A Beginner's Guide: Select The Right Cast Net For Your Fishing

Do you need a widespread cast net? If yes, picking an item designed to catch the fish you have in mind is highly advisable. That means you need to find a cast net with the mesh size required to trap specific bait or fish, be it sardine, shrimp, mullet, or pinfish. In simpler terms, if you're targeting sizeable sea creatures, pick a strong, widespread cast net with bigger meshes, and vice versa. Keep reading to learn more about cast nets and popular options available today.

Essentials of Cast Nets

A cast net or throw net is a unique fishing gear that is small enough to be operated by a single person. It can be oval or round and flexible, enabling it to spread over a large area when you cast or throw it from a small boat or the show. They also come with weights attached to their perimeters, which help them sink and close in on fish, thereby trapping them inside.

Common Cast Net Categories

Cast nets fall under the following broad categories:

1.       Minnow cast nets

Minnow nets are suitable for individuals targeting small baits. Although the name may mislead you into believing these casts are solely for catching minnows, the truth is they are ideal for other creatures, including golden shiners, whitebait, long nose suckers, menhaden, and shrimp. You can catch baitfish in shallow waters and use it to attract bigger predatory fish like tiger barb, salmon, and perch.  Rapid current cast nets are better suited for catching minnows and other small baitfish in rivers and streams' fast-paced, shallow waters. These come with lighter weights and shorter meshes and become more expansive when you throw them into the water.

2.       Mullets cast nets

Mullet fishing is a popular tradition in most regions. Most people catch mullets because they are a delicious treat and safe for human consumption. If you plan to catch this fish, you need a mullet cast net. There are two types of cast nets tailored for said activity: bag nets and brail nets. If your fishing endeavor requires extensive wading, get a bag net. As the name suggests, mullet bag nets have bags at the bottom that hold the fish and make retrieving easier. On the other hand, brail nets have brail lime on their lead lines. Their purpose is to turn the net into a fish-holding bag whenever necessary. A brail net is ideal if you plan to fish from a pier, dock, or boat.

The Bottom Line

Cast net fishing is recommendable because it's easy, enjoyable, and sustainable. Moreover, if you plan to engage in sport or recreational fishing, you can carry your cast net and use it single-handedly. That is vital, especially if fishing is a revered activity that you indulge in alone to unwind and relax. But before setting out, ensure you have the right cast net. If you need additional help, consult widespread cast net experts for guidance and advice.


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