How to Do Fishnet Weaving

The process of handmaking fishnets is called weaving.

Before the days of commercially made fishing nets, fishermen would weave their own nets. Originally, fishnets were made from abaca twine, but this later changed to twine made from nylon and polyethylene. Learning the craft of weaving fishnets by hand can help those who want to fish the traditional way, or can form the basis of an important survival skill. Weaving a fishnet, although time consuming, is not difficult, only requiring a few materials and the knowledge of basic knot tying.

Things You'll Need

• Nylon cord
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Lead weights

Instructions

1. Decide on the size of your fishnet to determine the number of cords needed. For a standard fishnet, with squares measuring about 1 inch, every 3 feet of netting requires two sets of 144 cords.

2. Cut the appropriate number of cords for your net. Cut one set at 36 inches (these are the lengthways cords) and another set at 39.6 inches (for the widthways cords).

3. Lay the lengthways cords on a surface, leaving 1 inch in between each cord. Lay the widthways cords on top of these, again leaving 1 inch in between each.

4. Lift two of the cords and tie them at the point where they meet. Place them back into position. Repeat this procedure until you have tied knots in every intersection.

5. Determine the size of circle you wish to make your net, and prune the cordage to this shape. Cut a new length of cord to several feet in length and use a hand loop to tie this to the middle of the net.

6. Mount lead weights at equal distances around the fishnet. The total should weigh about 3 or 4 lbs.

References

• Louisiana Fishing Magazine: How to Mend a Net