Hoop
Also called net hoop, hoop size
The frame that holds a landing net's bag open, measured across its widest point. It sets the biggest fish you can comfortably land.
Hoop size is quoted in inches, usually as a pair of numbers for an oval, like 20 by 17. The practical rule is that the hoop needs to be wider than the fish is long is wrong; what matters is that the fish's body fits through the opening in one motion while it is still moving.
A small hoop makes you aim, and aiming at a thrashing fish beside the bank is how fish get lost. For general freshwater with bass, walleye and catfish, something around 17 to 20 inches is comfortable. Trout nets are smaller because the fish are and because you want them out of the water for seconds, not minutes.
Hoop shape matters too. Teardrop and oval hoops scoop better than round ones.
Lead the fish head first into the net and lift. Chasing a fish tail-first with the hoop is what pulls hooks out.
Related terms
Where this comes up
The guides that use hoop and show it on real gear.
Hoop is one of 206 terms in the glossary.
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