A review of the relationships of structure with mechanical performance in fishing nets

Modern fishing and aquaculture operations increasingly depend on netting systems capable of maintaining mechanical reliability and hydrodynamic efficiency under complex loading and environmental conditions. This review synthesizes the relationships between net structure, mesh geometry, material selection, and performance characteristics from a textile-engineering perspective. The study systematically examines major net constructions, including knotted, knotless (warp-knit/Raschel), woven, and braided systems, together with key geometric parameters such as mesh size, mesh shape, orientation, solidity, and knot configuration. Static mechanical properties including tensile strength, tear resistance, bursting behavior, creep, and crack propagation are analyzed under uniaxial and biaxial loading conditions. Hydrodynamic performance, including drag, lift, sinking behavior, and fluid–structure interaction, is also critically evaluated. The review further examines the influence of environmental degradation mechanisms such as ultraviolet aging and biofouling on long-term net performance. Comparative assessment of polymeric materials highlights an important balance between strength, stiffness, deformability, and environmental resistance. In addition, current numerical modeling approaches, fluid–structure interaction frameworks, and emerging artificial neural network applications are discussed. Finally, major research gaps, standardization needs, and future directions are identified to support the development of next-generation high-performance fishing net systems.