For professional fishermen, a fishing net isn’t just a piece of equipment; it’s a critical tool that directly impacts their livelihood. A subpar net can lead to lost catches, wasted time, and decreased profits. That’s why seasoned professionals are meticulous when selecting their gear. They understand that the right net can make the difference between a successful haul and an empty boat.
This guide breaks down the essential components of a high-quality fishing net, revealing what experts prioritize to ensure performance, durability, and efficiency out on the water.
Material Matters
The material of a fishing net is its foundation, determining its strength, weight, and lifespan. Professionals carefully weigh the pros and cons of different materials to match their specific fishing environment and target species.
Nylon
Nylon is a popular choice due to its exceptional strength and elasticity. It can absorb shock from struggling fish, reducing the risk of tearing. However, nylon is also heavier when wet and can degrade over time with prolonged exposure to UV light.
- Pros: High strength, good elasticity, abrasion-resistant.
- Cons: Absorbs water, heavier when wet, susceptible to UV damage.
Polyethylene (PE)
Polyethylene is lightweight and doesn’t absorb water, meaning it maintains its weight and is easier to handle. It also boasts excellent resistance to UV rays and abrasion, making it a durable option for various conditions. While it is strong, it’s generally less elastic than nylon.
- Pros: Lightweight, floats, water-resistant, high UV resistance.
- Cons: Less elastic than nylon, can be stiffer.
Mesh Size and Knot Type
The design of the net’s mesh is just as important as the material. Mesh size and knot type are tailored to the target species and fishing regulations, directly affecting catch efficiency.
Mesh Size
The size of the openings in the net, or mesh size, is crucial for selective fishing. A mesh that is too large will allow the target catch to escape, while a mesh that is too small may trap juvenile fish or non-target species, which is often regulated by law. Professionals select a precise mesh size to maximize their catch of the desired fish while minimizing bycatch.
Knot Type
The way a net is tied together impacts its strength and how it performs in the water.
- Knotted Nets: These are traditional and very strong, with knots securing the intersections of the twine. This makes them durable and less likely to unravel. However, the knots can be abrasive to fish, potentially lowering the quality of the catch.
- Knotless Nets: Woven or braided without knots, these nets are smoother and lighter. They are gentler on fish, which is important for catch-and-release or for preserving the quality of the fish for market. While modern knotless nets are quite strong, they can sometimes be more prone to stretching or distortion than their knotted counterparts.
Durability and Maintenance
A professional-grade net is an investment, and its longevity is a key consideration. Certain features enhance durability, and proper maintenance is essential to get the most out of the gear.
Professionals look for nets with reinforced edges (selvages) and high-quality coatings that protect against UV damage and abrasion. After each use, rinsing the net with fresh water to remove salt, slime, and debris is a simple but vital step. Nets should be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent material degradation. Regularly inspecting for and repairing any tears or holes will prevent small issues from becoming major failures during a critical catch.
Choosing the Right Tool for the Trade
Selecting the perfect fishing net involves a careful balance of factors. Professionals consider the material’s strength and weight, the mesh size and knot type tailored to their target catch, and the overall durability of the construction.
Recent trends have also seen the rise of specialized materials, such as mono-filament and new-age synthetics like Babu nylons, which offer enhanced strength-to-weight ratios and improved performance. By understanding these key elements, fishermen can choose a net that not only performs reliably but also stands up to the rigors of professional use, ensuring every trip out is as productive as possible.