Even the most compact fishing set like Fish8r might one day run out of hooks. Whether you’re deep in nature or just love the DIY spirit, knowing how to make improvised fishing hooks can save your day—or even your dinner.
Here are 5 creative ways to make survival fishing hooks using everyday or natural materials:
1. Soda Can Tab Hook
Those little aluminum pull-tabs from a soda or beer can are surprisingly useful.
How to make:
- Cut one side of the tab to form a sharp point
- Bend it slightly into a hook shape
- Sharpen the tip on a rock or file if needed Best for: Small fish, emergency use
- Tip: Use paracord or line to securely tie through the center hole
2. Safety Pin Hook
If you’ve got a sewing kit or just some basic gear, chances are you have a safety pin.
How to make:
- Open the pin and bend it into a J-shape
- File or sharpen the point (most pins are sharp already)
- Create a loop on the other end for tying line
- Best for: Light-duty fishing
- Warning: Watch for rust – not ideal for long exposure to water
3. Sewing Needle Hook
A simple needle becomes usefull when bent right.
How to make:
- Heat the needle with a lighter or over a flame (or it will breake)
- Gently bend into a hook shape using pliers or rock edges
- Use the eye for line attachment
- Best for: Precision fishing, bait worms
- Tip: Needles are slippery – roughen the surface with sand or a file
4. Wooden or Bone Hook
Go primal. Carving a hook from wood, bone, or even a strong thorn is time-consuming but rewarding.
How to make:
- Find hardwood (like oak, birch, or dry roots)
- Carve a curved shape with a notch or tie on other piece in angle.
- Sharpen the tip
- Use a groove or hole to tie line
- Best for: Bushcraft, practice, or backup
- Note: Less strong than metal but totally natural and stealthy
5. Thorn Hook
Nature provides some nasty surprises—use them wisely.
How to make:
- Find a curved thorn from a bush or tree (hawthorn, acacia, rose etc.)
- Tie securely with fishing line or strong thread
- Add bait carefully so it doesn’t slip
- Best for: Small fish, survival use
- Note: Thorns are brittle, handle with care
Bonus Tip: Combine with Fish8r Gear
Even if you’re making a DIY hook, you can still use Fish8r’s mini reel, line guides, or bobber for a catch. Survival fishing doesn’t have to be perfect – it just has to work.
Got your own trick?
Share your best DIY fishing hack to info@fish8r.com and we will feature it on our page!