Drag Net Info & Hints

There are three major types of Drag Nets for recreational use:

• Piper - Bait 25mm to 75mm mesh

• Mullet - Kahawai 85mm mesh

• Mullet - Kahawai Flounder Snapper Trevally 100mm to 118mm mesh

Regrettably, this doesn't apply to humans. A few careless errors and inadequate knowledge have led to preventable drownings.

Therefore safety points to remember include the following:

• Don't attach the fishing net to any body part.
• Avoid using a dragnet alone in any location.
• Use a setting stick for net setting in the surf to maintain distance.
• Utilize a safety rope between the angler and the on-shore person in heavy surf. Purchase suitable rope starting from $50.
• Ensure the net has 10m or longer bridles for secure dragging, keeping it away if you stumble.
• Remove rings, watches, bracelets, buttons, toggles, and buckles, and wear dive boots to prevent injuries. This applies to boat and shore fishing. Avoid becoming fish food instead of catching it.
• Establish an effective communication system for emergencies, like hand signals, whistles, or flags. Anticipate accidents and plan accordingly, since quick actions may be required. Use ref whistles for noisy environments.
• Wear cotton/polyester gardening gloves for better grip and hand protection when handling nets and fish.
• Consider using a flotation device, like the surf lifesavers' buoy, instead of life jackets. Standard life jackets may alter your balance, making you prone to falling. They may also trap you due to buckles and clips. Surfers and river mouth fishers might not have funds for life jackets.
• Choose a flotation device like the surf life-saving buoy for safety at sea.

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