Ketchum Release vs. Net

[troutpoop]

Anyone switch over to just using the ketchum release gadget? I'm still using a net but I have considered getting one and unburdening myself of the net.

 

[turkey]

I used to use a net but anymore I mostly wet a hand and scoop em long enough to get the hook out. I did some damage to a fish on Spring with my nylon net so I started leaving it at home...not always but mostly.

 

[hendeylathe]

I think it all depends on the size of fish on the end of your line and or how tired the fish my be. I use both ( the Ketchum tool and a net). If I'm fishing Laurel Hill stockies and don't want to handle them, the Ketchum tool works fine. When I get to wrestle with a 18"+ trout on the Yough, I've got a Brodin Gallatin Ghost net. Very nice piece. The only thing I don't like about the Ketchum tool is that its not weighted if you drop it in the water. I've tried to put it on a zinger and just never found a convenient place to put it, but that's just me. I'd say give one a try.

 

[evw659]

Like Hendey said, it depends on the size of fish your dealing with, and also the size of the stream your fishing. Personally, I use a rubber net with a magnet that clips on the back of my vest. Works ok for me. I've been in a lot of situations where a net isn't absolutely necessary, but I've been in just as many where it is extremely helpful if not invaluable.

 

[MKern]

I can never get the hang of the release tool. I have one on the end of my hemos. I know I'm doing something right, but at this point it's faster for me to land the fish (hand or net) then stumble around with release tool.

 

[AkDan76]

another vote for both...hot fish, fast water, big fish....the ketchum is nice for smaller flies or dries.

Mkern, get to the bend and lift up. I prefer hemo's when running 7- 8x over the ketchum.....and honestly I'm usually just to lazy to use the ketchum much when I have a net.

 

[Bluequill]

Started using the Ketchum tool last year. Once you get the hang of it, it works very well for almost all the trout I catch. Much faster than dealing with the net and almost always better for the fish.

 

[NJTroutbum]

Net or by hand. Went to a rubber net last season. I mush prefer a short pair of curved hemos to the Ketchum tool. Bought one and it lays in the drawer now.