Casting a Fishing Net
This article will inform fishers of the steps to follow in casting the net, major retailers, and things to avoid.
How to cast a fishing net
Hooks, poles, and worms, not your style? Try using a net to catch fish. This simple device, although modified many times, has been in use for thousands of years and works better than a rod and reel for some people. Net casting can be taught to and learned by almost anyone that can stand on their own two feet, and weigh at least 75 lbs.
Mesh casting nets can be purchased in a sizes ranging from 4 feet in circumference up to 12 feet. Few people can manually lift more than a 10-foot net once it is filled with fish. The standard size is the four-foot model and has small metal weights attached to the edges. Usual weighting is set at one pound per foot of net. They also have at least a 10-foot hand line that attaches to your hand when the net is thrown. There is also a type of retrieval clamp, sometimes called a thimble, which closes the net when it is full.
Brands
Betts Tackle, American Maple, and West Coast Nets are the front-runners in this business. They all manufacture different sizes and weights of nets at prices from about $15.00 to $100.00 each. Some nets are one piece of netting, others are panels sewn together. They also produce the weights to be sold separately, to make replacement easy. Many supply stores such as Bass Pro Shop, or American Sportsman will carry a vide variety of casting nets, but even basic marine supply shops will have a few. A lot of the nets are packaged in a reusable, plastic bucket with a lid, for easy storage. Some brands of nets include a short video showing step-by-step instructions for casting. The only other equipment really needed is up to the user--maybe a pair of wading boots and a spare bucket to hold the fish.
The ABC's of Casting
Where to Cast and Stances
Find a place that has little or now branches sticking out of the water, these can be hazardous to the net. Reeds and soft grasses might cause tangles, but branches will often rip a net, causing loss of fish. Basically, the caster stands holding the net over one arm with the weights dangling, and has the other hand attached to the landline. With a twisting motion, using both hands, throw the net out over the water. This is a motion similar to the one used when throwing a Frisbee. The net can be cast from the shore, if the water is at least four feet deep, but it's better to cast from a boat or out 10 feet from the bank. Another method of casting a net is to cast from a boat, but be careful not to cast yourself as well! Use a bungee cord or strap attached to the boat floor to keep from falling into the water. Don't twist when casting from a small boat, it is easier to throw it over the shoulder and straight out into the water, there is less risk of back injury from twisting in a sitting position. There is a generic casting net thrower that is available for about $12.00 at some fishing supplies shops and on the Internet. This may be the route to go for first time casters. It looks like a trash can lid with a handle on top, and has a deep groove around the outside edge. Merely load this circular, handled device with the net around the edges, and put the weights inside the gulley of the device, then firmly holding the device, toss the net toward the water--the net flies from the device and sinks--pretty simple.
Retrieval
To pull in the net, there is a clamp-like device, which works like a wringer on a mop. Pull the hand line toward yourself until the net reaches you or your boat. The net will be tightly closed at the opening and hopefully full of fish! Lift the net into a bucket and release the clamp, the fish are dumped into the bucket, and you're ready to cast again.
Cleaning the net is as easy as rinsing it in the lake or using a garden hose to remove the fish smell. Lay the net out flat on the ground or yard to dry.
Time of day and what will be caught
The best time to fish with a net is early morning or early evening, when the fish are close to shore. Fishing can be done close to shore for small bait, mullets, or little fish, and out in deeper water for larger fish. Keep in mind, the deeper the water, the longer the landline must be. Also, if casting for larger fish, the fisher must be strong enough to lift the full net back into the boat.
Casting a net for fish is a simple way to catch more fish, faster. It is relaxing and there is no need for hooks or bait. Most nets can be repaired, but only a few shops will do repairs. You can buy extra weights and spare net for under $20.00, but for big rips, it's best to just go buy another net.
