Gill Net

A gill net is a wall of netting suspended vertically in the water column to capture fish through entanglement. Its key features include mesh panels with specific sizes calibrated to target certain species. As a fish swims into the net, its head passes through the mesh, but its body cannot follow. This fish panics and attempts to reverse, wedging its gills into the mesh, securing its capture. Floats keep the net upright, while weights maintain the net's depth. These nets are used in both recreational and commercial fishing. Browse and discover various types of gill nets for sale on Alibaba.com.

Types of Gill Nets

Fish gill nets come in different designs, each offering unique advantages and catching features. Single-layer nets, made of braided twine, are economical and ideal for capturing larger fish that easily break through multi-layered setups. For smaller or more delicate species, multifilament or monofilament nets offer increased flexibility and a gentler catch. Multifilament nets are made from twisted strands to provide good abrasion resistance and strength. Monofilament nets are built from single strands, making them nearly invisible underwater. Taking complexity further, 3-layer nets, known as trammel nets, have a sandwich structure. Two outer layers of large mesh guide fish to the inner layer of finer mesh. The inner layer acts like a pocket, trapping the fish by slipping over its body. The choice of weave depends on the target species and fishing environment.

Materials Used to Make Gill Nets

The effectiveness of gill net fishing depends on the material used to make the net. Nylon offers a blend of strength, flexibility, and resistance to rot and abrasion. It is hard to see underwater, and this property makes it effective for fishing. For extra durability especially in deep waters, anglers opt for sturdier options like polyester. Natural materials like cotton and hemp are eco-friendly, but these materials are less durable than synthetic materials. Regardless of the choice of material, it must strike a balance. The material needs strength to hold fish without harming them unnecessarily.

How Gill Nets Are Used for Fishing

Each type of gill net is ideal for catching a specific size or type of fish. Large-mesh gill nets with a braided single layer are ideal for trapping large fish like tuna and sharks. Monofilament nets can catch salmon and other light-sensitive species, while multifilament nets snag schools of mackerel and herring. Three-layer nets hold delicate crustaceans like shrimp and crabs in their mesh. Bottom-set nets are better suited for cod, halibut, and fish that play on the ocean floor.