You cannot imagine going fishing without a fishing rod. That is quite evident, and every angler knows how vital a fishing rod is. However, an angler observes a few things before selecting a fishing rod, quality, weight, and smoothness.
Therefore, purchasing it from the market can be pretty expensive. So what can we do instead of buying the rod from a shop?
What if I say that building a fishing rod on your own is affordable and straightforward? Therefore, I am writing this article to explain each step of creating a fishing rod that will make it easy for you to build your own.
How To Build A Fishing Rod?
Building your fishing rod is very fun and easy, so you don’t want to think twice. You may think that creating a rod is expensive and time taking.
However, this is not the case. You can build your own fishing rod very quickly, and it is much more affordable than purchasing it from the market.
Moreover, the rod you will make on your own will be of better quality than the market-bought rod, and you would be successfully using it for your victorious fishing ventures. And you will also know the ins and outs of your rod.
Therefore, let’s learn the method step by step.
More readings:
Carolina Rig Explained! – A Complete Guide And Tactics To Catch More Fish
What Is Inshore Fishing? – Everything You Need To Know In This Guide!
How To Set Up A Fishing Pole?
How To Make Fishing Lures (In 7 Simple Steps)
How To Make A Fishing Rod With Synthetic Fiber Blanks
Here is a method of building a rod with synthetic fiber blanks. However, before jumping to the technique, let’s look at the equipment you need to make the rod.
The Main Equipment: Synthetic Fiber.
Synthetic fibers are stronger than most natural fibers, and they also easily absorb various dyes.
In addition, many synthetic fibers have consumer-friendly properties such as stretchability, water resistance, and stain resistance. These properties are fundamental while creating a rod.
Therefore, making a rod using synthetic fiber is ideal and perfect for rod-making equipment.
Following is the list of complete equipment.
- Sand; used for
- Limestone
- A steel device
- Sheets
- Blades
- An oven
Step By Step:
Following is the step-by-step method to build a rod. So, you can learn to do it quickly.
Step One:
Fiberglass or carbon fiber is used to make a blank for your rod. It works like a mold. Fiberglass is made of different elements.
Step Two:
Sand and limestone are taken in proportion, and they are mixed in the correct ratio during preparation. Then, they are added to glass called waste glass.
I use a copper kettle to melt and incorporate the elements to take a kettle or any pan that can bear high temperatures. The kettle can really help the ingredients melt at a relatively high temperature.
Step Three:
Once the mixture is melted and incorporated with the glass, this mixture becomes liquid glass. Then the molten glass is pumped and poured into a steel device or a mold to make carbon plates.
Step Four:
The carbon plate is then immersed in carbon resin and squeezed between the rollers, leaving a certain amount of plastic out. They need to be bent slightly to make them sticky.
Step Five:
Sheets use metal templates to create shapes. Then you can cut them with a blade. One end of the edge is shaped like a tapered rectangle to fit the mandrel, and the other is left as it is.
Step Six:
Then heat is required to shrink the polymer. You can heat the wrapped mandrel in the oven to 160-180°C for about 30 to 60 minutes. To obtain the fiber preform, you need to remove the mandrel with a plunger.
Step Seven:
The form cannot be used without protection. Therefore, it would be best if you protected it by applying a protective layer on it.
Step Eight:
However, the manufacturing of glass fiber requires different steps on different machines.
This may seem difficult to you. But now that you have learned how to make glass fiber rod blanks, I assure you that it is not difficult at all.
Fishing Rod With Bamboo
Bamboo fishing rods are exquisite and durable as compare to many other types of fishing rods. This is why you should know how to craft a bamboo rod from scratch.
So, look at the complete procedure of a bamboo fishing rod. However, first, go through the equipment list.
Main equipment: Bamboo
Bamboo fishing rods are perfect for the finest and most delicate presentation of skill for anglers who like steady and very flexible fishing rods.
Like fiberglass rods, bamboo rods provide a unique feeling and experience while fighting and catching the fish.
Making a rod with bamboo can give you a unique and professional feel while fishing with it.
Following is the complete list of equipment.
- Bamboo stick
- A sharp knife
- Glue strips
- Sand
- Thread
- Hooks
Step By Step Guide:
Following is a step-by-step guide to creating a bamboo fishing rod.
Step One:
To make a fishing rod, you need a bamboo stick that is 7 to 8 feet long and 1.25 to 2 inches wide. Then, you can cut it in half with a sharp knife.
It is essential to cut the bamboo stick in half because it is very thick and long for one fishing rod.
Step Two:
Shafts have thin bezels; almost 15-18 inches apart. You can, and you should remove them with a knife.
Step Three:
Some manufacturers heat bamboo to harden it, while others use resin to extend its life and protect it from water. So you can choose from either option to set your bamboo for your fishing rod.
Step Four:
For hexagonal cutting of bamboo, glue six strips together. Next, cut the bamboo into neat strips and then glue them. Some people also make five-striped poles.
Step Five:
Then apply extreme pressure on these strips, so they stick together under that pressure. To remove excess glue, pour sand on it and then brush off the sand with glue.
But, before you do anything, ensure that the strip is wrapped with strong thread.
Step Six:
Your rod is now ready. You can finally attach the fishing rod to your favorite hook.
Hopefully, you will have a clear understanding of making bamboo rods now that you have read the instructions.
Fishing Rod With Wood
After synthetic fibers and bamboo sticks, I will teach you how to build a fantastic fishing rod with wood.
Now, I know what you might be thinking; that wood will get spoilt when it gets wet but fret not because the method to build a wooden fishing rod ensures that it doesn’t get spoilt.
Here is a complete way of producing a fishing rod. But, let’s look at the essential equipment required to build the wood fishing rod first.
Main Equipment: A Wooden Pole.
Following is the complete list of wooden fishing rods.
- A wood pole
- String
- Knife
- Fishing line
- A rope
- Hook
Step By Step Method:
Below is the complete process to make a wooden fishing rod.
Step One:
Find a wood that is 1.5-3.0 meters long and 2.5-5.1 cm in diameter, and cut it from the root.
Step Two:
Use a sharp knife as close as possible to the wood and cut off the protrusion carefully.
Step Three:
The next step is to dry the wood. Wrap a rope around the narrow end of the pole and hang it from the ceiling.
This will ensure that the poles are evenly dry and all the water comes to the bottom. This way, your wood won’t get spoilt if it gets slightly wet.
However, if you leave it in water for too long, then it will become useless. So avoid too much contact of wooden fishing rod to the water.
Step Four:
Take a 20 lb. (9.1 kg) polyester thread and tie one end near an inch or two above the handle of the fishing pole.
Step Five:
Attach the preferred hook or lure to the end of the line along with a bobber and a split-shot sinker.
These were five easy steps to craft your fishing rod with wood.
Fishing Rod For Kids
For children, building a fishing rod is fun and adventurous. However, kids need to follow the simple method carefully to construct the fishing rod.
Furthermore, making a fishing rod on its own becomes quite complicated so, children will also require adult supervision for this project.
Therefore, keeping every factor in mind, I have brought the quickest and easiest method for children to build a professional and perfect fishing rod.
Moreover, with this fishing rod, kids can also enjoy the fishing adventure with their families because it makes it fun and easy for children to hold, cast, and catch a fish.
Main Equipment: Simple Stick
The main equipment of a kid’s fishing rod is a simple stick, and the stick can be made of plastic or wood.
A simple stick is excellent for making a rod for children as children cannot do any complicated procedure for making a rod. Therefore, a simple stick is the perfect equipment for them.
Following is the complete list of equipment.
- Some sticks
- A sharp knife
- A rope
- Some hooks
Step By Step Method:
Make your kids follow the steps accurately.
Children often like to do their own thing. Fishing rods are easy to make so, they won’t have any issues in doing this project. But you as an adult still need to stay around them for when they need your help or if you see them struggling to follow some steps.
A fishing rod is safe to make and easy to use, allowing you to enjoy fishing to the fullest. So, I will outline a few simple steps to learn how to make rods with a simple stick.
Step One:
Find a stick of two and a half meters in the woods section of the supermarket or plastic sticks of the same size. Make sure it is strong and stable. Remove any excess branches or leaves if you chose wood.
Step Two:
Tie the rope to the narrowest part of the stick. Try to tighten it as much as you can. After that, attach a small hook to one side to make it look like a mature fishing rod.
How Much Does It Cost To Make Your Own Fishing Rod?
The cost of a fishing rod depends on the procedure and equipment you select for building it because tools are an essential part of when you plan to build a fishing rod.
You should expect to spend about $100 or more on creating a decent fishing rod. But, as you know, the limit is not limited because you can use your imagination to make a fishing rod for more money.
For example, you can even spend $300 on your rod, but the starting price for crafting a good fishing rod is $100 to $300.
Building a rod mostly depends on variables, so first, select your procedure and equipment, and then spend your money on it accordingly.
Tips For Building The Best Fishing Rod Out of Nowhere
- Select the equipment which you think you can work better on.
- Always remember that practice makes a man perfect. So, never hustle or expect to make an ideal fishing rod at your first attempt. First, give it some time and patience, and soon you will be an expert rod maker.
- After making the fishing rod, conduct a simple test. So, you understand the weak points of the rod and can fix them before taking the rod with you on your fishing adventure.
- Always try to make the fishing rod durable and strong so that it can stand the test of time and work smoothly.
What Are The Reasons For Building Your Own Fishing Rod?
There are many reasons for building your very own fishing rod. One reason is that you will have a great sense of accomplishment when you use a homemade rod for fishing.
It will give you a sense of achievement and increases the fun of the sport. Another reason is that you can make a rod that suits your fishing style.
But perhaps the most important reason is just the fun you get to have while designing and crafting your rod. Because what is the best way to spend a few hours on the fishing line?
Obviously, by crafting a rod. Therefore, this little project will be not only fun but also highly fruitful for you.
Moreover, you can make something according to your needs and requirements, make your fishing experience more memorable, and save you money spent on buying branded fishing rods.
Final Verdict:
Making fishing rods is a great way to spend your free days and nights. Hours of work make the fishing rod better than anything you can buy in the store.
Of course, to reach this level, a lot of training is needed, but it is possible to become professional. If you are a serious angler, consider making your own fishing rod because it is enjoyable.
Moreover, making a rod is a fun activity that you can enjoy and achieve great results. Every professional angler knows how important it is to have a quality fishing rod.
However, making it on its own makes the fishing rod more joyful and so your fishing experience. Therefore, follow the above guidelines, collect the equipment and start making your own professional and perfect fishing rod.
Frequently Asked Questions
#1 – How do you make a homemade fishing rod?
Making a fishing rod depends on what kind of fishing rod you want and the different methods or procedures. It depends on the various materials that an angler finds perfect for the fishing rod.
First, you need to decide what kind of rod you want, and then you can build it accordingly at home (also read the procedure I have mentioned above).
#2 – How do you make a fishing rod with nothing?
Here is the process at a quick glance:
- Get a stick.
- Tie a knot at the end of that stick as a handle.
- Roll the rope to the tip of the stick.
- Tie another knot at the end of the stick.
- Tie the hook and bait at one end. Your rod is ready.
#3 – How do you decorate a homemade fishing rod for kids?
- First, cut simple cardboard into fish shapes.
- Decorate with paint, pictures, or colored paper.
- Use disk glue for the eyes.
- Cut out a large cardboard fishing hook and glue the magnet to the end of the hook.
- Use a rope to fix the magnetic hook on the wooden fishing rod.
- Use your new fish and fishing rod to see how many fish you want to catch.
#4 – Can you make money building fishing rods?
If you like building rods and know how to make a practical and attractive rod, you may make enough money to justify your activities.
Many people sell fishing rods to make money. Moreover, you may also be able to use your profits to subsidize your fishing expenses.
#5 – Is it hard to build your own fishing rod?
Not really. If you have the right tools and instructions, almost anyone can make their own fishing rod. Making a fishing rod is the simplest and easiest process if you will follow the complete and accurate guidelines.
You can also refer to the guide that I have made for building fishing rods.
#6 – Is it cheaper to build your own rods?
Making a homemade fishing rod is affordable. However, it may cost differently because the cost of a fishing rod depends on the equipment or material you use for building your own fishing rod.
But, it will still be cheaper than the store-bought rod.
#7 – How long does it take to build a fishing rod?
It takes almost 6 to 7 hours to build a fishing rod. Because it takes time to place the components, wrap the threads, place the guides and finalize the rod.
