A cast net is a circular fishing tool with weights distributed around its edge, designed to be thrown by hand to trap fish. This method allows the net to spread in the air before sinking, encircling schools of fish. Choosing the appropriate cast net size is important for effective and enjoyable use. The right net enhances the chances of a successful catch.
Factors for Choosing Net Size
Several factors influence cast net selection. The target fish species dictates the necessary mesh size, ensuring smaller fish are not gilled and larger ones are captured. Water conditions, including depth and current, also play a role, as deeper water or stronger currents may require a net with more weight to sink quickly and maintain its spread.
The user’s physical ability and experience level impact net size. Larger, heavier nets demand greater strength and a refined throwing technique, making smaller nets more suitable for beginners or those with less physical strength. The fishing environment, such as casting from a boat or the shore, can also impose constraints; boats might necessitate smaller nets due to limited space, while open shorelines allow for larger nets. Local regulations often specify maximum allowable net diameters or mesh sizes.
Understanding Cast Net Specifications
Cast nets are defined by specifications that influence their performance. The “foot size” of a net refers to its radius, measured from the central horn to the lead line when fully extended. A 6-foot net, for example, has a 6-foot radius and opens to a 12-foot diameter, covering a broader area to capture more bait.
Mesh size denotes the distance between knots in the netting, typically measured as a square. This measurement determines which size of fish can be caught and which can escape, preventing smaller bait from gilling and allowing larger fish to be retained. Mesh sizes range from small, like 1/4-inch for tiny baitfish, to larger, such as 1 inch for larger species like mullet. The lead line weight, measured in pounds per foot, affects how quickly the net sinks and how well it maintains its open shape underwater. Heavier lead lines, often 1 to 1.5 pounds per foot, promote faster sinking and a better seal on the bottom, though they also make the net harder to throw.
Net material also influences performance. Monofilament nets are generally preferred as they are thinner, sink faster, and are less visible to fish compared to thicker nylon nets that absorb water and sink slower.
Matching Net Size to Your Needs
Selecting a cast net involves balancing personal capabilities with fishing objectives. For beginners or casual users, smaller nets, typically 4 to 6 feet in radius, are often recommended due to their lighter weight and ease of handling. These nets are manageable for learning casting techniques and are suitable for general bait catching. A moderate mesh size, around 3/8-inch, offers versatility for various small to medium baitfish.
When targeting small baitfish like minnows or threadfin shad, a net with a small mesh size, such as 1/4-inch to 3/8-inch, is effective. This prevents the bait from escaping or becoming gilled, ensuring a cleaner catch. For larger baitfish, including mullet or pilchards, a larger mesh size of 1/2-inch to 3/4-inch is more appropriate, often paired with a larger net radius of 7 to 10 feet to cover more area.
Fishing in deeper water or strong currents necessitate a net with a heavier lead line (1.5 pounds per foot or more) for a rapid sink rate before bait escapes. These conditions may also benefit from larger nets, 10 to 12 feet in radius, which can achieve a broader spread and maintain it despite water movement. While fishing from shore, a versatile 6- to 8-foot net provides a good balance of casting range and manageability. Conversely, anglers on a boat might opt for a slightly larger net if space allows, recognizing that nets over 8 feet become heavier and more challenging to throw.