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Almost all fishing gear requires proper care and maintenance, and cast nets are no exception. With proper maintenance, cast nets for fishing can last for many seasons — but when it’s time to upgrade, the complete lineup makes finding the right replacement easy. Here are the basic dos and don’ts of cast net care.

DO: Let your net soak overnight in a solution of freshwater and fabric softener prior to using it for the first time. This will not only relax the netting from tight packaging, but will soften and lubricate the monofilament netting and braille lines. Nets can also be soaked in this same solution to get rid of any fishy odors after use.

 

DON’T: Use harsh detergents or chemicals to clean a monofilament net. Since monofilament is a petroleum-based product, soaps can remove the petroleum and the oils in the net, making it brittle and weak. Every serious angler should understand the full anatomy of their bait casting net so they can evaluate construction quality and durability before committing to a purchase.

 

DO: Inspect your net before each use for any cuts or tears.

DON’T: Use a net that has any tears or holes in it. Further use of that net will only damage it more. When repairs are no longer worth the effort, browsing our cast net for sale lineup to find the weight, radius, and mesh that best match your fishing style and target species makes finding the right replacement model simple before your next fishing trip. Some prefer to fix the net themselves, others will send it off for repair, and some feel that it’s simply easier to purchase a new net. Preference depends on the fisherman.

 

DO: Store your net in a cool and dry environment.

DON’T: Expose your cast net to the sun for long periods of time. Extended periods of sunlight are harmful to the monofilament and will weaken your net. Not sure which net is right for you? A cast net size chart matching radius to species and water depth can quickly point you in the right direction before your next purchase.

 

DO: Clean and rinse out any fishy residue with freshwater after each use.

DON’T: Throw a wet and dirty net back into a bucket for storage. Slimy fish residue mixed with any moisture will create an ammonia-based substance that will eat away at your net. Mastering cast net throwing form not only improves your catch rate — it also reduces repetitive stress on the bridal lines and fabric that leads to premature wear.

 

DO: Drape your net over something to dry or hang in a manner that the lead-line is still touching the ground.

DON’T: Hang your net with the lead-line off the ground. This will tighten the knots, stretch your net, and remove the “broken-in” feel.

Looking for more cast net tips? Check out our Throwing Tutorial and Tips page for more info!