The Complete Guide to Slinging a Flounder Net

Fishing for flounder using a hand-operated net, also known as slinging a flounder net, is an exciting and productive method to catch these delicious flatfish. With some simple equipment and technique, slinging a flounder net can help any angler put fresh flounder fillets on the dinner table.

Equipment You’ll Need

Slinging a flounder net requires minimal gear Here is what you’ll need

• Flounder net – A specialized flounder net has a lightweight circular frame, fine mesh netting, weights along the bottom and floats along the top Nets come in various sizes, but something in the 10-15 foot range works well

• Ropes – You’ll need ropes about 8 metres long attached to the top and bottom of the net to drag and retrieve it. Use strong but lightweight rope that is easy to manage.

• Waders – Chest waders allow you to get deep enough to effectively work the net. Neoprene waders help insulate you in cool water.

• Gloves – Wear puncture-resistant gloves to protect your hands when handling flounder and dragging the weighted net

• Headlamp – For night fishing, a headlamp lets you see while keeping hands free.

How to Sling a Flounder Net

The technique for slinging a flounder net takes a little practice but is easy to learn:

1. Find a flounder hotspot – Look for sandy or muddy shallows where flounder like to bury themselves during the day or feed at night. Tidal creek mouths and channel edges are prime spots.

2. Prepare your net – Unroll the net in shallow water. Attach the ropes to the top and bottom. Have the net ready to go.

3. Slowly walk the net – Grasping the ropes, walk at a steady, slow pace straight toward shore, letting the net slowly unfurl behind you.

4. Keep the net belly down – As you walk, the net will open up. Weights keep the bottom against the bottom while floats lift the top.

5. Create a U shape – Your path and the unfurling net will form a U shape. Fish will be herded into the center as the net drags.

6. Walk all the way in – Keep walking until you reach ankle deep water. The ends of the net will meet the shore, trapping any fish inside.

7. Retrieve your catch – Pull up the bottom rope to capture any fish, then pull the net completely out of the water. Shake the net gently to concentrate fish in the center.

8. Remove fish carefully – Take fish out one by one, grasping them gently but firmly right behind the gills. Place in a bucket of water.

9. Revive and release – Handle fish with care. Revive any fish you plan to release by passing water over their gills before letting them swim off.

Tips and Tricks

Here are some additional pointers for slinging a flounder net successfully:

• Check regulations – Some areas prohibit netting or have strict size/catch limits. Know the rules.

• Go at night – Flounder feed more actively at night and are easier to catch with a net.

• Work the tides – Fish mudflats and creek mouths during an incoming or high tide when flounder move in to feed.

• Camouflage the net – Dull, dark-colored netting is less visible and will spook fewer fish.

• Set under the moon – Bright moonlight helps see without scaring fish, especially on cloudless nights.

• Mind your step – Shuffle your feet as you walk to avoid tripping over bottom debris.

• Net the edges – Angle your walk to concentrate on high percentage spots near drop offs.

• Stay quiet – Any noise can make flounder bury in the mud. Whisper or use hand signals if working with a partner.

• Check often – Lift the net occasionally as you walk to remove any fish before they escape under the belly.

Recipes for Your Catch

A fresh flounder makes delicious table fare. Here are some tasty ways to prepare your catch:

• Pan fried flounder – Dip in egg wash, then breadcrumbs or cornmeal. Pan fry in olive oil 4 minutes per side.

• Flounder tacos – Saute chunks in lime juice and cumin. Serve in warm tortillas with pico de gallo.

• Baked stuffed flounder – Stuff with crabmeat, top with lemon butter, and bake at 400F for 20 minutes.

• Cajun blackened flounder – Coat with Cajun seasoning. Sear in a very hot cast iron skillet 2 minutes per side.

• Flounder en papillote – Bake seasoned fillets in parchment paper packets with vegetables and white wine.

So grab a flounder net and head to the shallows next time you get a hankering for these delicious flatfish. With minimal gear and a bit of technique, you’ll fill your ice chest in no time. Just be sure to admire your peculiar looking catches before cooking up a tasty shore lunch. Tight lines!