No-Weld Aluminum Surf or Cat Fishing Rod Holder/Sand Spike

If you love surf fishing but don't have access to a specialized welding rig, you'll appreciate this no-weld rod holder I designed in Autodesk Fusion. While heavy-duty aluminum rod holders traditionally require welding, this design relies entirely on stainless steel hardware and affordable hand tools.

This sand spike delivers the same rugged durability and corrosion resistance as a welded alternative, making it the perfect weekend project for any coastal angler.

For the complete, step-by-step breakdown, blueprints, and in-depth design details, check out the full article over on Reckonill.

If you like making your own fishing gear, this sand spike is a key component of my Hitch-mounted Surf/Beach Cart instructable.

Disclaimer: This project is presented for educational and demonstration purposes only. Any modifications, alternative material selections, or use of this guide for your own builds are done entirely at your own risk. Always follow safety precautions when working with power tools or customized equipment.

Note: Some of the links below may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you, which helps support future DIY builds!

Materials

1. 1.5″ Aluminum Angle Iron (36″ length)
2. 2″ Aluminum Round Tube (two 4″ sections)
3. 1/4″-20 Stainless Steel Screws 1"
4. 1/4″-20 Stainless Steel Screws 3"
5. 1/4″-20 Nyloc Nuts
6. Plasti Dip

Tools

1. Drill
2. 1/4″ Drill Bit
3. 1/4″-20 Drill Tap
4. Angle Grinder (with Cutoff and Flap Discs)
5. Dremel Tool or File

Cut your 1.5″ aluminum angle iron to a length of 36″ to serve as the main spike body. Next, cut a 4″ section from your 2″ aluminum round tube to create your bottom support and another piece at a steep 25-degree angle for the top support.

Cut a 45-degree angle onto both sides of the bottom of the angle iron to create a sharp point that easily penetrates the sand. Use an angle grinder with a flap disc to smooth out all sharp metal edges, and use a file or Dremel to deburr the inside of the round tubes.

Drill a hole at the very top of the angle iron using a #7 drill bit, then thread it with a 1/4″-20 tap. Measure exactly 14-3/8″ down from that top hole and repeat the process to create your second tapped mounting point.

Drill a 1/4″ hole through the center of the angled cut on your top support, and countersink it so the screw head sits completely flush. For the bottom support, drill a 1/4″ hole straight through both sides of the round tube.

Thread the 3″ screw through both sides of the bottom round tube and into the lower tapped hole of your angle iron frame. Mount the top support using the 3/4″ screw in the countersunk hole, then secure the back of both screws tightly with 1/4″-20 Nyloc nuts.

Slowly dip the top round tube support into Plasti Dip and pull it out carefully to avoid creating air bubbles. Apply three full coats, waiting 30 minutes between each layer, to give the holder a professional finish that protects your rod handles from scratches.

You now have a heavy-duty, corrosion-resistant surf fishing rod holder built entirely with basic hardware store tools!

Did you build your own version or customize the dimensions? Click the "I Made It!" button below to share your creation with the community. For advanced configuration tracking, troubleshooting tips, or to join the community discussion, head back to the original project page on Reckonill.