In the mysterious waters of Dredge, survival is not just about navigating through eerie environments and uncovering secrets. It also requires gathering resources, managing time, and making the most of the tools at your disposal. One such tool, the Trawl Net, offers an efficient way to passively collect fish and materials while you sail. Learning how to use the Trawl Net in Dredge correctly can transform your voyages, helping you optimize time, collect rarer species, and make more money. Understanding where and when to deploy the Trawl Net will improve your overall strategy and increase your chances of survival in this moody fishing adventure.
What Is the Trawl Net in Dredge?
A Passive Fishing Tool
The Trawl Net in Dredge is a special type of fishing gear that allows your boat to automatically catch fish while moving through specific types of water. Unlike rods that require active participation, the net operates in the background as you explore or complete tasks.
Resource Efficiency
Because it works while you sail, the Trawl Net is excellent for multitasking. You can uncover secrets, chase quests, or hunt for relics while still making money and collecting resources. It’s particularly useful for gathering fish types needed for specific quests or upgrades.
How to Unlock the Trawl Net
Research Upgrades
Before you can use a Trawl Net, you need to unlock it through the research system. Access the research menu at the shipwright or dock, then spend research parts to unlock various net types. Focus first on the basic net, which will allow access to shallow and coastal species.
Purchase and Install
Once unlocked, visit the shipwright to purchase the net. After buying, you must install it on your boat. The net takes up hull space, so make sure you have enough available cargo slots to fit it. Some larger or more advanced nets may take up more room than others.
Installing the Trawl Net
Storage and Placement
The Trawl Net must be installed in the correct section of your ship. It is stored in a designated gear slot, separate from your cargo. To install:
- Open the ship upgrade menu at the shipwright
- Drag the net from your inventory to the trawl net gear slot
- Ensure no other gear is occupying the same space
- Confirm the installation before exiting
Upgrade Space if Needed
If your boat doesn’t have the required gear slot, you will need to upgrade your hull. Use materials and gold to unlock additional equipment slots by visiting the dry dock. Prioritize upgrades that enhance gear flexibility and storage efficiency.
How to Use the Trawl Net in Dredge
Deploying the Net
To begin using the Trawl Net:
- Set sail and make sure the net is installed and not damaged
- Open your gear menu and activate the Trawl Net
- Once activated, it will automatically collect fish as you move
The Trawl Net only works while your boat is in motion. Staying idle will not result in any catch. As you pass through water types that match the net’s fishing capabilities, it will begin to fill with fish or other sea life.
Monitor Catch Progress
You can view the status of your Trawl Net by opening your gear menu. This will show how full the net is and what species you’ve caught. Be mindful of your net’s durability prolonged use without maintenance can cause it to break, rendering it useless until repaired.
Where and When to Use the Trawl Net
Match Net to Water Type
Nets vary in their compatibility with water types. Some are suited for shallow regions, while others can handle oceanic or volcanic areas. Before setting out, make sure your net matches the area you’ll be exploring. Otherwise, it will not catch anything.
Time of Day
The time of day affects what species are available. Some fish only appear at night, while others are exclusive to daytime. Plan your voyages and activate your net accordingly. Combining nighttime exploration with trawling may yield rare and valuable catches.
Ideal for Long Routes
Use the Trawl Net during longer travel routes to maximize your haul. For example, if you’re sailing between islands or distant quest locations, the net can passively gather resources you would otherwise miss.
Managing Net Durability
Wear and Tear
The Trawl Net degrades with use. Sailing through rough waters or colliding with obstacles can accelerate damage. Once the net reaches 0% durability, it will stop working. You’ll need to return to a dock or shipwright to repair it.
Repairing the Net
To repair the Trawl Net:
- Visit a shipwright at any main harbor
- Select the repair option in the menu
- Pay the required fee to restore full durability
Always check the condition of your net before embarking on a long journey. A damaged net will waste your time and reduce your income.
Advanced Tips for Trawl Net Use
Use Alongside Other Gear
The Trawl Net complements other fishing tools. While it passively collects fish, you can actively use rods or crab pots to gather additional species. This strategy increases overall efficiency and helps fill multiple orders at once.
Optimize Your Boat Layout
Balance your layout to ensure you have room for the net without compromising on storage or engine slots. Some players focus too heavily on speed, but adding a trawl net can be more profitable in the long run if managed well.
Upgrade to Specialized Nets
As you gather more research parts, unlock advanced trawl nets. These can capture more valuable species or operate in hazardous zones. Specialized nets may also have higher durability or faster collection rates, making them ideal for deep-sea runs or unique biomes.
Sell Frequently
Your net can fill up quickly, especially with larger fish. Make regular stops to sell your catch before continuing exploration. Overloaded inventory can prevent you from collecting new items or fish, which limits your profits and efficiency.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to activate the net after installing it
- Using a net in incompatible water types
- Ignoring damage and letting the net break mid-journey
- Overloading your ship with gear, leaving no space for catches
Awareness and planning are essential when relying on the Trawl Net. While it’s a powerful tool, it can become a burden if not used thoughtfully.
Why the Trawl Net Matters
Passive Income
The Trawl Net allows you to collect valuable fish without interrupting your primary objectives. It’s a great way to earn passive income during exploration or while completing quests.
Quest Support
Some quests require specific fish that can only be caught by trawling. Having the right net ready can help you complete objectives faster without having to search individual fishing spots.
Improved Efficiency
Time is a critical resource in Dredge. The more tasks you can complete simultaneously, the more efficient your runs become. Using the net lets you stack your goals, combining exploration, collection, and profit-making.
Mastering how to use the Trawl Net in Dredge opens new opportunities for resource gathering and strategic planning. From the moment you unlock it, the net becomes a key asset for boosting income, completing quests, and expanding your boat’s capabilities. Just remember to manage your layout, match your gear to the environment, and keep everything in working order. With the right setup and some planning, your Trawl Net will turn every voyage into a profitable and productive journey through the haunting and mysterious waters of Dredge.