Fish Net Guide
What an aquarium fish net is, how a hand net catches fish and debris, the main mesh types, and how to choose and use one with low stress.
What it is
A fish net used in aquariums is a hand net: a meshed basket mounted to a rigid frame on a handle, used to capture and retrieve objects from water somewhat in the manner of a sieve. In the aquarium it serves to catch and transfer fish, shrimp or debris.
How it works
The mesh is mounted to a circular or polygonal frame, which attaches to a handle, and the mesh itself is typically made from nylon or wire rather than cloth. The frame is moved through the water to scoop the target into the bag, while water passes through the mesh and the contents are retained. A hand net with a long handle is termed a dip net, and one used to land an already-hooked fish is called a landing net; hand nets are also used to retrieve aquarium fish in this way.
Types
- Fine-mesh nets for small fish and fry that should not slip through
- Coarse-mesh nets that move water faster and suit larger, stronger fish
- Soft fine-weave nets intended to be gentle on fins and slime coat
- Shallow scoop nets used mainly to remove floating debris or uneaten food
Choosing and sizing
Match the frame size and mesh to the fish and tank. A net wide enough to corral the fish reduces repeated chasing, while a mesh fine enough that the fish cannot push through prevents fins catching. The handle length is matched to tank depth so the rim can reach the bottom without overextending.
Use
Hand nets capture fish near the surface effectively, so guiding a fish upward into a waiting net is often easier than chasing it across the tank. Wetting the net first and moving slowly limits stress and damage during catching and transfer. Two nets can be used together, one to guide and one to catch.
Maintenance
Nets are rinsed and dried after use to keep the mesh supple and to avoid carrying residue between tanks. A net is replaced when the mesh frays or stiffens, since rough or torn mesh can snag fins. Keeping a separate net per tank reduces the risk of moving pests or disease between systems.