Catching eels can be a rewarding and exciting endeavor. Not only are eels delicious, but they also provide a challenging and fun way to spend time outdoors. Building your own eel trap, known as a Nassa, is a great way to enhance your chances of success. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of constructing a Nassa trap.
Materials You'll Need:
- Large plastic bottle (2-liter soda bottle works well)
- Scissors or utility knife
- Mesh netting or nylon stockings
- Zip ties or small pieces of wire
- String or fishing line
- Bait (fish heads, worms, or anything eels are attracted to)
Step 1: Preparing the Bottle
Begin by thoroughly cleaning and rinsing the plastic bottle to remove any residue or odors. Once clean, use scissors or a utility knife to remove the bottom of the bottle. This will create an entrance for the eels.
Step 2: Adding the Mesh Netting
Cut a piece of mesh netting or nylon stocking large enough to cover the open end of the bottle. Secure it tightly in place using zip ties or small pieces of wire. This will prevent the eels from escaping once they enter the trap.
Step 3: Creating an Inner Chamber
Using scissors or a utility knife, cut the bottle approximately 1/3 of the way up from the bottom. This will create an inner chamber where the eels will be lured in. Make sure the opening is large enough for the eels to enter but small enough to prevent their escape.
Step 4: Attaching the String
Take a length of string or fishing line and securely attach it to the top of the bottle. This will be used to anchor the trap and retrieve it from the water. Make sure the string is long enough to reach the desired depth of the waterbody you plan to trap eels in.
Step 5: Baiting the Trap
Place your chosen bait into the inner chamber of the trap. Eels are attracted to a variety of baits, including fish heads, worms, and even small pieces of raw meat. Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your area.
Step 6: Deploying the Trap
Find a suitable location in the water where eels are known to frequent. Lower the trap into the water, ensuring that it is fully submerged and the entrance is facing upwards. Use a secure anchor to keep the trap in place. Leave the trap in the water for several hours or overnight.
Step 7: Retrieving the Trap
Carefully pull on the string attached to the trap to retrieve it from the water. Be prepared for the possibility of catching other aquatic creatures, as eel traps are non-selective. Once you've retrieved the trap, remove the captured eels and release any unintended catch back into the water.
Building your own eel trap, or Nassa, is a relatively simple process that can greatly increase your chances of catching eels. By following this step-by-step guide, you'll have a fully functional trap ready to be deployed in no time. Remember to always check and comply with local fishing regulations and consider the ethical handling and release of wildlife. Happy eel trapping!