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Hand net
Hand net
from Wikipedia
Fishing with a dip net for salmon on the Fraser River, Canada
Landing net
Albrecht Dürer. Fishermen with hand nets, c 1490-1493

A hand net, also called a scoop net, is a handheld fishing net or meshed basket used to capture and retrieve objects from water, somewhat in the manner of a sieve. It is distinguished from other fishing nets in that the net or mesh is supported by a rigid circular or polygonal frame, which may or may not be mounted to the end of a handle.

A hand net with a long handle is often called a dip net. When it is used by an angler to help "fetch out" or "land" a hooked fish, it is called a landing net.[1]

Hand nets have been used since antiquity for catching fish near the surface of the water, especially feisty, powerful ones such as muskellunge or northern pike. Because hand-netting is not physically destructive to the fish, hand nets are often used for tag and release, or to retrieve aquarium fish. There are popular contemporary dip net sockeye salmon fisheries in Chitina, Kenai River and Kasilof River, typically lasting two to three weeks, and is regarded as a subsistence fishery for Alaskan residents only. Dip nets can also be used to scoop crabs in shallow water. The basket is made of wire or nylon mesh, rather than cloth mesh, since crabs fight, bite, twist and turn when they are caught.[2]

History

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Hand nets have been widely used by traditional fishermen. Small fish are caught both in the shallow water of lagoons and in the open sea. They are made in different sizes ranging from small nets held in one hand to large scoop nets worked by several men.[3][4] Historically, the Karuk people of the upper Klamath River harvested fish with dip nets.[5]

In England, hand netting is the only legal way of catching eels and has been practised for thousands of years on the River Parrett and River Severn.[6]

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See also

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Notes

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
A hand net is a simple tool consisting of a or attached to a rigid frame and , designed to be held and maneuvered by one hand to scoop or dip aquatic animals such as , , or from shallow waters or the water's surface. These nets typically feature a hoop-shaped frame, often made of metal like aluminum, supporting a fine material such as or rubber to minimize damage to the catch's protective slime coat. Hand nets vary in size, with frames commonly around 20 inches wide and handles extending up to 8 feet for reach in deeper shallows, making them suitable for small-scale, manual operations rather than . Hand nets represent one of the earliest forms of gear, with archaeological evidence of netting techniques dating back over 10,000 years, including a net from around 8300 BC discovered in . Indigenous communities worldwide have long incorporated hand nets into their practices; for instance, Native American groups along the in the traditionally used dip nets— a common subtype of hand net—to capture and other in rivers, often crafting them by hand from natural fibers like plant materials such as cedar bark or nettles. In regions like , regulatory definitions describe hand nets as compact, one-handed devices. Primarily employed in recreational, subsistence, and artisanal fishing, hand nets serve multiple purposes beyond direct capture, including retrieving bait like minnows from streams or safely landing hooked fish weighing up to 20 pounds to avoid injury during the process. They are particularly effective in low-water conditions or along shorelines, where users can push or dip the net to entrap small-meshed prey such as shrimp along the bottom substrate. Modern variations, such as landing nets with telescoping handles, continue this tradition while adhering to conservation standards that protect fish populations, underscoring the tool's enduring practicality and minimal environmental footprint.

Design and Construction

Components

The primary components of a hand net consist of the hoop or frame, the net bag or , and the handle or pole, each serving a specific structural and functional role in capturing . The hoop or frame forms the rigid opening of the net, typically circular or D-shaped, with diameters ranging from 6 to 24 inches depending on the intended use. This component maintains the net's shape under tension during submersion and retrieval, ensuring the opening remains accessible for scooping or . For instance, in dip nets, the frame may measure around 16 inches in to facilitate quick dips into water, while nets often feature slightly larger hoops up to 20-24 inches for securing larger catches. The net bag or mesh attaches to the hoop and forms the catching area, usually configured as a conical or rectangular pouch that tapers to contain the securely. Depths vary from 12 inches to 3 feet (36 inches), with shallower bags (around 12-16 inches) common in landing nets for easy release and deeper ones (up to 36 inches) in certain dip nets, such as those used for , to accommodate volume during active scooping. The size, typically ranging from 1/4 inch for small bait to 2 inches for larger species, influences catchability by allowing water flow while preventing escapes, with finer meshes reducing tangling for delicate . This design funnels the catch toward the base of the bag, minimizing stress on the during handling. The handle or pole extends from the hoop, providing reach and control, with lengths from 1 to 12 feet to suit different environments such as wading, , or fishing. Shorter handles (2-4 feet) are standard for landing nets in close-quarters , while longer ones (up to 8-12 feet) enable dip nets to access deeper or faster-moving water without entering hazardous areas. Attachment methods include secure binding or screwing mechanisms to ensure stability under load. Optional reinforcements enhance for specific applications, such as crossbars spanning larger hoops to prevent deformation during heavy use, or telescoping mechanisms in handles for adjustable in variable conditions. These features adapt the basic structure across hand net types, like the shallower bags in landing nets versus the extended poles in dip nets, without altering the core assembly.

Materials

Hand nets traditionally utilized plant-based fibers such as , , , and for the mesh, prized for their inherent flexibility, ease of , and local availability in many regions. These natural materials allowed for construction but were prone to rot and degradation when exposed to prolonged , limiting their in aquatic environments. For structural elements, wood served as the primary material for handles due to its strength and ergonomic grip, while hoops were often formed from or branches, selected for their pliability, natural resilience, and ability to bend without breaking during use. In contemporary designs, synthetic polymers have largely supplanted natural fibers, with (polyamide) and dominating mesh production for their superior tensile strength and resistance to biological decay. meshes, for instance, exhibit tensile strengths up to 896 MPa, enabling individual strands to withstand breaking loads of 15 to 200 pounds, far exceeding traditional options and supporting repeated stress from catches. variants, such as (HDPE), offer tensile strengths of 310-445 MPa alongside low water absorption and high abrasion resistance, making them ideal for demanding conditions. Frames and handles now incorporate aluminum or carbon fiber, which provide exceptional strength-to-weight ratios—carbon fiber handles, for example, reduce overall net weight by up to 50% compared to wood while maintaining rigidity. Environmental concerns have prompted a resurgence in biodegradable alternatives, such as hemp-derived meshes, which offer comparable or greater durability to synthetics without contributing to long-term pollution. Synthetic materials like nylon and polyethylene, however, pose risks through microplastic shedding, with fishing nets identified as a major source of marine microplastic emissions due to abrasion and breakdown over time. Hemp and similar plant-based options biodegrade naturally, reducing ghost fishing and ecosystem harm, though their adoption remains limited by production costs. Material selection influences component performance by balancing weight, flexibility, and load-bearing capacity, ensuring the net remains maneuverable yet robust. For maintenance, UV stabilizers are commonly added to synthetics like to mitigate , which can reduce tensile strength by up to 50% after extended sun exposure. In saltwater environments, coatings or treatments such as tarred finishes prevent and salt-induced weakening, extending beyond untreated natural fibers.

Types of Hand Nets

Dip Nets

Dip nets are scoop-style hand nets featuring a conical or bag-shaped attached to a rigid hoop frame, typically mounted perpendicularly to a pole or ranging from 4 to 12 feet in length, designed for direct immersion into bodies to capture free-swimming through dipping or sweeping motions. This form allows users to reach into deeper waters or currents without entering the water fully, distinguishing dip nets from shorter-handled landing nets used primarily at boatside. Dip nets are actively maneuvered through the to capture , typically by submerging the net and pulling it out rapidly. Size variations in dip nets accommodate diverse environments, with smaller models featuring hoops as narrow as 6 inches suitable for shallow and targeting minnows or , while larger versions boast hoops up to 18 inches in and bag depths of 3 feet or more for rivers and deeper pools where bigger species congregate. In regions like Alaska's personal use fisheries, regulations permit even broader frames up to 5 feet across the hoop's straight-line measurement to handle abundant runs in strong currents. These scalable dimensions ensure versatility, from precise sampling in narrow waterways to efficient harvesting in expansive flows. Common adaptations enhance dip nets' practicality across conditions, including telescoping aluminum or composite poles that extend for wading in variable depths and retract for transport, reducing user fatigue during extended use. Fine-mesh netting, often with openings as small as 1/8 inch, is frequently incorporated to retain species such as smelts or fry without escape, while coarser meshes (up to 1/2 inch) promote flow for larger catches. The primary advantages of dip nets lie in their mechanical simplicity, requiring no complex mechanisms or bait, which makes them accessible for beginners and ideal for targeted, low-impact captures in accessible waters. Basic models, often constructed from nylon mesh and lightweight poles, are notably inexpensive, typically costing under $20, broadening their appeal for casual and subsistence fishing alike.

Landing Nets

Landing nets are specialized hand nets designed to secure and lift that have already been hooked, providing support for anglers during the final stages of landing a catch. They typically feature a shallow net bag, often triangular or square in shape, attached to a hoop frame and mounted on a ranging from 2 to 4 feet in length. The net bag is constructed with rubberized, , or knotless materials to minimize scales removal, slime coat damage, and injury to the 's fins or gills, making them particularly suited for catch-and-release practices. Size variations in landing nets accommodate different fishing scenarios and target species. Compact models, with hoop diameters around 12 to 16 inches, are ideal for in streams or targeting smaller species like , often paired with shorter handles of 8 to 24 inches for maneuverability in tight spaces. Larger versions, featuring hoops up to 24 inches or more and extended 3-foot handles, are used for from boats or shorelines, allowing anglers to reach fish without entering the water. These dimensions ensure the net can fully encompass the fish while maintaining control during retrieval. Key features of landing nets enhance usability and fish safety. Handles often include non-slip coatings, such as cork, , or textured aluminum, for secure grip in wet conditions, while clear or translucent provides visibility to prevent spooking during approach. Many incorporate flat-bottom designs for stable fish support out of and built-in rulers for quick measurements. Mesh sizes typically range from 1/2 to 1 inch, balancing durability with gentleness to avoid entanglement in gills or hooks. The primary advantages of landing nets lie in their role in promoting ethical , particularly for catch-and-release. By enabling quicker landing and reduced handling time, they minimize stress and exhaustion, improving rates post-release. Rubberized or meshes further protect the 's protective slime layer, reducing infection risks, while the overall design allows for brief, in-water without excessive exposure to air. These attributes make landing nets essential for conservation-oriented .

Applications

Recreational and Sport Fishing

In recreational and sport fishing, hand nets, particularly nets, play a crucial role in assisting anglers to secure hooked fish such as or bass during or sessions. These nets are integrated into the angler's setup by being attached via magnets or clips to wading belts, vests, or rod tubes, allowing quick access without interfering with rod and handling. For instance, in , the net is deployed to scoop the fish once it is brought close to the angler using the rod's flex and reel's drag system, minimizing line strain and reducing the risk of the fish escaping. Similarly, in , the net complements the reel's smooth retrieval by providing a stable platform for bass fighting against lighter lures. Hand nets are especially popular in stream wading scenarios on small streams, where short-handled wading nets (typically 18-24 inches) offer balance and maneuverability in shallow, flowing water targeting . Anglers often use these nets to navigate tight spaces while pursuing in riffles or pools, ensuring safe retrieval without disrupting the streambed. In contrast, boat-based on lakes for employs longer-handled or floating hand nets, which extend reach from the vessel's edge and prevent loss over the side, making them ideal for solo anglers targeting species like or in open water. The use of hand nets significantly improves success rates for by simplifying the landing process, as novices often struggle with manual grabs that can lead to lost or hook pulls. Moreover, these nets facilitate ethical catch-and-release practices through features like knotless rubber , which reduces scale loss, fin damage, and stress compared to knotted , thereby enhancing survival rates post-release. Studies confirm that rubber-meshed landing nets shorten handling times and lower tissue damage in catch-and-release scenarios, promoting sustainable . In competitive sport fishing tournaments, hand nets must adhere to strict size regulations to ensure fair play, such as limits of 48 inches in overall length for events under FIPS-Mouche rules, preventing any advantage from oversized equipment. For example, in international bank championships, nets are required to be knotless and no longer than 98 inches when extended, allowing competitors to land efficiently while maintaining ethical standards during timed rounds. These guidelines underscore the net's role in balancing with conservation.

Commercial Fishing

In commercial fishing, hand nets, particularly dip nets, are employed for targeted harvesting of schooling fish species such as smelts, , and during seasonal river runs, enabling efficient capture in shallow or confined waters where larger gear is impractical. These operations often occur in regions like and , where fish migrate upstream in dense schools, allowing crews to scoop multiple individuals per dip while adhering to daily quotas set by management authorities to prevent . For instance, commercial dip net fishing for in 's Upper runs from late June to July, with permits limiting harvests to specific periods and requiring the live release of non-target species like king and to support conservation goals. Methods typically involve crews operating multiple dip nets—up to four per permit holder—from shorelines, boats, or wading positions to achieve bulk collection during peak runs. In smelt fisheries, such as those for night smelt along California's coast, A-frame or V-frame dip nets are the primary gear, deployed manually to target spawning aggregations in nearshore areas, often yielding high volumes in short seasonal windows from winter to spring. Similarly, for river herring like alewives, dip netting facilitates rapid harvesting during upstream migrations in eastern U.S. rivers, with crews coordinating efforts to maximize catches under regulated quotas that align with sustainable yield objectives. These low-tech approaches suit small-scale operations, minimizing capital investment while focusing on high-density concentrations. Economically, hand nets represent a cost-effective tool in small-scale commercial fisheries, particularly in developing regions where they support livelihoods for millions by contributing to the sector's overall output, which accounts for approximately 40% of global catches and generates substantial value through local markets and exports. In areas like , this gear provides an alternative income stream for setnet permit holders during restrictions on other methods, though participation remains limited due to variable profitability tied to run sizes. Challenges in commercial hand net fishing include its labor-intensive nature, requiring physical effort from multiple crew members for extended periods, and high dependency on favorable weather conditions, as storms or low visibility can halt operations and reduce yields during critical seasonal windows. Despite these hurdles, the method's simplicity ensures its persistence in targeted, high-volume scenarios where precision and minimal bycatch are prioritized.

Other Uses

Hand nets with fine-mesh netting serve critical roles in scientific sampling, particularly in for collecting , , and during . These variants, often hand-held or towed, enable targeted capture of small and in shallow waters, , and lakes while minimizing disruption. For instance, dip nets with 210–216 μm mesh are used in kick sampling to disturb streambeds and collect benthic organisms over standardized intervals, such as 30 minutes per 15 meters of stream width. Hand-towed nets, constructed with nylon mesh secured to wire rings, facilitate collections in estuarine or environments by allowing water flow while retaining specimens in attached collection bottles. In , hand nets are employed for safely transferring live between tanks and sorting by size in fish farms, promoting efficient without excessive stress to the stock. Designs featuring smooth, synthetic knotless netting—such as V-shaped bags 2.5–3 meters long with mosquito-net mesh—are preferred for their hygienic properties, reducing the risk of and bacterial contamination during handling of juveniles or adults. Round or shovel-shaped frames, typically 25–35 cm deep, accommodate varying fish sizes while maintaining gentle contact. Beyond these primary applications, hand nets support rescue operations for stranded , such as retrieving exhausted or entangled seals and small cetaceans with soft-mesh frames to avoid further injury during shoreline or vessel-based interventions. In pool maintenance, handheld skimmer nets with fine bags efficiently remove surface debris like leaves, , and , ensuring clear water without damaging liners. Adaptations include ultra-fine mesh sizes, such as 1/16 inch, tailored for capturing microscopic like and small in targeted sampling.

History

Early Development

The origins of hand nets trace back to the period, where archaeological evidence indicates their use as essential tools for early human subsistence through . In , notched limestone sinkers discovered in Maedun Cave, , dated to approximately 29,000–24,000 years ago, represent the earliest known indications of netting technology, likely employed to weight down meshes for capturing small in shallow waters. These artifacts, found alongside stone tools and bones, suggest sophisticated communal practices among hunter-gatherers. In , engraved slate plaquettes from the Gönnersdorf site in , dating to around 15,800 years ago, depict the earliest artistic representations of net , showing figures hauling mesh structures laden with , highlighting the technique's integration into prehistoric lifeways. The oldest preserved physical example of a hand net is the Antrea Net, recovered from a in and dated to circa 8500 BCE, constructed from bark fibers twisted into a approximately 30 meters long and 1.5 meters high, designed for trapping in shallow waters. This find underscores the reliance on local plant materials for net construction in , where such tools facilitated seasonal expeditions vital for community survival. In ancient civilizations, hand nets evolved as key implements for riverine and coastal . Egyptians utilized dip and casting nets along the as early as the Predynastic period (c. 5500–3100 BCE), with tomb models and reliefs from (c. 2686–2181 BCE) illustrating fishermen deploying weighted meshes to harvest abundant fish species like and , reflecting their role in daily sustenance and . Greek and Roman adaptations incorporated wooden hoops or frames attached to poles, forming the hypoche or landing net for scooping fish from boats or shallows, as described in classical texts such as Oppian's Halieutica, where the hoop (kyklos) supported a closable for efficient capture. Hand nets held profound cultural significance in indigenous practices, serving not only as practical tools but also as symbols of heritage and communal . Among Native American tribes of the , such as the , Umatilla, and Warm Springs, dip nets were central to salmon fishing at on the for over 11,000 years, enabling vital harvests that supported trade, ceremonies, and social gatherings until the site's inundation by in the 1950s. Technologically, early hand nets were crafted through manual knotting techniques, eschewing looms in favor of simple overhand or sheet-bend knots to interlace plant fibers into durable meshes, a labor-intensive process that allowed for customizable sizes and strengths suited to local environments. This hand-knotting method, evident in preserved fragments from various sites, relied on natural materials like , , or bark, ensuring portability and resilience for handheld use.

Modern Advancements

The introduction of synthetic materials marked a significant shift in hand net construction during the , beginning with in the late 1940s. The first commercial nylon fishing nets were produced in in 1949, replacing traditional natural fibers like and and offering superior strength, elasticity, and resistance to abrasion and moisture. This transition enhanced net durability, with nylon exhibiting greater tensile strength on a weight-for-weight basis compared to natural fibers, reducing breakage and extending service life in harsh aquatic environments. By the post-1950s era, meshes further advanced material properties, providing enhanced UV resistance that prevented degradation from prolonged sun exposure, a common issue with nylon. These innovations improved overall efficiency, allowing hand nets to withstand extended use without frequent replacement. Design improvements in the late 20th and early 21st centuries focused on and portability. Telescoping handles enabled adjustable reach for varied scenarios, from shallow to deeper waters, while maintaining compactness for . In the , the adoption of lightweight composite materials, such as carbon fiber for handles and frames, reduced overall weight by up to 50% compared to traditional aluminum or constructions, minimizing user fatigue during prolonged outings. Additionally, knotless designs emerged as a key advancement for welfare, eliminating abrasive knots that could damage scales or gills during capture and release, thereby supporting sustainable practices. Regulatory pressures addressing environmental concerns drove further innovations in the , particularly eco-friendly biodegradable nets to mitigate ghost fishing—where lost gear continues to trap . Blends like (PBS) and polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PBAT) were developed, degrading naturally within 1-2 years in while maintaining initial strength comparable to conventional synthetics. These materials reduce long-term ecological impacts without compromising short-term performance.

Techniques and Practices

Basic Operation

Hand nets are operated by manually positioning the net in the water to capture fish, relying on the user's timing and physical control rather than mechanical aids. For dip nets, the primary technique involves fully submerging the net to align with the current or fish movement, followed by a controlled sweeping motion to entrap targets. Users position themselves in areas of concentrated fish activity, such as river runs, ensuring the hoop faces upstream to intercept migrating species like salmon. Once fish enter the net, a quick and steady upward lift secures the catch, minimizing escape opportunities. Landing nets, often used in conjunction with rod-and-line fishing, emphasize guiding the hooked into the net rather than aggressive pursuit. The operator positions the net below and behind the fish by leading the fish head-first into the submerged hoop, keeping the net positioned behind the line to prevent tangles, and placing it calmly in the fish's path to reduce stress on the catch and avoid sudden movements that could lead to line breaks. This method is particularly effective for larger , where long-handled designs provide reach without overextending. General handling practices enhance control and efficiency across both net types. Secure grips, such as a firm one-handed hold near the handle base for stability during sweeps or a two-handed on the hoop for lifts, allow precise maneuvering in varying water conditions. To release , users gently shake the net while submerged to dislodge non-target without harm, followed by vertical lifting via the hoop to prevent mesh strain. Common errors can compromise safety and success, including overreaching to net distant , which risks falls in slippery environments or tears in the from excessive force. Attempting tail-first entries often causes to evade or damage gear, while using undersized nets leads to and escapes. of these promotes reliable operation.

Regulations and Safety

Hand nets, also known as dip nets or nets, are subject to various legal frameworks designed to ensure sustainable practices and protect aquatic ecosystems. In the United States, many states impose minimum size requirements to allow to escape, such as a 3/4-inch stretched for hand-held nets used in collection in . Similarly, seasonal bans are common to safeguard spawning ; for instance, closures during reproductive periods in freshwater systems prohibit hand net use to minimize impacts on vulnerable populations. Internationally, the enforces comparable restrictions, including minimum sizes for certain commercial nets. Licensing requirements further regulate hand net use, particularly for commercial operations. In New York, a freshwater permits recreational users to operate one dip net, while in rivers necessitates specific permits under the Environmental Conservation Law to control gear deployment and harvest volumes. Bag limits apply universally, even to hand nets, to prevent ; for example, enforces standard creel limits when using cast nets, with species-specific quotas such as 25 mullet per person daily for certain methods. Safety measures are essential when employing hand nets, especially in wading scenarios where slips pose significant risks. Anglers should use wading belts to prevent water ingress into waders if a fall occurs, along with wading staffs for stability and cleated boots for traction on slippery surfaces. Proper net storage mitigates tangles and accidents; securing the net on the back via a or keeps it accessible yet out of the way during movement. For hook injuries common when handling caught fish, first aid involves numbing the area with ice or cold water for 2-3 minutes, cutting the line if needed, and cleaning the wound with soap and water before applying an ointment and ; seek medical attention for deep barbs. Environmental rules increasingly target hand net materials to reduce in protected waters. As of 2025, regulations in the under the Single-Use Plastics Directive require for gear containing plastic, focusing on , treatment, and to prevent marine litter. Malta has implemented such schemes, requiring producers to finance the collection and of plastic-containing gear. In the , broader goals encourage the use of eco-friendly materials in gear to align with conservation efforts in marine protected areas.

References

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