DIY Fishing Rod Holder

Surf Fishing image by Julianna Olah from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

Many anglers overlook rod holders when it comes to assembling fishing gear for a trip. A rod holder can prove invaluable when fishing along sandy beaches and banks, or when an angler needs to set the rod and reel down while the bait or lure is in the water. Easy to make with minimal materials and tools, a secure rod holder can help prevent needless damage to rods and reels.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

PVC pipe (2-inch diameter, 3-foot length)
Fine-tooth saw
Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)

Step 1

Position the PVC pipe on a work surface at a comfortable working height for you. Make a shallow cut straight into the PVC pipe 4 to 5 inches from one end. (This cut will serve as a starting point.)

Step 2

Holding the PVC pipe securely in place, turn the blade of the saw to an approximate 30 degree angle. Cut the pipe, following the angle, across and down toward the opposite edge, creating slanted point on this end of the pipe. (You will eventually insert this point into the sand or dirt to anchor your rod holder while using it.)

Step 3

Sand the point with medium- and then fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the edges and remove any rough cuts from the saw.

Step 4

Smooth the edges of the flat end of the pipe with the sandpaper. Again, begin with the medium grit and finish with the fine grit. Pay particular attention to this end of the holder to prevent damage to rods with cork grips.

Step 5

Push the spike end of the rod holder into sand, soil or loose gravel 6 to 8 inches deep. Set the handle of the rod into the top of the holder once you have cast a bait or during times when you need both hands free for other tasks.

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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