How does one net a fish?

[hashbaz]

I'm sorry to ask such a dumb question but I don't even know the basics. Do I come from the front, the back, or underneath - or does it even make a difference?

I'm headed to fish lake next week and if the laws of nature are violated and I catch something big, I would hate to knock it off - or even worse - I would hate to knock off a fish my wife caught. Thanks for the help.
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[DonInDenver]

[] The most helpful tip I can give is "Don't panic"!!! Easier said than done when netting your first really BIG fish. Don't swipe at the fish, don't lunge at it. Make sure the fish is tired enough to be netted without a problem. If the fish is still able to and is still making strong runs at the boat, it isn't ready yet. When the fish is ready, it will roll onto its side. Place the net in the water with the hoop mostly under the water, lead the fish into the net toward the handle. When the fish is over the net, lift smoothly. The most important thing is not to panic and not to try to net the fish while it is still "green".
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[Coldfooter]

Yo Loren,, there are NO dumb questions when it comes to the protection of wildlife, merely stupid answers. DonInDenver gave you a fine answer. Good Luck down on Fish Lake next week!
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[wiperhunter2]

Big fish can be tough but Don gave you some good advise. The only thing I can add is than I put the head of the fish in the net first. On smaller fish it might not be as important but those big boys can make it a challenge if you don't. WH2
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