DIY net (no jumping on the reef!)

WestMI-Reefer · Apr 25, 2023

Planning on homing a purple firefish (Nemateleotris decora) in this shallow reef. Net is a must with them being known jumpers.
Here’s my attempt with acrlyic rods, 1/4 & 1/16 sheets, netting, and weldon 16. Might add a feed port later on.
Turned out decent, but still no match for some of the custom made nets manufacturers make!
Anyone else try these?

unchaotic · Apr 25, 2023

If I had a proper shop space again I’d probably start making some on the side … not a lot of business to grab up in Western North Dakota though.

WestMI-Reefer · Apr 25, 2023

unchaotic said:
If I had a proper shop space again I’d probably start making some on the side … not a lot of business to grab up in Western North Dakota though.

Amazing build @unchaotic Thats the quality I see from the custom net manufacturers. Was that cnc machined? The acrylic looks perfect.

I’ve been to North Dakota! Stayed in a town of like 14 people, it was awesome!

unchaotic · Apr 25, 2023

WestMI-Reefer said:
Amazing build @unchaotic Thats the quality I see from the custom net manufacturers. Was that cnc machined? The acrylic looks perfect.

It was my first try and it is all hand cut/routered using templates I made. The picture does it extra justice, lol. It has some issues but I’ve already got plans to fix those on my next go.

Poseidon03 · Apr 27, 2023

unchaotic said:
If I had a proper shop space again I’d probably start making some on the side … not a lot of business to grab up in Western North Dakota though.

How did you fix the net to the acrylic?

unchaotic · Apr 27, 2023

@Poseidon03 I routered a 1/8" groove on the underside of the acrylic just a little inset from the edge and used screen window spline.

BamaCoastPyrat · May 3, 2023

unchaotic said:
@Poseidon03 I routered a 1/8" groove on the underside of the acrylic just a little inset from the edge and used screen window spline.

Which bit did you use?

unchaotic · May 3, 2023

@BamaCoastPyrat I used a template guide bushing to get my groove the right distance from the edge and a plain straight bit. Next time I want to get an upcut spiral bit like this to help eject the shavings better.