How to Make a Fishing Rig Hook

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Fishing can be a relaxing sport or a basic means of surviving. Angling without a rod, reel and tackle does present challenges. When confronted by a survival situation when a stream, river, lake or pond is nearby, it is possible to make improvised hooks that will catch fish. Patience and a positive attitude can be almost as important in this situation as the bait you choose.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Small forked branch
Knife

Step 1

Choose a branch with smaller forking limbs. A limb that has died on the tree will often provide dried wood that can be carved into a hook. Young samplings and green wood are not desirable in this situation.

Step 2

Choose a fork in the limb that has a smaller branch extending out at an upward angle. Use a knife to whittle down and cut the main limb 3 inches above the fork. Cut the smaller extending branch off at the same length. Cut the limb off 1/2- to 1-inch below the fork.

Step 3

Whittle and carve the fork with the knife. Reduce the larger limb, that will form the shank, to at least 1/2-inch in diameter. Continue working down the size of the wood reducing the extending branch to 1/4-inch in diameter near the connection with the branch and down to a fine point at the opposite end.

Step 4

Cut a V-shaped notch in the shank of the wooden hook with your knife that is 1/2-inch from the end. This will provide a groove for attaching and tying a line or cord to the hook.

Step 5

Smooth the hook overall by holding the edge of the blade against the hook surface and scraping. This will help remove rough areas that could interfere with placing bait on the hook.

Tips & Warnings

Take your time and work slowly as your carve and smooth the wooden hook to avoid breaking it and having to start over again with the process.

Use caution when carving with a knife, especially in a survival situation where medical assistance may not exist.

Article Written By Keith Dooley

Keith Dooley has a degree in outdoor education and sports management. He has worked as an assistant athletic director, head coach and assistant coach in various sports including football, softball and golf. Dooley has worked for various websites in the past, contributing instructional articles on a wide variety of topics.

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