The Bernard Venables Landing Net № 42 made in 1996.

The Bernard Venables landing net is widely recognised as the best all round traditional landing net. We don’t make them at the moment so the opportunity to obtain one in perfect condition is not to be missed.

As well as its good looks, this net is extremely practical and nice to use. Almost indestructible, beautifully made and fish friendly due to its cleverly designed knotless mesh, the Bernard Venables net will last a lifetime.

I use mine constantly and it has proved itself to my complete satisfaction.

Here are the technical specifications:

The hand tied net bag has no seam at the bottom, which is something we pioneered. The net bag can stretch to accommodate very long fish without harming them. The one inch mesh is knotless and complies with Environment Agency rules.

The Tonkin bamboo handle was tempered, mottled, straightened and impeccably finished with a marine grade varnish. It is waterproof and it floats, as does the net head. The brass butt cap has a black rubber button. The handle comes in its tailor made bag.

The one piece Y-shaped net block is made from cast naval bronze. The screws and net-to-handle thread are stainless steel.

From a catalogue of the period is the following technical specification:

Designed and built at the request of the late Bernard Venables, these pear-shaped nets are vastly superior to all other types. There are no moving parts to fail, and no infuriating draw cord to fold up or snag at the critical moment. With a 6’ circumference, measuring 26” front-to-back and 21” side-to-side, all but the largest fish can be landed comfortably.

Both handle and net frame are inscribed with our maker details and the net’s number and year of manufacture in Indian ink.