There are few things that smell worse than pulling out a cast net you used a couple of days ago only to find that you left a shrimp or a finger mullet stuck in the mesh. It can make throwing a net, especially if you put it in your mouth when you throw, downright unbearable. It is also aggravating to cast on top of bait and watch most of them escape through holes in your net. Most nets can last several years if you take care of them. A few easy steps at the end of each trip can help prolong the life of your net. Each time you come back before you put your net away take time to spread the net out on a somewhat smooth surface so it does not get snagged or torn. Make sure you have removed any leftover fish or other critters. Rinse the net with fresh water and inspect your net for any small tears. A small tear in a monofilament net is sure to become a larger tear, so do not wait to make repairs if they are needed. Always inspect the lead lines and tuck lines to make sure they are in good shape as well. Always hang the net and let it air dry before you put it away. UV rays from the sun take their toll on monofilament so your storage area should be a spot that is out of direct sunlight. There is an old trick to keeping a net soft and flexible that many have used over the years. Monofilament will tend to become stiff after repeated exposure to the elements. You can mix 1 ½ cups of fabric softener in a 5 gallon bucket and let the net soak for no more than an hour. After soaking take the net out and let it dry before you store it. Hopefully with a little extra care you can save a little money and keep that net another season.
[blue[Andy Pickett
CharlestonFishing.Com[/blue]