Fishing Hook Tutorial
by Patrick McGlinchey
First published 14/02/2007
Fish is a fantastic source of protein and the seas and inland waters have always been harvested by mankind.
When living in the wilds, we can avail ourselves of this resource by using the many fishing techniques that are available, eg netting, trapping, spearing and angling.
Hooks can be fashioned from many different materials that can be found in the wilds and can be made in various shapes and sizes to suit specific fish. This is but one.
Draw out shape of hook using a piece of charcoal
Using hand drill with flint tip, drill out a series of holes. Note small slithers of wood inserted in split to hold the antler steady while drilling
Holes completed.
Knock out the middle sections, leaving a U shape.
Using flint, scrape away until you have refined the shape of the hook.
Start to whittle the hook down further by scraping away fine slithers.
Round off inside of hook, leaving the barb more defined.
After scraping, the side profile should look like this. This shape is more efficient when striking the hook in the fish.
Hook is almost complete. Work a deeper recess into the barb and finely scrape to a smooth rounded finish.
Completed hook bound on to fishing line (here made of braided willow) – Tight Lines Folks !
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