CAST NET BASIC STRUCTURE
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HOW CAST NETS WORK
Throwing the net creates a driving force that causes the lead line to open the net to a flat form, the lead weights then sink the net. After the net has sunk, and the brail line is pulled, the lead line is forced to close, thus creating a pouch in the net which holds the catch, trapping a school of shrimp or fish. After pulling the net from the water, opening the leadline will cause the catch to fall out.
Depending on what kind of catch is targeted, i.e. shrimp, pin fish, shiner, mullet, sardine, etc., the correct size of mesh and net will provide more accurate hauls. As with any fishing equipment, the bigger the targeted catch, the bigger size of mesh and stronger netting material needed.
(Above) -square is also called 'bar' and the stretch size is diagonal across the mesh with it stretched(always double the bar measurement).
(Above) -square is also called 'bar' and the stretch size is diagonal across the mesh with it stretched(always double the bar measurement).
Which Cast Net Should I Get?
Depending on what kind of catch is targeted, i.e. shrimp, pin fish, shiner, mullet, sardine, etc., the correct size of mesh and net will provide more accurate hauls. As with any fishing equipment, the bigger the targeted catch, the bigger size of mesh and stronger netting material needed.
The picture above describes the difference between square mesh and stretch mesh when we talk about mesh size. Square mesh means the distance from knot to knot. Stretch mesh is twice the size of sqare mesh; length from top to bottom of the diamond shape mesh when it's stretched. This is all there is to know about cast net mesh size.
Please use the table below to guide you in choosing a cast net.
BAIT SIZE | MESH SIZE | NET BREAK STRENGTH |
1" - 3" | ¼"SQ (1/2" STR.) | 5 - 9 LBS |
3" - 6" | 3/8" SQ (3/4" STR.) | 7 - 15 LBS |
6" - 9" | ½ " SQ ( 1" STR.) | 9 - 20 LBS |
9" - 12" | 5/8" SQ (1-1/4" STR.) | 12 - 25 LBS |
12" OVER | 1" SQ. OVER (2" STR. and OVER) | 20 LB and OVER |
