1. Fish Perception and Escape Probability

• Soft Nets:

• Advantages: Soft nets are less detectable due to their subtle texture, making them ideal for catching sensitive fish (e.g., bass, trout) as they reduce fish alertness.

• Disadvantages: If a fish struggles after hitting the net, the elasticity of a soft net may allow temporary escape or entanglement issues.

• Hard Nets:

• Advantages: Hard nets are more rigid, quickly immobilizing fish upon contact and reducing escape chances.

• Disadvantages: The stiffness of hard nets may alert fish, especially in clear waters, where reflections or tactile sensations can deter fish.

2. Adaptability to Water Flow

• Soft Nets:

• They naturally conform to water currents, making them suitable for calm or slow-moving waters (e.g., lakes, ponds).

• They create less resistance, minimizing disturbances to water flow and preventing fish from avoiding the net.

• Hard Nets:

• They maintain their shape better in strong currents or deep-sea environments, making them ideal for trawling or bottom fishing.

• However, their higher resistance can reduce operational flexibility and increase energy consumption.

3. Durability and Maintenance

• Soft Nets:

• Lightweight but prone to wear and tear from fish struggles or friction with rocks/coral, requiring frequent repairs.

• Suitable for short-term or small-scale fishing.

• Hard Nets:

• More resistant to abrasion, making them better for long-term use in complex environments (e.g., reefs, deep sea).

• However, hard nets may develop creases from prolonged folding, reducing their lifespan.

4. Target Fish Species

• Small Fish (e.g., sardines, whitebait):

• Soft nets are preferable due to their low visibility and minimal harm to small fish.

• Large Fish (e.g., tuna, sharks):

• Hard nets are more reliable, as they can withstand strong impacts and prevent fish from breaking through.

• Fish with Spines or Sharp Scales (e.g., snapper, mackerel):

• Hard nets may cause damage due to friction, while soft nets reduce such injuries.

5. Environmental Factors

• Murky Waters: The difference between soft and hard nets is less noticeable to fish, so durability becomes a priority.

• Clear Waters: Soft nets have a clear advantage in stealth, while hard nets may reflect light and reveal their presence.

Conclusion and Recommendations

• Choose Soft Nets: Ideal for sensitive species, calm waters, or scenarios requiring stealth (e.g., angling, seine nets).

• Choose Hard Nets: Suitable for strong currents, deep-sea fishing, or high-strength applications (e.g., trawling, industrial fishing).

• Balanced Solutions: Modern nets often combine materials (e.g., nylon + polyethylene) or use structural designs (e.g., triple-layered nets) to balance flexibility and durability.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the target species, fishing environment, and cost considerations. Field testing or experience can help fine-tune net parameters for optimal performance.