Rope...
 

Rope management is extremely important...

How do you ensure you (in the kayak) are visible to boaters? I've used the headlamp before for early morning launches at the Shores but it always seems a bit janky and incomplete.

A (5) feet pole with a light on top is a good idea.

I am not sure, but it may be Coast Guard requirement too.



I finally found this video:

https://www.facebook.com/1485504373/...20783382642819

Be sure to read the comments to the right of the video.


I have made two, but not tried them yet.

Where to go?
 

Well, I’ve got all of the gear now and am ready to go out for my first hoop net session. The only problem...where to go? I fish La Jolla religiously, so I’m pretty comfortable there, and I know that the commercial folks set there nets there, but is it a common hoop netting spot? The other options - SD or Mission Bay. Any suggestions? I do NOT want anyone’s secret spots, just some direction, pros and cons, etc. Also, if anyone is looking for a partner, DM me. Thanks!

I zip tied the rods on the eclipse traps and now I don't need to move the cradle ropes. Everything is tight now and it won't pull apart when I pull the nets

Semi Secret Spot...
 

"I do NOT want anyone’s secret spots, just some direction,"
34.052238464, -118.243347168 ... Red Lobster

Clarity
 

Just wanted to add a bit of clarity. Was looking for pros and cons of a first hoop netting session of launching out of La Jolla vs. MB vs. SD Bay. Leaning more towards SD bay at this point. Thanks!

Start in the bay. Last thing you need is to fight surf fully loaded with nets. Maybe you have no problem maybe you will, night and extra gear are a bit of a different game. Good luck.

Thanks DanaPT! Night time on the water is a whole different ballgame. Shooting for MB this weekend.

The bay at night isn't bad once you get used to the dark but be well lit. Boaters aren't looking for you and if your light isn't bright someone might not see how close you really are. That and some people are coming in after a long day on the water and they are tired and probably stowing gear and not paying attention. I carry a super loud whistle and wear a head lamp besides the white light on the stern. I think a moving light catches peoples attention better

Is it worth trying to fight the boats for a spot on opening night, or is it best to wait a night or 2? This will be my first season pulling from a kayak. I’ve always pulled nets from boats.

Hooping Info...
 

Since we can't do in-store or on-location seminars this Spiny Lobster season, the ProStaff at Promar Nets has been uploading some instructional videos...

Check em out if your a newbie or you just need some tips...:cheers1:

http://promarnets.com/hooping/?fbcli...KvzaMqAb0bEx9Q

Excellent resource.
Thanks!

Looks like you’re Ready Harry. Lemme know when you wanna get some bugs! I’m all set. Sunday Night? Let’s break in that Predator

I'm still working out some bugs on this end, either Sunday or Tuesday