Cast Netting for Beach Fish: A Fun and Effective Coastal Fishing Method

Whether you're after fresh bait or looking to catch dinner, cast netting is a rewarding way to harvest fish right from the shoreline. With just a bit of skill, timing, and the right gear, cast netting can provide a productive and enjoyable day at the beach. Here's everything you need to know to get started.

What Is Cast Netting?

Cast netting is a traditional fishing method that involves throwing a circular net with weighted edges over a school of fish. When the net lands in the water, it sinks quickly, trapping the fish beneath. You then retrieve it using a handline. It’s a common method used along beaches, estuaries, piers, and jetties.

Gear You’ll Need

1. Cast Net
   Choose a net appropriate for your strength, target species, and local regulations:

   • Radius: Typically 4–6 feet for beginners, up to 10 feet for experienced users.

   • Mesh Size: Smaller mesh (¼") for catching baitfish like minnows; larger mesh (½"–1") for mullet and other eating-size fish.

   • Material: Monofilament nets are popular for their quick sink rate.

2. Bucket or Baitwell
   Use a sturdy bucket or aerated baitwell to keep your catch alive and fresh.

3. Gloves (Optional)
   Helps with grip and reduces line burn when handling the net.

How to Throw a Cast Net (Basic Technique)

1. Load the Net

   • Coil the handline neatly in your non-dominant hand.

   • Hold the horn (top center) of the net with your dominant hand.

   • Drape part of the net over your shoulder or forearm and section off the lead line for an even spread.

2. Spot the Fish
   Look for signs like nervous baitfish, birds diving, or flashes in the water. Calm, clear mornings or evenings are best.

3. Cast the Net
   Rotate your torso and use a sweeping, spinning motion to release the net. The goal is a pancake-like spread as it lands.

4. Let It Sink and Retrieve
   Allow the net to sink (2–10 seconds depending on depth), then pull the handline steadily to close the net around the fish.

Where to Cast Net at the Beach

• Tidal Pools and Gutters: These depressions trap fish during the tide changes.

• Sandbars and Breakers: Baitfish often gather here in small schools.

• Inlets and River Mouths: Moving water attracts both bait and predatory fish.

• Around Piers and Jetties: Fish often congregate near structure.

What Can You Catch?

Common species caught with cast nets along the beach include:

• Mullet

• Menhaden (Pogies)

• Anchovies

• Sardines

• Finger mullet

• Shrimp

• Occasionally small flounder or juvenile gamefish

Tips for Success

• Practice your throw at home on grass before hitting the beach.

• Time your trip with the tides — rising or falling tides concentrate fish in shallow water.

• Use polarized sunglasses to spot fish and reduce surface glare.

• Check local regulations regarding cast net size, species limits, and netting zones.

• Be respectful of swimmers and beachgoers when throwing your net in public areas.

Legal and Ethical Considerations

Many states regulate the use of cast nets, including mesh size, species that can be harvested, and areas where cast netting is allowed. Always check your state’s Fish and Wildlife agency website before going out.

Foundry Outdoors is your trusted home for buying archery, camping, fishing, hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor gear online.

We offer cheap ammo and bulk ammo deals on the most popular ammo calibers. We have a variety of deals on Rifle Ammo, Handgun Ammo, Shotgun Ammo & Rimfire Ammo, as well as ammo for target practice, plinking, hunting, or shooting competitions. Our website lists special deals on 9mm Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 45-70 Ammo, 6.5 Creedmoor ammo, 300 Blackout Ammo, 10mm Ammo, 5.56 Ammo, Underwood Ammo, Buffalo Bore Ammo and more special deals on bulk ammo.

We offer a 100% Authenticity Guarantee on all products sold on our website. Please email us if you have questions about any of our product listings.