Provided is an apparatus for catching insects, comprising: a) a body b) a cover at least over a portion of the body and c) a handle attached to the body wherein a user holds the apparatus with the handle and presses the cover against the insect. The cover can be a bag. The apparatus can further comprise a substance placed on a surface of the bag for contacting the insect, wherein the substance increases adhesivity of the surface of the bag for the insect. The substance can be a gel. Also provided are methods of catching insects with the apparatus.