Quality Fishing Nets in Kenya – Cost, Durability & Uses

Fishing nets are among the oldest and most reliable tools in the world of fishing. In Kenya, where fishing supports both livelihoods and recreation, nets remain essential for commercial fishermen, aquaculture farms, and casual anglers alike. Whether you fish on Lake Victoria, the Indian Ocean, or local rivers and dams, the quality of your net determines the success of your catch.

This detailed guide explores everything you need to know about fishing nets in Kenya — including their types, uses, costs, materials, and maintenance. It also explains how to select durable nets suited for Kenya’s varied fishing environments and how Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd provides top-quality options trusted by professionals across the country.

Understanding Fishing Nets and Their Role in Kenya’s Fishing Industry

Fishing nets are mesh fabrics designed to entangle, trap, or scoop fish. They vary in size, material, and design based on the target species and environment. In Kenya, fishing nets serve multiple sectors — from commercial deep-sea fishing to aquaculture harvesting and inland subsistence fishing.

High-quality fishing nets reduce fish loss, enhance efficiency, and ensure sustainable operations by minimizing damage to marine life. As a result, choosing the right type of net is not only a matter of productivity but also environmental responsibility.

Types of Fishing Nets Used in Kenya

Different fishing methods require different types of nets. The choice depends on the size of fish targeted, the fishing location, and the nature of the operation. Below are the main types commonly used in Kenya.

1. Gill Nets

Gill nets are vertical panels that catch fish by their gills when they attempt to swim through the mesh. They are widely used in lakes and rivers and are effective for catching tilapia, catfish, and other medium-sized species.

2. Cast Nets

Cast nets are circular with weights along the edge and are thrown manually. Once they spread out and sink, the angler pulls the net to trap fish. Cast nets are ideal for shallow waters and small-scale fishing near shores or riverbanks.

3. Seine Nets

Seine nets are large, rectangular nets that encircle schools of fish. They are perfect for commercial or cooperative fishing in lakes and coastal areas where large volumes are caught in a single haul.

4. Trawl Nets

Trawl nets are towed behind boats, sweeping through water columns to capture fish in bulk. They’re mostly used in industrial fishing operations along Kenya’s coastal waters.

5. Landing Nets

Landing nets assist anglers in safely retrieving caught fish from the water without losing them. They are commonly used in sport or recreational fishing.

For high-quality fishing nets suited to all these applications, visit Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd’s Fishing Nets Collection.

Uses of Fishing Nets in Kenya

Fishing nets are not limited to traditional fishing; they also play a vital role across several related sectors:

Commercial Fishing: Large-scale operations use gill and seine nets for efficient harvesting in lakes and the ocean.
Aquaculture: Farmers use nets for fish harvesting, pond maintenance, and preventing escapes from enclosures.
Recreational Fishing: Smaller nets like cast and landing nets are popular among individual anglers.
Marine and Coastal Operations: Nets support marine research, rescue operations, and sustainable fishery management.

By using the correct type of net, Kenyan fishermen improve productivity while ensuring compliance with environmental standards.

Cost of Fishing Nets in Kenya

The cost of fishing nets in Kenya depends on size, material, type, and mesh quality. Entry-level nets suitable for small-scale fishing are affordable, while larger or specialized commercial nets require higher investment.

Typical cost factors include:

Material Quality: Nylon, polyethylene, and polypropylene nets vary in price depending on durability and flexibility.
Mesh Size: Finer mesh nets tend to be more expensive due to manufacturing precision.
Net Size: Larger nets used in commercial fishing cost more than hand-cast or recreational nets.
Accessories: Floats, sinkers, and ropes also add to the overall cost.

While cheaper options exist, investing in quality nets from trusted suppliers like Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd ensures long-term value, fewer repairs, and higher catch efficiency. Explore premium and affordable nets via Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd’s Fishing Store.

Durability of Fishing Nets in Kenya

Durability is one of the most crucial aspects when choosing a fishing net. Kenya’s diverse fishing environments — from salty marine waters to sun-exposed inland lakes — require strong, long-lasting materials that can withstand constant use.

Durability factors include:

Material Strength: High-density polyethylene (HDPE) and nylon nets are known for superior tensile strength and resilience.
UV Resistance: Nets exposed to strong sunlight must resist UV degradation to maintain flexibility and strength.
Anti-Corrosion Coating: Essential for saltwater use to prevent wear and tear.
Knot Type: Knotted and knotless designs affect how easily nets tear or stretch.

At Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd, all nets undergo quality checks to ensure they perform reliably under Kenya’s harsh fishing conditions, reducing long-term replacement costs.

Fishing with Quality Nets: Performance and Efficiency

Using a well-designed, high-quality fishing net improves performance, reduces wastage, and protects aquatic ecosystems. Properly weighted and balanced nets allow even distribution, efficient sinking, and easy retrieval.

Performance tips for anglers:

Match net type with water conditions and fish species.
Avoid overloading nets to prevent tearing.
Regularly inspect and mend damaged areas.
Clean and dry nets after use to extend their lifespan.

High-quality nets from Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd ensure consistent results, allowing fishermen to catch more with less effort while promoting responsible fishing.

Aquaculture Applications of Fishing Nets

In Kenya’s growing aquaculture sector, nets play a key role in pond management and harvesting. Fish farmers use:

Harvesting Nets for collecting fish from ponds.
Containment Nets for maintaining species separation.
Protective Nets to prevent bird or predator attacks.

Quality nets support better fish growth and survival rates. Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd also supplies other aquaculture essentials such as Fish Feed and Fishing Accessories, helping farmers run efficient and sustainable operations.

Marine and Coastal Use of Fishing Nets

Marine fishing around the Kenyan coast requires heavy-duty, salt-resistant nets capable of handling large fish species and deep-water conditions. Coastal fishermen and marine enterprises depend on robust materials to reduce downtime and increase yields.

Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd’s Boat Equipment and Ropes complement their range of fishing nets, providing complete marine solutions designed for safety and durability in the Indian Ocean’s demanding environment.

Maintaining and Storing Fishing Nets

Proper maintenance prolongs the lifespan of fishing nets and ensures peak performance.

Maintenance practices include:

Rinse nets with clean water after each use, especially after saltwater exposure.
Dry nets thoroughly before storage to prevent mold and rot.
Store in a shaded, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Repair small tears immediately to prevent further damage.
Check floats and weights regularly for corrosion or breakage.

By following these care tips, Kenyan anglers can extend the life of their nets and ensure consistent results over time.

Why Choose Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd

Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd stands as a trusted supplier for professional and recreational fishers across Kenya. With decades of experience supplying fishing, aquaculture, and marine equipment, the company’s commitment to quality and customer satisfaction is unmatched.

Why anglers prefer Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd:

Wide selection of premium nets and accessories
Products suited for freshwater, marine, and aquaculture use
Affordable pricing and bulk purchase options
Expert advice from experienced professionals
Reliable countrywide delivery

Whether you operate a fishing business in Mombasa or a fish farm in Nakuru, Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd ensures you have durable, effective gear for every purpose.

Visit Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd Today

Selecting the right fishing net is one of the most important decisions for any angler or fish farmer in Kenya. The right net enhances catch efficiency, saves costs, and ensures sustainable practices.

Visit www.shop.mft.co.ke to explore a wide range of fishing nets, accessories, and aquaculture products. Let Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd guide you in choosing the perfect net for your needs.

Store & Delivery Information
Address: Darosa Plaza, Karen Rd
Call/WhatsApp: 0706 903465

Store Hours:
Mon–Fri: 08:30 – 17:00
Saturday: 09:00 – 14:00

Countrywide Deliveries Available
Same-day delivery within Nairobi
Next-day delivery to other parts of Kenya

We deliver to locations including but not limited to: Eldoret, Kisumu, Malindi, Nakuru, Bungoma, Meru, Garissa, Thika, Nyeri, Mombasa, Machakos, Voi, Kericho, Kitale, and Nairobi.