Step-by-Step Construction of a Bamboo Fishing Rod

Famous author and historian Washington Irving once said: "There is certainly something in angling that tends to produce a serenity of the mind."



After a stressful week of work, fishing is a wonderful way to relax and let go of your cares. Standing on a grassy knoll with rod in hand and gazing over still waters may be just what the doctor ordered. Like many other sports, fishing can be an expensive pastime. However, you can make your own bamboo fishing rod that takes very little money from your pocket.

Things You'll Need

  • 10-foot bamboo rod
  • Fishing line
  • Bobber with spring-loaded hook
  • Saw
  • Drill
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Instructions

    • 1
      Bamboo grows wild in many areas of the United States.

      Use fresh-cut, wild bamboo for your fishing rod. The stalk should be approximately 10 feet long, 3/4 inch in diameter at the base and 1/4 inch in diameter at the tip. Check the tip to make sure there are no cracks or splits.

    • 2
      Check the tip of your pole for any cracks or splits.

      Make a clean cut at each end with your saw.

    • 3
      The bamboo needs to dry before you can complete this project.

      Prepare to dry the pole by drilling a hole into the base and running wire through it to make a loop. Tie the loop and hang the pole upside down in a warm, sunny place. Tie a weight to the tip to make sure it dries straight. Let the pole hang for two to three weeks.

    • 4
      Heat the bamboo thoroughly with a blow dryer.

      Heat the pole with a hair dryer set at its highest setting. The heat will drive any oil or moisture remaining within the pole to the surface. Heating will leave a gray film on the pole's surface. Allow it to cool, then wipe away the residue with a dry rag. Use fine sandpaper to rough up the surface. Then wipe off the dust and stand the pole in a warm, dry area for a few hours.

    • 5
      Use sand paper to rough up the surface of your pole before applying varnish.

      Apply two coats of marine varnish, allowing the finish to completely dry between coats. The varnish protects against water damage and gives the pole a professional-looking finish.

    • 6
      A classic red and white bobber with a spring-loaded hook fastens easily on the fishing line.

      Use an arbor knot and tie fishing line a few inches above the pole handle. Now lay the line down the entire length of the pole. Cut three pieces from old fishing line. Each piece should be a few inches in length. You will use these to tie the main fishing line to the pole. Tie at two points in the middle of the pole, a few feet apart and then tie the third at the tip. Secure a two-foot leader to the end of the line. Attach a bobber, weight and hook and you are ready to fish.

    • 7