Been using one for 50 years. It depends on the targeted baitfish. For large schools of shad, I like an 8' net which spreads out to 16' on the perfect cast. For single or small groups of baitfish such as bluegill, I would use a 4' net which spreads out to 8' on the perfect cast. The 4' would be my recommendation for a shore angler. Its much easier to throw, carry, and store.
Never throw it in an area where you don't know what is on the bottom of the pond, lake, river, etc. You WILL lose it on a single, stump, sharp rock, or other debris.