The net is for finally capturing the subdued fish. Some experienced anglers capture the fish by hand but this can harm the fish if not done with care (a problem for catch and release) and there is the obvious risk of the fish getting away (bye bye dinner).

The net must have a knotless mesh and preferably a soft mesh if fishing catch and release.

The size of the net opening will depend on the size of fish you expect will be a factor.

River fishermen will use either a paddle shaped net or folding net hanging from their side or back (attached by a bungee) to allow them to roam along the river. A net scabbard is useful to keep the net from becoming caught up in the bushes.

Boat fishermen will usually have a long handled or telescopic handled net so they can reach the fish from inside the boat. You don't want to hang the net from your side as it is uncomfortable for sitting. You also won't want to be fumbling around setting up a folding net when you have a big fish on the line.

A priest is a kind of small club. So called because it "delivers the last rites" to a fish being kept for the table. Any fish that is to be kept should be despatched as quickly as possible and not left to suffocate to death. Many waters require anglers to carry a priest with them for that purpose.

Whether you fish catch and release or not there will be times when you need to release a fish from the hook; for example, if it is undersized. This is easy if the fish is hooked in the lips or the scissors. But, if hooked in the mouth the best way to remove the hook without harming the fish is with a pair of surgical forceps or one of the new hook removing tools (e.g. Ketchum Release). If the fish is deeply hooked and it is hard to remove the hook even with forceps then cut the line as close as possible to the hook. This is less harmful to the fish than excessive handling or use of force to remove a deeply embedded hook.

Whenever you tie on a fly or attach tippet to leader you will need to cut some nylon. Teeth do not do a very good job, and with smaller flies you can end up hooking yourself in the lip. Far better to use a pair of trimmers; which look like nail trimmers without the lever. Indeed, you can remove the lever from a pair of nail trimmers for the purpose. Trimmers designed for fishing are finished in a matt black so they don't shine and spook fish. A small pair of scissors is another alternative to trimmers but slightly less convenient to use. Scissors can also be used to fix up your flies; maybe trim the hackles so it floats lower, or shorten the wings.