l can throw a 6' net, but l think a 5' would be better.l use it to catch shrimp and baitfish like mullet and minhaden.Is nylon superior to mono?Does the color make a big difference?Are ''non-lead'' weights too heavy?How big should the mesh be?Is 3/8'' too big?
l live in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.The main use of the net will be for shrimp during shrimp season and for smaller finger mullet .l wo not be casting in the surf, but in the creeks where a net can get hung in oyster shells.Usually from a boat or dock.That is why l need a quality net that wo not let the shrimp out.l know a good net can be expensive too.Wal-mart is not gonna cut it.
Yes, l am well versed in the legality of cast nets in my area.

Different states have regulations on what size nets u can use. Some also regulate what size mesh also.

Go with the smaller net. You will not get worn out as fast.

The first net l bought was a 6' net (12 foot diameter) & it just wears me out when casting for finger mullet in the surf. I've seen guys on the Outer Banks in N.C. that catch finger mullet for bait shops. They can be going at it for over a couple of hours. They were using 3' nets (6 foot diameter).

l can not see color making any difference. Go with 3/8'' or 1/2'' mesh, less sand & shells that way.

l suggest getting a net that u can work well with. A good cast is better than 10 bad ones. Especially when u r tired.

wow, just go to walmart and buy one, they come in a tackle box like thing, and size kinda maters on if ur in fresh water or salt, river or lake, or large open water, and l would stick to lead weights, and mesh is based on the size of fish u wanna catch

First step is figure out if they are legal where you intend to use them. In PA l think most are illegal. If not, then read the state regulations on size, mesh, and type.