Smaller mesh
Keeps tiny bait from getting stuck or passing through, but creates more water resistance and sinks slower.
Cast Net Size & Mesh Guide: How to Choose the Right Cast Net
1. Size
All cast nets sold on LiveBait.com are measured by radius, not diameter.
For example, a7-foot cast net measures 7 feet from the horn to the lead line, resulting in a14-foot diameter when fully opened.
2. Mesh
Cast net mesh is measured by the square size, meaning the distance from knot to knot when the mesh is pulled tight in a square shape. Use the chart below to determine size.
*Some anglers refer to "Stretch Mesh" which is double the size of square mesh.
3. Sink Rate (LB/FT)
The sink rate of our cast nets is measured in pounds per foot (lb/ft). This rating refers only to the weight of the lead line per foot of net. It does not include the weight of the mesh, hand line, or horn.
Series |
Mesh Size |
Bait Size |
Bait Fish |
|---|---|---|---|
Multi Series |
3/16" |
1" - 2" |
Micro Baitfish, Glass Minnows, Anchovies |
Multi & Light Series |
1/4" |
1" - 3" |
Small Pilchards, Sardines, Threadfins |
Multi & Light Series |
3/8" (All Purpose) |
3" - 5" |
Medium Pilchards, Sardines, Threadfins, Pinfish, Finger Mullet |
Multi & Light Series |
1/2" |
6" - 7" |
Large White Baits, Large Herring, Ballyhoo, Medium Mullet, Pinfish, Croakers |
Mullet Series |
5/8" |
8" and Up |
Medium to Large Mullet, Bunker Menhaden, Pogies, Tilapia, Catfish |
Mullet Series |
3/4" |
9" and Up |
Blue Runners, Bunker, Mullet (Faster Sink Rate) |
Mullet Series |
1" |
10" and Up |
Large Bait Speciality Net: Mullet, Menhaden |
Choose the right mesh
Mesh size affects how your net fishes
Mesh size changes how easily water moves through the net, how fast it sinks, and how well it holds your bait.
Larger mesh
Allows water through faster and sinks faster, making it better for larger, faster bait.
Rule of thumb:
Match the mesh to the bait you're trying to catch most of the time. Professional fishing guides typically carry multiple cast nets on board due to the range in bait size.
Cast net buying guide
What size cast net should I buy?
There's no single perfect size. Smaller nets are easier to handle. Larger nets cover more water. The best choice is the largest net you can comfortably throw and open.
Choose your size
5–6 FT
Easy & comfortable
Easy to throw, carry and handle. A great choice for beginners, casual fishermen, or anyone who prefers a lighter, more manageable net.
7 FT
More coverage
A nice step up in coverage while remaining manageable for fishermen who don't want a large cast net.
8 FT
Popular all-around size
More coverage while still manageable for many fishermen. It's also the smallest size that allows you to learn our easy Triple Load throwing method.
10–14 FT
Maximum coverage
For fishermen comfortable handling larger nets. More diameter means significantly more water covered with every throw.
OUR RULE OF THUMB
Go bigger — if you can throw it comfortably.
If you're comfortable with both a 5 FT and 6 FT net, we'd usually recommend the 6 FT because it gives you more coverage.
But don't buy more net than you can comfortably handle.
A good open beats a bigger net.
A larger net only gives you more coverage when you can open it properly. We'd rather see you throw a 10 FT net well than struggle to open a 12 FT.
10 FT NET
20 FT full diameter
Great open ✓
12 FT NET
24 FT full diameter
Poor open
Buy the largest net you can comfortably throw well.
New to cast nets?
5 FT and 6 FT nets are excellent choices if you want something lightweight and easy to manage.
Want to learn the Triple Load method? Choose an 8 FT or larger net. The Triple Load is one of our easiest throwing methods to learn and is taught step-by-step in the JUJU Cast Net Mastery Book included with every net.
Shop cast nets
REAL FISHERMEN. REAL HELP.
South Florida, USA
“When you call LiveBait.com, you're talking to our team — not a call center.”
LiveBait.com cast net concierge
Still not sure which cast net you need?
Talk to a real cast net expert.
Choosing the right size, mesh and weight doesn't have to be complicated. Tell us what you're trying to catch, where you're fishing and your experience level. We'll help you choose the right net.
We're an American company based in South Florida, and our team is here to help before and after your purchase.
We are fishermen just like you!
Email ussupport@livebait.com
For fishermen, by fishermen.
Now that you know, let's MAKE BAIT!
130+ 5 Star Reviews
Multi
#1 selling commercial-grade cast net built for those that take live bait very seriously. Perfect sink rate and highest quality mesh.
3/16" | 1/4" | 3/8" | 1/2" Mesh
1.25LB/FT
Shallow to Deep Waters
$149.00
Multi Light
All the same commercial grade construction, just 35% lighter! This is the net full time fishing guides demanded. Proven & tested!
1/4" | 3/8" | 1/2" Mesh
0.8LB/FT - 1LB/FT
Shallow to Moderate Waters
$ 129.00
Mullet
The ultimate large bait cast net perfected by fishing guides to catch fast moving mullet, bunker & pogies.
5/8" | 3/4" | 1" Mesh
1.25LBS/FT
Shallow to Deep Waters
$ 189.00
All Cast Nets Come Included with:
3.5 Gallon Bucket30' HandlineHow To Throw Instructions (Mastery Book)Cast Net Storage BagFrequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about cast nets.
How are JUJU Cast Nets Measured?
JUJU cast nets are measured by the radius, not the diameter.
An 8 ft net measures 8 feet from the horn to the lead line, giving you a 16 ft diameter when thrown properly.
What is the best size cast net for beginners?
A 5 ft to 7 ft net is a great place to start. But bigger nets can actually be easier to throw using our Triple-Load Method (included in the JUJU Mastery Series). Many anglers find 8 ft and 10 ft nets are easier to throw consistent pancakes.
What size mesh should I get?
- 3/16" mesh – micro bait (sardines, anchovies)
- 1/4" mesh – small bait (pilchards)
- 3/8" mesh – all-purpose medium bait (Most Poplular)
- 1/2" mesh - full grown white bait, ballyhoo
- 3/4" mesh – larger bait (mullet, bunker)
- 1" mesh – fastest sinking for large bait
How are JUJU cast nets weighted?
JUJU cast nets use real lead weights measured in pounds per foot. This refers only to the leads, not the mesh or handline.
What makes JUJU Cast Nets different from other nets?
Designed by fishermen for fishermen. Every net go through our proprietary construction and quality control process.
Features:
- 6-panel hand-tied construction
- Double lead lines
- Reinforced selvage
- Ultra-soft strong mesh
- Triple quality check
We stand behind every net.
How long does it take to learn to throw a cast net?
Most anglers learn in 1–2 sessions. Practice in both the yard and water.
Ask our Pros
For fishermen, by Fishermen
Ask Now
Ships From USA
Fast shipping from our South Florida Facility.
Secure Payment
Safe Shopping Guaranteed
Returns & Exchanges
You have 30 days to inspect your product
Support Conservation
We're committed to supporting conservation together
Join Livebait.com VIP Club FREE
Sign up to get special offers and new product announcements