Understanding Fishing Nets in Kenya

Fishing nets are among the most critical pieces of equipment for both recreational anglers and commercial fishing or aquaculture operations. In Kenya — whether on the coast, inland lakes, or in fish-farms — selecting the right net can make a huge difference in catch efficiency, fish health, sustainability, cost-effectiveness, and durability.

This blog will walk you through:

  • What to look for when choosing fishing nets in Kenya (material, mesh size, design)

  • Use-cases of fishing nets (recreational, commercial, aquaculture)

  • Cost considerations in the Kenyan market

  • Durability and maintenance tips

  • How to match your application in Kenya with the right net

  • Practical recommendations and how Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd can help you find the right net

Fishing Nets in Kenya: Material, Mesh Size & Purpose

Material and Construction of Fishing Nets in Kenya

One of the first things to check when you are choosing fishing nets in Kenya is the material used. According to industry guidance:

From the Kenyan context, you will want nets that can handle sun exposure, freshwater or saltwater, and abrasion from rocks or coral (depending where you fish).

Mesh Size, Thread Thickness & Net Design

When choosing nets, mesh size and thread/mesh thickness matter a lot for performance:

Also design features such as floats on top of the net, weights/sinkers on the bottom, knotless mesh (less injury to fish) are relevant. For example, one product listing shows a cast net with floats and lead weights in a Kenyan listing. Ubuy Kenya

Purpose & Application Determines the Net Choice

Depending on whether you’re fishing recreationally, doing commercial bulk fishing, or managing an aquaculture farm, your net specification will differ:

  • Recreational/lake fishing: might use landing nets, scoop nets, moderate mesh size.

  • Commercial fishing (e.g., for larger catch volumes): large nets, heavier duty, strong material, suitable for offshore/large lakes. For example, one blog on Kenyan equipment notes nets cost for commercial operations 2,000–50,000 KES depending on size/material. shop.mft.co.ke+1

  • Aquaculture: nets for harvesting, mesh that keeps fish in but allows water flow, durable in pond environment; example: harvesting net 20 × 2 m listed for Kenya. shop.mft.co.ke

So when choosing your net in Kenya, always start with what you will use it for, what species, what environment (freshwater / saltwater), and what size/volume of catch.

Uses of Fishing Nets in Kenya

Recreational Fishing

For anglers in Kenya fishing in lakes (e.g., Lake Naivasha, Lake Victoria region) or rivers, the net often used is a landing net or scoop net. For example, a “Large Scoop Net – Heavy-Duty Landing & Handling Net” is described for rivers, lakes, ponds, marine. shop.mft.co.ke

While mesh size may not need to be huge, you still want good quality: knotless mesh to reduce fish injury (important for catch-and-release), a sturdy frame, corrosion-resistant material if you are near coastal saltwater.

Commercial Fishing

In Kenya’s commercial fishing industry (coast or lakes), nets of large capacity are required. The blog on Kenyan equipment mentions nets for commercial operations cost up to 50,000 KES depending on size and material. shop.mft.co.ke+1

For example, a harvesting net 20 × 2 m used for aquaculture bulk harvesting. shop.mft.co.ke

In commercial use you’ll value maximum durability, minimal downtime for repairs, strong material, appropriate mesh size for target species (to avoid by-catch or undersized fish) and compliance with fisheries regulations (if applicable).

Aquaculture & Fish Farming

In fish farming (ponds, tanks, cages), nets serve not just for catching but containing the fish while water circulates, ensuring growth and safety of stock. Example: “Happa net 30m by 2m” for aquaculture in Kenya uses UV-resistant material. bluemarinekenya.com

Here you may need nets that are designed for long term immersion, resist chemical/pH changes in pond water, abrasion from movement, regular handling during harvest.

Marine & Coastal Applications

When used in coastal or saltwater fishing in Kenya (e.g., near Mombasa, Malindi), nets face harsher conditions: salt water corrosion, UV, abrasion from reefs/rocks, stronger currents, larger fish. A net material suited for these harsh conditions is critical. The “Features and importance of fishing nets” article emphasises nets must “withstand harsh environments: seawater, sunlight and strong winds”. PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

Cost of Fishing Nets in Kenya

When choosing quality fishing nets, you need to balance cost versus durability and suitability for your application. Here are typical cost considerations in Kenya:

  • A Kenyan blog estimates nets for commercial operations cost between 2,000 KES to 50,000 KES depending on dimensions, material and application. shop.mft.co.ke+1

  • Example: “Happa net 30m by 2m – 8,545 KES” in Kenya (aquaculture net). bluemarinekenya.com

  • Example product listings for landing nets, casting nets show online prices (imported) of several thousand KES. Ubuy Kenya

When you look at cost, ask:

  • Is the material high-quality and suited for the environment (saltwater vs freshwater)?

  • Is the net designed for the scale you need (small hobby vs large commercial)?

  • What is the expected lifespan? A cheaper net may save upfront cost but cost more over time via repairs or replacements. The article on net features emphasises that durable nets reduce costs in the long run. PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

  • Consider shipping/import costs if the net is sourced internationally, or local availability and service. For example, a Maimun blog compares imported vs local fishing gear in Kenya. shop.mft.co.ke

At Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd you’ll often find locally stocked nets and imported premium nets, giving you range of price and quality depending on usage.

Durability & Maintenance of Fishing Nets in Kenya

Durability is a major factor when choosing a fishing net. A net used in Kenya’s environments must resist: UV-light, saltwater corrosion, abrasion from rocks or reefs, frequent handling, drying out, repeated folding/unfolding, weights/floats stress etc.

From “Features and importance of fishing nets” article: durable nets → less frequent replacement → lower long-term cost. PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

Tips for durability and maintenance:

  • Rinse nets thoroughly with fresh water after use (especially after saltwater usage) to remove salt and sediment. Example product maintenance advice from net listing. shop.mft.co.ke+1

  • Dry completely before storing, to prevent mildew, rot, or weakening of threads. Example again. shop.mft.co.ke+1

  • Store in a dry, shaded area away from direct sunlight (sunlight degrades many synthetic nets).

  • Inspect mesh and frame regularly; repair minor holes or tears immediately before they expand.

  • Avoid dragging nets across stones/reefs if possible; choose nets with abrasion resistance if you must.

  • Choose nets with UV-resistant threads/coatings if using outdoors in Kenya. (The article emphasises nets with UV coating for increased lifespan) PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

How to Choose the Right Fishing Net in Kenya for Your Application

Here is a step-by-step process to guide you when selecting a net:

  1. Define your use-case

    • Are you fishing recreationally (shore, lake, boat) or commercially (large volume, exports) or aquaculture (ponds/cages)?

    • Are you in freshwater (lake, river) or saltwater (coast)?

    • What species are you targeting (small/bait fish, medium, or large game)?

    • What volume of fish do you expect (single catch vs bulk harvest)?

  2. Select material suited for environment

    • Freshwater: standard synthetic nets may suffice.

    • Saltwater/coastal: prioritise HDPE or other high abrasion, UV-resistant materials, corrosion resistant.

    • Aquaculture: consider long-term immersion, water quality, UV exposure, chemical/pH resistance.

  3. Choose mesh size & thread thickness appropriate for species and environment

    • Small fish or bait: small mesh (<20 mm).

    • Medium species: medium mesh (20-40 mm).

    • Large species/commercial: large mesh (>40 mm) or heavy curtain nets.

    • Thick thread or heavy twine for large fish or rugged environment.

  4. Check for design features & build quality

    • Floats and weights attached properly. Example: one net shows floats on top, weights on bottom. Ubuy Kenya

    • Knotless mesh (reduces tangling, injury) especially for catch-and-release or high-value fish. Example scoop net spec. shop.mft.co.ke

    • Frame strength (for landing or scoop nets) and structural quality.

    • UV-resistant, abrasion resistant coating.

    • If imported, check brand, warranty, compatibility for Kenyan conditions (as one Kenyan blog emphasises) shop.mft.co.ke+1

  5. Evaluate cost vs long-term value

    • Compare price of net vs expected lifespan, repair frequency, downtime cost.

    • Very cheap nets may require frequent replacement — in the long run costlier. Article emphasises this. PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

    • Consider local vs imported: local nets cheaper, easier to repair locally, but may have lower lifespan; imported may cost more upfront but last longer. Blog comparing imported vs local in Kenya. shop.mft.co.ke

  6. Maintenance and after-sales support

    • Choose supplier who can provide advice, parts, repairs.

    • Ensure net comes with instructions for use and care (to maximise lifespan).

    • Check availability of replacement parts (weights, floats, mesh repairs).

  7. Compliance and sustainability

    • Make sure net mesh size and design comply with Kenyan fisheries regulations (where applicable). The article on nets emphasises regulations and sustainable fishing. PENRO INDUSTRIES (VN) COMPANY LIMITED

    • Sustainable choices reduce environmental impact and avoid lost nets causing pollution.

At Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd, you’ll find experts who can help you match these criteria and pick the right net for your context in Kenya.

Example Product Types & Recommendations

Here are some net-types available in Kenya (via Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd) with features worth noting:

  • Large Scoop Net – Heavy-Duty Landing & Handling Net: A landing/scoop net designed for rivers, lakes, ponds, marine. Sturdy frame + durable mesh. shop.mft.co.ke

  • Harvesting Net 20 × 2 Meters – Large-Capacity Aquaculture Net: Heavy duty, for bulk harvesting in aquaculture. shop.mft.co.ke

  • Landing Fishing Net – Large Foldable Drop Net (80 mm/100 mm/150 mm/200 mm): Offers size variety, foldable for portability, durable mesh designed for large fish and multiple uses (recreational, commercial, aquaculture). shop.mft.co.ke

When you visit the store or online catalogue, use the criteria above (material, mesh size, environment, species, durability) and ask for walk-through options.

Practical Tips for Kenyan Anglers & Fish-Farmers

  • If you fish in coastal Kenya (saltwater) or near reefs, pick nets with UV protection and high abrasion resistance.

  • In inland lakes with many obstacles (rocks, submerged timber) use nets with thicker twine and heavier build.

  • If you are in aquaculture, consider the logistics of harvesting: size of pond, number of fish, ease of handling net, fish welfare (less injury).

  • Always rinse your net with fresh water after use (especially saltwater) and dry it completely before storage.

  • Rotate nets if you have multiple – avoid over-use of one net to extend its life.

  • Keep an inventory of net repairs – a small tear grows quickly. Inspect nets regularly.

  • Budget for net replacement – set aside funds annually for maintenance or upgrades.

  • If buying imported net, factor in shipping, customs, compatibility with Kenyan conditions and availability of spare parts.

  • Support suppliers who offer good after-sales support and genuine product quality (like Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd).

  • For sustainability, avoid lost or damaged nets – because they can become ‘ghost nets’ harming marine life; ensure storage and disposal responsibly. Environmental Justice Foundation

Why Choose Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd for Your Fishing Nets in Kenya

At Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd you get:

  • A wide range of fishing, aquaculture and marine nets tailored for Kenyan waters and conditions—freshwater lakes, coastal marine, fish-farming.

  • Expert advice and guidance in choosing the right net for your specific application.

  • A trusted supplier with local presence: Address – Darosa Plaza, Karen Rd, Nairobi. Phone/WhatsApp: 0706 903465.

  • Countrywide delivery across Kenya (same-day in Nairobi region, next-day to other towns).

  • Competitive pricing, product variety (from landing nets, harvesting nets, foldable nets) and durability-focused products.

  • After-sales maintenance and tips for care to maximise your net’s lifespan.

Whether you are a recreational angler, commercial fisher or fish-farm operator — when it comes to fishing nets in Kenya, Maimun Fishing & Tackles Ltd is a go-to choice.

Call to Action

Visit www.shop.mft.co.ke today to explore our full net collection — from landing and scoop nets to large-capacity aquaculture harvesting nets.
Call or WhatsApp our experienced team at 0706 903465 for expert guidance on selecting the best net for your fishing or farming application in Kenya.

 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): Nairobi, Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, Meru, Kitale, Malindi, Eldoret, Voi, Kakamega, Thika, Nyeri, Garissa — (shuffle towns for uniqueness each time).

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