DIY Survival Fishing Line Ideas When You Have Nothing Left
Even the best gear can fail, get lost, or run out. Whether you’re testing your bushcraft skills or in a real survival situation, knowing how to improvise a fishing line can keep you fed and focused.
Here are some unexpected materials that can be turned into fishing line—even in the wild:
1. Horse Hair
Used for centuries before nylon even existed.
Where to find: From a horse’s tail or mane (with permission if not your horse!)
How to use:
- Select long, strong strands
- Braid or twist multiple hairs for extra strength
- Best for light line fishing
- Bonus: Flexible and surprisingly durable
2. Unraveled Thread or Fabric Fibers
Your clothes might save your dinner.
Where to find: From worn clothing, seams, backpack straps, shoelaces
How to use:
- Pull out long threads from woven fabric
- Twist several together for strength
- Use wax (if available) to bind them tighter
- Best for: Small fish or short-line setups
3. Paracord Inner Strands
Survivalists’ favorite for a reason.
Where to find: Inside any standard 550 paracord (carries 7–9 inner strands)
How to use:
- Cut a piece and remove the inner threads
- Use single strand or braid 2–3 for strength
- Best for: Medium fish, general bushcraft
- Pro Tip: You can also use the outer shell for tying traps or other camp uses
4. Natural Plant Fibers
Nature’s own string factory.
Where to find:
- Nettle stalks
- Yucca leaves
- Milkweed or dogbane How to use:
- Strip down fibers from stalks
- Dry and twist into cordage
- Time-consuming but good for survival practice
- Best for: Bushcraft fishing and learning patience
5. Dental Floss or Thread (from EDC kit)
Small, light—and often overlooked.
Where to find: In first aid kits, hygiene kits, or even hotel rooms
How to use:
- Tie directly to hook or makeshift lure
- Double it up for extra strength
- Tip: Waxed floss holds knots better
Don’t Forget the Reel!
Even with improvised line, your Fish8r mini reel can still be used. Just tie your makeshift line to the spool and go… Fishing isn’t about fancy gear, it’s about being resourceful.
Know another trick?
Send us your wild fishing line stories to info@fish8r.com – we love clever survival hacks, and we will post in on our page.