How Do I Make a Custom Fishing Pole?

Fishing image by Antonio Oquias from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

A trip to the local sporting goods store or tackle shop will typically reveal a wide variety of fishing poles designed for general use, as well as specific fish species or situations. However, a pole does not always have to be elaborate or especially expensive. A simple and easy-to-use fishing pole capable of catching a wide range of fish, especially from the bank or shoreline, can be made using basic components.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Bamboo pole
Fine-tooth saw
Knife
Sandpaper
Monofilament fishing line

Step 1

Purchase a length of bamboo from a garden, home or hobby store. Choose a length of at least 8 to 9 feet. Test the bamboo length for flexibility in the tip and look for any damage or splits along the length.

Step 2

Remove any damaged areas from the tip of the bamboo pole with a fine-tooth saw. Determine the overall length. Locate a dividing point in the bamboo that separates the chambers and provides the desired length for the pole. Cut the bamboo below the chosen section so the dividing point provides a closed end for the pole.

Step 3

Trim any rough areas along the length of the pole with a knife. Sand the bottom, tip and dividing points smooth with fine-grit sandpaper.

Step 4

Make a V-shaped notch 2 inches from the tip of the bamboo pole with a knife. Cut the V-notch deep enough to form an indentation while not weakening the pole.

Step 5

Cut a length of monofilament fishing line that is 1 1/2 times the length of the pole. Cut a length, for example, that is 12 feet long if you are making an 8-foot pole. Wrap one end of the line around the pole so it rests in the indentation and attach it with a uni knot. Wrap 4 feet of line around the pole and secure it with electrical tape.

Tips & Warnings

Keep the 4 foot length of line wrapped around the tip of the pole unless it is needed. Remove the tape and unwind the line for additional length.

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.

Editor's Pick

Backcountry Camping Tips

You've already tried car and RV camping. You've camped at commercial campsites that had a convenient restroom and water supply. Now, you want to explore the road less traveled. Backcountry camping, also known as primitive camping, is a wonderful way to explore the remote...
More Backcountry Camping...
Popular Article

Beach Camping Near Pismo Beach, California

Pismo State Beach, California, has many attractions and activities including camping, swimming, hiking and wildlife viewing. Birdwatching is one of the primary activities in the area. The park also has the largest over-wintering colony of monarch butterflies in the natio...
More Beach Camping...
Featured Video

Common Sense Hiking Tips

The first and most fundamental thing is never hike alone. There are too many situations, especially as an unexperienced hiker, where you may find yourself without anyone to help you. So the buddy system works and applies very much in hiking.
More Camping Basics...