Handmade Fishing Net: A Comprehensive Guide to Knotting Your Own

For centuries, fishing nets have been an essential tool for gathering food and resources from the water. While mass-produced nets are readily available today, there’s a unique satisfaction and connection to tradition that comes with crafting your own handmade fishing net. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, from selecting materials to mastering the knots, empowering you to create a durable and effective net for your fishing adventures.

Why Make Your Own Fishing Net?

Before diving into the nitty-gritty, let’s consider why you might choose to embark on this project:

• Cost-Effective: While there’s an initial investment in materials, creating your own net can be significantly cheaper than purchasing multiple nets over time, especially if you need custom sizes or specific mesh sizes.
• Customization: You have complete control over the net’s size, mesh size, material, and overall design. This allows you to tailor the net to your specific fishing needs and target species.
• Durability: By using high-quality materials and mastering the knotting techniques, you can create a net that is more durable and long-lasting than many commercially available options.
• Connection to Tradition: Net making is an ancient craft, and learning it connects you to a long line of fishermen and artisans who relied on their skills to provide for themselves and their communities.
• Satisfaction and Accomplishment: There’s a deep sense of satisfaction that comes from creating something useful and beautiful with your own hands. The process can be meditative and rewarding.
• Repairability: Knowing how your net is constructed makes it easier to repair if it gets damaged, extending its lifespan significantly.

Materials You’ll Need

Gathering the right materials is crucial for creating a strong and functional fishing net. Here’s a comprehensive list:

• Netting Twine (Nylon or Multifilament): This is the primary material for your net. Nylon is strong, durable, and resistant to abrasion and rot. Multifilament twine is softer and easier to knot, but may not be as durable as nylon. Choose a twine size appropriate for the fish you intend to catch. Thicker twine is needed for larger, stronger fish. Common sizes are #9, #12, #15, #18, #21, and #36, with higher numbers indicating thicker twine. For smaller fish, #9 or #12 might suffice. For larger fish like salmon or carp, #18 or #21 would be more appropriate.
• Shuttle: This tool holds the twine and helps create the knots. Shuttles come in various sizes, and the size you need will depend on the thickness of your twine and the desired mesh size. A larger shuttle holds more twine, reducing the need for frequent refills.
• Mesh Gauge (or Mesh Stick): This is a flat piece of material (wood, plastic, or metal) that determines the size of the mesh openings in your net. The wider the gauge, the larger the mesh. The choice of mesh size depends entirely on the size and type of fish you intend to catch. Smaller mesh sizes are for smaller fish.
• Needle (Optional but Recommended): A net needle is a specialized needle used to load twine onto the shuttle and to weave the edges of the net. While not strictly necessary, it makes the process much easier and faster.
• Ring or Hoop (for Starting): This provides a starting point for your net. A metal ring, a sturdy plastic hoop, or even a piece of strong rope tied in a circle can be used. The size of the ring will determine the overall size of the net opening.
• Scissors or Knife: For cutting the twine.
• Gloves (Optional): To protect your hands from friction and abrasion from the twine, especially if you’re working with a rougher material.
• Measuring Tape or Ruler: For accurate measurements.
• Work Surface: A table or flat surface to work on will make the process much easier.
• Weight Line (Lead Line) and Float Line (Optional): These are used to weight the bottom of the net and float the top, respectively. These are added after the net itself is completed.
• Floats and Weights (Optional): To attach to the float and weight lines.

Understanding the Basic Knot: The Net Knot (Sheet Bend or Weaver’s Knot)

The foundation of any fishing net is a strong and reliable knot. The most common knot used is a variation of the sheet bend, often referred to as a net knot or weaver’s knot. Here’s how to tie it:

1. Form a Loop: Create a loop with the twine around the ring or hoop. The loop should be large enough to easily work with.
2. Pass the Shuttle Through: Pass the shuttle through the loop from back to front.
3. Go Around the Mesh Gauge: Bring the twine over the top of the mesh gauge and down the back. The mesh gauge sits below the loop you made in step 1. This determines the size of the mesh.
4. Pass Back Through the Loop: Pass the shuttle back through the original loop, but this time from front to back, going *over* the strand that is going over the mesh gauge.
5. Tighten the Knot: Pull the twine tight. The knot should form snugly around the mesh gauge. It’s crucial to keep the mesh gauge in place while tightening to ensure uniform mesh size.
6. Remove the Mesh Gauge: Gently remove the mesh gauge. You’ve now created your first mesh!

Key Points for a Strong Net Knot:

• Consistency is Key: Maintain a consistent tension on the twine as you tie each knot. This will ensure uniform mesh size and strength throughout the net.
• Tighten Properly: Tighten each knot securely. A loose knot is a weak knot and can lead to unraveling.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t be discouraged if your first few knots aren’t perfect. Practice the knotting technique until you feel comfortable and confident.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Your Fishing Net

Now, let’s put it all together and create your fishing net. We’ll break down the process into manageable steps:

Step 1: Preparing the Shuttle and Initial Loop

1. Load the Shuttle: Wind the netting twine onto the shuttle. Do not overfill the shuttle, as this can make it difficult to work with. The best way to load the shuttle depends on the type of shuttle you have, but generally involves winding the twine around the central core or spool. Make sure the twine is wound evenly to prevent tangles.
2. Attach to the Ring: Tie the end of the twine securely to the ring or hoop using a simple overhand knot or a clove hitch. This will be the starting point for your net. Leave a short tail of twine for tying off later.
3. Form the Initial Loop: Create a loop with the twine around the ring, as described in the knotting instructions above. This loop will be the foundation for your first row of meshes.

Step 2: Creating the First Row of Meshes

1. Tie the First Knot: Follow the knotting instructions above to tie the first net knot around the ring and the mesh gauge.
2. Repeat: Continue tying knots around the ring, using the mesh gauge to ensure consistent mesh size, until you have a complete row of knots around the ring. The number of meshes you create will determine the overall circumference of the net opening. Space the knots evenly around the ring. A good guideline is to have the meshes close together without overlapping.
3. Even Spacing: Pay close attention to the spacing of the knots. Uneven spacing will result in a net with irregular mesh sizes and potential weak spots.

Step 3: Building Subsequent Rows

1. Starting the Second Row: Remove the ring. Now, instead of tying the knots around the ring, you’ll be tying them to the loops created in the first row.
2. Tie to the First Mesh: Bring the shuttle up through the first mesh of the previous row.
3. Wrap Around the Gauge: Place the mesh gauge below the mesh you are attaching to, then bring the twine over the gauge.
4. Tie the Knot: Tie the net knot, securing the twine to the mesh of the previous row.
5. Continue Knotting: Continue tying knots to each mesh in the previous row, using the mesh gauge to maintain consistent mesh size.
6. Row by Row: Repeat this process, row by row, until your net reaches the desired length.
7. Maintaining Shape: As you build the net, periodically check its shape to ensure it’s forming the desired cone or bag. Adjust the tension of your knots if necessary to maintain the correct shape.

Step 4: Finishing the Net

1. Final Row: Once the net reaches the desired length, tie off the last row of meshes. This can be done by simply tying a secure knot in each mesh to prevent unraveling.
2. Securing the End: For extra security, you can weave the end of the twine back through the last few rows of meshes before cutting it off. This will create a more durable finish.
3. Cutting the Twine: Cut the twine, leaving a short tail.

Step 5: Adding the Weight and Float Lines (Optional)

Adding weight and float lines will help the net maintain its shape and function properly in the water.

1. Attaching the Weight Line: Attach the lead line to the bottom edge of the net (the final row you created). This can be done by weaving the line through the meshes or by tying it to each mesh with small knots. Evenly space the attachment points to distribute the weight evenly.
2. Attaching the Float Line: Attach the float line to the top edge of the net (the ring or hoop). Use the same method as with the weight line, ensuring even spacing of the attachment points.
3. Adding Floats and Weights: Attach floats to the float line and weights to the weight line. The number and spacing of floats and weights will depend on the size of the net and the buoyancy of the floats and the weight of the weights. Experiment to find the optimal configuration for your net.

Tips for Success

• Start Small: Begin with a small practice net to get comfortable with the knotting technique before tackling a larger project.
• Use Quality Materials: Invest in high-quality netting twine and other materials to ensure the durability and longevity of your net.
• Maintain Consistent Tension: Consistent tension is crucial for creating a uniform mesh size and a strong net.
• Take Breaks: Net making can be repetitive and tiring. Take breaks to avoid hand fatigue and maintain focus.
• Seek Guidance: If you’re struggling, don’t hesitate to seek guidance from experienced net makers or online resources. There are many tutorials and videos available that can help you learn the techniques.
• Consider Net Coatings: Some net makers apply a coating to their nets to protect them from UV damage, abrasion, and rot. Common coatings include tar, rubber, or specialized net coatings.
• Proper Storage: Store your net in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent damage and extend its lifespan. Clean the net regularly to remove debris and prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
• Repairing Your Net: Learning to repair your net is an essential skill. With a shuttle, twine, and a little practice, you can fix small tears and holes, extending the life of your net considerably.

Mesh Size and Target Species

Choosing the right mesh size is crucial for effectively catching your target species while minimizing bycatch (the unintentional capture of non-target species). Here’s a general guideline:

• Small Fish (e.g., minnows, baitfish): Use a mesh size of 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch.
• Panfish (e.g., bluegill, crappie): Use a mesh size of 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches.
• Larger Fish (e.g., bass, trout, catfish): Use a mesh size of 2 inches to 4 inches or larger, depending on the size of the fish.

It’s important to research the specific regulations in your area regarding mesh size restrictions for different species. Using the wrong mesh size can be illegal and can harm fish populations.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Uneven Mesh Size: This is usually caused by inconsistent tension on the twine while tying the knots. Practice maintaining a consistent pull.
• Weak Knots: Make sure you are tightening each knot securely. If the knots are still slipping, try using a different type of knot.
• Tangled Twine: Avoid overfilling the shuttle and wind the twine evenly. If the twine does tangle, carefully untangle it before continuing.
• Net Not Forming the Desired Shape: Adjust the tension of your knots to maintain the correct shape. You may need to add or subtract meshes in certain areas to achieve the desired result.

Ethical Considerations

When using your handmade fishing net, it’s important to be mindful of ethical considerations:

• Obey Regulations: Follow all local fishing regulations, including size and catch limits, gear restrictions, and closed seasons.
• Minimize Bycatch: Use appropriate mesh sizes and techniques to minimize the capture of non-target species. Release any bycatch unharmed.
• Respect the Environment: Avoid damaging sensitive habitats and dispose of any waste properly.
• Practice Sustainable Fishing: Only take what you need and avoid overfishing. Consider releasing some of your catch to help maintain healthy fish populations.

Conclusion

Making your own fishing net is a rewarding and empowering experience. It allows you to connect with tradition, customize your gear, and potentially save money. While it requires patience and practice, the end result is a durable and functional net that you can be proud of. So, gather your materials, master the knots, and embark on this fulfilling journey. Happy net making and happy fishing!