Cast net

The net is cast or thrown by hand in such a manner that it spreads out while it's in the air before it sinks into the water.

[1] This simple device is particularly effective for catching small bait or forage fish, and has been in use, with various modifications, for thousands of years.

[citation needed] The use of a cast net may be restricted in some areas when stated by use of sign or authorities.

While in a state such as Illinois the law “Provides that all casting nets shall be legal, without size limits, for the capture of shad, minnow,[4]” and many other bait fish.

In some states, such as Texas, "it is legal only for non-game fish"[5] and there are also regulations in place to protect endangered species.

If the guidelines outlined by the states and localities are disobeyed, fines and penalties can be brought against the individual who broke the rules.

[7] Between 177 and 180 the Greek author Oppian wrote the Halieutica, a didactic poem about fishing.

In Norse mythology the sea giantess Rán cast a fishing net to trap lost sailors.