A soda can may be used to quickly make an inexpensive fishing outfit that can be used in place of a rod and reel.  This is called a can rig.  This “new and improved” version includes a wrist band and wrist band holder that makes the rig easier to handle and hold.  The major drawback of the can rig is that the can is easily crumpled when “reeling in” the big fish.

This rig is ideal for those times when an extra fishing outfit is needed or to take a 4-H Club, Girl Scout troop, Cub Scout den, Boy Scout troop, Church group, or school group fishing  for an hour or two when an investment in quality fishing gear is not feasible.  These rigs in the hands of children or adults do catch fish!  The children love to take them home a souvenirs also.  In the photo below you can see some bona fide blue ribbon winning soda can rigs.  They were entered in a county fair in a category for items constructed from recycled materials.

 

Note: There are some states such as Nevada where this method of fishing is considered hand lining and is an illegal method of catching fish.  It is legal in New York and most other states in the USA.  Please check your local fishing regulations before starting on this project.  

How to make an improved can rig.

Cut a 2” x 3” wrist strap holder from a plastic lid of a coffee can (see drawing).  Use a leather punch or drill to make the three holes as shown.  Place the center of a piece of electrical tape across the portion of the wrist strap holder as shown on the drawing.

 Then wrap the free ends of the tape around the soda can near the bottom edge  The single hole should be exposed above the tape and the two other holes should extend past the end of the can.  Feed a 12 to 20 inch piece of 1/8 inch sash cord or parachute cord through the two bottom holes and tie the ends in knots.  You have just made the wrist strap.

Tie the fishing line through the upper hole of the holder with a clinch knot.  Then wrap about 30 feet of fishing line around the can (approx. 60 turns).   Next attach a fishing bobber, a snap swivel (using a clinch knot) and a fishing hook to the line.  Now all that you need is a piece of bait or lure.  You are ready to go fishing!

     

 

How to use:

To use the can rig you simply put your wrist through the loop and grab the soda can.  Then extend your index (pointer) finger to hold the line with about one foot of line and bobber (or sinker) and hook dangling down.  Then, using a tossing motion, swing the rig towards the water and let go with your index finger.  Use an underhand toss similar to  one that you would use to pitch a softball.  BUT keep  the palm of your hand facing the ground as you "pitch".  With a little practice, you will be placing the bait right where you are aiming.

To keep the line from getting tangled during storage, place a wide rubber band around the line.  Happy Fishing!

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