Bringing a fish to the net in shallow water.

The river I fish has been low this summer, what is usually knee/waist deep is now ankle deep. When I land a fish I used to just bend over with my rod up high and guide them itno the net. With it being so low when I try and net a fish now I can't get low enough without picking the fish up out of the water and dropping it in the net. Any tips on safely netting a fish in low water? Is there a way to hold the rod behind you and high or something? I feel rather silly asking, but I have never had this problem before. All fish all swim away quickly and strongly but I feel uneasy about it. I'm far from the bank so I can't beach them. They are smallmouth and are well on the smaller side 14" max.
Thanks,
Janus

Janus,

I had a problem like that and decided to go with a longer handle on my net, worked like a charm. Also great for when you are on the bank and can't step into the water and when you are in a boat.

Larry :D ---sagefisher---

Also works well when in a float tube/pontoon:cool:.

duh! thanks. I think I can extend the one I have.
Janus