Frequently asked questions

For most beginners, a 6–8 ft radius net is the sweet spot — large enough to cover bait schools, small enough to throw without technique. Experienced casters use 10–12 ft radius nets for maximum coverage. Children and kayak anglers typically prefer 3–5 ft. See our full size guide for a detailed breakdown.

The size listed on cast nets — 6 ft, 8 ft, 10 ft — refers to the radius, which is the distance from the center horn to the lead line. The full open diameter is twice that. A 10 ft radius net opens to a 20 ft circle. Most anglers prefer to compare nets by radius.

Use 3/8" mesh for general-purpose bait fishing (mullet, shad, menhaden) — it's the most versatile size and the right choice when in doubt. Use 1/4" mesh for small bait like glass minnows, mud minnows, and sardines. Use 1/2" mesh for larger bait like croaker or spot.

A 10 ft BasicGear Basic or Sports Series net weighs approximately 7.5 lbs, since both are rated at 3/4 lb per foot of radius. Classic Series nets run heavier at 0.75–1 lb/ft for a faster sink rate, and Pancake Series are heavier still for maximum depth. Heavier sinkers sink faster and close tighter on the bottom — important in deeper water or current.

Yes. All BasicGear cast nets are rated for both freshwater and saltwater. The monofilament nylon mesh and sinkers are corrosion-resistant. After saltwater use, rinse the net with fresh water and allow it to dry fully before storage to extend the life of the netting.

The mesh, sizes, and weight are identical. The only difference is the sinkers: Basic Series uses standard galvanized zinc iron sinkers; Sports Series uses PVC-coated sinkers. The PVC coating protects fiberglass boat hulls and aluminum gunnels from scratches. If you fish from a boat, the Sports Series is worth the small price difference.

Classic Series uses pure lead sinkers instead of zinc iron. Lead is denser, so the net sinks faster and opens more fully in current or deeper water. It's the choice for professional anglers who need to get the net to depth quickly before bait schools scatter.

Pancake Series nets are designed with a wider, flatter profile when thrown. They open to a larger radius per foot of material and are available in Gold and Blue variants. They're professional-grade nets for experienced casters who want maximum coverage. Harder to throw for beginners.

Hang the net by the horn or fold it loosely — never stuff it into a bucket or bag while wet. Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. UV exposure degrades nylon over time. A mesh bag or loosely coiled storage is ideal.

Rinse thoroughly with fresh water after any saltwater use. Hang the net fully extended from the horn in a shaded area with good airflow. Drying flat or bunched traps moisture and causes the netting to mildew. A fully dried net before storage will last significantly longer.

Individual sinkers can be re-attached with a loop of mono or braid line. If a section of lead line is damaged, the net can be repaired by a net repair shop or replaced. For minor repairs, replacement sinkers and line are available at most tackle shops.

Never pull or yank a tangled cast net — this tightens the knots. Lay it flat on a clean surface, find the center horn, and work outward section by section. Slow, methodical untangling prevents mesh damage. If the net is severely tangled, soaking it in water for a few minutes loosens the knots.

BasicGear fishing pliers are constructed from 17-4 PH stainless steel — a precipitation-hardened alloy used in marine and aerospace applications for its combination of strength, corrosion resistance, and hardness. The jaws are heat-treated for edge retention.

Yes. The cutting blades on BasicGear pliers are designed to cut through monofilament, fluorocarbon, and braided line cleanly. For braid specifically, position the line as deep into the cutter as possible for a clean cut.

Every BasicGear order — pliers included — ships through Amazon, so it's covered by Amazon's return, replacement, and A-to-z Guarantee policies. See our warranty page for how to start a claim.

All BasicGear products are sold exclusively on Amazon.com. Click any "Buy on Amazon" button and you'll go directly to the product listing. Purchases are fulfilled by Amazon, which means Prime shipping, Amazon's return policy, and buyer protection apply.

All orders are placed and fulfilled through Amazon. After purchase, check your Amazon account under "Orders" for shipping confirmation and tracking details. BasicGear does not process orders directly.

Returns are handled through Amazon's standard return process. Go to Your Orders on Amazon, select the item, and choose "Return or replace items." You can also email us at info@basicgeartackle.com and we'll help coordinate.

International availability depends on Amazon's shipping options for your country. We recommend checking your local Amazon marketplace (Amazon.ca, Amazon.co.uk, etc.) or contacting us at info@basicgeartackle.com for availability in your region.