Guide to Net Fishing: Getting Started with These Tips
Net fishing is a fun and efficient way to fish once you get acquainted with a few basics. After obtaining the necessary permits and equipment, it's good to enlist the help of either your best fishing buddy or another net fishing guide to make the activity as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Spend some time learning about the fishing waters and potential catch areas by talking to experienced fishers or exploring the internet, where you'll find many net fishing guides. Once you're hooked on net fishing, you don't have to stop when the ice comes; you can continue fishing in winter too. Net fishing is a relatively old method of catching food and one of the most effective ways to get a good catch. So, get your boat ready and cast your nets!
Nets, Hooks, Ropes, and Mesh Sizes
What should you know when buying a fishing net? By this stage, you’ve likely already identified the potential catches and restrictions of your fishing area and obtained the necessary permits. Your boat is fueled, and the oars are sharpened. However, there are still a few things to acquire before you start. Net markers, which are single or double-flagged poles, indicate to authorities the legitimacy and ownership of your fishing gear and warn other water users if necessary.
The catch depends on the net's mesh size, which is specified in millimeters. This indicates the distance between two adjacent knots when the net is not stretched to its full length. A good rule of thumb is that the smaller the mesh size, the smaller the fish species. Here are some examples of mesh sizes and the fish species they are suitable for: vendace 11-19 mm (commonly 14 mm), perch 27-45 mm, pike 45-60 mm, zander 56-65 mm. A good example of a net is the Pietarin muikkuverkko, which is specially designed for vendace fishing and has mesh size options between 14-18 mm. Additionally, the net's tension affects the desired fish species. For example, a vendace net is tighter to prevent the fish from getting tangled in the net.
The rope, which is the thicker part of the net at the top and bottom, indicates the net's quality. The more durable the rope, the more durable the net. Pay attention to these factors when testing the ropes: the rope should not twist easily and tangle the net but should retain its shape, and the corks on the top rope should not break in your hands but maintain their shape. Lead may be woven into the bottom rope to make it sink while the floating corks on the top rope keep the top edge higher. Generally, lighter bottom ropes are used in inland fishing than in sea areas. For whitefish, it’s better to choose lighter bottom ropes. The weight and strength of the ropes largely depend on the fish species and fishing depth. A double-roped net usually stays clearer and is less likely to tangle.
A hook tool is a handy device for neatly gathering the net for the next use or for connecting two nets together. There are locking and non-locking models. Generally, hook tools are made of plastic, but you can still find juniper models. Another method is using a tub instead of a hook tool, from which the net is released into the water. In both methods, care must be taken to prevent the net from tangling, usually starting on shore when packing and organizing nets into pairs or larger sets. A knife and pin can also be useful for immediately killing larger fish in the boat and bleeding them.
The bottom and top ropes are kept in separate piles with the netting in between. Experience brings confidence and makes it easier to lay the net. The net is secured in place with weights and marked with an appropriate flag. When setting the net, remember one rule: never make noise in the boat. Fish are easily frightened by sudden bangs, so it’s best to stay as quiet as a mouse.
Don't Neglect Your Duties – Remember Responsible Net Fishing
Before casting your nets, be sure to understand all the regulations regarding the water bodies in your fishing area, such as areas where net fishing is entirely prohibited. Another important point is the regulations concerning the net's mesh size - it’s crucial not to catch fish species that are too small and not yet mature. Different fish species have minimum size requirements that the catch fish must meet. A responsible net fisher also checks the closed seasons for different fish species when net fishing is prohibited.
It's also good to be aware of fishing gear that might harm or endanger fish stocks so you can avoid using them. Responsible storage of fishing gear after use is important to prevent, for example, wildlife from getting entangled. Also, find out how many nets can be set in the specific water body per person. Are there any other restrictions or essential information regarding the water body you plan to fish in? And finally – but not least – check your nets in good time before the fish die and spoil in the net. On a warm summer day, perch can die in the net in just half a day, making them unsuitable for cooking. And who wouldn't want fresh, tasty fish on their table?
