DIY Fishing Game

Today is the last gift plan for this year’s Handbuilt Holiday series with Ana White and we have a super simple and easy to make diy fishing game for you.  I hope you’ve enjoyed seeing all the gift ideas over the past 12 weeks, it’s been a joy to build each and every one and today’s plan is no exception.

We still have 6 good building days left and I guarantee this fishing game will only take a few hours to complete.  Make a long box and cut out a few fish then you’re good to go!

The box stores all the pieces because we know toys work best when everything is contained and stored together.  (How many times have your kids received a toy with a bazillion pieces and no storage container?!  Makes you want to pull your hair out.)  I also made a lid for the box using 1/4″ plywood and applied adhesive backed velcro to keep the lid in place.

The fish are all made from 1/2″ plywood scrap bits cut out on a scroll saw and sanded smooth.

You’ll want a strong magnet to pick up the fish.  This $6 magnet conveniently has a hook to attach the fishing line.  My kids discovered the magnet is strong enough to pick up 3 fish at once!

Be sure to add handles or make a cut out handle if you prefer so the storage box is easy for kids to carry.

Ana has the plans here along with a link to the free printable fish template.

Cut out the fish, sand smooth and predrill a hole for the screw.

I opted to spray paint the fish.

In order to attract the magnet from the fishing pole you need a metal screw with a large head.  I opted to use pan head screws size #12 at 3/8″ long.

Ana designed this fishing game so everything fits perfectly in the storage box!  Every moms dream!

Thank you for joining us for the Handbuilt Holiday series this year.  Ana and I look forward to this series all year long and are continually thinking of new and fun gift builds to add to the list.  If you have any special requests for next year please let us know!

Now get building because handmade gifts are the best.