Why Dry Fishing Nets? It’s Crucial! Here’s Why…
If you’re a new angler, you must have seen fishermen hanging their fishing nets to dry them properly. When I was new to fishing, I used to think if it had to go in the water again, why care to dry it? Little did I know that It was necessary. So, today, we’ll answer the most asked question “Why do fishermen dry their nets?”
Now, Why it’s necessary, we’re going to answer in detail.
Reasons for Drying Fishing Nets
1. Prevention of Disease Spread
One of the most important reasons to dry your fishing nets is to prevent the spread of diseases like Koi Herpes Virus (KHV). This highly contagious virus can wipe out entire carp populations, with mortality rates as high as 95%.
Wet nets can easily transfer KHV and other diseases between fisheries, especially if you fish in multiple locations. By drying your nets completely, you minimize the risk of inadvertently spreading these devastating diseases.
The Mechanics of Disease Transmission
Diseases like KHV thrive in moist environments. When nets are used in one body of water and not dried properly, they can harbor viral particles, bacteria, and other pathogens.
The next time the net is used, these pathogens can be introduced to a new environment, infecting previously healthy fish populations. Even a small number of viruses or bacteria can lead to a widespread outbreak, causing significant ecological and economic damage.
2. Prolonging Net Lifespan
Drying your fishing nets properly can also help extend their lifespan. When nets remain damp for extended periods, they become prone to mold and mildew growth. These fungi not only cause unpleasant odors but also weaken the net fibers over time. By thoroughly drying your nets after each use, you prevent this damage and ensure your gear stays in top shape so that you can successfully catch fish.
We’ve also written an article on the lifespan of fishing nets, which you should definitely check out next.
Material Science of Net Degradation
Nets are often made from materials like nylon, polyethylene, or even natural fibers like cotton. Mold and mildew produce enzymes that break down these materials at a molecular level, causing them to lose strength and elasticity.
Constant exposure to moisture can lead to hydrolysis, where water molecules break down the chemical bonds in synthetic fibers, further weakening the net.
Check Our Recommendations on Best Fishing Nets From Our Fishing Experience
3. Corrosion
Wet fishing gear doesn’t just threaten your nets – it can also lead to corrosion of metal components like hooks, snaps, and reel seats. This is especially problematic in saltwater fishing, where the combination of moisture and salt can quickly rust even stainless steel. By drying your nets and other gear thoroughly, you help prevent this corrosion and keep all your equipment in good working order.
Chemical Processes of Corrosion
Corrosion occurs when metal reacts with oxygen and moisture, leading to the formation of oxides. In saltwater environments, the presence of salt accelerates this process through electrochemical reactions, resulting in rust and pitting.
Properly drying your gear removes the moisture needed for these reactions, significantly slowing down the corrosion process.
Methods for Drying Fishing Nets
1. Natural Air Drying
The simplest and most effective way to dry your fishing nets is by hanging them on a line or spreading them out in a sunny area. Exposure to direct sunlight and fresh air helps evaporate moisture quickly. The UV rays from the sun also have a sanitizing effect, helping eliminate any lingering bacteria or viruses. If the weather isn’t cooperating, you can still air dry your nets by hanging them in a well-ventilated space like a garage or shed.
Benefits of Sunlight
- Sunlight provides a natural and energy-efficient way to dry nets.
- The UV-C light component of sunlight disrupts the DNA of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing them.
- This natural disinfection process helps in maintaining the hygiene of fishing nets.
2. Using a Dehumidifier
In particularly damp or rainy conditions, air drying might not be sufficient. In these cases, placing your nets in a room with a dehumidifier can speed up the drying process considerably.
Dehumidifiers draw moisture out of the air, creating a dry environment that helps your nets shed water more rapidly. Just be sure to keep the nets well-spaced so air can circulate freely around them.
Dehumidifiers work by using a fan to draw moist air over cold coils, causing the moisture to condense into water droplets which are then collected in a reservoir. Now drier air is reheated and released back into the room. This continuous cycle efficiently reduces humidity levels, creating an optimal environment for drying fishing nets quickly and thoroughly.
3. Hosing Down and Drying
If your nets are caked with mud, algae, or other debris, hosing them down before drying can help clean them more thoroughly. Use a gentle stream of water to rinse away any gunk, then shake off the excess water. Once clean, hang or spread out your nets to dry completely before storing them away.
Hosing down nets not only removes visible dirt but also helps wash away potential pathogens and pollutants. It’s crucial to ensure thorough drying afterward. Any remaining moisture can negate the cleaning effort by providing a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and bacteria.
4. Using Household Items
In a pinch, common household items can also be used to help dry your fishing nets. A desk fan or space heater can circulate air around damp nets, speeding up evaporation. Just be careful not to place nets too close to heat sources, as this could cause damage to the fibers. A well-placed fan can work wonders in a small space like a garage or shed.
Household items provide practical solutions when traditional drying methods are unavailable. Fans enhance airflow, increasing evaporation rates, while space heaters provide a controlled source of heat. The key is to balance airflow and temperature to avoid damaging the net fibers while ensuring thorough drying.
Drying Procedures for Different Materials
| Material | Drying Method | Precautions |
|---|---|---|
| Synthetic | Rinse with fresh water, hang or spread out to dry | Avoid wadding up or stuffing in a bag |
| Natural Fiber | Hang in a shaded, breezy area, dry slowly | Avoid direct sunlight, never wring out, prevent fiber brittleness |
Advantages of Synthetic Materials
Most modern fishing nets are made from synthetic materials like nylon or polyethylene. These nets are designed to be durable and quick-drying, but they still require proper care.
After each fishing trip, rinse your synthetic nets with fresh water to remove any salt, mud, or debris. Then, hang or spread them out to dry completely before storing. Avoid leaving synthetic nets wadded up or stuffed in a bag, as this can trap moisture and lead to mildew.
Synthetic materials are also popular in fishing nets due to their strength, flexibility, and resistance to water absorption. Regular rinsing and drying are essential to maintain their structural integrity and prevent degradation from mold and mildew.
Natural Fiber Nets
While less common today, some anglers still use nets made from natural fibers like cotton or linen. These traditional materials require a bit more care when drying to avoid damage. Avoid drying natural fiber nets in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fibers to become brittle and break.
Instead, hang them in a shaded, breezy area and allow them to dry slowly. Never wring out a natural fiber net, as this can stretch and distort the shape. With a little extra care, natural nets can provide years of reliable service.
If you want to learn more about fishing net materials: What Is the Best Material for a Fishing Net?
