It’s the first question almost every customer asks us: What size throw net do I need?
The short answer is — it depends on what you’re fishing for. The mesh size (called the “eye size”) determines what fish the net can catch and hold. Go too big and the small fish slip right through. Go too small and you’re making the job harder than it needs to be.
Here’s how we explain it after 25 years of selling throw nets to Hawaii fishermen.
Understanding Eye Size (Mesh Size)
The “eye” refers to the size of each individual mesh opening in the net — measured from knot to knot. A 2" eye has smaller openings than a 2.75" eye. Smaller openings catch smaller fish; larger openings let smaller fish escape but are better suited for larger baitfish.
The net size (diameter) is separate — that refers to how wide the net spreads when thrown. You can have a 10-foot net in a 2" or a 2.75" eye. Both decisions matter, but the eye size is usually the first choice to make.
2" Eye — The Small Baitfish Net
Best for: Nehu (Hawaiian anchovy), aholehole, small akule, and other tiny baitfish
The 2" eye is the most popular net we sell for a reason — Hawaii has a lot of small baitfish, and nehu in particular are one of the best live baits for ulua, mahi, and ahi. This mesh size holds them cleanly without letting them pass through.
If you’re fishing at night under lights or working shallow spots near shore where nehu school up, this is your net.
Keep in mind: The smaller mesh means more resistance in the water, so it requires a clean throw to get good spread. It’s also heavier for its size because there’s more netting per square foot.
2.5" Eye — The Versatile All-Around Net
Best for: Medium akule, opelu, small manini, and mixed baitfish
This is the most versatile size on the water. If you’re targeting medium-sized akule — probably the most commonly caught baitfish in Hawaii — a 2.5" eye is your go-to. It also works well for opelu and other reef fish in the 4–8" range.
For fishermen who want one net that covers a broad range of situations, this is the one we usually recommend. It throws well, catches the majority of Hawaii’s popular baitfish, and doesn’t fight you in the water.
2.75" Eye — Larger Baitfish and Reef Fish
Best for: Large akule, halalu, larger opelu, and mid-size reef fish
The 2.75" eye gives you a bigger opening for larger fish. If you’re working a big akule school in deeper water, or trying to catch halalu or larger reef species, this mesh size is built for that. The wider openings also make it easier to throw in strong current or wind.
This net isn’t ideal for tiny baitfish — they’ll pass right through — but for everything in the medium-to-large baitfish range, it’s a workhorse.
3" Eye — The Big Stuff
Best for: Larger reef fish, halalu, and bigger baitfish
We also carry a 3" eye net for fishermen targeting bigger species or working waters where larger fish are the target. This is a specialized net — most people don’t need it as a first net, but experienced throwers who know their spot often keep one in the truck.
The Mini Throw Net — A Handy Option
We also stock a mini throw net for fishing in tighter spots — tide pools, rocky shoreline areas, or situations where a full-sized net is too unwieldy. It’s also a great option for kids or beginners learning the technique before graduating to a full-size net.
Quick Reference: Which Net for Which Fish
- Nehu / Small aholehole → 2" eye
- Medium akule / Opelu → 2.5" eye
- Large akule / Halalu → 2.75" eye
- Larger reef fish / Mixed use → 3" eye
- Tight spots / Beginners / Kids → Mini throw net
Still Not Sure? Just Ask Us.
This is exactly the kind of question we love answering. If you tell us where you’re fishing, what species you’re after, and your experience level, we can point you to the right net every single time. We’ve been doing this for 25 years — no fish story is too small.
Contact us here, or come by the store in Honolulu. We’re always happy to talk story and get you set up right.