Fishing rod antenna for ham radio

Fishing rod antenna
T. Skauli, LA4ZCA

NOTE: To fit your fishing rod, you will most likely need to modify dimensions via OpenSCAD: Open each file and change the parameter for the fishing rod diameter in the top of the code, then render (press F6) and export STL (press F7). You may also want to modify other parameters, for example the coax diameter.

Starting from a telescopic fishing rod, add the hook from this file at the bottom and the radial hook part (separate file) near the opposite end of the base element of the rod. Both hooks are mounted with adhesive tape around the rod.

Extend the rod and run a flexible wire all the way with a simple knot through each ring. The wire enters into the chamber in the base hook. Use some glue to mount the metal part of a banana jack in the top hole of the hook. A RG-174 coax feedline enters the chamber through the bottom hole. Solder the center conductor to the antenna wire and the screen to the banana jack. Use glue to fix the coax in place. Then attach the bottom hook to the rod.

Make a radial/counterpoise wire with a banana plug in one end, connect to the banna jack in the base and wind it between the bottom hook and the radial hook. Attach a rubber band around the rod first, and use it to hold the radial end in place.

The coax hook (separate file) is attached to the cover for the rings on the rod when it is collapsed, see photos. When the rod is collapsed,place the cover over the rings and gather the antenna wire loops in the slot on the inside of the hook. Then wind the coax around the coax and bottom hooks. Attach a rubber band to the coax connector to fix the end in place on one of the hooks.

To use, simply unwind the coax and the radial, then extend the rod and attach it to a suitable base using string or straps.

When a metallic ground is available, a wire with a crocodile clip can be connected to the base instead of the radial wire.