- Cast Net Fishing Fundamentals
- Benefits of Different Cast Net Types
- Mastering Cast Net Throwing Technique
- Cast Net Safety Tips
Fishing is an age-old activity that has been practiced all over the world. People have used various tools and techniques to catch fish, from remote islands to bustling cities. Cast net fishing is one of the most popular, and if you've ever seen it before, you know how effective it can be! Cast net fishing is a type of recreational angling that requires using a hand-thrown circular net to capture fish in a particular water area. It's a great way to maximize your catch while minimizing your effort. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about cast nets: their history, usage, and tips for success!
Cast Net Fishing Fundamentals
If you're new to cast net fishing or want to brush up on the basics, this section is for you. We'll cover all the essentials of cast net fishing, from choosing the right net to using it effectively.
Choosing a Cast Net
Regarding casting nets, size matters. The rule of thumb is that the net should be twice as large as the target fish. So, if you're targeting small fish like baitfish or minnows, a 6-foot net will do the trick. You'll need an 8-foot net or larger for larger fish like mullet or catfish.
In addition to size, you'll also want to consider mesh size. The mesh is the openings in the netting, and the smaller the mesh, the smaller the fish that can be caught. For baitfish and minnows, a 3/8-inch mesh is fine. For larger fish, you'll need a 1/2-inch mesh or larger.
Finally, consider the weight of the cast net. Heavier nets are better for windy and open water, while lighter nets are better for calm conditions and shallow water. A good all-purpose cast net weighs about 3/4 pound per foot of radius (or 1 1/2 pounds per foot of diameter).
Using Your Cast Net
Now that you've got your cast net, it's time to put it to use. Start by locating a school of fish by sight or sound (listen for baitfish splashing in the water). Make sure there's a clear path to the target, free from obstacles like vegetation or rocks.
Once you've got your target, it's time to cast your net. Hold the net in one hand and use your other arm to circle with the netting (like you're throwing a Frisbee). Throw the net overhand or sidearm, letting go of one side at just the right moment so that it spreads out as it falls into the water.
When you retrieve your net, bring it close to your body as you pull it in. This will help contain any fish caught in the mesh, making them easier to catch and release. As soon as you've got all the fish you need, release them back into the water and keep fishing!
Benefits of Different Cast Net Types
There are two main types of cast nets: the flying cast net and the hand-thrown cast net. Each type has its own unique benefits that make it advantageous for different situations.
The flying cast net is by far the most popular type of cast net. It is easy to use, requires very little practice, and can be thrown relatively long distances. This makes it ideal for fishing in open water or from a boat. The only downside to the flying cast net is that it can be difficult to control in windy conditions.
The hand-thrown cast net is not as popular as the flying cast net, but it does have some advantages:
- It is much easier to control windy conditions.
- It can be thrown shorter distances, making it better suited for fishing in shallow water or along shorelines.
- The hand-thrown cast net requires a bit more practice to master than the flying cast net, but once you get the hang of it, you'll be able to throw it with amazing accuracy.
Mastering Cast Net Throwing Technique
You need to perfect a few things before you throw a cast net:
- Practice holding the net in your non-dominant hand with the weights facing down and the net's opening in your palm.
- Get a good grip on the netting about 18 inches from the bottom of the net.
- Ensure you have plenty of room to swing your arm in a full circle.
- Keep your dominant arm straight and use a quick wrist snap to release the net.
- Once the net is in the air, quickly pull your non-dominant hand towards your dominant shoulder while keeping hold of the top of the netting.
- As the net starts to fall, guide it into the water using your non-dominant hand.
- When you feel resistance (when the weights hit bottom and start to fill up with water), stop moving your hand and let go of the top of the netting.
- Allow the cast net to sink for a few seconds before giving it a sharp tug to bring it back to the surface.
- Empty any fish that are caught in the bag and repeat!
Cast Net Safety Tips
When using a cast net, a few safety precautions should keep in mind:
- Be sure to wear gloves when handling the net. The sharp edges of the net can easily cut your skin.
- Be aware of your surroundings. Make sure you are not casting near power lines or other obstacles that could get tangled in the net.
- Always be mindful of where you are casting.
Be sure not to cast over people or animals, and be careful not to snag anything you don't want to catch!