By Contributing Writer
How to Cast a Fishing Net
Cast a fishing net over a passing school of fish to catch several in one shot. A baited hook on a fishing rod can pull in only one fish at a time, and the fish has to bite at that. Nets entangle fish whether they're hungry or not. Nets made for casting by hand measure 6 to 8 feet in diameter. The weighted perimeter, or lead line, will scare fish when it splashes on the surface, but then it sinks into the water and traps many of the fish attempting to flee. Casting a fishing net is more involved than casting a line with a fishing rod, but there are usually more fish to bring home after using a net.
Instructions
Difficulty: Moderately Challenging
Step 1
Lay the fishing net out on the ground with the lead line weights together and pull the end of the drawstring to straighten the net into a line from lead line to center. Tie the end of the drawstring to your right wrist, if you're right-handed. (Follow instructions to opposing directions for left-handed casting.)
Step 2
Coil the entire drawstring into two-foot loops around your right hand and hold them palm up between your thumb and index finger. Hold the net up by the center and coil 1 two-foot loop of net into your right hand for a six-foot net, coil 2 loops of netting if you're casting an eight-foot net.
Step 3
Pick up an edge of the lead line and place it into your right hand with the drawstring and net loops. Use your left hand to grab the lead line about two feet to the right of your right hand. Bunch up the net inside your left hand with alternating finger grabs until you've collected about 15 inches of net to the inside of the weights. Place that bundle into your right hand also.
Step 4
Grab the lead line about two feet to the left of your right hand and bundle another 15 inches of net into your left hand, with the palm facing you. Lift the net with both of your hands.
Step 5
Stand with your feet at shoulders width apart. Twist your trunk to the right until your left hand is directly over your right foot. Swing your body toward the left from the hips with your right hand moving from shoulder height, down past your knees and back up across your left shoulder like a golf swing. Let go of the net when your right hand is in front of your abdomen.
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