Drag Net Fishing in New Zealand – How to Get Started

Looking for an easy, family-friendly way to catch your own dinner? Drag net fishing in New Zealand is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to bring home fresh flounder, mullet, kahawai, snapper, and baitfish. With the right net and some teamwork, you’ll be set for a great day on the water.

What Is Drag Net Fishing?

Drag netting works by attaching a net to two poles and pulling it through the water. The net forms a curve, or “belly,” where fish get caught. It’s a traditional method still popular today because it’s effective, fun, and doesn’t require expensive gear.

At Action Outdoors, we’ve been building fishing gear for decades. Our NZ-made drag nets are designed for local conditions, drawing on more than 40 years of commercial fishing experience. Compared to standard imports, our drag nets have:

• 30% more mesh for better strength and durability

• Almost double the floats for improved buoyancy

• Heavy braided lead-core bottom ropes that sit perfectly in the water

👉 Buy drag nets online here

Choosing the Right Drag Net Size

When it comes to drag nets, bigger isn’t always better. A 10–20 metre drag net is perfect for two people and will easily catch enough fish for dinner.

New Zealand regulations allow a maximum drag net length of 40 metres—but rules change often. Always check the MPI website for the latest fishing regulations in your area before heading out.

Safety Tips for Drag Net Fishing

Drag net fishing NZ beaches can range from ankle-deep to chest-deep waters, so safety is key. Keep these rules in mind:

• Never tie a drag net to your body

• Use a 10m rope bridal on each side to keep distance between you and the net

• Always fish with a partner—never drag net alone

• In heavy surf, connect a safety rope between the fisher and the shore person

• Wear sensible footwear and remove jewellery or clothing with toggles to avoid snags

• Use gloves to protect your hands when handling nets and fish

👉 Action Outdoors also stocks a wide range of fishing ropes starting at $50.

Best Conditions for Drag Net Fishing in NZ

Like any type of fishing, drag netting is partly about luck. But you’ll increase your chances if you go when:

• The tide is high

• The weather is calm, and water is clear

• There’s little or no seaweed

Avoid rip currents, strong surf, or heavy swells—it’s not worth the risk.

Drag Net Fishing Technique – Step by Step

1. One person stands knee-deep in the surf holding the shore end of the net.

2. The second person wades out chest-deep with the other end, pulling it in a straight line.

3. Curve the net back toward the shore, creating a wide arc.

4. Keep tension on the ropes at all times.

5. Pull the belly of the net back onto the beach to see your catch.

This method works well for flounder nets, kahawai nets, and mullet nets in New Zealand waters.

Aftercare for Your Drag Net

To make your net last:

• Remove seaweed and debris while it’s still wet

• Rinse thoroughly with fresh water

• Dry out of direct sunlight

Pro Tips from Action Outdoors

• Use the smallest legal mesh size allowed—it reduces bycatch and makes it easier to release undersized fish alive.

• Skip life jackets when drag netting in the surf; they can cause balance issues and snag risks. Instead, keep a flotation device on hand.

• Gloves are a must for comfort and safety.

Why Choose Action Outdoors Drag Nets?

Our New Zealand-made drag nets are built stronger and smarter than imports, making them ideal for local conditions. Whether you’re after a flounder drag net, a kahawai drag net, or a general-purpose beach seine, we’ve got you covered.

👉 Shop drag nets online now

Final Word: Drag net fishing in New Zealand is about more than the catch—it’s about family, fun, and the chance to enjoy fresh fish from our own coastline. With the right net, safe practices, and a bit of patience, you’ll be rewarded with both memories and meals.

Got questions? Contact us at admin@actionoutdoors.kiwi.

🎣 Tight lines and good fishing!