DIY Fishing Nets

DIY Fishing Nets

fly fishing image by John Sfondilias from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Having a handheld fishing net you can attach to your lanyard, vest or jacket helps ensure the fish you fight and reel in makes it to your creel, or photographed before a release. With some old discarded sporting goods and various odds and ends, you can make your own handheld fishing net. This fishing net can be lacquered, varnished or painted in any style you like, making it truly your own piece of fishing gear.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:
  • Old racquetball racket
  • 20-plus small zip ties
  • 1 yard of fine mesh fabric netting
  • Scissors
  • Varnish or lacquer
  • Sponge paintbrushes
  • Cork handle tape
Step 1
Cut all the line from the racquetball racket and remove the threads and lines from the holes along the outer edge.
Step 2
Place the yard of fine mesh fabric over the racquetball racket head, and pull it down, keeping the fabric edges on top and over the sides of the racquetball edge. Racquetball rackets are best used for these nets because they are shorter in the body, but have a large hoop for scooping.
Step 3
Where the mesh fabric and netting meet the edge of the racket head, thread small zip ties through the mesh fabric and the holes drilled along the racket head where the string was removed. Go around and fasten the zip ties as tightly as possible.
Step 4
Cut the excess mesh fabric hanging over the edge of the racket, leaving the mesh net. Keep the net about 12 to 14 inches deep. Cut any extra plastic left on the zip ties so the net edge becomes smooth and snag-free.
Step 5
Varnish, paint or lacquer the wooden racket in whatever color or design your prefer. Let dry. Wrap cork handle tape around the butt end and handle of the net until you get your desired grip size.

Article Written By Eric Cedric

A former Alaskan of 20 years, Eric Cedric now resides in California. He's published in "Outside" and "Backpacker" and has written a book on life in small-town Alaska, "North by Southeast." Cedric was a professional mountain guide and backcountry expedition leader for 18 years. He worked in Russia, Iceland, Greece, Turkey and Belize. Cedric attended Syracuse University and is a private pilot.

Write for Trails.com
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