When your target is especially shad fish, you need to make some measurements before you start, you need to make sure that you have the best cast net for shad on hand. Without a proper cast net with a preferred radius size and lead weight, you can’t go for your target.
Why Use Cast Nets for Shad?
Shad is a popular bait choice among anglers due to its high oil content, which attracts a variety of fish species. Cast nets are an effective tool for catching shad because they allow you to cover a large area quickly, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Fishing nets made with monofilament material last longer than other material nets. They provide tiny mesh size as well. If you’re searching for durability and quality building, you must grab a net that uses mono-material as a building material.
A net with 10 feet to 12 feet radius, lead weight of 1 lb per radius foot, made with mono-material, and with a good line is the best cast net for shad. If you’re looking for a shad net, you’re at the right place. We’re going to review the best 8 cast nets available on market right now. We’ll share a buying guide too!
These nets are durable and tested. They come up with quality craftsmanship and they provide everything you’ll be searching in a shad net. Let’s take a look at those.
8 Best Cast Nets for Shad
- Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net
- Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net for Bait Trap Fish
- Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
- Fitec Super Spreader Clear Fishing Cast Net
- Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Mono Cast Net
- Betts 8 PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net
- Drasry Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
- Betts 4-Foot Mono Bait Cast Net
8 Best Cast Nets for Shad on Market Reviews and Buying Guide!
01. Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net
01. Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net
The Bait Buster Professional Grade Cast Net is the best cast net for shad available on the market right now. It comes from the famous brand Bait buster and it has everything a shad net requires. You can rely on its material and features undoubtedly.
The color of this net is tricky green that matches with water. It ensures when you’re throwing the net or casting with it, your target is getting confused or not noticing it coming. It comes up with a 12 feet radius size. This site is pretty huge for catching shad. It can cover up your fishing spot pretty easily.
The material for this net is monofilament. The thickness of this mono-material is 0.28 mm. The material is pretty durable and lasts longer than other traditional nets. Besides, it’s a 10 lb test material used in this net. The mesh size for this net is 3/8” square. The mesh size is ¾” when stretched.
It has lead weight added as well. It comes up with 1.5 lb of lead weight per radius foot. This makes the net sink faster and real quick. The poly braided hand line is 25 feet long and it floats. Another advantage of this shad net is it comes up with a 3.5-gallon bucket. This bucket is reusable and contains a lid with it that’s great.
What Makes this Stand Out
- 1.5 lb weight added per radius foot
- ¾ inch mesh size
- 0.28 mm mono-material
- 25 feet long hand line
- Packaged with 3.5-gallon size bucket
- 10 lb test mono-material
- Sinks faster and seals the bottom quickly
02. Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net for Bait Trap Fish
02. Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net for Bait Trap Fish
The 2nd net on this list comes from the famous brand Goture. This brand is pretty popular in this sector and they’ve been making fishing gears for a long time now. If you’re not a newbie in this sector, you know them pretty well. This Goture Shad net comes up with a 12 feet radius size. This size is pretty perfect for shad fishing.
However, the weight is a bit high and the net weighs 4.5 kg. It means you need skills to throw the net perfectly. The mesh size of this net is a bit smaller than the previous net. The mesh size is ¼ inch which is great to have. The material thickness is 0.2 mm. It comes up with a long 32 feet poly braided line to pull your net up.
This net has lead weight added and the weight is ¾ lb per radius foot. This weight makes the net heavy and provides quick sinking. It seals the bottom real quick so there’s no chance of fish escaping. The packaging of this net comes up with a reusable bucket. This bucket can be used for depositing your things. It also comes up with a lid to cover your things.
What Makes this Stand Out
- 12 feet radius size
- ¼ inch mesh size
- 0.2 mm thick material
- Comes with a reusable bucket
- The bucket contains a comfortable lid
- Weighs 4.5 kg
- ¾ lb lead weight added
- 32 feet long braided hand line
03. Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
03. Goture American Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
The Goture American saltwater fishing cast net is the 3rd product on our best shad nets list. This one is almost the same as the previous goture shad net. The big difference is in the mesh size. It comes up with a 3/8 inch mesh size. This mesh size is pretty perfect for shad fishing. It weighs the same as the previous one 4.5 kg.
The thickness of this fishing net mesh is 0.3 mm. It also comes up with a reusable bucket that has a good quality lid. You can carry the net with comfort and keep your things in the bucket as well. The Goture fishing net comes up with a poly braided hand line that’s 32 feet long. This hand line floats.
The 12 feet radius size is perfect and it can easily cover up your fishing spot. It has lead weight added ¾ lb per radius foot. This weight makes the net heavy. With the lead weight, the net sinks faster and seals up with the bottom real quick. The brand goture provides a great versatility on the sizing. You can choose according to your requirements.
What Makes this Stand Out
- 12 feet radius size
- 32 feet long poly braided line
- 3/8 inch mesh size
- Weighs 4.5 kg
- Lead weight ¾ lb added per radius foot
- Comes up with a reusable bucket
- 0.3 mm thick material
04. Fitec Super Spreader Clear Fishing Cast Net
04. Fitec Super Spreader Clear Fishing Cast Net
The Fitec super spreader fishing cast net is one of the best cast nets for shad because of its building material and durability. It comes up with everything you need to catch a huge amount of shad and perform cast after cast. However, the radius of this net is quite low. It comes up with a 4 feet radius size. But there’s a facility of 4 feet radius.
It sinks faster than other cast nets. It has lead weight added 1lb per radius foot. This makes this small net heavy and makes it sink faster. It also seals the bottom pretty quickly that makes sure your target isn’t escaping.
The mesh size of this net is 3/8”. This size is perfect for shad fishing. It comes up with a clear off white color grading. The fishing line of this net is braided and lightweight. The length of the handline is 26 feet. This line is enough for collecting your net up. This line is made with high-quality poly and it floats as well.
The package of this net comes up with a reusable bucket that’s helpful when you’re trying to keep your things in it and you can lock it down with the lid as well.
What Makes this Stand Out
- 4 feet radius size
- 3/8 inch mesh size
- 1 lb lead weight added
- Sinks pretty faster
- Made with durable mono-material
- Poly braided 26 feet long hand line
- Reusable bucket packaging
05. Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Mono Cast Net
05. Betts 18-7 Professional Series Mullet Mono Cast Net
Here comes another good cast net made especially for shad. This net is made by the brand called Betts. They’ve been manufacturing nets for a long time now and their nets are good quality. If you’re looking for a professional-grade net, you can go for this one undoubtedly.
The radius size of this Betts shad net is 7 feet. This size is pretty perfect and gives you access to cover your fishing spot. However, it’s a bit smaller than a 12 feet net. The mesh size for this net is 1 inch. The mesh is a bit bigger though. It comes up with a clean white finish that matches with clear water easily to trick your target.
The package of this net comes up with a reusable bucket and a lid as well. You can keep your things safe and secured in that. The lead weight added to this net is heavy and makes the net sink faster than others. It seals up with the bottom quickly to prevent fish from escaping.
What Makes this Stand Out
- 7 feet radius size net
- 1-inch mesh size
- Lead weight added
- Poly hand line
- Bucket packaging
- Quick sinking feature
- Seals up the bottom
06. Betts 8 PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net
06. Betts 8 PM Old Salt Mono Cast Net
Here comes another one from the brand Betts. This one is one of their top-selling cast nets for shad. The specialty of this net is its material and packaging. It comes from China and the packing is pretty good. Besides, it has mono-material with a good thickness that lasts longer.
The package of this Betts net comes up with a reusable bucket covered with a hard lid that gives durability and security. The radius of this net is 8 feet. This is a bit smaller than the top one but being smaller makes the net a bit lightweight. So, it’s pretty easy to throw and cast with this net.
The mesh size of this net is 3/8 inch. This size is pretty perfect even if you go for the smallest fishes. It has lead weight added per radius foot to make the net sink faster and seal the bottom real quick. By the by, the package of this net comes up with a how-to instruction to make your fishing easier. Even if you’re a newbie, you don’t have to worry about your steps.
What Makes this Stand Out
- Long braided poly hand line
- Comes up with a reusable bucket
- 8 feet radius size
- 3/8 inch mesh size
- Mono material
- Comes with a how-to instruction
- Lead weight added
- Quick sinking and bottom sealing net
07. Drasry Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
07. Drasry Saltwater Fishing Cast Net
The Drasry saltwater fishing net is one of the best cast nets for shad because of its versatility in size. It comes up with different radius sizes. You can choose according to your choice. This net is totally handmade with care. This is not a mono net. It’s a tire net. It lasts longer and the material thickness is greater than mono nets.
The mesh size of this net is ½ inch. This size is a bit bigger than other shad nets. It also comes up with a great color coating that makes the net look great and shiny. It has pure lead sinkers that add up weight to the net. It makes the net go down faster and sink properly. It prevents bait escape as well.
The net comes up with a 49 feet long poly braided hand line. This hand line is pretty long for a 4 ft size net. The good news is, you can add more weight at the lead if you want and customize your net. The packaging is decent and it comes up with a reusable jar. So, there are no worries at all.
What Makes this Stand Out
- Tire net made with care
- Fully handmade
- Versatile in radius size
- 49 feet long braided hand line
- Lead weight added
- Customizable lead weight
- Great color net
- Comes with a reusable bucket
- ½ inch mesh size
08. Betts 4-Foot Mono Bait Cast Net
08. Betts 4-Foot Mono Bait Cast Net
The last one on this list is also from the brand called Betts. If you scrolled down the whole article and didn’t find any of them interesting at all, try this one. Hopefully, this one will be able to please you and meet all your requirements. It’s also made with good care and with mono-material. This net is well packaged and comes up with a bucket packaging.
However, the size is smaller than other nets on this list. It comes up with a 4 feet radius size. This makes the net super light and comfortable. You can easily throw the net and cast with it. It has lead weight added to make the net sink faster. It seals the bottom so there’s no chance of fish escaping.
The mesh size is tiny as it comes up with a mesh size of ¼ inch. With this mesh size, you can catch whatever you want. The net comes up with 1100 yards of the yellow line to provide you smoothness while casting with it. The line is braided and lasts longer.
What Makes this Stand Out
- Thick mono-material
- 4 feet radius size
- Lead weight added
- Quick sinking feature
- ¼ inch mesh size
- Quality made
- 1100 yards of handline
- Great packaging
How to throw a cast net for Shad
1. Hold the net properly. Don’t forget to attach the loop that’s at the end of your handline to your left hand.
2. Loop the handline before you throw it and give it a coil shape.
3. The horn must be gripped in your left hand.
4. Don’t forget to align the upper portion to your left hand.
5. Gather the rest of the net at your right hand.
6. Take the lead line and hang it at your teeth.
7. Now grip the lead line with your right hand.
8. Throw a few times on the ground before you go to your fishing spot.
The “Striper Suit Method”
The “Striper Suit Method” is an advanced technique that can significantly increase your chances of catching shad. The key to this method is forward motion and swinging the weights like a pendulum. Start from a stop, throw everything in your rope, and hold on for a second with your free hand to stretch the net out.
How to catch shad with cast net: A few tips for more shad!
1. Choose the best net available. Check the lead weight and other things. Buy a mono net with a good mesh size.
2. Don’t use casting helpers like gimmicks, circles, or rings.
3. Make sure each time you’re making a perfect circle.
4. Make sure your net is sealing the bottom and there’s no fish escaping.
5. Don’t forget to make a coil of the handline when you’re collecting the net and pulling it up.
How to choose the best cast net for shad : Shad cast net buying guide:
When you’re checking the market and thinking which one will be the best for you, you may get confused easily because there are a lot of nets available on the market out there and you don’t know what to look after when you’re buying a shad net.
In this section, we’ll be discussing what you need to check while you’re buying a shad net and what to avoid.
- Building material
This is the most important factor while you’re buying a shad net. Monofilament materials are most popular and they last longer than other materials. Besides, mono-material is a bit tricky so, you can catch shad easily with it. The thickness of the monoline depends on you. A thick mono line will make your net heavier.
- Mesh size
Well, the ideal mesh size for a shad net is ¾ inch to ½ inch. With this size, your catches are safe and secured. There’s another one that’s 3/8 inch. You can go for that size too!
- Net radius
It actually tells you how much area the net will be covering. If you want it bigger then go for that. Bigger nets are hard to throw by the way. The ideal size for a shad net is 8 – 12 feet.
- Lead weight
This is another important thing you need to check while you’re buying a shad net. It matters as it helps the net go down quickly. If you don’t have a net with proper lead weight added it won’t sink properly. The lead weight seals up the bottom real quick so that the fish can’t escape.
- The handline
The length of the hand line doesn’t matter and depends on you. But you have to make sure it’s long-lasting poly or braided poly and it can take much pressure. Otherwise, it’ll tear up.
Locating Shad: An In-Depth Guide
Understanding Shad Behavior
Before we delve into the specifics of locating shad, it’s important to understand their behavior. Shad are schooling fish that migrate between freshwater and saltwater environments. They are most active during dawn and dusk, often staying near the surface of the water. Shad are also attracted to areas with strong currents and structures like bridges or dams.
Look for Signs of Shad
One of the easiest ways to locate shad is by looking for signs of their activity. Here are some things to look out for:
- Surface Activity: Shad often create ripples or splashes on the water surface when they’re feeding or jumping.
- Bird Activity: Birds diving into the water can indicate the presence of shad or other baitfish.
- Schools of Shad: Shad often swim in large schools. If the water is clear, you might be able to see these schools near the surface.
Use Electronics
Modern fish finders and sonar devices can be incredibly helpful in locating shad. These devices can provide a detailed view of the underwater environment, helping you spot schools of shad. Look for large clusters or blobs on your sonar screen, which could indicate a school of shad.
Time of Year and Day
The time of year and day can significantly impact where you’ll find shad. During their spawning season in the spring, shad migrate upstream in rivers, making them easier to locate. They are also more active during the early morning and late evening hours.
Check Near Structures
Shad are often found near structures like bridges, dams, and drop-offs. These structures disrupt water flow, creating currents that shad are attracted to. They also provide cover from predators.
Pay Attention to Water Temperature
Shad are sensitive to water temperature. They typically start their upstream migration for spawning when water temperatures reach about 50°F (10°C). During the summer, they might seek deeper, cooler waters.
Shad Behavior Across Seasons:
Understanding Shad
Before we dive into the seasonal behavior of shad, it’s important to understand a bit about these fish. Shad belong to the family Clupeidae, which also includes herring and sardines. They are migratory fish, often moving between freshwater and saltwater environments. This migratory behavior plays a significant role in their seasonal activities.
Spring: The Season of Spawning
Spring is a critical time for shad as it marks their spawning season. During this time, shad migrate from the ocean to freshwater rivers to lay their eggs. This behavior is known as anadromous migration.
Migration Patterns
Shad typically begin their migration once water temperatures reach about 50°F (10°C). They prefer to spawn in fast-moving, shallow waters, often at night.
Spawning Behavior
During spawning, female shad release thousands of eggs, which are then fertilized by the males. After spawning, many shad die, although some do return to the ocean.
Summer: A Time for Growth
Summer is a time of growth for shad. After hatching, juvenile shad spend the summer months in freshwater environments, where they feed and grow rapidly.
Feeding Habits
Shad are filter feeders, consuming plankton and other small organisms. Their feeding activity often increases during the summer months due to the abundance of food.
Predation
Juvenile shad are prey for a variety of fish species, including bass and catfish. Their survival often depends on their ability to find suitable cover and their speed.
Fall: The Journey to the Ocean
As fall approaches, juvenile shad begin their journey to the ocean. This migration is triggered by changes in water temperature and daylight hours.
Schooling Behavior
During their migration, shad often form large schools. This schooling behavior provides protection from predators and increases their chances of finding food.
Winter: Life in the Ocean
During the winter months, shad reside in the ocean. They typically stay near the surface, where they continue to feed and grow.
Overwintering Strategies
Shad employ various strategies to survive the winter months. They often move to deeper waters, where temperatures are more stable. They also reduce their activity levels, conserving energy for the upcoming spawning season.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions):
What is a good cast net size?
For casting, a good net size is 6-10 feet. It depends on you, the force you’re giving, and your techniques. But when you’re casting for shad, try buying a net that comes up with 8 feet to 12 feet radius. It’ll cover more of your fishing spot. If you think about the weight, go for a smaller one as the smaller the size the less the weight.
What is the best time to catch shad?
Shad fishes have some weird nature as they spend the winter and the autumn in the ocean. According to that, the best time to cast for shad is summer and spring. They return to the easy access river in April and May. You can then go for them as well.
What is the best material for a cast net?
The best and most popular material for a cast net is monofilament. When you’re buying a cast net make sure it’s made of thick mono-material. Your net will last longer and you’ll able to get enough out of it.
What are the Different Types of Cast Nets?
There are several types of cast nets, differentiated by their size, shape, and the method used to throw them. Here are a few common types:
- Hand Cast Nets: These are the most common type of cast net. They are thrown by hand and are typically circular in shape.
- Easy Throw Cast Nets: These nets are designed to be easier to throw than traditional hand cast nets, making them a good choice for beginners.
- Drawstring Cast Nets: These nets have a drawstring that can be pulled to close the net, making it easier to retrieve your catch.
- Shore Throw Cast Nets: These nets are designed to be thrown from the shore. They are typically larger and heavier than other types of cast nets.
What are the Disadvantages of Cast Nets?
While cast nets are an effective tool for catching baitfish, they do have some disadvantages. Here are a few:
- Requires Skill: Throwing a cast net effectively requires practice and skill. It can be difficult for beginners to master.
- Limited Range: Cast nets have a limited range. You can only throw them as far as your strength allows.
- Can Damage Habitat: If not used carefully, cast nets can damage aquatic habitats. They can disturb the substrate and potentially harm non-target species.
What are the Two Parts of a Cast Net?
A cast net consists of two main parts:
- The Net: This is the circular part of the cast net that captures the fish. It has weights around the edges to help it sink and trap fish.
- The Handline: This is the rope attached to the center of the net. It’s used to throw the net and retrieve it once it’s been cast.
How do Cast Nets Close?
Cast nets close using a simple yet effective mechanism. When the handline is pulled, it causes the weights around the edge of the net to come together, closing the net and trapping the fish inside. This allows the angler to retrieve the net and the captured fish.
Cast nets are a versatile and effective tool for any angler. While they do have some disadvantages and require some skill to use effectively, with practice and the right technique, they can greatly enhance your fishing experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cast net for shad can significantly enhance your fishing experience. By considering factors like mesh size, net size, weight, material, and safety, you can select a net that will help you catch more shad and ultimately, more fish. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t master it right away. Happy fishing!
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