The № 35 Bernard Venables Landing Net & Handle
In outstanding condition c1996
£1,400.00
This net is an exceptional example in every way. The handle is particularly sturdy and nicely tapered Tonkin. The ash frame is made from really first class timber, the naval bronze Y-shaped block is particularly attractive and the mesh is one of the super early ones that we dyed in Cuprinol (the proper stuff that they stopped making years ago). They never fade or rot. This is as good as hand-made landing nets get, and in fact, it’s better than any net you’ll find today, regardless of how they are made, or from which materials. If you want to land fish successfully while looking stylish and classy, this is the net for you!
Designed and built at the request of the late Bernard Venables, this pear-shaped net has a 6′ circumference, measuring 26″ front-to-back and 21″ side-to-side. All but the largest fish can be landed comfortably in it. I used mine to land a one-time Kennet record barbel of 16 lbs 10 oz, but it was quite a snug fit. For chub, tench, perch and other less colossal fish, this net is the perfect size.
The hand tied knotless (and fully legal) mesh has loops at the top through which the frame passes. There is no seam at the bottom of the mesh, so it expands to accommodate the fish. The 1″ mesh size allows the free passage of water, thus reducing drag.
The best straight-grained American white ash is used for the frame, which has a superb varnish finish and is inscribed in Indian ink The № 35 Bernard Venables Net. E. Barder Rod Co ~ makers MCMXCVI.
The specially cast naval bronze Y-shaped block is secured to the frame with flush-fitting stainless steel screws. The 6′ detachable handle is made from seasoned, tempered and bored-out Tonkin bamboo. It is straightened, beautifully mottled, and impeccably varnished. There are brass fittings at each end, with a rubber button fitted to the butt. The handle is inscribed The № 35 Venables net. E. Barder Rod Co. ’96. The handle comes in a fitted bag with a hanging loop.
We don’t make nets at the moment and they don’t come up for sale very often. We pioneered the revival of this type of net at Bernard’s suggestion, and with his full cooperation. They remain the original and best. They are practical, beautiful and good for a lifetime’s use.
All pre-owned items of Barder Rod Co tackle supplied by us are issued with a specially printed and individually signed and dated certificate of ownership.