 60 m
• Mesh sizes optimised for flounder: 45 mm – 70 mm

Pros & Cons

• Pros:
– Exceptional catch efficiency for flounder
– Heavy-duty twine withstands abrasion
– Proven performance in Kiwi waters
• Cons:
– Heavier to deploy and retrieve
– Requires substantial storage space
– Premium price reflects local craftsmanship

Legal Compliance for Set Nets

Set nets in New Zealand must adhere to Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) regulations:

• Maximum net length of 60 m, no baiting allowed
• At least 60 m separation between any two nets
• Each end marked with a float displaying the fisher’s initials and surname
• Prohibited in marine reserves and other set-net banned areas

Consult the full MPI rules for gear, methods and measuring on the MPI website.

Where to Buy & Price Range

Action Outdoors offers a range of NZ-made flounder nets in custom lengths. Prices typically range from NZ$200 to NZ$600, depending on size and mesh specification. Browse the full selection at Action Outdoors’ fishing nets collection.

2. Mullet Fishing Nets

Mullet tend to school in the shallows around estuarine mouths and along coastal beaches, so a purpose-built net makes all the difference. Unlike bottom-set flounder nets, mullet nets sit mid-water, intercepting fish as they move with the tide. A well-balanced design ensures the net spreads correctly, trapping mullet without spooking the school.

Choosing the right mullet net means balancing length, mesh size and weight. Whether you’re lining a sandy spit or working a tidal creek, your net must open smoothly, remain stable in currents, and stand up to repeated deployments. Read on for the core specs, plus honest pros and cons, price points and where to find them in NZ.

Key Features

• Mid-depth mesh cleverly positioned to match mullet swim patterns
• Weighted hems and float lines that maintain an open net mouth
• Durable twine suited to estuarine silt and sand abrasion
• Ideal for both beach setting and estuary use

Available Lengths & Mesh Sizes

• Standard lengths: 20 m, 30 m, 40 m, 60 m, 100 m
• Custom lengths available on request for specialised runs
• Mesh sizes tailored for mullet: typically 38 mm – 50 mm

Pros & Cons

Pros:
– Versatile enough for different mullet sizes and water conditions
– More affordable than heavy-duty commercial nets
– Quick to deploy along beach breaks or creek mouths

Cons:
– Bulky when fully extended, requiring careful packing
– Often needs two people to set and haul evenly

3. Snapper Fishing Nets

Snapper are a prized target for many Kiwi anglers, and a purpose-built gill net is the go-to tool when you want to bring in a steady feed of snapper, moki, rig and other reef species. Snapper nets rely on carefully selected mesh sizes and lengths to intercept fish at just the right depth, while durable materials ensure your gear stands up to UV exposure and abrasive conditions on the bottom.

Key Features

• Gill-net configuration optimised for snapper, moki, rig and similar reef species
• Mono-filament yarn with built-in UV stabilisation for extended life
• Evenly weighted footline and buoyant headline for a consistent net mouth
• Precision knotting to reduce net distortion and improve catch rates

Mesh & Length Options

• Mesh sizes: 75 mm and 90 mm are standard, with custom sizes available on request
• Lengths: 20 m, 30 m, 40 m and 60 m to suit small boat outings or larger charter operations

Pros & Cons

Pros:
– Excellent selectivity for typical New Zealand reef fish
– UV-resistant twine means less frequent net replacement
– Stable net mouth under a variety of currents

Cons:
– Manual hauling can be labour-intensive, especially at 60 m lengths
– Risk of bycatch if not monitored closely
– Requires responsible deployment to avoid damage to marine habitats

 

4. Cast Throw Nets

Cast throw nets, also known as cast nets, are a favourite among New Zealand anglers chasing live bait such as pilchard, garfish or piper. These nets spread out in a circular pattern when thrown, then sink rapidly to trap fish beneath. Their simplicity and portability make them ideal for shore-based fishing or hopping into a dinghy, but casting one effectively takes a bit of practice.

Key Features

• Fast-sinking weighted design ensures quick submersion and minimal escape routes
• Diameter options from 6 ft (1.8 m) up to 14 ft (4.3 m) to suit different bait sizes
• Brass or lead-shot weights evenly spaced around the net’s perimeter for balanced sink rates
• Compact fold-up construction for easy stowage in a rod locker or backpack

Mesh Size Variants

• 12.5 mm mesh for the tiniest baitfish and shrimp
• 25 mm mesh aimed at piper and small garfish
• 65 mm mesh to handle larger live bait like pilchard
Mesh size not only determines which species you’ll catch but also influences how quickly the net sinks—smaller mesh holds more water, slowing the drop; larger mesh lets water pass through faster.

Maintenance & Biosecurity Tips

To protect New Zealand’s waterways, always follow the MPI “Check, Clean, Dry” protocol:

• Check your net for mud, seeds or aquatic organisms after each use
• Clean by soaking in a 10 percent detergent solution for at least 10 minutes
• Dry thoroughly inside and out, then wait 48 hours (or freeze solid) before next use
  Avoid felt-soled waders and ensure your cast net is bone-dry to prevent unwittingly spreading didymo or other pests. Full details on this process are available via the MPI’s guidance on the Check, Clean, Dry protocol.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Highly efficient at rounding up live bait in shallow waters
• Folds down neatly for transport on foot or by kayak
• No winch or boat required—purely hand-powered

Cons:

• Requires skill and timing to achieve a full circular spread
• Mesh can tangle if folded incorrectly or not shaken out before casting
• Heavier nets (larger diameters) can tire you out quickly

5. Piper Bait Nets

Small, lightweight and tailored for coastal flats, piper bait nets are the go-to for anglers who need to nab fresh live bait in a flash. Their fine mesh traps piper effectively without injuring them, and the streamlined design means you can carry and cast them easily from shore, a jetty or a dinghy.

Key Features

• Mesh sizes of 1-00″ (25 mm) and 1¼″ (32 mm) optimised for small baitfish
• Ultra-light twine minimises damage to delicate piper
• Reinforced headline and footline to maintain a consistent net opening

Length & Deployment Tips

Piper nets come in lengths from 10 m up to 60 m, so you can match your net to the waterway you’re fishing. On wide sandy beaches or tidal flats, a longer net increases your coverage. A shorter net gives you better control in tighter estuary creeks or from a kayak. When deploying, lay the net perpendicular to the current, wait a moment for piper to shoal, then haul steadily to funnel bait toward the centre.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Mesh tuned exactly for piper and other small baitfish
• Packs down compactly into rod bags or kayak hatches
• Can be set and retrieved single-handedly

Cons:

• Limited to small bait species—won’t hold larger fish
• Fine mesh is prone to clogging with sand in strong currents
• Requires frequent rinsing to clear debris and prolong lifespan

6. Eel Fyke Nets

Eel fyke nets are a specialised tool designed to target New Zealand’s native eel species, such as longfin and shortfin tuna. These funnel-shaped nets guide eels through a series of chambers, trapping them alive without undue stress. Whether you’re fishing in tidal estuaries or freshwater streams, fyke nets offer an efficient, low-impact method for obtaining bait or harvest without the need for frequent checking.

Key Features

• Collapsible or rigid frame fyke designs that pack down for transport
• Multiple internal chambers that allow eels to enter but not escape
• Durable, knotless twine or mesh proven to withstand eel teeth and scales
• Removable catch pots or cod ends for easy fish retrieval

Setup & Best Practices

Proper deployment is critical to fyke success. Position your fyke net perpendicular to the flow in tidal mouths or shallow stream channels. Secure the headline with a buoy or float to keep the net mouth open, and anchor the footrope using sandbags or weights to prevent shifting in currents. For multi-chamber fyke nets, ensure each funnel entrance faces upstream so eels are guided smoothly from one chamber to the next. Check local tidal charts and set your fyke at least two hours before high tide for optimal catch rates; in streams, target narrow passages where eels are likely to congregate.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
– Gentle on fish, minimising stress and injury
– Continuous trapping with multiple chambers reduces the need for constant checks
– Suitable for remote or unmanned sites

Cons:
– Bulkier than simple set nets; requires more space to deploy
– Setup takes longer, demanding precise placement and anchoring
– Catch volumes can vary widely depending on water flow and bait type

 

7. Customary Fishing Nets

Customary fishing nets hold a special place in Aotearoa, reflecting centuries of tangata whenua tradition and expertise. These nets aren’t just tools—they’re vessels of whakapapa and tikanga, crafted to honour customary harvest protocols and seasonal rhythms. Each net is tailored in mesh size, length and material to suit specific species and habitats, ensuring a respectful and sustainable take.

By choosing a customary net, you’re connecting with a lineage of indigenous practice. These nets are often made to order, combining modern netting techniques with time-honoured designs such as single-warp or multi-panel nets. Whether you’re gathering flounder for a whanau hui or supporting local hapū harvests, the right customary net meets both practical and cultural needs.

Cultural Considerations & Usage

Customary nets follow protocols set by iwi and hapū, from mesh recommendations to deployment seasons. For example, some hapū use single-warp nets crafted from natural-tone twine, set at low tide in estuarine channels. Others rely on multi-panel nets for social harvests, with communal check-in practices and mesh sizes chosen to protect spawning fish. Always consult your local kaitiaki or customary fishing regulations before setting nets, and observe rāhui (temporary closures) that safeguard stock.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Deeply rooted in Māori heritage, strengthening cultural connections
• Bespoke craftsmanship ensures nets fit specific customary practices
• Often built with high-quality, locally sourced materials

Cons:

• Custom build times can stretch over several weeks
• Premium prices reflect artisan labour and bespoke specifications
• Requires close liaison with local iwi to guarantee correct usage

, 8. Drag Nets & Beach Seine Nets

When schools of kahawai, trevally or small baitfish hug the shoreline, drag nets and beach seine nets provide an effective way to harvest them. These nets consist of a weighted footrope and buoyant float line that hold the net mouth open as you pull it through shallow water. Unlike set nets that remain stationary, drag and seine nets cover a swathe of water, corralling fish into a tight pocket for easy retrieval.

Key Features

• Weighted footrope to keep the net’s bottom edge on the seabed
• Float line (headline) with foam or plastic floats to maintain an open mouth
• Mesh sizes ranging from 20 mm to 50 mm, depending on target species
• Durable polyethylene or nylon twine that resists abrasion from sand and shell
• Available in widths from 5 m up to 20 m, and lengths from 20 m to 100 m

Techniques & Safety

Deploying a drag or beach seine net typically involves two people: one at each end of the net. From a safe distance offshore, walk or wade parallel to the beach, gradually closing the circle until the net’s ends are brought together. Secure the ends on the shore, then haul fish into shallow water for easy collection. Always choose an area free of swimmers, keep an eye on the incoming tide, and avoid rocky or coral-covered bottoms that could tear your net. Wearing a PFD (personal flotation device) and sturdy footwear is highly recommended, and it pays to scout your chosen beach at low tide first, noting any hidden channels or drop-offs.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Quickly covers large areas of shallow water, ideal for schooling fish
• Simple design with minimal gear needed beyond the net itself
• Can yield high volumes of bait or small food-grade fish

Cons:

• Labour-intensive—best with at least two experienced operators
• Requires an unobstructed shoreline and a reasonably gentle seabed
• Heavy nets can become waterlogged, making hauling strenuous

Where to Buy & Price Range

Drag and beach seine nets are often sold as DIY kits or made-to-order by specialist marine-rope and netting suppliers. Expect to invest around NZ$300 to NZ$1,200 depending on net dimensions, mesh type and weight requirements. For a customised solution, contact your local netting workshop or marine outfitter to discuss your exact needs and to ensure your kit complies with MPI regulations for safe, responsible fishing.

9. Commercial Fishing Nets

When you’re running charter trips or managing a large-scale harvest, standard recreational nets just won’t cut it. Commercial fishing nets are engineered to cope with high catch volumes, continuous use and the challenges of offshore conditions. They’re typically custom-built to client specifications, ensuring each net meets the demands of your target species, vessel size and fishing ground.

Heavy-Duty Specifications

• Lengths up to 500 m for mullet, mixed-species or specialised nets
• Reinforced seams and double-braided headers for extra strength
• UV-stabilised monofilament or multifilament twine to resist sun damage
• Heavy-duty floats and weights are designed to keep the net mouth open under load

Applications & Options

Commercial nets serve charter operators, processing vessels and large family crews. You can specify:
• Custom panel layouts for different mesh sizes within one net
• Extension pockets to boost catch capacity without re-rigging
• High-visibility floats or radar-reflective markers for easy spotting
• Breakaway or quick-release sections for safety and bycatch reduction

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Exceptional catch capacity tailored to commercial needs
• Built to withstand continuous deployment in rough conditions
• Bespoke design means your net fits your boat and target species

Cons:

• Significant upfront investment (often NZ$1,000+)
• Larger nets require specialised storage solutions and handling gear
• Delivery and lead times can be several weeks for custom orders

Where to Buy & Price Range

Commercial fishing nets aren’t typically stocked off the shelf. Instead, you’ll work directly with local wholesale or bespoke net manufacturers who can tailor every aspect of your kit. Budget at least NZ$1,000 for entry-level commercial nets, with final costs depending on length, mesh types and custom features.

10. Landing Nets

Landing nets are the go-to gear when bringing a fish aboard swiftly and safely. Designed with catch-and-release in mind, these nets feature fine meshes and lightweight frames that minimise harm to fish and allow you to keep your catch in prime condition. Compact folding hoops and telescopic handles make them easy to stow on crowded decks or in a kayak hatch.

Designed for Catch & Release

When preserving a fish’s protective slime layer is paramount, rubber-coated meshes are the preferred choice. Their slick surface prevents scale damage, reduces hook tangles and allows water to flow freely, keeping fish calm until release. Nylon nets remain a budget-friendly alternative, but their rougher fibres can abrade skin and snag hooks more easily. Look for nets with non-corrosive, locking hinges on the hoop and extendable handles that won’t buckle under load.

Top Models & Brands

• Black Magic Bait Net Small – A sturdy, mid-sized hoop that folds down to a compact package.
• Shimano Full Mesh Landing Net 100 LG – Features a fine, full-diameter mesh and a deeper bag for larger fish.
• Berkley Telescopic Catch & Release Net – Lightweight with a rubberised, knotless net that resists tangles.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Rubber-coated meshes protect fish slime layers and reduce injury
• Telescopic handles and folding hoops pack away neatly
• Quick to deploy for fast or unsuspecting catches

Cons:

• Best suited to single fish or smaller species, not large schools
• Rubber nets tend to be heavier than simple nylon
• Limited durability under heavy commercial use

Where to Buy & Price Range

A solid selection of landing nets and gaffs is available from Hunting & Fishing NZ’s nets & gaffs section. Prices start at around NZ$30 for basic nylon options and climb to NZ$100 for premium rubber-coated models.

11. Whitebait Nets

Whitebait nets are purpose-built for the fleeting spring run of juvenile galaxiids—our prized whitebait. With catch windows measured in weeks, you need nets that deliver precision, gentle handling, and the right mesh to keep tiny fry from escaping. From classic bag nets that mount on extendable poles to box nets with hinged frames, these tools make the difference between bountiful catches and an empty bucket.

Specialty Design

Whitebait nets feature exceptionally fine mesh—typically 2 mm–4 mm—to ensure the smallest juveniles are retained. The two principal styles are:
• Bag nets: A simple, collapsible hoop-and-mesh design on long, extendable arms that you hold out from a riverbank or bridge.
• Box nets: Rigid, four-sided frames that fold flat for transport and spring open into a box shape when deployed, creating a stable “pit” for whitebait.
Many anglers favour bag nets for their ease of use and adaptability in tight spots, while box nets excel in shallow runs with steady flows.

Seasonal Use & Regulations

Whitebait fishing is tightly regulated to protect stocks during the limited season—often running from late August through to the end of November, though exact dates vary by region. Before you cast, check your regional council or Department of Conservation notices: certain rivers or reaches may be closed or subject to rāhui. Daily bag limits apply (for example, up to 40 L of whitebait per person per day), and strict rules govern net placement and check intervals to minimise environmental impact.

Pros & Cons

Pros:
• Highly targeted capture of whitebait with minimal bycatch
• Lightweight and portable designs suit remote or narrow sites
• Fine mesh prevents fry escape, boosting overall yield

Cons:
• Seasonal use only—nets sit idle outside the whitebait window
• Delicate mesh is prone to snagging on debris
• Regulations can be complex, requiring due diligence before each trip

Where to Buy & Price Range

Complete Angler stocks a broad selection of specialist whitebait nets priced from around NZ$100 for basic bag nets to NZ$350 for premium box-net systems. Whether you’re a weekend enthusiast or a seasoned netter, you’ll find mesh sizes, pole lengths and frame styles to suit your local waterways and personal preference.

12. General-Purpose Gill Netting

General-purpose gill netting is the foundational material from which custom nets are crafted or existing nets are repaired. Rather than buying a finished net, you obtain rolls of mesh that can be cut, spliced and assembled to your precise specifications. This approach suits anglers and fishers who prefer to fine-tune mesh size, line strength and net dimensions for their unique fishing style.

Choosing raw netting gives you the flexibility to create lightweight, portable nets or heavy-duty panels for specific species—whether you're patching a tear in a flounder net or building a bespoke mullet drop net. Below, we break down the key considerations for selecting the right netting, how to work with it, and where to find quality rolls in New Zealand.

What It Is

General-purpose gill netting comes as unassembled mesh, available in a variety of materials and finishes. The two main fibre types are:

• Monofilament: A single strand of nylon or polyethylene that offers minimal visibility underwater and good abrasion resistance.
• Multifilament: Multiple filaments twisted into a single line, providing superior strength and knot-holding ability, though slightly more visible in water.

Netting is also offered in UV-resistant variants, with additives that slow degradation in sunlight, or standard grades for shaded or infrequent use. Widths typically range from 1 m to 4 m, and rolls are sold by length, allowing you to cut exactly what you need.

Custom Builds & Repairs

When building or repairing nets, consider:

• Mesh size: Match the target species—smaller meshes for pilchard or whitebait repairs, larger meshes for mullet or snapper panels.
• Line diameter: Thicker twine delivers higher tensile strength but increases net visibility and weight.
• Knot style: Loop-knot netting offers smoother mesh, while knotted netting is simpler to splice and repair in the field.

Local netting workshops and maritime supply stores often offer cut-to-length services. You can bring old nets along, choose matching mesh, and have new panels prepared to your exact measurements, saving time on splicing and ensuring a snug fit.

Pros & Cons

Pros:

• Fully customisable—create nets that suit your fishing spots and preferred species.
• Ideal for on-the-fly repairs, extending the life of expensive nets.
• Purchasing rolls can be more cost-effective per metre than bespoke nets.

Cons:

• Requires net-splicing skills and appropriate tools (net-needles, shuttles).
• Time investment—cutting, tying and testing panels adds to preparation time.
• Quality varies by supplier; UV-resistant grades cost more but last longer.

Where to Buy & Price Range

You’ll find a solid range of netting rolls at Haverford NZ’s fishing netting collection. Prices are typically between NZ$50 and NZ$300 per roll, depending on width, material and UV treatment. Whether you need a small roll for emergency repairs or a bulk supply for multiple builds, Haverford’s quality netting caters to both recreational and professional fishers.

Time to Cast Your Net: Final Tips

Choosing the right fishing net boils down to a few core factors: the species you’re targeting, the environment you fish in, and the type of net that suits your style—be it a set net, cast net, landing net or something more specialised. Mesh size and material directly influence catch efficiency and durability, while compliance with legal regulations ensures you stay on the right side of the law. Don’t forget biosecurity protocols and basic maintenance routines, like cleaning and drying, which will protect our waterways and extend the life of your gear.

Before you make a final decision, revisit the net types above and weigh up the pros and cons for your next outing. For shore-based live bait fishing, a well-tuned cast net might be perfect, whereas a rubber-coated landing net is a must if you practise catch-and-release. Seasonal or customary nets have their own nuances, and commercial or DIY gill netting demand extra planning and handling care. With all these options covered, you can narrow your shortlist to the nets that best match your budget, skill level and intended use.

Ready to gear up? Head over to the Action Outdoors homepage to explore our full net and accessories range. From locally made flounder nets to custom-cut gill netting, you’ll find everything you need to cast with confidence on your next fishing adventure. Tight lines!