Fish traps date back to prehistoric times, proving their lasting utility in survival and homesteading. A well-made fish trap can catch fish while you focus on other critical tasks like gathering food or supplies. This guide will walk you through constructing a fish trap using simple, natural materials.
Step 1: Collect Your Materials
To build your fish trap, you'll need the following:
- A survival knife or sharp arrowhead.
- 20-40 dowels, tree branches, shoots, or strong reeds.
- 100 feet of pliable vine (e.g., wisteria or kudzu runners).
- Optional: Thick cord, strong string, or twine for added support.
Prepare the vine by cutting it from the main plant about a week before construction to allow it to dry and shrink. Use any circular object, such as vines or food storage lids, for the frame.
Step 2: Build the Shell
Create three hoops, each about 9-10 inches in diameter, using thick vines or circular objects. Secure the ends tightly with string or additional vine to ensure they stay intact.
Attach dowels or branches to one hoop, weaving vines to secure them. Repeat this with the second hoop in the middle and the third hoop at the other end, forming a cylindrical shape.
Step 3: Secure the End
Close one end of the trap by placing smaller dowels or branches across it. Weave vines over and under these dowels to create a mesh that prevents fish from escaping while allowing water to flow.
Step 4: Build the Funnel Entrance
A cone-shaped funnel is essential for trapping fish. Create a smaller hoop that fits snugly inside the cylinder. Attach short branches to this hoop and weave vines around them to form a cone. Secure the funnel into the trap with vines or twine.
Step 5: Bait and Set the Trap
Bait the trap with rotten meat, fish, or worms. Tie the bait with string to hang in the center. If small fish are stealing the bait, enclose it in a small vine box. Place the trap in a lake, stream, or river with the opening facing upstream to make it harder for fish to escape.
