Anyone ever make a dip net?

[dogbig]

The netting on my dip net needs to be replaced. I'd hate to throw the net out if it can be fixed. I think it will be a cool winter project. I once saw some videos on YouTube showing how its done but can't find them now. Anyone have experience it net making that wouldnt mind showing some pics of the process and the correct materials?

Thanks,

db

[JALOPY]

I replace mine with galvanized chicken wire. You can buy a 25' roll for like $15. I tie the top to the net using steel fishing line off one of my reels I don't use anymore. The bottom, I fold over and bang flat then put a few steel line stitches to hold it together. It lasts about 3-4 seasons and takes about 15 minutes to replace.
I bought a hand tied one at one of the shows and I didn't like it because the snoods get caught. I tried putting extra netting around the rim and it just drags too much in the water.
If I remember I will post pictures later. I have 4 different nets and everyone I take prefers these the most.

Good Luck

[27 sailfish]

Most guys prefer wire - much easier to shake crabs out of it and it holds up well.

I've used both chicken and poultry wire.

Poultry wire is larger diamond shaped. Less drag in the water but little crabs ( bait stealers ) often go through.

You can use a bucket as a mold for a flat bottom net or get fancy and cut the wire for a taper bottom.

As Jalopy posted - it is easy to do. First time might take 30 minutes but after that it goes faster.

You can use Monel wire - it bends easy and holds up as well as stainless. I use a running stitch - fancy way of saying - overhand knot every pass.

Next time you are in a bait shop , study how the net is made.

It's fun using a net you built yourself.

[Burchbeer]

When I retire. Maybe!

[rj]

Net making
http://www.nightshaderose.com/netting/start-net.php

[JALOPY]

Here are my nets.

[dogbig]

Here are my nets.

Thanks for everyones suggestions. Jalopy, those are exactly what I'm striving for. I think Bowens Farm Supply in Annapolis sells chicken wire by the square yard. What gauge wire is that, I want the net to be sturdy enough that I'm not always re-forming it everytime it gets dropped or bumped.

[JALOPY]

I have no idea what the guage is, I just went to Home Depot and bought a small roll of chicken wire. Cut it along the horizontal wire, I don't measure anything, I just do what feels right. I think the roll is 24" wide and I cut it down to 18" or so. Once I wire the top on, I fold 2 sides of the bottom together, hold with a few stitches and then fold and bend together the other 2 sides, kinda like the bottom of a Brown paper bag or a gift wrap on a box. I turn it upside down on a stump and pound all the folds till nice and flat with a hammer. A few more stitches to keep it tight and done.

I keep the nets in a rod holder so they don't get stepped on, if they do, just remold. I have had them last 3-4 years before they start falling apart.

I am in Laurel, if you want to check them out in person.

John

[bayhead]

We carry REPLACEMENT galvinized AND Vinyl dip nets - 13" and 15" - we make 'em in our store along with other wire products.

Chuck (bayhead)

Chesapeake Crabbing Supplies
2202 Conowingo Road
Bel Air, Maryland 21015 - 410-838-1443

[JALOPY]

Chuck, I wished I lived closer to a store like yours. Do you ever make it to the Flea Markets over the winter? I did buy a couple orange baskets from you at the last snood fest.
John