Tips on Fishing Hoop Nets

Knowing Netting Laws

It is important for anglers to be familiar with netting laws in their state and local areas. While some laws permit netting in all waters, others only allow the use of dip and hoop nets for certain marine species in specific waters. For example, in Illinois, anglers are permitted to use dip nets or hoop nets to catch a number of animals such as smelt, frogs and crayfish. It is also vital to tag each net according to state and local laws and know when nets are required to be retrieved.

Setting Nets Properly

Successful hoop net fishing depends on a secure net. It is important, especially when fishing a river, to ensure the tapered end of a net is securely staked to the shoreline or river bottom. It is common for poorly secured tapered ends to cause nets to be carried away or sunk before they can be retrieved. It is also important to set the net mouth so it points downstream. This will prevent debris from entering. Net mouths can also be staked or tied to a tree to ensure they remain open and the unit stays tight. Visible buoys should also be used to mark the locations of nets upon retrieval.

Choosing the Right Bait

When baiting a net, it is vital to use baits that will last inside the net for extended periods. Depending on the fish being sought, baits will vary. However, soy meal and hardened cheese are suitable for carp and catfish, while cottonseed cubes and pellets are choice bait for most other species.