My only criteria was for a triangular net which wouldn't break the bank, with at least 42 inch arm-length, and quite a large mesh size. Not too much to ask, surely?

Well, all of the major manufacturers whose nets I have looked at lately, seem to be opting for "fish-friendly" micromesh. Micromesh is certainly better for carp and other large-scaled species, because the fine mesh reduces the chance of scale damage, whilst not removing much protective slime. When it comes to piking, however, a tiny mesh size is definitely not fish friendly! If the fish you are landing has a treble hook outside it's mouth, and it then twists itself inside the landing net, you can be left with a tangled, toothy mess which is potentially lethal for both the pike, and your micromesh landing net! I prefer not to have to cut my net to shreds in order to return a pike quickly to the water. This should not be necessary if you have the correct tackle. Larger mesh is simply safer and far more practical for pike fishing.

So, imagine how surprised I was, whilst perusing local tackle shop Climax Tackle in Dronfield - when I stumbled upon a new landing net by carp tackle firm, Korum - and it was exactly the pike net I've been searching for!

It's called the "Korum Carbon Specimen 42 inch Net". Not only does it have large mesh (with micromesh only covering it's hollow-carbon arms), but it also has latex-covered mesh! Latex mesh is proven to be fish friendly by removing very little slime, but it has the further benefits of extra resistance to hook penetration, and it dries quickly with less fishy odour too!

It comes with a stout alloy spreader block, a 6-foot carbon handle and storage bag. The whole package costs around £40, and I really cannot fault it. No conservation-minded pike angler should be without one!

Andrew Kennedy