Homemade bobber stops help you set your fishing line depth easily. You can make these helpful tools yourself from simple items you might already have.
In a Nutshell: Homemade Bobber Stops for Float Fishing
- You will learn why these stops are great for float fishing.
- You will see what common things you need to make them.
- You will find out easy ways to create your own bobber stops.
Estimated reading time: 4 minutes
Many fishers in Canada enjoy float fishing. It’s a fun way to catch fish. Making your own bobber stops can save money. It is also a neat project. These stops keep your bobber from sliding too far up your line. This means your bait stays at the right depth in the water.
Why Bobber Stops Matter
Bobber stops are very important for float fishing. They let you control how deep your bait goes. Getting the right depth can mean catching more fish.
You can move the bobber stop up or down your fishing line. This changes your bait’s depth. It helps you fish where the fish are. Using good fishing tools like bobber stops can make your fishing trips better.
What You Need to Make Them
You can use several simple things to make homemade bobber stops. Many of these items are easy to find.
- Cocktail Straws or Balloon Handles: These are hollow. Your fishing line can pass through them. Some people use pieces of old balloon handles.
- Braided Line: You can use old pieces of braided fishing line. You tie this around the straw piece.
- Drinking Straws: Regular drinking straws also work. Cut them into small bits.
- Beads: Small beads can be used with your homemade stop. They can make it work even better.
- Dacron Line: This material is grippy. It holds well on fishing line.

How to Make Homemade Bobber Stops
Making your own bobber stops is simple.

Here are a few ways:
- Straw Method: Cut a small piece from a cocktail straw or balloon handle. Tie a piece of braided line or Dacron tightly around this small tube. Some anglers find this a great off-season DIY tackle project. This knot will stop your bobber.
- Dacron Knot: Dacron line is great because it grips well. Tie it around your small straw piece. Then, slide your main fishing line through the straw. Slide the knot off the straw and onto your main line. Pull it tight.
- Bead Combo: Put a small bead on your line. Then add your homemade bobber stop. The bead can help the stop grip better. It can also protect the knot. This is good if your stop seems to slip.
- Toothpick (for weights): A toothpick isn’t a true bobber stop. But, you can wedge it by your sinker. This holds a weight in place. It’s different from stopping a bobber.
Creating these stops is a good project for when you can’t go fishing. You can try different things. See what works best for your beginner fishing techniques.
My Bobber Stop Making Checklist
Good Things About Homemade Bobber Stops
Making your own bobber stops has many pluses.
- Saves Money: They cost much less than store-bought ones.
- You Choose: You can pick the size and material for your fishing needs. This is great when choosing essential fishing gear for beginners.
- Good for Earth: Using old items means less waste.
- Strong: With good materials, they can last a long time.
Tips for Using Your Stops
- Change Depth Fast: Slide the stop to quickly try different bait depths.
- Tight Fit: Make sure your knot is tight. It should not move when you cast.
- Try Different Things: Test various materials. Find what you like best. Some materials might work better with certain best fishing lines for Canada.
- Test Your Knot: Gently pull your finished stop. Make sure it holds firm on your line.
- Match to Line: Use thinner straws or tubes for lighter fishing lines. Use thicker ones for heavy lines.
- Add a Small Bead: Place a tiny bead above your stop. It can help prevent wear and add grip.
- Keep it Smooth: Ensure no sharp edges on your stop. This protects your fishing line from damage.
Common Problems and Fixes
- Stop Slips?: If your stop moves, use a grippier material like Dacron. Or, tie your knot tighter. Adding a bead can also help.
- Not Lasting?: If it breaks easily, try a thicker straw. Or, use more wraps in your knot.
Many fishers find homemade stops work well. They like being able to make them just right. General fishing sites like Informative Fisherman often share DIY tips.
Conclusion
Homemade bobber stops are a smart idea for float fishing. You can use everyday things to make them. This saves cash. It also lets you be creative. Try making your own.
You might find it helps you catch more fish and enjoy your time by the water even more. For more local fishing information, you can check out resources like Canadian Sportfishing.
Your Questions About Homemade Bobber Stops for Float Fishing Answered (Simply)
What can I use for a homemade bobber stop?
How do you make a bobber stop with a straw?
Do bobber stops work on braided line?
How tight should a bobber stop be?
Can you reel a bobber stop through the rod guides?
Why do you put a bead above a bobber stop?
Are homemade bobber stops as good as store-bought?
