Catching bait is a key part of fishing, and you’re going to need some help. Some anglers try and catch a fish without knowing what kind of bait they’re trying to attract and end up with nothing.
Thankfully, the right bait will attract predators that feed on your target fish, which will greatly increase your chances for a successful day of fishing.
This article will help you choose the best cast net reviewed for your fishing needs to maximize your catch.
Let’s review some of the best cast nets in store!
5 Best Cast Nets
- Best Cast Net For Maximum Catch-Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net
- Best Cast Net for Beginners-Betts 8 PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net
- Best Cast Net For Any Angler-Ahi USA 600 Pro Series 6 Panel Cast Net
- Best Cast Net for Baitfishing-Betts Tackle Old Salt Cast Net
- Best Cast Net For Mullet Fishing-Betts Premium Series Mullet Casting Nets
1. Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net
Best Cast Net For Maximum Catch
Key Features
- 0.28mm Monofilament Net Material
- 3/4″ Stretched Mesh (3/8″ Square Mesh)
- 100 LB Test Braille Lines, 25 FT of Poly Braided Hand Line
- Heavy 1.50 LB of Real Lead Per Radius Foot
- Superior Craftsmanship
The Bait Buster professional-grade cast net has an amazing 3/8 square mesh that can catch fish of any size. If you’re looking for a heavy-duty net that will work, then this is the one for you.
This versatile cast Net features superior build quality and real lead weight. It will work fast to sink quickly and produce a maximum catch.
2. Betts 8 PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net
Best Cast Net for Beginners
Key Features
- Eight ft. 3/8″ mesh net
- 1lb. of lead per foot 1/2 inch Monofilament Mesh
- This is the perfect tool for organized people as it comes with a durable box
This old salt Series net is the workhorse of the industry. The old salt Series has been designed to be versatile and easy to use. Most cast net users already know Betts, for it is asked for by name more than any net made.
This saltwater fishing cast net has all things you need in a durable utility box, with full “how-to” instructions so that beginners can use this fishing net!
3. Ahi USA 600 Pro Series 6 Panel Cast Net
Best Cast Net For Any Angler
Key Features
- 6-panel construction with double selvage, Clear Mono Net 1/4″ Mesh
- Premium Clear UBE Chip Monofilament Netting
- 1.35 LBS of lead weight per foot
- 100lbs test braille line
- Reusable hard plastic container
The Ahi USA 600 Pro Series 6 Panel Cast Net is an excellent choice for any angler for various reasons.
One of them is that they are made with Premium Clear UBE Chip Monofilament Netting, 1/4″ square mesh, 100 lbs test braille lines, and 1.35 lbs. of lead weight per radius foot. These net sinks fast compared to other cast nets.
4. Betts Tackle Old Salt Cast Net
Best Cast Net for Bait fishing
Key Features
- Packaged in a utility box
- No Spook Design, 6′ Diameter
- 3/8″ mesh, Reflective, and almost invisible
The Betts Tackle Old Salt Cast Net is a “no spook” fishing net designed to reduce sunlight’s reflection when you’re fishing. This is an excellent cast net, for it’s almost invisible in and out of the water! Due to this, the baitfish are spooked by the net.
5. Betts Premium Series Mullet Casting Nets
Best Cast Net For Mullet Fishing
Key Features
- Heavy .44mm white monofilament nets
- 1.2 lbs. per Foot, larger braille lines
- Size 6′ Radius – 1″ Mesh and strong selvage
- Quick to open and sink
The Betts Premium Series Mullet Casting Net has a heavy white monofilament net with more lead weights, more/larger Braille lines, bonded thread, treated leadline, and strong selvage.
This net is primarily designed for mullet bait and opens and sinks quickly for a sure catch!
Things to Consider When Buying a Cast Net
Buying the best cast net depends on the type of fishing the angler is looking to take part in. A heavier and better quality cast net will be ideal for fishing for a large bass or other fish.
For different types of fishing, such as trout or panfish, lighter and less expensive options may be more suitable.
Weight
Cast nets typically come in ¾, 1, and 1.5-pound weights per foot of radius. It may seem like a lot of weight, but the more lead and the tighter it’s spaced, the faster the net will sink and the more bait you’ll catch with each throw.
You can fish more fish with a heavier cast net, but it will also make fishing with a cast net harder.
A weighted net is a must for catching big fish because it tends to sink faster. However, most anglers like a lighter net because it allows them to perform more precise and accurate casts.
Mesh Size
Mesh size is measured in two ways. There’s a standard “square” measure and a “stretched” or diagonal size as well. That’s because the net’s dimensions are determined by how much space it covers. Thus, it is based on the length and width of its mesh.
If you are looking to catch smaller fish, then go small with fry nets. They are designed to catch shrimp but don’t be fooled. Larger fish are just as baited with small mesh as they would be with larger bait cast net options.
For larger bait, you should use ½” to even as large as one ¼” mesh to give you the best and most effective use of your fishing line. This is ideal for mullet, big menhaden, and the like, and perfect for huge baits.
Cast Net Radius
Here’s a tip: the radius of a cast net is more than just how big it is when fully expanded. Every experienced angler knows that going with the biggest trap that you can find may be a huge mistake.
Pick a net that fits your capability to handle it. Also, be sure to check out the size of your net because a too-small net will result in a higher chance of missing a catch.
Ease of Use
There are many different kinds of fishing nets out there, but regardless of which you choose, you’ll need to do some practicing before mastering the cast net throw.
However, additions like wrist straps, rings, and discs can make fishing with a cast net a lot easier for beginners!
Frequently Asked Questions
The mesh size of the cast net you need for catching fish depends on your experience level. If you’re just starting, make sure you pick an 8-foot net because a smaller size cast net is harder to control.
If you’ve been net fishing for a while, then a 6-foot or smaller net is what you’ll need.
Which is better, nylon or monofilament cast net? Monofilament does not sink as fast as nylon, but it tangles less and absorbs less water. And that said, buy the net that is appropriate for you.
With a little bit of guidance, you can harness the power of your fishing destiny with a great cast net. You should only consider the shapes and mesh sizes and be used as a traditional bait holder. There’s no limit to what you can do to bait fish!
Ready to Fish?
While a selection of cast nets is available, there is no clear answer to which one is the best cast nets. It will depend on your skill level in casting nets.
Make sure to pick the right one that is suitable for you. Also, keep in mind that there may also be other factors that will affect the net’s effectiveness, like your strength and bait size.
Fishing Expert 
Facebook
YouTube
