Do not get a second hand net It may not comply with current regulations apart from that it could be faulty in some other way.
Buy a new one - the last thing you want after fishing in a competition is to find that some or all of your fish have escaped.
The size of the net is important - it should have a large top ring.
Big is beautiful within practical terms and is much kinder to the fish.
If funds run to it - A net stretcher is very useful for shallower waters.
Failing that you can use a bank stick -After securing the top ring in a comfortable position, stretch the net in line with the bank and stake it through the plastic net gathering ring at the bottom of the net.
In faster and deeper waters where the above is inappropriate. A heavy weight can be attached to the net gathering ring - this will help to stop the flow of the water pushing the net high up in the water.
Landing nets
Shape and mesh size are important depending on the size of fish you are hoping to catch and also the method of fishing.
Shape is a personal choice if in doubt go for a triangular one with a corded front with fine mesh (not micro mesh, it is too difficult to handle).
Get a reasonably deep net - you can easily make it into a temporary shallow one by putting a draw string in at the required depth.
Pops Tip :- Use a plastic button clamp makes it easy to revert to a deeper net
Landing net handles
Telescopic is recommended - I carry 2 - one of 2 metres and one of 3.5 metres.
he shorter one is much handier when using a feeder or ledger, also Pole Fishing in shallow water, providing there is little marginal weed.
Float fishing with a long rod or if there is a lot of marginal weed is when the longer handle is the most effective.
Do not try to land a fish by lifting the net directly out of the water, far better to draw it in especially over marginal weed.
