Stubbles are now so short that no birds will lie in them, and the net would not be successful there if it were tried.
The net used to be so favourite an 'engine' because partridges and pheasants will run rather than fly.

In the case of partridges the poacher had first to ascertain the haunt of the covey, which he could do by looking for where they roost at night: the spot is often worn almost bare of grass and easily found.

Or he could listen in the evening for the calling of the birds as they run together.

The net being set, he walked very slowly down the wind towards the covey.

It could not be done too quietly or gently, because if one got up all the rest would immediately take wing; for partridges act in concert.