Thanks for the comments folks.
Torjus I do prefer the longer needle when netting as there is less tying in. This bone needle and gauge will be part of a mini kit set which will include a few more items, flint tools, sewing set, etc. I found this prize (below) at the wilderness gathering and I have started another net shuttle, this one will be longer and curved. Bone makes fantastic needles, they slide through the net with ease. Having experimented with a wooden needle which I steam bent I believe the curved shuttle is the better option.
Now, where did I put the soup pot!