Fishing has long been one of my favorite pastimes and as an angler, I’ve accumulated quite a collection of rods over the years. However, storing them all had become a challenge as my gear began taking over every nook and cranny of my home.

That was until I came across a creative solution that not only kept my rods organized but displayed them in a stylish way. By repurposing an old curtain rod and getting a bit crafty with some decorating touches, I was able to design a customized fishing rod display wall that now proudly shows off my prized poles.

In this post on how to display old fishing rods, I’ll share the simple steps I took to achieve this project so you too can turn your fishing rods from an eyesore into a focal wall feature.

Needed Materials

• Old Curtain Rod
• Fishing Rods (of Course!)
• Drill and Screws
• Level
• Pencil
• Decorative Elements (Optional)

11 Step-by-step Guidelines on How to Display Old Fishing Rods

Step 1: Choose your Curtain Rod

The first step is to choose the right curtain rod for this project. You’ll want one that is long enough to accommodate all of your rods but not so long that it won’t fit on your designated wall space. Measure the area where you plan to hang your display and select a curtain rod that will fit comfortably. You can also choose a decorative one to add some flair. This is an opportunity to get creative with your display.

Step 2: Gather Your Fishing Rods

Next, gather all of your fishing rods and give them a quick clean before setting them aside. This is also a good time to decide which rods you want to display and which ones you want to keep stored away. Keep in mind that the more rods you display, the longer your curtain rod should be. It’s also helpful to group similar rods together for a more uniform look. This is also a great opportunity to get rid of any old or broken rods you no longer use.

Step 3: Measure and Mark Your Wall

Using a tape measure and pencil, mark where you want your curtain rod to be hung on the wall. Use a level to ensure that your marks are straight. It’s important to make sure your curtain rod is level before drilling into the wall. It’s also helpful to have someone assist you at this stage to hold the curtain rod in place while you mark the wall. You can also use painter’s tape to mark where you want your curtain rod and make any necessary adjustments before drilling.

Step 4: Drill Holes

Using a drill, make holes where you marked you want your curtain rod to be hung. Make sure to use the correct drill bit size for your screws. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to start with a smaller hole and make adjustments as needed. You can also use anchors for added support if needed. It’s important to make sure your holes are level and evenly spaced.

Step 5: Attach Curtain Rod

Carefully place the curtain rod over the drilled holes and use screws to attach it securely to the wall. Again, having a second person assist you at this stage can be helpful. Once the curtain rod is attached, give it a gentle tug to ensure it is secure. You can also use a level to double-check that it is still straight. You can also paint or decorate the curtain rod at this stage before attaching it to the wall.

Step 6: Add Decorative Elements (Optional)

This step is optional but adds a nice touch to your fishing rod display. You can use hooks or clips to hang lures, bobbers, or other fishing-related items from the curtain rod. You can also add some decorative elements such as roping, fishing netting, or even a fish-shaped cutout to add some personality to your display.

Step 7: Hang Your Fishing Rods

Once your curtain rod is securely attached and decorated, it’s time to hang your fishing rods. Place them on the rod in whatever order you want them displayed. You can choose to have them all facing the same direction or alternate facing directions for a more dynamic look. It’s also helpful to have a second person assist you at this stage to make sure the rods are evenly spaced and straight. You can also add a fishing line or rope to secure the rods in place and prevent them from falling off.

Step 8: Adjust as Needed

Take a step back and look at your display. This is the time to make any adjustments if necessary. You can try moving some rods around, adding or removing decorative elements, or even changing the angle of some of the rods for a more visually appealing display. You can also step back and admire your handiwork at this stage! This is also a great time to take a photo of your display for future reference.

Step 9: Secure Rods in Place

Once you’re happy with how your fishing rods are displayed, you can secure them in place by using small pieces of foam or rubber to create friction between the curtain rod and the fishing rod. This will prevent them from slipping and moving around. The foam or rubber can easily be removed later if you want to change the display.

Step 10: Add Finishing Touches

Take a step back and see if there are any final touches you want to add to your display. You can add more decorative elements, hang pictures or posters of your favorite fishing spots, or even place a small shelf under the curtain rod to store some tackle boxes. It’s your fishing rod display, so get creative and have fun with it! You can even add some LED lights to your display for a unique and eye-catching touch.

Step 11: Admire and Enjoy Your New Display!

Now that your fishing rods are proudly displayed on your wall, take a moment to admire and enjoy your new display. Not only are your rods organized and easily accessible, but they also add a unique touch to your home décor. You can even switch out the rods seasonally or as you catch more fish to keep the display fresh and interesting.

Following these simple steps on how to display old fishing rods, you can turn your old fishing rods from clutter to a visually appealing display that showcases your love for fishing. Get creative and have fun with it, and soon you’ll have a wall full of memories and stories waiting to be shared with friends and family. Happy displaying! 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I Use Any Type of Curtain Rod for This Display?

A: Yes, as long as it is strong enough to support the weight of your fishing rods and fits comfortably on your wall space. It’s also helpful to choose a decorative curtain rod to add some flair to your display.

Q: How Many Fishing Rods Can I Display on One Curtain Rod?

A: The number of fishing rods you can display will depend on the length and strength of your curtain rod. It’s best to measure your wall space and select a curtain rod that will comfortably fit all of your desired fishing rods.

Q: How Often Should I Update or Change the Display?

A: This is completely up to personal preference. Some people may want to keep their display the same for years, while others may enjoy updating it seasonally or as they catch new fish. There’s no right or wrong way to display your fishing rods, so have fun and change it up as often or as little as you’d like.  So, now go and display your old fishing rods with pride!

Conclusion

In conclusion on how to display old fishing rods, displaying old fishing rods is not only a great way to add character and nostalgia to your home, but it also serves as a reminder of the great memories and experiences you’ve had on the water. By following these tips and tricks, you can proudly showcase your collection while keeping them safe and preserved.

Whether you choose to mount them on the wall or display them in a shadow box, they are sure to become a conversation starter for anyone who enters your home. Don’t let those old rods collect dust in a corner; instead, give them the spotlight they deserve and keep their legacy alive.

Let’s continue to honor our love for fishing and share it with others by beautifully displaying our cherished equipment. So go ahead, gather up those old rods, and let your creativity run wild. Your display will not only be a reflection of your passion for fishing but also an ode to your personal journey and adventures on the water. Let’s keep the tradition alive and inspire others to do the same. Happy rod displaying!