How To Make A Planer Board

How to Make a Planer Board: A DIY Guide for Anglers

Planning on upgrading your fishing game? Building your own planer board can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to improve your trolling setup. This DIY guide will walk you through the process, helping you create a custom planer board perfectly suited to your needs.

Understanding Planer Boards: Why Build Your Own?

Planer boards are essential tools for trolling, allowing you to spread out your lines and cover more water, increasing your chances of a successful catch. While commercially available planer boards are readily accessible, building your own offers several advantages:

• Customization: You have complete control over the size, shape, and features of your planer board, tailoring it to your specific fishing style and the type of water you fish.
• Cost Savings: Building your own can be significantly cheaper than purchasing multiple pre-made boards.
• Satisfaction: There's a unique satisfaction in crafting your own fishing gear, knowing you built it from the ground up.

Materials You'll Need:

Before you begin, gather these essential materials:

• A sturdy piece of wood: Consider using marine-grade plywood or a similar water-resistant material. The size will depend on your desired board dimensions; a good starting point is approximately 12" x 6".
• Epoxy resin and hardener: This will provide a waterproof and durable finish.
• Sandpaper (various grits): You'll need a range of grits for smoothing the wood.
• Wood screws: For attaching components.
• Line release mechanism: This is crucial for preventing line tangles and broken rods. You can purchase pre-made line release mechanisms or design your own using durable materials.
• Paint or varnish: To protect the wood from water damage.
• Durable rope or cord: To attach the board to your fishing line.
• Measuring tape and pencil: For precise measurements and markings.

Step-by-Step Construction Guide:

1. Cutting and Shaping the Board:

Cut your chosen wood to your desired dimensions. Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and create a streamlined shape for optimal water movement. Consider adding a slight curve or airfoil shape to improve performance.

2. Installing the Line Release:

Carefully attach the line release mechanism to the board. Ensure it is securely fastened and functions smoothly. This is a critical step for preventing equipment damage and maximizing your fishing success.

3. Applying the Finish:

Once you're satisfied with the shape and the line release mechanism, apply multiple coats of epoxy resin to seal and protect the wood. Allow ample drying time between coats. After the epoxy has fully cured, apply a topcoat of marine-grade paint or varnish for extra durability and water resistance.

4. Adding the Rope Attachment:

Drill a small hole near the top of the board to securely attach the rope or cord. This will be used to connect the planer board to your fishing line. Ensure the attachment is strong enough to withstand the forces of trolling.

5. Final Touches and Testing:

Once the paint or varnish has dried completely, inspect your finished planer board for any imperfections. Test the line release mechanism to ensure it functions correctly. Conduct a test run in calm waters to ensure its performance before using it in your regular fishing trips.

Tips for Success:

• Consider the weight: A heavier board will run deeper, while a lighter board will run shallower. Adjust the weight to suit your fishing conditions.
• Experiment with different shapes: The shape of the board influences its performance. Experiment to find the optimal shape for your fishing needs.
• Use high-quality materials: Investing in durable materials will ensure your planer board lasts for many fishing seasons.

By following this guide, you can confidently craft your own custom planer boards, improving your trolling effectiveness and enhancing your overall fishing experience. Remember safety first, and always check local regulations before fishing. Tight lines!