Introduction

Prawns are popular and delicious crustaceans that are found in various parts of the world. Their sweet and tender flesh makes them a sought-after delicacy by seafood lovers. If you want to try your hand at catching prawns, there are four effective methods you can choose from. In this article, we will discuss these four ways to catch prawns and provide some tips on how to master each technique.

1. Hand-catching

Hand-catching is the simplest and most traditional method of catching prawns. It involves wading or snorkeling in shallow waters where prawns tend to gather, and manually grabbing them with your hands or a small net. To increase the chances of success, use a flashlight at night or look for areas where the water is clear and calm. Remember to be gentle when handling prawns, as their shells can be delicate.

2. Trapping

Prawn trapping is an effective method for catching larger quantities of these crustaceans. The traps used for this purpose are typically made of wire mesh and have funnel-shaped entrances that make it easy for prawns to swim in, but difficult for them to escape. To bait your trap, use fish scraps or other seafood such as squid or clam meat. Place the trap on the sea floor with a rope attached to a buoy for retrieval and let it sit for several hours or overnight before checking the catch.

3. Cast netting

Using a cast net is one of the quickest ways to catch prawns in shallow waters. This technique involves throwing a circular net over a group of prawns by folding it into a certain shape, allowing it to expand and sink rapidly over the crustaceans, trapping them inside when you pull the rope attached to the net’s perimeter tight. Practice your cast net throwing technique on land before attempting it in water, as proper form is crucial for success.

4. Drag netting or seine netting

Drag netting, also known as seine netting, is an efficient method for catching prawns in larger bodies of water such as estuaries and rivers. This technique uses a long net with floats on the top edge and weights on the bottom, attached to two poles on either end. To catch prawns, two people walk through the water while holding the poles, dragging the net behind them. When the desired area has been covered, carefully lift the net and collect your catch.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a hobbyist looking for a fun activity or a commercial fisherman seeking to harvest these crustaceans for profit, these four methods offer reliable ways to catch prawns. Just remember to adhere to local regulations and consider the sustainability of your prawn-catching efforts to ensure that these delicious creatures remain abundant for future generations to enjoy. Happy prawning!