Greetings, fellow anglers! Ever been down by the lake or river, rod in hand, eagerly awaiting a bite…only to hook a fish that manages to slip the line at the last moment? I know the frustration well. I struggled to land fish once hooked for years due to poor timing or unsteady hands.

But no more! I’ve discovered a technique that has revolutionized my fishing success: netting. Using a net to scoop fish from the water rather than hauling them in by hand is correct. Some may say it’s unsporting, but I say it’s a skill worth mastering. 

In this blog post, I’ll share how to fish with a net to help you land more fish with less struggle. I’ll cover everything from choosing the right net to techniques for scooping fish efficiently. By the end, you’ll catch delicious dinners instead of heartbreaking releases. So read on and prepare to up your fishing game with this simple but effective method. Tight lines and full bellies!

Necessary Items for Net Fishing

First, you’ll need to ensure you have the right equipment to use a net for fishing. Here’s a list of the necessary items:

• A landing net: This is the most essential gear, as it will be used to scoop up the fish. Landing nets come in various sizes and shapes, but a medium-sized net with a long handle should suffice for general use.
• A sturdy fishing rod and reel: While a net can help land fish more efficiently, a robust and reliable fishing setup is still necessary. Ensure your rod and reel are in good condition before heading to the water.
• A pair of polarized sunglasses: These will protect your eyes from the sun’s glare and help you see into the water and spot fish swimming around.
• A stringer or live well: Unless you plan on releasing your catch immediately, you’ll need a way to keep them alive. A stringer (a rope with clips for attaching fish) or live well (a container with oxygenated water) are great options.

10 Steps on How to Fish With a Net

Step 1: Choosing the Right Net

Now that you have all the necessary items let’s focus on choosing the right net for your needs. As mentioned, a medium-sized net with a long handle is ideal for most fishing situations. Additionally, look for nets made of lightweight and durable materials such as nylon or rubber. You’ll also want to ensure the handle is comfortable and extendable if needed.

Step 2: Familiarize Yourself With Your Net

Before heading out to fish, take some time to get familiar with your net. Practice extending and retracting the handle quickly and smoothly. This will be useful when you have a fish on the line and need to scoop it up efficiently.

Step 3: Locate Your Target

Once out on the water, use your polarized sunglasses to scan the area for fish. Look for any movement or shadows in the water, and try to identify where the fish are swimming. This will help you plan your approach and position yourself for a successful scoop.

Step 4: Get Into Position

Now that you’ve located your target, it’s time to get into position. Approach the fish slowly and cautiously, making sure not to spook them. Position yourself downstream from the fish if possible, as they are more likely to swim in that direction.

Step 5: Wait for the Right Moment

As tempting as it may be to scoop up a fish quickly, patience is critical when using a net. Wait for the right moment when the fish is close enough to the surface and in a good position for scooping. This will increase your chances of success and reduce any chance of injury to the fish.

Step 6: Extend Your Net

When the time is right, extend your net towards the fish. It’s essential to keep a steady hand and avoid sudden movements that could scare the fish away. Aim for the middle of the fish’s body to ensure a secure scoop.

Step 7: Scoop Up the Fish

With your net extended, use a smooth scooping motion to capture the fish. Keep the handle at a slight angle towards you, as this will help guide the fish into the net instead of bouncing off it.

Step 8: Lift the Net Out of the Water

Once the fish is securely in your net, lift it out of the water. Keep a tight grip on the handle and ensure it does not swing or jerk, which could cause the fish to escape. You may need two hands on the grip for added stability for larger fish.

Step 9: Transfer the Fish

With the fish safely caught in your net, transfer it to your stringer or live well. If using a stringer, clip it securely onto the fish’s mouth or gills. If using a live well, gently place the fish and ensure it has enough room to move around.

Step 10: Release or Enjoy Your Catch

Finally, it’s time to decide whether to release your catch or enjoy a delicious meal. If you plan on releasing the fish, handle it carefully and quickly before gently releasing it back into the water. If keeping the fish, remember to follow any local laws and regulations regarding size limits and bag limits.

8 Things to Avoid While Fishing With a Net

While net fishing can be a great way to catch fish, there are some things you should avoid to ensure the safety and well-being of both yourself and the fish. Here are eight things to avoid while fishing with a net:

1)Using a Damaged or Improperly Sized Net

Using a damaged or improperly sized net can increase the risk of injury to yourself and the fish. Ensure your trap is in good condition and appropriate for the size of fish you target.

2) Forcing the Net Underwater

It may be tempting to forcefully push your net under the water to capture a fish, but this can cause unnecessary harm and stress to the fish. Instead, wait for the right opportunity and gently scoop the fish into the net.

3) Dragging the Net Along the Bottom

Dragging your net along the bottom of the water can damage the net and any marine life living on the bottom. This method could be more sustainable and increase the risk of catching unwanted species or debris.

4) Leaving Your Net Unattended

Leaving your net unattended for extended periods can be dangerous and unethical, as it may result in unintended catches or harm to fish. Always watch your net and be ready to act when a fish is caught.

5) Using a Net in Shallow or Weedy Areas

Using a net in shallow or weedy areas can cause damage to the surrounding habitat and increase the likelihood of tangling with weeds or other debris. Stick to open water areas for safer and more efficient net fishing.

6) Not Wearing Appropriate Clothing or Gear

Fishing with a net can be messy, so wearing appropriate clothing and gear is essential to protect yourself. This includes waterproof shoes, gloves, and clothing you don’t mind getting wet or dirty.

7) Forgetting to Clean and Maintain Your Net

After each use, make sure to clean and properly maintain your net. This will help prevent the spread of diseases or parasites between fish and ensure that your yield remains in good condition for future use.

8) Not Following Local Laws and Regulations

Educating yourself on local laws and regulations regarding net fishing is essential before heading out on the water. This includes checking for size limits, bag limits, and any restricted areas where net fishing may not be allowed. Following these rules can help protect the fish population and avoid potential fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Net Fishing Legal?

Net fishing is legal in many places, but it’s important to check local laws and regulations before attempting this method of fishing. Some areas may have restrictions on net size, target species, or specific locations where net fishing is not allowed.

Can I Use Any Type of Net for Fishing?

Various types of nets are available for fishing, such as gill nets, dip nets, and seine nets. Each class is designed for a specific purpose and may be more suitable for certain fish species or water conditions. Choosing the correct type of net for your fishing needs is essential.

Are There Any Safety Concerns With Net Fishing?

As with any form of fishing, some safety concerns are associated with net fishing. These include possible entanglement or injury from the net and handling fish. It’s essential always to use caution and follow safety guidelines when using a fishing net.  Additionally, be aware of your surroundings and weather conditions to avoid accidents while on the water.

Can I Release the Fish After Catching it in a Net?

Yes, you can release a fish after catching it in a net. However, handle the fish carefully and quickly so as not to cause unnecessary stress or harm before releasing it back into the water. Always follow any local laws and regulations regarding catch-and-release fishing.  Overall, net fishing can be a fun and sustainable way to catch fish while minimizing environmental harm.

Conclusion

In conclusion, fishing with a net is not only a fun and exciting activity but also requires skill and technique. By following the steps on how to fish with a net outlined in this blog post, you can become a successful net fisherman and impress your friends and family with your catch. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t catch anything on your first try – practice makes perfect! 

And remember always to be mindful of your surroundings and respect the environment while fishing. So grab your net and get out there, explore different types of water bodies, and try new techniques. You never know what kind of fish you may catch! This blog post has inspired you to take up net fishing and embrace the challenges that come with it.