Ok so this could go in the shrimping forum but I think sometimes there are more expericened netters on here. I have several cast nets that are in bad shape so I am looking to replace them. I do plan on using them as shrimping and bait catching nets. I have a 12ft bait buster w/tape in good shape just to heavy once wet to use repeatedly. I also have a 10ft bait buster and a 10 ft fitech both were killed year by gar while shrimping last year. I want to buy a good net and a cheaper net in the 10-12 ft range I plan on using mainly between 3-9 foot of water. I am leaning towards a black pearl silver series for the good one and a betts old salt for the cheaper one. I don’t want more than 1.6 lb of lead per foot thats why I am leaning for the silver at 1.3. I also plan on stayjng between 1/2-5/8 mesh. Any advice or shared wisdom and experiences are greatly appreciated. Also if you have any nets for sale drop me a line.
Get you a Tim Wade cast net and be done . He can custom make what your looking for.
I don’t use nets that big, but I think you have the right idea. You need the heavier, larger, more expensive, 5/8" mesh nets like Wade/Pearl for deeper, swifter water. The expensive part usually means they open better, giving you a better chance of hitting the bait. The heavy and large mesh part helps it sink quickly, making it easier to hit the bait and giving the shrimp less chance to run from under it. In shallow water, why wear yourself out? It is easier to hit the bait near low tide in shallow water. You don’t need the weight or a fast sinking net when the water is just a few feet deep. The smaller, cheaper Betts nets work well then, and they save your shoulder. You can also unload and reload a smaller, lighter net quicker, meaning you can run the poles faster, getting in more casts per hour.
spec
1980 Skandia 21 w/ '93 JohnRude 150 gas drinker
We always start about thirty minutes before low tide setting up. Ssometimes we just set up a little deeper than other times. The reason for the big net is simple for me, more net, more shrimp per throw, less throws. My energy is free but time and gas is not and when they are they can be ran out quick. Same goes for bait less time throwing for bait more time fishing. Plus the way i throw uses both hands and equal weight on each hand so its not really that bad.
Call Tim Wade
321-729-9537
321-508-2836
Tell him what your are trying to do, he will set you up.
My shrimp net is used for shrimping only. 7ft 5/8mesh. It stays in the bucket until next year.
My other nets are the cheapest I can find 6ft 3/8mesh for bait. I usually throw from shore and get hung up alot so there is no point in buying a nice net for that.
Thanks called Tim I believe I am gonna buy one from him. He was super knowledgable and a nice guy to talk to. Also prices on what i want are cheaper than i expected by far.