Fishing Poles

myminifactory

Summary My top choice for backcountry fishing involves using a pen fishing rod, swapping out some parts to accommodate spincast reels. These spin casting reels are user-friendly and ideal for learning to cast. Pen Rod - I've been relying on rods from GoFastAndLight.com (I've received excellent service from them). If you're outside the US, simply search for "Pen Fishing Rod" and find other sellers. Some of the other rods available are lower quality, though, and might not work as well. http://www.gofastandlight.com/Ultralight-Pen-Sized-Fishing-Pack-Rod-ROD-ONLY/productinfo/FI-PENROD/ Here are my preferred reel options: Shakespeare Synergy Microcast - This one is compact and neat. I've discovered that it helps to remove some extra line on the spool to avoid tangling and jamming. http://www.amazon.com/Shakespear-SYMCX-Microcast-Spincasting-5-2-Ounce/dp/B00012PDNQ Daiwa Underspin US XD 40 - It's bulkier than the Synergy reel, but is more comfortable to use for longer periods. http://www.daiwa.com/reel/detail.aspx?id=246 Zebco 11 Micro - Similar to the Synergy Reel, but I haven't tried it yet. http://www.zebco.com/products/A11_combos.html Fly Reel - For fly fishing, haven't tried it yet. http://www.gofastandlight.com/Miniature-Fly-Reel-for-Mini-Pen-Rod-Setup-Reel-Only/productinfo/FI-SF8/ *Some of the handles in the pictures have been covered in 1" heat shrink tubing to improve strength and grip.* Instructions 1. Purchase a pen fishing rod and disassemble it (you'll need the rod part and the knurled nut). 2. Print out "Test Thread.stl" and check its fit with the threading on the handle side (not the front thread). It should be tight, adjust scale if necessary. 3. Get one of the reels in the pictures. 4. Print out the parts associated with the reel (handle, nut, and cap). Make sure the parts are oriented correctly; no support structure is needed. If it's necessary, adjust the scale to fit. 5. Replace the original handle and washer with the printed handle and use the printed knurled nuts to hold the reel in place (see pictures). Use the cap for storage / travel. Post a picture of your rod with a fish you caught with it in the made section.