If you know how to throw a cast net, you'll be able to catch more baitfish if you forget to pack them.The setup and technique are the keys to a good throw.The weight of the net should be distributed evenly between both hands.You will have a ready supply of baitfish to show for your efforts with a little practice.
Step 1: Attach the loop at the end of the hand line to your left wrist.
Cinch the hand loop down to make sure it's secure and to prevent it from slipping off your wrist when you throw.The last thing you want to do is throw your net into the deep.The hand loops on most cast nets make it possible to get a snug yet comfortable fit for any wrist.If the net you are using doesn't have an adjust hand loop, arrange it so that the hand line is pointing towards the ground.
Step 2: You can loop the hand line over your left hand.
Wrap the line across your palm and let it fall over your hand a few times.Depending on the size of the net you are using, the number of coils you make will vary.The net may not deploy properly if you wind the coils too tight.The smaller the net, the easier it will be to deal with.
Step 3: Place your left hand on the horn of the net.
The small metal ring connecting to the hand line is located in the uppermost portion of the net.Holding onto the horn will allow you to drape the net.The horn should be in your left hand at this point.You use your right hand to get the net into position.
Step 4: The upper portion of the net should be aligned with the coiled hand line.
Wrap the fabric of the net around your right hand and cradle it in your palm.The rest of the net should hang straight down.Once the net is lined up with the coiled hand line, be careful not to let it shift.
Step 5: You can get the remaining net with your right hand.
Take hold of the net halfway between the horn and theskirt of leaded weights.As you pass the net to your right hand, be sure to keep it straight.The horn is resting on your left hand, and the weights of the skirt are on the deck below your right hand.You can split the net in half to make it easier to throw.
Step 6: The net section should be moved from your right hand to your left.
The net will form a loop outside the coiled hand line if you do this.You should be holding the net in your left hand.Double-check that the two sections of net you are holding in your left hand are not crossing over one another.They could become twisted from this.The lead weights around the skirt can either be resting on the deck or hovering above.
Step 7: The hanging skirt has a lead line between it and your teeth.
You can grab a clean section of the line by reaching down with your right hand.Then put it between your teeth.It may sound strange, but it is the most efficient way to keep the skirt in the right position.You can throw a muddy lead line over your shoulder if you don't like it.The two halves of the skirt should be centered so that they don't slip off.
Step 8: The lead line hangs from your teeth or shoulder.
The line should rest in the crease of your fingers when you lift it with your free hand.If you open the skirt, it will expand as you release the net.The colored tabs on the bottom of the nets make it easier to know where to put your hands.
Step 9: Take hold of the net below your left hand.
Put the net in your fist.The weight of the net will be evenly divided between your left and right hands.If you want to avoid throwing off your accuracy or distance, try not to change your grip after the net is in position.
Step 10: The throw can be initiated by twisting 90-110 degrees at the waist.
After rotating your shoulders, chest, and hips to the left, reverse the motion quickly to turn right.Once your upper body is facing your target, let go of the net.Keep your toes pointed toward the intended landing zone throughout your entire throw to help you guide the net as it leaves your hands.Drop your weight a bit by bending your knees.You will be less likely to lose your balance if your center of gravity is lowered.
Step 11: Allow the net's own weight to carry it out of your hands.
When you let go, whip your arms out in front of you and spread your fingers wide.When the net is full of steam, try to time your release by feeling.Rather than using brute force, let the net sail away on its own.The skirt and horn have leaded weights around them.Throwing a cast net is similar to swinging a golf club because it is easier and more natural.
Step 12: Wait for the net to sink to the bottom of the water.
Thanks to the heavy weights around the skirt, this will happen quickly.The baitfish will be trapped under the net if they are swimming in the immediate vicinity.Pull the hand line until the net has settled.
Step 13: Use your hand to reel in the net.
The hand line should still be attached to your left wrist when you pull the net towards you hand-over-hand.The weighted end will close.You'll get a whole mess of baitfish if you take your time retrieving your net.If you try to rush it, you will lose control and lose your baitfish.