Are you in search of steps on how to make a fishing rod out of bamboo?
If you prefer to use this material for a fishing rod, you’re in luck – it is actually pretty simple, easy, and reliable!
In fact, bamboo is undeniably strong and sturdy. This is why many anglers prefer to use it for their fishing needs.
What’s more, you can make yourself a dependable fishing rod out of bamboo at a fraction of a cost. Just have all the tools you need, and you should be ready to head out and go fishing.
How amazing is that?!
So, without further ado, let us look into this step by step guide to making a fishing rod out of bamboo. We have also included some suggestions for materials to help you get started. Then, you should have an easier time making your very own bamboo fishing rod in minutes.
Let’s go!
Contents
Why Use a Bamboo Fishing Rod?
When it comes to fishing, it is all about technique.
Sure, you can use those fancy (and expensive) depth finders with a sonar function. But did you know that a bamboo fishing rod is not bad, either?
In fact, a bamboo fishing rod is perfect for a good old-fashioned cane pole fishing. As long as you have yourself a sturdy bamboo, you can make yourself a good fishing pole for catching a variety of fish including catfish, bass, and panfish.
And it’s so cheap and easy to make!
So, with a cane pole and the right line, you can catch anything in the pond. It does not have to be a crazy fishing ordeal with $$$ worth of fishing equipment.
Here are the steps to follow on how to make a fishing rod out of bamboo. Be sure to follow the steps, and you should be catching fish with your bamboo fishing rod in no time!
1. Prepare your cane pole.
First, be sure to get yourself about a 10-foot long piece of cane. Get rid of the leaf stems and trim them closer to the body as possible.
Using your saw, cut the fat end of the bottom part of the pole. Smooth out the edges using sandpaper to get your cane nice and finished.
2. Improve the shape and structure of the cane pole.
Now, this step can take longer. You will need to straighten the pole as it tends to curve naturally.
To do this step, weight it with a brick or any heavy object. You will also have to tie a piece of string securely to the pole’s slender portion. Then, suspend your cane and allow it to dry. Eventually, this will turn to a beautiful tan color, which is what you are shooting for.
3. Rig your fishing line.
Attach a line (about 20 pounds) a few inches the spot where you are holding the rod. Do so using the arbor knot to secure it properly. You will need to lay down the line right along the pole’s length. Then, whip-fishing your line to the fishing rod using an old fly line.
Attach your mono leader, at about 2 feet long. Be sure to maintain the optimal length of your line right front he rod’s tip, which is between 14 and 16 feet long. Finish off with your slip bobber, a split shot, and lastly, your long Aberdeen hook. These will all help make the removal process much easier.
Read More: How to Attach a Bobber To a Fishing Line: Proper Steps to Follow
Additional Tips on How to Make a Bamboo Cane Pole
There is no doubt that cane pole fishing is easier and less complicated to do. In fact, you can just do so with your bait and a bamboo fishing rod.
To start, a piece of bamboo with the desired length is flamed. This process allows for the stiffness and optimum strength of the bamboo. This also adds a nice color to the bamboo, which matches the nodes and power fibers.
Afterward, you need to plane and split by hand the strips. This is an essential step that enhances the durability of the material.
As for the materials, be prepared to have all the tools you need such as bamboo, a knife, weights, bobber, and your hook or lure.
When building out your pole, you need to determine the optimal length. Ideally, it should make it easy for you to use and not too long that it tends to drag.
When selecting the best bamboo to get, you should stick to one that is straight. The straightest one is your excellent choice since this makes fishing much easier.
Afterward, you have to cut all the branches off. The goal is to leave out only the stalk. You have to avoid cutting the stalk, otherwise, you will need to start over the entire process.
Keep the notches smooth to prevent the line from hanging up on these areas. Once you have reached the tip, remove the thinnest portion. This is found above the notch, and performing this step ensures a strong and solid tip.
Be sure to cut off a slit located at the cane’s top portion. There, you will be able to secure your monofilament.
Some people add a few more steps to perfect their bamboo fishing rod. They may wind the silk that prevents the ends of your cane from splitting. Another step is by applying the lacquer, which adds strength to the silk and therefore keeps the bamboo more solid.
Additional techniques include adding the grip and carving it. Lastly, putting lacquer to the pole’s body not only makes this portion shiny but much stronger, as well.
If you want a visual step by step guide on how to make a fishing rod out of bamboo, here is a video you should check out:
