Cast net for shad

Ive never used a cast net before. Looking to buy one to catch shad to use as flathead bait. Any suggestions?

Hope you’re going to use it in Iowa.

WI = not allowed

MN =1. St. Croix River downstream of the dam at Taylor’s Falls*;
2. the Mississippi River downstream of St. Anthony Falls to the confluence with the St. Croix
River; and
3. the Mississippi River downstream of the confluence with the St. Croix River to the
Minnesota/Iowa border* (the Minnesota portions of the Minnesota/Wisconsin Border Waters
which are all sloughs, backwaters, bays, and newly extended water areas lying between the
Canadian Pacific, St. Paul, and the Pacific Railroad tracks to the Minnesota/Wisconsin border)
Monofilament cast nets not exceeding 3.5 feet in radius (7 feet in diameter).
Cast net mesh size must be from 3/8 to 5/8 inch bar measure.

*Note, successful completion of online AIS training is required before a permit will be issued.

http://files.dnr.state.mn.us/rlp/permits/fishery/gizzard-shad.pdf

Im in Indiana

Buy the biggest your legally allowed to use.

Mesh 3/8th of an inch.

They say an 8′ is ideal for a beginner. Smaller nets are actually harder to throw, again, this is what I have been told.

Agree with the above.

Ed, put your location in your profile, it will help get better info to you.

So 3/8 inch. 8′ diameter. What brand?

I use the Super Spreader.

Agree with the above.

Fitech. You will want to soak your new net in fabric softener overnight before using as well. Google caring for your new cast net.