How to Make a Simple Cast Net

commercial fishermen use large versions of casting nets to get their haul.

In use for more than a thousand years, cast netting is still a popular way to catch fish. To catch fish with this method, the fisherman throws the net out, lets it sink to trap fish in the net, then hauls the net back to him. You can use a catch net to catch live bait for other fishing methods, or use it to catch shrimp as well as some larger fish like mullet. Materials for this project are available at many hardware and sporting goods stores.

Things You'll Need

• Netting
• Measuring tape
• Scissors
• Nylon rope
• Weights, such as cannonball sinkers
• Sharp knife

Instructions

1. Lay the netting on the floor and spread it out. Measure a circle that is at least 6 feet in diameter. Use the scissors to cut out the circle.

2. Cut several 8-inch segments of rope. Thread the rope through the eye of the weight, then tie the weight to the outside edge of the netting. This is what will make your net sink to the bottom and trap fish. Leave about 6 inches of space between weights. Place weights around the entire circle of netting.

3. Use the rope and weave it through the edge of the netting, all the way around the circle. When you reach your starting point, tie off the rope to the net itself. Measure 20 feet, then cut the other end of the rope.

4. Test your net. Cast the rope and net out, holding on to the end of the long rope. Pull it back in to you. Do this a few times until you are comfortable with the action. Now you are ready to go fishing.

Tips & Warnings

• Consider the type of fish you are trying to catch when selecting the netting. Larger fish require a larger size of mesh than small fish.

References

• Lee Fisher Nets: Cast Net Information
• Bertaut: Cast Net Secrets

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish