Swimming means open up a whole new horizon for the quiet hunter, allowing him to catch deep pits and distant from the shore brows. But successful trips to the water depends not only on the catchability of the gear or the power of the motor, but also on how well organized the process of saving the caught fish, which is why the question of which cage is best for fishing from a boat becomes critical for anyone who plans serious prey.
The wrong storage can turn trophies into illiquid before returning to base, as fish fall asleep in crowded spaces without water flow, suffocating in minutes. Modern manufacturers offer a variety of solutions, from classic mesh cylinders to complex frame structures with a system of forced water circulation.
In this article, we will discuss all the nuances of the choice in detail so that you can decide on the optimal model for your conditions. We will look at the materials, shapes, fastening methods and additional features that will make your fishing more comfortable and your catch better.
Key criteria for choosing a cage for boat fishing
The first thing to look at when buying is yardageFor a small PVC inflatable boat, a huge metal frame will not only be an extra load, but also a danger, since it can damage the sides or cylinders when sloppy traffic, while for a boat with a rigid hull, you can afford a more dimensional and heavier construction.
The second critical parameter is the material of the mesh, because it is the material that determines the longevity of the product and the safety of the fish. Cheap fishing line can easily break against the spiny fins of perch or ruff, while capron thread or metal mesh can withstand serious loads. However, the metal requires careful care to avoid corrosion, especially if you fish in salt water.
The third aspect is the way the cage is attached to the sides or the transom of the vessel, and there are models with rigid brackets that securely lock the container in the water, and floating options that are tied to the cable. Rigid attachment It is preferable for active pecking, because it allows you to quickly lower the fish into the water with one hand without risking dropping the cage overboard. Floating models are good because they can be released on a long phalt so that the fish is in cleaner water away from the boat.
β οΈ Attention: Never use cages with too small a cage for small fish like roach or peelers, if the net does not have a rigid frame - the fish can get entangled in the cells and die of suffocation before you return.
Materials of manufacture: grid, frame and float
The basis of any cage is a mesh cloth, which is most often made of capron thread, fishing line or thin metal wire. Capron mesh is considered the "golden mean" because of its strength, elasticity and safety for fish scales, it is soft enough not to injure prey when placed inside, but it can withstand the weight of tens of kilograms.
Metal mesh, usually made of stainless steel or galvanized wire, are characterized by maximum durability and the ability to hold shape without additional framework. However, they have a significant disadvantage: the sharp edges of the bars can damage the mucous membrane of the fish, which will lead to its rapid death, and they are heavier and prone to algae fouling, which worsens water exchange.
- π Capron: Perfect balance of strength and softness, does not rot, dries quickly, but can absorb smells.
- π© Metal: It is a perpetual material that holds its shape, but is traumatic to fish and is susceptible to corrosion in salt water.
- πΈοΈ Leska: It is completely invisible in water and does not injure fish, but is less durable and can rub against the shell.
The cage frame is usually made of plastic or metal. Plastic rings are lightweight and do not rust, but in the cold can become brittle. Metal rings (often made of fiberglass with metal meme) provide rigidity of the structure. The float holding the cage on the surface must be made of closed-porous foam or quality plastic that does not absorb water and does not lose buoyancy over time.
β οΈ Attention: When buying a cage, be sure to check the quality of the nodes and connections of the net - the net that sprawls on the first fishing will leave you without a catch, and it will be impossible to return the defective goods on the reservoir.
Design features: cell shape and size
The shape of the cage directly affects its capacity and usability in the limited space of the boat. The classic option is a cylindrical shape that provides good water exchange on all sides and allows the fish to move freely around. However, for PVC boats, cone-shaped or rectangular cages are often more convenient, which can be compactly placed near the side without interfering with rowing or motor control.
The size of the netting cell is a parameter that many beginners overlook by focusing only on the total volume. A cell that is too large is good for fast water flow, but small fish can jump out through it, or the head of a large pike can get stuck, leading to injury. The optimal size is a 10 to 15 mm cell for universal fishing.
Why is the shape of the cone popular?
The cone-shaped cage allows the fish to slide to the bottom under its own weight, freeing up the top to load new prey, which prevents fish from accumulating near the neck and makes it easier to access the contents without having to take the entire cage out of the water.
For catching a predator, such as a pike or perch, are important pen And there's a hard bottom or weighting, and predatory fish, when stressed, are aggressive and can jump out of a shallow cage when pitching, so it has to be at least 1.5 to 2 meters deep to create a sufficient water column to calm the fish, and some models have internal partitions that allow the fish to be separated by species or size.
It is also important to consider the presence of a "neck" - an inlet, which should be wide enough to allow you to lower the fish quickly and without hooks, but also have a reliable locking mechanism.
Ways to fasten the cage to the boat
The safety and usability of the cage depends largely on how it is fixed on board. The simplest and most common way is to attach ropes or carbines to a liner cable or ruff bolts, which is universal, but requires manual fixation, which is not always convenient in the process of active fishing when the hands are busy with lifting.
A more advanced option is to use special brackets and holders that hold the neck of the cage firmly open, which are attached to the side of the boat and allow you to drop the cage in the water with a single hand movement or lift it to inspect the catch. Fixing mechanism It should be made of materials that are resistant to corrosion, as constant contact with water is inevitable.
- π Carbines: They are simple and cheap, but require both hands to be manipulated.
- π§ Hard brackets: They provide fast access and fixation, but take up more space on board.
- β Floating flounder: It allows you to release the cage away from the boat, reducing noise and anxiety for the fish.
When installing the mount, it is important to consider the point of application of the load. If you attach a heavy, full of water and fish cage only behind the thin side of the inflatable boat, this can lead to deformation of the balloon or even overturning the vessel with a sharp jerk. For PVC boats, it is recommended to use additional slats or mounts that distribute the load over a larger area.
β οΈ Attention: Avoid attaching the cage directly to the transom if you have an outboard motor installed - vibration from the running engine will be transmitted to the cage, which can frighten or even stun the fish.
Comparative table of popular models of cages
To make it easier to choose, we have prepared a comparison table that presents the specifications of the different types of cages available on the market, which will help you quickly navigate the range and choose the model that is suitable for your tasks and budget.
| Model/Type | Grid material | Volume (l) | Features | Price. |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| "Classic" Sadok. | capron | 40 | Lightweight, foldable. | Low. |
| The "Profi" garden | Capron + plastic | 60 | Hard neck, pockets. | Medium |
| Metal's garment. | Stainless steel | 50 | Holds shape, long-lasting. | High. |
| The Trophy Garden. | Reinforced capron | 100+ | For large fish, double bottom. | High. |
When choosing between models, you should be guided not only by price, but also by the frequency of departures. If you fish a couple of times a season, a budget capron option will be enough. For avid anglers who spend all weekend on the water, investing in a quality model with a rigid frame and reliable fastening will pay off with the safety of the catch and convenience.
You should also note the availability of additional options, such as internal pockets for storing small items or a removable bottom for easy unloading of fish. Some modern models are equipped with transparent inserts that allow you to visually monitor the status of the catch without lifting the cage.
Rules of operation and care of the cage
Even the most expensive cage will not last long unless you follow basic rules of operation. After each fishing, the product must be thoroughly washed with fresh water, especially if you have caught in water with salt or muddy water. Residues of salt and silt accelerate the destruction of grid fibers and corrosion of metal elements.
Dry the cage should be spread out in the shade, avoiding direct sunlight, which can make synthetic materials brittle. It is better to store the product in a dry room, rolled up in a free roll, to avoid the formation of crevices on the grid and deformation of the frame.
βοΈ Caring for the cage after fishing
Periodically check the condition of the knots and fasteners. If you notice thinning of the thread or the appearance of rust on the frame, immediately repair or replace damaged parts. Using a rotten cage is the risk of losing the entire catch at the most inopportune time.
In winter, storage requires special attention: a fully dried cage can be removed into the cabinet, but you can not allow the storage of wet products at negative temperatures, since frozen water will destroy the structure of materials.
To extend the life of the cage, treat metal elements with silicone lubrication once a season - this will create a protective film and prevent oxidation.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
Can I use a fish tank to store fish in the winter?
Yes, many cages are designed for all-season use, but in winter it is important to ensure that the net does not freeze to the ice, and regularly check for oxygen under the ice, if necessary, making additional holes or using aerators.
What fish can not be kept in one cage?
It is not recommended to keep together a predator (pike, perch) and a peaceful fish, as the predator can injure or eat prey. It is also better to separate very prickly fish (rush) and fish with delicate scales to avoid mechanical damage.
Should I change the water in the cage during fishing?
In flowing water bodies, the water changes naturally, and in standing water with a large number of fish, it is recommended to periodically move the cage to a new place or slightly raise it to renew the water inside.
What does overloading the cage mean?
Overloading the cage reduces the buoyancy, which can cause the neck to go underwater and the fish to swim out, and in addition, the oxygen content of the cage drops sharply in the crowded cage, and the fish quickly fall asleep.
A properly selected and installed cage is a guarantee that your catch will remain fresh and marketable until the very end of the fishing trip, regardless of its duration.