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Hook, Line, and Sinker: Building a Custom Wooden Lure

Image
A three-panel image showing the process of making wooden fishing lures, including a carved unpainted lure on a workbench, a person using a fine tool to detail the wood, and a finished lure painted green and white with metal hooks.

Introductory - No experience required
Age Requirement : 18+ and minors 13+ with Guardian Supervision
Ticketed Workshop

Instructor: William Banick


Learn to make a working topwater popper fishing lure from basswood! This hands-on class covers the essential steps of lure construction including shaping, sanding, sealing, and rigging. You will leave with a finished lure ready to hit the water. While power tools handle the initial shaping, you will focus on the detail work and hardware that brings the lure to life.

What to Expect

In this focused session, you will transform a pre-cut wood blank into a functional piece of fishing gear. The instructor will provide blanks already cut on the band saw, allowing you to dive straight into the shaping and finishing process. You will use shop machinery to refine the form and drill precise hardware points, then move on to sealing and rigging your lure with professional-grade hardware.

Skills You’ll Acquire

  • Power Tool Shaping: Using the belt and disc sander to create a hydrodynamic lure body.
  • Precision Drilling: Using the drill press to create accurate holes for hardware placement.
  • Waterproofing Techniques: Learning how to properly seal and finish wood for constant water exposure.
  • Hardware Rigging: Installing screw eyes, split rings, and hooks for a secure build.
  • Lure Mechanics: Understanding how the physical shape of the wood affects the action and movement in the water.

What’s Provided

  • Pre-cut basswood blanks.
  • Complete hardware kits including screw eyes, split rings, and treble hooks.
  • Primer, sealer, paint, and clear coat.
  • Access to all necessary shop machinery and tools.

Who Should Attend

Any makers interested in fishing or woodworking who want to create their own custom gear. Ages 18+. (Participants 13 to 18 are welcome with parental or guardian supervision).

Prerequisites and Safety Information

Woodshop Badge is required. Please wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that you do not mind getting paint on. Optional: Feel free to bring reference photos of lure color patterns you would like to try.

When
Thursday April 30th, 2026 from  6:00 PM to  9:00 PM
Location
Main Space @ MakeHaven
770 Chapel St
Lower Level, via back elevator or stairs
New Haven, CT 06510
United States
Workshop Ticket Fee
Standard Ticket $80.00
MakeHaven Members $68.00

Need Based Workshop Price Adjustment

MakeHaven offers a price reduction for individuals who are below a threshold income level.
You can apply at: Workshop Price Reduction Request.

Notices

Learn about our event policies, such as cancellations and inclement weather: Event Policies Page
Find the answers to the most commonly asked questions about workshops and events Event and Workshop FAQ.

 

Accessibility

Our facilities undergo periodic reviews to maximize ADA compliance. We offer accessible bathrooms, elevators, and wide walkways. In tool usage, we aim for universal access and work individually to adapt tools for safe usage as necessary. If you anticipate needing an adaptation to participate in this event or have further questions, please contact us at events@makehaven.org.