Bowsprit Netting

[Brion Toss]

Hello,
I like to combine footropes with netting, and since the former need to be loose, so then do the latter. It can be done gracefully. We also sometimes hitch at least some of the cranelines to the bobstay, and will also fashion removable pieces for the anchor to pass through. Oh yes, and we commonly refer to bowsprit nettings as "crew strainers".
As for wire vs. chain, it's wire, every time, and in this application service might not be required, given a proper lashing.
Fair leads,
Brion Toss