Best C&R net does not yet exist. It would possess strong lightweight mesh to make it ergonomic to maneuver both in the water and out. The mesh would be soft knotless and small to protect slime, scales, and fins from needless damage.

It would be generous enough to support a fish in the top 4-8 inches of the water surface while suspended from the boat gunwale... i.e. not too shallow. However, not so generous that it would allow a fish to wrap itself in the mesh or "twist tie" the bag closed... i.e. not too deep.

Have been in touch with some of these companies to design the ultimate C&R net for anadramous species here in the PNW and beyond. If I could design the net.... it would have the laundry-basket structure (flat floor, vertical walls, moderate depth) of the Beckman FinSaver Pen and the truly fish-friendly fine knotless mesh used by Loki or Gibbs.

In the meantime the Beckman FinSaver would be my choice for large salmon and the Loki for small-med salmon and steelhead.