Short Overview:
Types of nets used for fishing include cast nets, gill nets, seine nets, and trawl nets. Each type serves a specific purpose depending on water depth, fishing method, and target fish species.
Introduction and Popular Types of Fishing Nets
What are fishing nets used for?
Used in both recreational and industrial fishing, fishing nets are essential tools for catching fish. They are designed to trap, scoop, or entangle fish, depending on the type of net used. From rivers to oceans, fishing nets play a vital role in the fishing industry.
What kinds of nets are usually employed by fishermen?
There are several types of nets used for fishing, each with unique features and purposes. The most popular ones include:
Cast Net
Designed in a circular shape with weighted edges, a cast net is thrown by hand and works best for shallow water fishing and collecting baitfish.
Gill Net
Gill nets hang vertically in the water, and as fish swim into them, their gills get trapped, stopping them from getting away. It’s commonly used in commercial fishing.
Seine Net
This type of net hangs vertically in the water, using floats and sinkers to stay upright—known as a seine net. It’s dragged through water to encircle fish.
Trawl Net
A trawl net is pulled behind a boat to catch fish in deeper waters. It’s mostly used in large-scale commercial operations.
Lift Net
To capture fish, a lift net is dropped below the surface and pulled upward vertically.Often used for squid and small fish.
Hand Net (Scoop Net)
Commonly used in casual fishing and bait gathering, the hand net—or scoop net—is an easy-to-use and efficient tool. It’s small and easy to use.
Push Net
A push net is manually pushed through shallow waters. It’s simple and often used in traditional fishing.
Drift Net
A drift net floats freely in the current. Fish get entangled in the net as it drifts.
What kind of fishing net do I need?
Selecting the right option depends on the fish species, where you’re fishing, and your fishing technique. For shallow water and bait, use a cast net. For deeper waters, a gill net or trawl net is more effective.
What are fishing nets made of?
Most fishing nets used nowadays are crafted from synthetic materials like nylon. These are strong, flexible, and resistant to water damage. Traditional nets were often made from cotton or hemp.
What is the difference between knotted and knotless fishing nets?
Knotted nets are more durable and better for catching larger fish. Knotless nets are smoother and less harmful to fish, often used in catch-and-release fishing.
How many types of fishing nets are there?
There are more than 10 types of fishing nets, including cast nets, gill nets, seine nets, lift nets, trawl nets, and others. Each serves a specific purpose in the fishing process.
Is fishing with a net illegal?
In some areas, using certain fishing nets is illegal or restricted to protect fish populations. Always check local regulations before using a net.
What are the methods of net fishing?
Some popular net fishing methods include:
- Encircling (Seine nets)
- Entangling (Gill nets)
- Dragging (Trawl nets)
- Lifting (Lift nets)
What to use instead of a fish net?
When you don’t have a fish net, these alternatives can be used:
- Bare hands (for very small fish)
- Buckets (to scoop fish)
- Fishing lines or traps
What is a gill netter?
A gill netter is a type of fishing boat or a person who uses gill nets to catch fish. It usually refers to commercial fishers.
Fishing Net Diagram
A basic fishing net diagram shows how weights, mesh size, and net shapes vary across different types. Include visuals on your blog for better engagement.
Fishing Net Material
Most nets are made from nylon, polyethylene, or polypropylene. These materials are durable and lightweight.
Commercial Fishing Nets
Large-scale fisheries use trawl nets, drift nets, and purse seines to catch tons of fish. These nets are regulated to reduce overfishing.
What are the different types of cast nets?
Cast nets come in sizes ranging from 3 to 12 feet in radius. Differences may include the size of the mesh, overall weight, and how the net is cast.
What are the different types of netting?
Netting types include:
- Diamond Mesh
- Square Mesh
- Braided Netting
- Monofilament Netting
What is fish netting called?
The process is simply known as net fishing. Specific names depend on the method (e.g., gillnetting, trawling)
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right net can be the difference between a successful fishing trip and a frustrating one. Now that you’ve explored the different types of nets used for fishing, from cast nets to gill nets and everything in between, it’s clear that each has its own unique purpose and best use case. Whether you’re floating fishing in calm waters or going deep sea with a trawl net, selecting the appropriate net ensures not only a better catch but also responsible and sustainable fishing.
If you’re serious about improving your skills or just getting started, take the time to understand your gear. The right net doesn’t just help you catch more fish — it helps you fish smarter.
What are commercial fishing nets called?
Commercial fishing often uses trawl nets, purse seines, and surrounding nets (which encircle schools of fish). These are designed for large-scale operations targeting pelagic species like mackerel and sardines.
A lift net (or dip net) is submerged and then lifted vertically to trap fish or squid. It’s commonly used at night with bait or lights to attract pelagic species.
Purse seine nets encircle a school of fish and close at the bottom with a drawstring (purse line). They are efficient and have relatively low bycatch when used responsibly.
What is the difference between drift nets and set gillnets?
Drift nets float freely with currents, entangling pelagic species, while set gillnets anchor vertically at specific depths. Gillnets remain stationary; drift nets move with water flow.
What material is best for fishing nets?
Modern nets are made of nylon, coated nylon, rubber, or PVC. Coated nylon and rubber are smoother, less harmful to fish, and reduce hook snagging—ideal for catch-and-release fishing.
What are surrounding nets used for?
Surrounding nets (like seine nets) form a wall around fish, trapping them underneath. Frequently used in commercial fisheries to capture schooling fish from all angles.
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– Writing by Jihad
