net tying knots

RescueRiley

RescueRiley

Joined
Mar 22, 2006
Messages
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I've seen some people make some pretty nifty things on here out of cordage, nets, bags, slings etc, I think Doc-Canada might hae posted alot of pics like this, (although I could be mistaken) Just looking for advice on the best knts to use when practicing net craft like this. THanks.
 
I've never woven a net but I've made fish nets using the simple method In the sas handbook. The only two knots you need to know for that method is a prusic (SP)and simple overhand knot.You can make hamocs with this method as well.I'll try to give more detail if anyones is interested.
 
Hey RR,

This is the basic knot and the one most net makers use pretty well exclusively. It is called the Sheet Bend, Weaver's Knot, Net Knot, well, you get the idea.

You might also find something here, of interest. Asemery, who is involved with this site, is a skilled netmaker and he has made some beautiful nets. Also a very nice guy, who loves to answer questions.

The technique lotoblades is probably describing is hanging a bunch of cords and alternating which pair you tie overhand knots in. This technique works but is much slower than proper netting techniques. It has the advantage that once you see it, you probably won't forget it.

If you're interested in netting, take a little bit of time to learn proper technique. It's not hard, doesn't take very long, and it's a very useful and versatile skill.

If you have any other questions, feel free.

Doc
 
I carry my extra cordage on a nylon netting needle but I have yet to make a net with one. This is on my "skills to learn" list. Mac
 
OK here's a question. How do you know what size to make the openings in a gill net? Mac
 
If anyone has ever seen the Howard Hill movie Tembo it has some very good footage of bushmen hunting with long nets, very effective as the video shows. I carry a commercial net but never have used it. Chris

Edit: here's a pic
Picture896.jpg
 
pict said:
OK here's a question. How do you know what size to make the openings in a gill net? Mac
Click to expand...

I've only used a sweep net to catch fish, one time and have never used a gill net, so I can't speak from experience.

As far as mesh size, that would depend on where you are and the probable size of the quarry fish. Most references I've seen recommend a 1.5 inch mesh. Here, for example.

With mesh size, some people refer to the mesh size with the mesh stretched out, others, the length of one side of the mesh. In the example given, it would be one side of the mesh.

Doc
 
Thanks. Now if I only had fish out where I practice my skills it would be different. I'm pretty sure the lack of fish is due to the 70 meter waterfall below where I camp. Mac
 
pict said:
Thanks. Now if I only had fish out where I practice my skills it would be different. I'm pretty sure the lack of fish is due to the 70 meter waterfall below where I camp. Mac
Click to expand...


Sounds very scenic. Remember, nets aren't just for fish. Drop nets can work well with birds.

Doc
 
Net mesh size is governed by law in my country, and probably in other places too (for fishing that is). I think that net mesh size is measured by stretching the mesh 'closed' and measuring between the knots.

When making a mesh of a certain size, a 'gauge' is used. The gauge would typically be a bit of flat wood like a short wooden ruler. Correct me if I'm wrong, Doc...but isn't the gauge about half the width of the stretched mesh?

The use of nets for fishing is only permitted in the sea in my country....unless the net is used to make an eel trap, and this may be used in fresh water.

70 meter waterfall.... dang. Wanna be careful climbing around the top of that one.
 
coote said:
Net mesh size is governed by law in my country, and probably in other places too (for fishing that is).
Click to expand...
Quite right, but we're talking about survival purposes and then all bets are off.

coote said:
think that net mesh size is measured by stretching the mesh 'closed' and measuring between the knots.
Click to expand...
I've seen it expressed both ways. My buddy, Slasher, who when he was a kid, used to make fishing nets for East Coast (Newfoundland) fishermen. He expresses it the way you mention. Other people use one side of the mesh, because it is the same size as the 'gauge' that you mention below. Thus a 1" mesh would be made with a 1" gauge. Kind of keeps things simple. The problem, of course is, it's both ways, so you have to be specific when providing details. In the web site that I linked to in Pict's post, they said it was 1-1/2 inch mesh. If that's a stretched measurement, it would be way too small for a gill net unless you're going for very small fish, so they have to be talking about 1-1/2" sides.

coote said:
When making a mesh of a certain size, a 'gauge' is used. The gauge would typically be a bit of flat wood like a short wooden ruler. Correct me if I'm wrong, Doc...but isn't the gauge about half the width of the stretched mesh?
Click to expand...
Quite right, of course, Mr. coote, though apparently a lot of commercial net makers didn't use gauges ('cards' as Slasher calls them) because they had the experience to make the mesh the correct size.

Doc
 
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