Michigan Dip Net Equipment

Those of you looking to replace the net portion of your "dip nets", now have
a commercial source.
http://tinyurl.com/qmp78

Be sure to order the 2" square mesh, or larger in order to meet the
minimum 4" stretched mesh size.
Max size is 9x9, a 10 foot net must have the sides shortened to fit the
regs. The DNR will usually tolerate a 1 foot drop (sag) in the middle of
the net, but this is variable. I prefer a taut net which seems to cause
less bottom snags.

Michigan apparently has unique rules on "dip nets" (actually called drop or
lift nets in the industry, but dip nets by the state.) Locally, these nets
are hand made and hard to find. Remember to order the green plastic coating
which extends net life.
The steel bows are REALLY hard to find. Mine were made by a blacksmith on
order, 30 years ago.

Michigan dip nets resemble oversized umbrella minnow nets. Four steel
spring bows spread the net on the bottom and the net is pulled vertically
from bridges and sometimes with a boom and pulley. Minimum mesh size is 2"
sq/ 4" stretched. Season is April 1- May 31 Lower and May 1-31 for the
upper. Rules may change from year to year, and netting on "Designated
Trout Waters" is prohibited. Be careful to check for changes to the list of
trout water.

Be sure to have your new license in hand. Because of the small number of
dip-netters, and the potential for abuse, you will be closely watched.

Pepperoni