Gardner net and Extendable Pole.
By Steve Williams
By Steve Williams
Which net/pole for Barbel fishing probably raises more posts on BFW that any other subject.
The Drennan super specialist seems to be a firm favourite with Barbel anglers, but I suspect the Gardner Specialist Extending Landing Net Handle will also find a cult following.
I know its already found its way into my quivver on almost every trip.
The Specialist Extending Landing Net Handle is a heavy duty extending pole, with a twist and lock mechanism for locking the pole at any length between 6ft and 10ft long.
Ideal for high river banks or long reaches over reeds/lilies etc, it is perfect for the specimen angler.
Made from a twin layer of Carbon composite tube means the pole is very strong, but not too heavy, weighing in at just 400g.
The locking mechanism is a four tab construction, which I've found to work perfectly every time.
This net had been a joy to use, especially on the likes of the River Teme, with it's notoriously steep banks.
The pole represents good value, retailing at around £35.99
BFW Rating
Value 9/10
Performance 9.5/10
Barbel/Specialist Pan Net
It has a tear drop shaped high grade aluminium frame which means its strong and light.
The frame is 65cm wide and 88cm long, meaning it will cope perfectly even with big Barbel or large Carp.
It also has a quality spreader block.
The mesh is a soft, flat and knot free, and has a drop of 60cm, which is perfect for being able to land and more importantly, rest Barbel after capture.
Having used this net in conjunction with the extendable pole for a while now, the only problem I've found was with the net, and the fact that the small screws that retain the arms into the spreader block on the net did start to come loose.
This wasn't a major problem, and it was just a case of adding a drop of super glue to the thread and tightening them up.
Retailing at just £19.99, this pan net represents great value and well worth looking at next time you are in the market for a new net.
BFW Rating
Value 9.5/10
Performance 9.5/10
For more information see www.gardnertackle.co.uk