HESBROS
09-18-2008, 01:03 PM
I would like to start off by saying that I do not claim to be a pro or expert hoop netter. I just want to share my experience and idea’s with all. And maybe others will also contribute.
Part I.
The Gear:
As many of you know, the standard length on the ropes that come with hoop nets is 100ft. We don’t fish in more than 50 ft usually, so we cut our ropes to 50ft to make them more manageable. We kept the other 50ft sections in case we need to add them back on if we are fishing deeper.
The top floats that come standard on the set ups are very small. They are difficult for you and other boaters to see. You can easily change them out. We use water jugs with glow sticks so they stand out. Promar also makes some larger floats that can be purchased. You can even add some reflective tape to your main float if you like.
Remember, hooping is done at times along jetties and rock walls. Wrapping a line in your prop can stop your engine and cause you to drift towards the wall in certain conditions.
Bait cages are a must, if you don’t have them, get them, or you may go through a lot of bait. Sea lions will go down to the bottom and tear your nets apart to get the bait out of the standard built in bait pouches. They will even grab the nets while you are pulling them, so be prepared, they can take you over the side.
You will also need a measuring device. You can purchase them at the places that sell the hoop nets. Be sure to measure the opening for accuracy. It should be 3.25 inches. It will be your ticket, not the company’s if you have a short lobster. Maybe even consider filing off a little more so you know for sure your lobsters are legal. I was almost issued a citation by DFG for a short, turns out my device was cut short during manufacturing. Also be sure to measure correctly.
http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm172/ehesbol/Lobster.png
Thats all for the moment, anyone have any other suggestions?
Part I.
The Gear:
As many of you know, the standard length on the ropes that come with hoop nets is 100ft. We don’t fish in more than 50 ft usually, so we cut our ropes to 50ft to make them more manageable. We kept the other 50ft sections in case we need to add them back on if we are fishing deeper.
The top floats that come standard on the set ups are very small. They are difficult for you and other boaters to see. You can easily change them out. We use water jugs with glow sticks so they stand out. Promar also makes some larger floats that can be purchased. You can even add some reflective tape to your main float if you like.
Remember, hooping is done at times along jetties and rock walls. Wrapping a line in your prop can stop your engine and cause you to drift towards the wall in certain conditions.
Bait cages are a must, if you don’t have them, get them, or you may go through a lot of bait. Sea lions will go down to the bottom and tear your nets apart to get the bait out of the standard built in bait pouches. They will even grab the nets while you are pulling them, so be prepared, they can take you over the side.
You will also need a measuring device. You can purchase them at the places that sell the hoop nets. Be sure to measure the opening for accuracy. It should be 3.25 inches. It will be your ticket, not the company’s if you have a short lobster. Maybe even consider filing off a little more so you know for sure your lobsters are legal. I was almost issued a citation by DFG for a short, turns out my device was cut short during manufacturing. Also be sure to measure correctly.
http://i296.photobucket.com/albums/mm172/ehesbol/Lobster.png
Thats all for the moment, anyone have any other suggestions?