Fishing is an age-old practice, but it has only become mainstream in the last few decades. The rising cost of living and increased affordability of electronic gadgets have led more people to explore other methods of sourcing their protein. In particular, fishing nets are very popular in the West African country of Ghana. Here’s everything you need to know about fishing nets.
What is a fishing net?
A fishing net is a simple piece of equipment constructed from woven fabric, rope or netting. When you see a fishing net, you’re seeing a fish trap. You can think of a fishing net as a large, open-topped net strung out over a body of water like a super long net.
The shape of a fishing net allows it to trap a lot of fish in a small space, making it incredibly useful for fishermen. The netting itself is typically made of nylon or plastic, with many modern nets made from synthetic materials that are lighter, stronger, and more durable than natural nets.
Types of Fishing Nets
- Baited Nets – A baited net is laced with food that attracts fish. The fish then swim into the net, where they become trapped.
- Cast Nets – A cast net is a weighted net that’s cast like a net over the water. The fish are caught by their fins as they swim by.
- Go-Fishing Nets – Go-fishing nets are designed to fit around a canoe or boat and are used for “go-fishing”, which catches fish without the help of a boat.
- Smack-Rafted Nets – A smack-raffed net is a net with a wooden frame. A smack-raffed net can be used for fishing from a canoe.
- Weathered Nets – Weathered nets are made from natural materials like coconut, banana or reed, making them look old and weathered.
How to use a fishing net?
Before you can start using your fishing net, you need to know how to set the net out and how to fish your net. Setting the net out is relatively easy. The most important thing to remember here is that the net should be set out so that it can be cranked out later. This will allow you to empty the fish of the net without getting yourself or anyone else in danger. Cranking out a net is just like cranking out an anchor, with a few important differences. First, you’ll be using either a rope or a pulley to crank out the net. Second, you’ll be cranking from the underside of the net, which is important because it keeps you clear of the net when you’re cranking.
Where can you find Fishing Nets?
Fishing nets can be found at almost any outdoor store or online retailer. When buying a fishing net, make sure you buy one that’s durable and lightweight. You also want a net that can be easily stored and transported.
Pros and Cons of Fishing Nets
Although fishing nets are often the first method that people try when they’re interested in fishing, they have their downsides. For example, many people have found that fishing nets are difficult to use and maintain. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to catch fish with a lot of difficulties.
Another thing to keep in mind is that fishing nets are usually restricted to certain bodies of water or specific times of the year, so you can’t fish them whenever you want to. Another thing that many people have found frustrating is that many fish species in a given body of water just aren’t caught with a fishing net.
Conclusion
Fishing nets are a popular fishing method in some parts of West Africa. However, they can be difficult to use and maintain, making them a poor choice for many people.
There are many options available for fishing, and if you’re interested in trying out fishing, you might be better off trying a different method. Fishing isn’t for everyone, but it’s a great way to get protein in your diet while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. With a little practice, you can catch your seafood and have a great time while doing it.
