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To make a paper fishing pole for a pretend fishing game, tie a length of string to a stick or pencil and fasten a magnet to the other end. Cut fish from paper and attach a paperclip to each one; the dangling magnet will pick them up. This is a play craft, not a working fishing rod.
What you need
- Paper or construction paper for the fish
- A pencil, stick, or light dowel for the pole
- String or yarn
- A small craft magnet or refrigerator magnet
- Paperclips
- Scissors
- Optional: markers, tape, and a shallow box or tray for the pond
These are simple alternatives, not special components you need to buy. DIY.org suggests a stick or pencil, while PBS KIDS and KiwiCo use a stick. KiwiCo notes that a thicker stick is sturdier; the instructions do not give a measured comparison.
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How to make the paper fishing pole and fish
- Make the fish. Draw fish on paper or construction paper and cut them out. Fold the paper first if you want matching shapes. Decorate them with markers, or add numbers, letters, colors, or shapes for a learning game.
- Add a paperclip to each fish. Clip it near the edge, leaving some metal exposed so the magnet can catch it. For a fish made from two matching paper shapes, Scholastic’s craft places the paperclip between the shapes with part of it sticking out.
- Attach the string to the pole. Tie one end securely around the end of a stick or pencil.
- Fasten on the magnet. Tie the magnet to the loose end of the string, or secure it with tape so it hangs freely. DIY.org describes using tape to fasten it; PBS KIDS shows a string connecting the stick and magnet.
- Set up the pond and play. Spread the fish in a shallow box or tray, or on the floor. Lower the magnet toward a paperclip to catch a fish.
Choose a pole and make the game your own
Pencil, stick, or dowel
Use what you have on hand. A pencil makes a simple handle; a stick or light dowel is another option. A thicker stick may feel sturdier, but there is no controlled comparison establishing which works best.
Craft magnet or refrigerator magnet
Either can serve as the magnet at the end of the string. Choose a magnet that can pick up the exposed paperclip; a refrigerator magnet is an option named by PBS KIDS.
#1 Best Overall
- Gel-Tech comfort grip handle designed for small hands
- Dimpled reel handle knob and textured push button helps kids cast and retrieve with ease
- Safety hook keeper fully conceals hook point for snag-free storage
- 2'6" all-in-one rod and reel with line
- Includes practice casting plug
Picture fish or learning game
Plain decorated fish are enough for pretend play. For an added challenge, mark fish with letters, numbers, colors, or shapes and ask players to catch a particular one. Scouts also describes using points as a game variation.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Real Fishing Rod Feel, Endless Fun: Crafted from premium lightweight carbon fiber, this 12.2-inch (retracted) to 29.9-inch (extended) telescopic wand gives you the exact same casting and flicking action as a real fishing rod. Swing it like a pro and watch your cat go wild!
- Chirping Bird Plush That Drives Cats Crazy: The lifelike bird-shaped attachment isn't just soft and huggable – it's designed with a built-in rattle that chirps and rattles with every move! This sound perfectly mimics prey, instantly triggering your cat's deepest hunting instincts and keeping them obsessed for hours.
- Ignite the Hunter Within: Say goodbye to lazy afternoons! This interactive toy transforms your living room into a hunting ground. The erratic "swimming" and sudden "darting" motions of the bird plush simulate real prey behavior, giving your feline the ultimate mental and physical workout they crave.
- Fun for the Whole Family (Yes, You Too!): This isn't just a cat toy – it's a bonding experience! Whether you're a seasoned angler or just a cat parent looking for a laugh, the rod's smooth action makes it incredibly satisfying to cast and flick. Get ready for hilarious pounces, acrobatic leaps, and quality time that both you and your fur baby will love.
Rank #4
- Dimensions: Length: 6 3/4" | Width: 2" Scale: | 1:12
- Miniature Fishing Pole With Fish is perfect for decorating your dollhouse and miniature creations
- Features a long brown pole and a large (relative to the pole) green and yellow fish
Rank #3
- ALL-ROUND EDUCATION | Good for hand-eye coordination, colour recognition, interpersonal skills and also math for 3 to 6 year-old boys and girls
- DURABLE POLES | The high-quality rod model with solid plastic and anti-corrosion strong magnets selected. Great bath toys for ages 3-6
- MULTI-PLAYER GAME | Designed for kids vs kids or parent vs kids interaction and competition. Let's get this set models and go fishing and role pretend play carnival together!
- GREAT LEARNING COMBO | Contain two poles for replacement with ASTM and CPSIA certified.
- GIFT FOR YOUR LOVE | Nice bath toys for toddlers 3-5 and Christmas Easter Thanksgiving Gifts for boys girls kids. Buy with confidence as this fishing game is kids' must-have grow-up buddy.
Rank #2
- VALUABLE PACK OF 9 - This cat toy set includes 1 retractable cat toy wand, 3 feathers, 3 worms and 2 stuffed fish. The new lobster clasp design makes replacing attachments easier! Also, all feather teaser refills have a bell, which can increase cats' interest and make them crazier!
- SAFE MATERIAL - These cat feather toys are made of natural and materials, not easy to fade. It's safe and friendly for your furry friends. The carbon fiber cat stick is durable and elastic, perfect for playing with cats.
- ADJUSTABLE CAT WAND - The adjustable range of the cat wand toy is from 17" to 30", which is easy to stretch and store. It's also equipped with a 50 inches braided rope, great for playing with your cat from a distance! The comfortable EVA handles make you to use it for a long time without getting tired.
- FUNNY CAT TOYS - The blue cat fish kicker toy is filled with cotton, catnip and crinkle paper. Its surface adopts the 3D printing process, which is clear and vivid. Soft, cuddly and perfectly sized, great for cats to play. You can also use it to go "cat fishing" and enjoy different fishing fun!
- HEALTHY INTERACTION - Waving the cat wand, make your cat flip, jump and chase! This cat string toy can provide hours of exercise and entertainment, and stimulate your cat's nature. Interact with your cat and reduce their loneliness. Strengthen the connection between you and your cat in the game!
Safety while crafting and playing
- Supervise children during the activity, particularly when they use scissors or handle small components.
- Keep magnets and paperclips out of mouths. KiwiCo warns that children should know not to swallow magnets.
