DIY Hardtail Bobber

Bobbers are floating devices attached to fishing line. When a fish strikes, the bobber goes underwater, giving a visual indication of the stealthy fish hit. Hardtail bobbers use a long rod through the center of the main float and have a weighted bottom. Instead of being pulled under, the hardtail bobber tilts to indicate the fish strike. Many catfish anglers use the hardtail style of bobber. Make a set of these bobbers in a home workshop for truly custom made fishing tackle.

Things You'll Need

  • Ping-pong balls
  • Narrow hole punch
  • 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch dowel
  • Saw
  • Red spray paint
  • 1/8 to 1/4 inch washers
  • Glue
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Instructions

    • 1

      Push the hole punch straight through a ping-pong ball. Push all the way through so the punch goes in one side of the ball and out the other.

    • 2

      Ream the holes just a little smaller in diameter than the dowel.

    • 3

      Cut the dowel down to a length of six inches. Push the cut dowel through the holes in the ball, turning it as you go to ream the holes to the shape of the dowel. Position the ball at one end of the dowel.

    • 4

      Drill a very small hole through the side of the dowel, three inches from the ball. This is the top of the bobber where the fishing line threads.

    • 5

      Stack a series of washers up the bottom end of the dowel so they are flush with the ball. Glue them in place.

    • 6

      Spray paint the bobber red or a bright color so it is noticeable on the water when fishing. Let the paint dry then take it fishing.