Do-it-yourself sled for winter fishing, step-by-step instructions, drawings and diagrams

Category: Inventory 18,825

Do-it-yourself Finnish sled, folding design, made of aluminum pipes, which can be easily and quickly disassembled or assembled.

On the sled in question, it is easy to move on ice or compacted snow.

The presented design consists of three separate parts (assemblies):

Skids.
High chair.
Back (handle).

Finnish homemade sleigh

As an option, you can make a Finnish sled with your own hands (finka), which is no less popular among fishermen. Their design is extremely simple and consists of three main components:

skis;
back;
chair.

It is better to make the design collapsible so that it can be conveniently transported on the subway or in a car. Immediately before starting the manufacturing process, it is better to sketch out a drawing of the future sled.

Making a sled starts with the runners. You need to select two metal rods about a centimeter thick, three meters long and six to seven centimeters wide. The ends of the rods are smoothly bent upward and holes are made for the rod, which will fasten the runners together. The rod itself should be ten millimeters in diameter, with threads on both ends.

After this, the back and seat are mounted. They are made from hard wood such as oak or birch. You will need wooden blocks measuring 4 by 4 centimeters: two horizontal, vertical, transverse and one as a steering wheel. The sides of the seat are covered with boards. All wooden parts of the sled are fastened together with screws or bolts. The runners are connected to the main structure by welding. You can also weld a hook on the back of the backrest to secure a bag or backpack.

If desired, you can make a kind of snowmobile out of such a sled by installing a chainsaw motor on it. However, this will increase the weight of the sled, and it will be problematic to move it from place to place. In addition, some fishermen equip a tent to provide shelter from the wind.

BACK

Material used:

• round aluminum pipe without heat treatment 22x3.5 GOST 18482-79 • planed wooden board 25x50x450 (mm) • rubber or wooden handles

Assembly order of the unit:

We bend two handles from a pipe measuring 22x3.5 (mm).
We bend two handles from a pipe measuring 22x3.5 (mm).
Using rivets, we secure wooden planks 25x50x450 (mm) on top of the pipes.
Place rubber or wooden handles on glue.
From the bottom of the backrest posts, drill through holes with a diameter of 8 (mm).

Finnish sleigh made by hand,

All that remains is to connect the three separate parts into one whole.

To do this, we will use a metal rod Ø15 (mm), in which through holes Ø8 (mm) are drilled at a distance of 80 (mm) from each other. Everything is very simple: insert the rod into the pipe; Insert a threaded rod GOST 22042-76 into the through hole of the pipe and rod; screw cap nuts GOST 11860-85 on both sides of the stud. Thus, the chair and backrest are attached to the runners.

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On what principle does the boat operate?

The main purpose of a fishing boat is to deliver bait further from the shore, where larger fish live.

It is important that such tackle has good buoyancy, which means that in its manufacture one should use materials that are light, buoyant and do not get wet

In addition to using the right materials, one thing to keep in mind is that there is usually a current in the river. And so that it does not interfere with the boat, its design must be given special geometric parameters. If they are chosen correctly, the flow will have a directional effect on the structure.

The ship's actions should approximately copy the flight of a kite. This way it will swim with maximum efficiency and thanks to this effect, hooks with bait will fall into the places where they are needed.

According to this design, it is required that there be a current in the reservoir. Either fishing with a boat or sled should be carried out on a windy day, so that with the help of the wind a wave is formed that could move the boat. If there is no wind or current, then such a structure will not be able to set off on a further journey with bait, because the boat can only be sent when the water moves as intensely as possible.

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Fishing sleds are used by fishermen in such cases when:

fishing is carried out at a very far distance from the shore using surface baits;
if there are overhanging tree branches near the banks;
in reservoirs that are heavily overgrown and it is impossible to use spinning baits in them;
when a fisherman simply likes this way of fishing.

Electronic fishing rod

This model is equipped with an additional electronic mechanism that allows you to set the exact number of bites and carry out timely hooking. The device and design use a built-in coil and clamping nut.

To create an electronic winter fishing rod with your own hands, you need to prepare the appropriate tools and equipment:

Electric mechanism from an old toothbrush;
Insulating tape;
Champagne cork;
Long plastic rod;
A piece of fishing line;
Plastic reel;
Nod.

Particular attention must be paid to the rotating mechanism, which will ensure quick hooking. Until then, you can use an old power toothbrush.

We test our invention in a shallow container of water. At the opposite end of the fishing line we attach hooks. Carefully immerse them in water and turn on the engine mechanism.

During operation, it emits long sound vibrations. When immersed in an ice hole, the device produces a short sound wave that lures deep-sea predators.

Sleigh with box

Another option is to take a regular sled and place a box on it in which you can place all your fishing accessories. The first step is to cut the bottom out of plywood and fix it to the sled using self-tapping screws. Then, using the same screws and corners, you need to mount the plywood side walls.

It is better to make the lid from durable material, then you can sit on it without fear of breakage. You can also attach foam rubber and leatherette or other suitable materials to it. They can be easily secured using a furniture stapler. To keep the seat from being cold, the same foam will do.

The lids and wall of the box placed on the sled can be covered from the inside with thin foam plastic. In this case, you will get an insulated structure in which neither bait, nor lunch, nor catch will freeze.

Fishing sled for snowmobile

Most fishermen are convinced that a snowmobile sled is a useful thing. But first, everyone should decide which type of transport they like. After all, these can be both skids and ordinary structures with runners.

The most interesting options were discussed earlier. Moreover, you can make a sled for a snowmobile yourself, and indeed, just like the snowmobile itself, you can make it with your own hands. After all, this is a fairly simple design.

Tips for improving purchased sleds for ice fishing:

so that the inner surface of the sled does not have ice, it is necessary to lubricate the bottom with silicone lubricant or special wax for skis;
if the trajectory will take place in the dark, it is recommended to attach reflective strips to the edges of the sled;
In addition to the sled, add a folding chair. It can be secured with a rubber band.

Nowadays, it is not necessary to have a lot of money to comfortably go fishing in the winter. Because with your own hands you can create almost any gear and equipment that will be useful for fishing. This is confirmed by winter sleds for fishing, with which you can easily transport cargo on an icy body of water. Everything is exclusively for your comfort and convenience.

How to make a fishing boat with your own hands

Fishing boats come in many shapes and types.
Even the names may differ from each other. Some people call it a water snake, some just call it a boat rig, and some call it a fishing sled. There are several ways to make such fishing gear. There are complex designs and simple ones. The material for the boat can be wood or foam. These materials are inexpensive and easier to work with than, for example, plastic.

If you use a simple method when constructing a boat, you will need the following parts:

wooden boards, which have different lengths and thickness range from 13 to 15 mm;
moisture-resistant paint;
drying oil;
nut M6 – 4 pcs, M4 – 1 pc;
studs number 6;
bracket;
screw to make the fastening;
drill;
glue;
screws and nails;
a small piece of lead.

Assembling the sled

When all the necessary parts are prepared, you can begin to assemble the structure.
First you need to treat the wood parts with drying oil and wait until it dries. Apply a coat of paint to the dried boards and let the parts dry again. It is better to choose a color so that the fish are not afraid of it, but at the same time the tackle is clearly visible to the fisherman from the shore.

Then you need to cut out several trapezoidal parts from the board. The cuts on the sides should be made oblique. The parts need to be connected and for this you need to drill holes to attach the fishing line to them. Use nuts and studs to connect the parts together.

To install the bracket, holes are drilled on both sides. This is done so that it can be easily moved to the other side. The bracket moves to the side from which the waves are moving. Lead plates are attached down to the structure with self-tapping screws and glue. A detailed drawing of fishing sleds used in fishing can be found on the Internet.

As soon as the glue dries, the boat can be considered ready and you can go catch big fish.

It is better to catch fish that weigh more than 200 grams on a boat. These could be chubs or other types of predatory fish. The asp is caught well. It can weigh up to three kilograms. And in rare cases, a trout can get caught on a boat.

The bait that is used for fishing with a boat must be alive - this is its main quality. The attachments are very varied. You can catch:

dragonfly;
grasshoppers;
bugs, preferably larger ones, and much more.

In general, whatever comes to hand.

Thus, making a fishing boat with your own hands is not so difficult. To do this, it is enough to take a few parts and assemble the correct design. Such tackle will be a good fishing assistant for the fisherman, especially when he wants to catch larger species of fish that live far from the shore, and to which neither a simple fishing rod nor a spinning rod can be reached. But it is not advisable to use a boat in such cases, because all the fish will simply be scared away.

Read How to fish with balance beams in winter

How to make a fishing sled with your own hands

Anyone can assemble such a structure. The main thing is to decide what kind of sled you need and with what functionality. If you need a sled to deliver fishing equipment to a fishing spot, then it can be made from wood, plastic, aluminum or iron. It all depends on the capabilities of the fisherman and the purpose of the sled.

Metal sleds can be made either collapsible or non-collapsible. More recently, other designs simply did not exist. The metal structure is a rigid and durable base, on top of which there is a platform made of wooden boards or plywood. This is the so-called cargo area, which is used for transporting cargo. Their only drawback is the difficulty of operating in snowy areas. Due to the fact that the runners are narrow, they sink in the snow and a person needs to expend a lot of effort to move them, and even when loaded.

Similar plastic sleds are made in the form of a trough. They have good performance characteristics. They move without problems both on ice and snow. In this case, you should pay attention to the dimensions of the structure and workmanship. Although many argue that such a design is not difficult to make on your own.

Wooden sleds are very popular. This is the most affordable and easily processed material, and structures made from it will last for many years. The main thing is to have the following tools and materials on hand:

pine boards;
wood glue;
sandpaper;
jigsaw;
electric drill, etc.

Manufacturing technology

You need to take two boards from which two runners will be made. The appropriate shape should be drawn on them and cut out with a jigsaw.
The runners need to be fastened together. For this, cross bars of the appropriate size are used. The connection may consist of glue and round tenons.
To strengthen the structure, additional transverse strips are attached to the front and back of the runners, mounted with glue and spikes.
For a more aesthetic appearance, all excess is cut off and cleaned well.
The board, which will serve as a cargo platform in the future, is prepared for subsequent fastening by cutting out all the necessary grooves and drilling the corresponding holes.
An additional bar for fastening is attached to the back of the 2 runners.
The places where the runners are rounded are reinforced with strips of aluminum or iron. This is necessary so that various obstacles do not damage the runners of the sled.
Before final assembly, it is better to check all parts for proper dimensions. At the same time, you need to make sure that all elements are sanded and coated with waterproof varnish.

After the sled is assembled, it should be tested for strength by placing on it all the equipment that is used in winter fishing. Only after this does it make sense to take them with you.

DIY sleigh

Before you start making a sled, you need to decide for yourself what kind of sled it will be. Since we have already examined the structure of the sleigh as a whole, and the object of consideration was the sledge, it’s time to concentrate the practical part on the traveling sleigh.

And so, the first thing we need is dimensions. Travel sleds are famous for their stability due to their track width, however, you should take into account the roads on which these sleds will travel. The most practical solution to this issue is to measure the bottleneck on the proposed route. But if this is not available, then you can use the general dimensions.

The width between the runners is up to 900 mm.

The length of the runners when bent is from 1700 mm.

Body width – up to 1200 mm.

The height of the sled from the ground to the bottom of the body is up to 300 mm.

The length of the shafts depends on the size of the horse - about 1200 mm.

The most labor-intensive and essential part in making a sled is the runners. They must be strong enough and at the same time light. They are made from long pieces of wood, steel or plastic pipes, and to ensure greater contact with snow when driving, thin metal strips are welded to the pipes.

My experience of riding a Finnish sled was not rich, but picturesque: a spring thaw, my sister was sitting on the seat, I was standing behind on the runners. We are 11-12 years old, and we are doing an experiment - going down a slide. The road lies along a narrow ice path, cutting in two a huge puddle of melt water... The experiment was carried out once, and ended in a matter of seconds with swimming.

In compiling the list of races for the Winter Olympics, the founders made an unfortunate omission - they ignored a sport that is highly respected in the Nordic countries: sleigh racing. It’s strange to think, but many city children have never even seen an ordinary Finnish sled.

Finnish sled. Based on Internet materials

And not so long ago, at least in the 1970s, Finnish sleds were an ordinary phenomenon on the streets of Karelian cities. They disappeared, remaining in old photographs. For example, sleighs actively take part in the busy traffic on Lenin Avenue in Petrozavodsk.

Lenin Avenue in Petrozavodsk. 1950s National Museum of the Republic of Karelia

However, the birthplace of the Finnish sled was Sweden. It is unknown who thought of putting an ordinary chair on long wooden runners. In general, the chair as a piece of furniture entered peasant life in Europe quite late (for centuries, preference was given to benches), but the comfort of sitting on it inspired someone who decided to improve ordinary sleds. The northerners loved them so much that by the 1880s, a new sport had even arisen and was actively developing in Sweden: the world's first Finnish sled club was created.

A little later, in 1891, a similar club was founded in Finland, in the city of Oulu. It was founded by Finnish Colonel Edward Furhujelm - this active enthusiast began organizing races among soldiers. Moreover, advocating the spread of sleds with long runners, the colonel sent his subordinates on leave with the condition that they get home only by such transport. The live advertising was a success - the Finns loved the sled and still use it to this day. Here is a drawing of a sled by E. Furhujelm - there is even a description of the spikes that were put on the boots and contributed to better grip of the pushing leg with the surface, often icy. We have already written about thorns - and now they have made themselves known again.

Drawing by E. Furhujelm, published in the magazine “SPORTEN”, Helsinki, 1891

As a result of the club's activities, already in the early years of the 20th century, long-runner sleds became as important a winter sport in Finland as skiing and ice skating. Heavy wooden runners were improved, replaced by lighter iron ones - history has preserved the name of the Finnish mechanic Oskari Terhi from the city of Salo, who came up with this innovation. Thus began the victorious procession of sleighs across the North. They entered Russia through the Principality of Finland, along the way receiving the name “Finnish”.

And now Finnish sleds are produced in factories in Sweden and Norway. In Finland, the most famous brand is ESLA. The design of the sleds did not change for almost a hundred years, and only towards the end of the 20th century the sleds underwent changes - for the benefit of the sport.

Finnish sled from ESLA. Based on Internet materials

I propose to return to the Olympics - in vain, in vain they are not developing this sport in our country. At the international Nordic Games, which were held in the first quarter of the 20th century in Sweden and preceded the Winter Olympic Games, athletes competed on Finnish sleds. And this tradition is still alive in Norway and Finland. Since the 1990s, Finnish sled racing has been very popular - marathons are held, the distance of which is 100 km, and athletes reach a decent speed of 30 km/h. Only the sleigh looks different.

Multia Ice Marathon, 1998. Based on Internet materials

For riding a Finnish sled, spring weather is good, a well-groomed road (it is useless to ride on loose snow), and even better is ice for greater speed. Nowadays, anyone can buy a sled - just order it on the Internet. However, not everyone in the city has the opportunity to store them, and the conditions are not the most suitable for skiing - the roads are sprinkled with sand and salt. But they are still ridden in Karelian villages. For example, in the Sheltozero Museum in winter, guests are offered a Finnish sled ride.

Finnish sled. S. Sheltozero. Photo by Svetlana Atonen

Finnish sleds have many “relatives” that are used by a variety of people. Not long ago, dog racing took place in Petrozavodsk. Many spectators could see the structures on which the athletes ride - these are sledges, which are a cross between Finnish sledges and reindeer herders' sledges.

Dog racing. Based on Internet materials

Another example is that now many kids ride on sleds that have handles attached to them. Unlike Finnish ones, they have short runners.

Children's modern winter sleds. Based on Internet materials

Such sleds for children have been invented for a long time - a good example is the stroller sled, which is stored in the National Museum of the Republic of Karelia. They were made by the Zaonezh master Ivan Vasilyevich Filin - we have already become acquainted with the wooden horse of his work. Almost a hundred years ago, Master Filin created a real transformer - take a closer look at his creation: if you remove the wheels, the stroller ends up standing on runners and turns into a sled.

Sleigh and stroller. 1920s. Author Ivan Vasilievich Filin. D. Tolstikovo, Petrozavodsk district, Olonets province. National Museum of the Republic of Karelia

Sleds for children will always be in demand, wooden or metal, made by the caring hands of a grandfather or produced in mass quantities at an industrial enterprise. In a matter of decades, Finnish engineering has transformed the classic model of Finnish sleds into a wide range of products for a wide variety of audiences - sleds are sold for children, teenagers, adults, fishermen, with armrests and even with rollers. The parks of St. Petersburg offer Finnish sledges for rental for walks - maybe we will someday see such a service in the parks of Petrozavodsk. Gentlemen, entrepreneurs, do you understand the hint?

National Museum of Karelia

How to make an attachment to a drag sleigh?

The factory sleds are made of impact-resistant plastic, are quite lightweight and glide perfectly on the snow. In addition, winter fishing enthusiasts have the opportunity to purchase a sled of a size that suits them.

However, purchased sleds have one drawback - the lack of attachments for loads and a pulling rope. Manufacturers have entrusted the correction of this deficiency to the fishermen themselves.

Metal cables with special fastenings for them are inserted into each hole. Rubber bands or luggage bands are attached to these cables, reliably securing the contents of the sled.

Now you should make sure that the sled can be pulled comfortably by the rope. Eye bolts are perfect for fastening a rope - then the rope can be attached using carabiners. Eye bolts are attached to the sled with nuts.

Fastenings made in this way are strong and reliable. The elastic, attached with hooks to the rope loops, will never break; the rope can be attached and removed in a matter of seconds.

Tips for improving purchased fishing sleds

Some useful tips on how to improve factory sleds:

To prevent wet snow from sticking and freezing on the bottom of the sled, it is recommended to treat it with silicone grease or special wax for skis before the trip.
If the path to the fishing spot runs along a road without lighting, it is advisable to attach a reflective strip to the sides of the sled.
It is better to equip the sled with a folding chair, which can be attached to it when open using a rubber band hooked to the rear and front edges of the sled and stretched over the crosshairs of the legs.

Finnish fishing sled

In our country, such sleds are rarely used, but in Scandinavian countries they are a fairly common “mode of transport.”

Finks look like a high chair on long metal runners. They move around on them like a scooter. For fishermen, such sleds are of great interest because they make it easier to transport fishing gear and catch, and also replace a chair when fishing.

Video about Finnish fishing sleds

You can buy them, or you can make them yourself, improving the design to your taste and needs.

DIY Finnish sled

From available materials, anyone can make their own unique sled for winter fishing, and each such homemade design deserves special attention.

Many winter fishing enthusiasts who have already purchased factory fishing ice sleds are faced with the problem that, if the luggage contains small parts, they can get lost along the road on bumps and potholes. In addition, if it starts to snow, the cargo attached to the ice boxes with an elastic band will be covered with snow, and then it will certainly be impossible to control whether any item from the luggage has been lost.

Therefore, some craftsmen decide to further improve the factory design by attaching a tackle box to the sled. In addition to the fact that with such a sled the fisherman will be absolutely sure that nothing is lost, the box can also be used as a seat, which is so necessary when fishing:

Fishing sled for snowmobile

Some fishermen go fishing on a snowmobile, for which you can also make a sleigh with your own hands.

The material used is plastic pipes with a length of 1.8 m and 7.5 m (for cross connections)

To avoid the formation of distortions, the frame should be laid on a flat floor and all necessary values should be carefully measured. The components of the future sled are connected using metal corners or welding. It should be taken into account that a sled that is too high can tip over, and that it is uncomfortable to ride on a sled that is too low. Therefore, the optimal height is 30 cm. There should be at least 8 racks, since the strength of the structure depends on the number of these parts

It is recommended to adjust the final size using a file.

Do you like the idea of a fishing sled? Have you already tried to make similar assistants for yourself? Share your experience on .

DIY sled for twins

Store-bought versions of sleds for two, controlled, with a steering wheel, help save parental strength. The main difference between a sled for two kids is the elongated seat and two backrests. Kids can sit like a train if they are riding down a slide, or face to face if it is a means of transport to kindergarten and on a walk.

It doesn’t matter what the steerable sleds will be made of, whether they will be with or without a steering wheel—wood, metal, plastic pipes, or old skis. In a product of your own production, you will take into account the exact height and weight of children. The quality of fasteners and materials will also not cause you concern.

You can use one of the drawings above.

DIY ice sled

Do-it-yourself ice sleds can be easily made from anything - the main thing is that the material is slippery and does not allow moisture to pass through. As an option - ice cubes made of linoleum. All you need is sharp scissors or a cutter and a piece of linoleum.

The pattern for an ice cube made of linoleum is small in area.

DIY Finnish sled: drawings

Finks are sleds with elongated runners and a high seat. One person sits down, the second stands on the runners behind and pushes off. Adults can accelerate to high speeds. Sometimes large dogs such as huskies or huskies are even harnessed to such sleds.

Before you use the drawings to create a Finnish sled with your own hands, think: perhaps you can modernize an old children's sled by adding a high back to it?

DIY cheesecake sleds

An inflatable cheesecake or bun will give the joy of sliding down a slide to both children and adults. One of the simplest models to make allows you to reach high speeds and protects you from hypothermia. I’m especially pleased that the cheesecake sleds from a car inner tube have very simple patterns.

To protect the inflated chamber, you need to cover it with a cover made of awning fabric, thin linoleum or wide vinyl wallpaper. According to the size of the base, but with a margin, it is necessary to cut out the protective material in the form of two circles. Take your time and measure several times.

The circles are sewn together along the front seam. The camera can be lowered, and then the edges can be stitched even on a sewing machine. For convenience, you can equip the cover with carabiners, to which an additional seat cushion will be attached.

Homemade Finnish sleigh. February is coming to an end, spring will soon come. The fish begins to actively bite in small rivers. It’s good if a fisherman owns a snowmobile or a motorized dog, he can afford to go to a clean, taiga river, where he can count on a good catch. But what about those who cannot afford to buy a snowmobile? An alternative could be a Finnish sled or a similar modified one made from a fishing nylon sled. I attached the handles and footrests to the purchased sled, stowed my fishing equipment, and followed the snowy trail. I found an article on the Internet about how to make such a sled. Chukhon sleigh for winter fishing. Nov. 16th, 2011 at 8:01 PM Inventions, technologies, ideas in the review of the Network Overseer. (Part No. 30) Some of us still know what a Finnish sleigh is and what it looks like. For those who don’t, let’s explain - this is such a tricky cross between a sled, skis, skates and a scooter. You stand on the runner with one foot, push with the other and forward! And it should be noted, very much with the breeze ahead... Especially if we are talking about the classic version of the sled on skating runners and moving on ice. To move on snow, Chukhonians (this is the original name of today's Finns) either put the entire structure on skis or install special “ski-like” pads on skates. In general, when moving more or less long distances under your own power, the thing is very practical and effective - I tested it personally. But they don’t have much space for cargo... Well, you can’t expect much comfort when fishing from them... But, as they say: “The Finnish fish hasn’t died yet!” There are intellectual titans in this harsh snowy country! For example, in 2007, our Finnish colleague Pekka Mehtonen from Milliniemi distinguished himself in this regard. From the illustrations attached to his patent (in the original, naturally, made on birch bark), at the moment of creative ecstasy, our younger brother in mind was obviously worried about three problems: A) Secondary: how to protect the aft part of the Finnish body from the piercing northern winds... B) Main: where to put that huge pile of fish that Pekka usually catches “with one left hand”... B) Additional: how to organize the process of returning home from fishing so that the carcass of his always dead drunk neighbor friend Ukko no longer falls from the seat of a traditional sleigh, which means and the need to tie the sufferer to the vehicle with tape every time would disappear by itself. Note: at the same time, naturally, the idea of not taking fire water with you on fishing was not even considered theoretically... The decision, which illuminated the darkest recesses of the mental convolution of our “draugs”, was so original that I involuntarily suspected “romantic” at the expense of those times , when in the forties of the last century Russian soldiers were billeted in the tent with his grandmother... Put the car on skis? - for such an explosion of creativity in the blood of Pekka (Petrukha in our opinion) there clearly had to be ancestors who, in addition to skis and dog exercise, at least also saw a wheel and the wheelbarrow itself!... Here it is - the living embodiment of the thesis that all people are brothers! The truth is still only in the form of drawings... But I believe that somewhere out there - far, far away - in the land of eternal snow, a working prototype of the Chukhon (not to be confused with Finnish) sleds is already being tested, which means that in the evenings (and sometimes even before lunch...) you can see a touching picture when one courageous Finn, through the blizzard and the wind, time after time saves his insensitive friend from a terrible death on the ice... In general, the Finns do not abandon their own in battle! Or are they Russians?...

Finnish sleds differ from classic ones in that they have a raised seat and long runners. The person standing behind rests one foot on the runner of the sled, and pushes off with the other, as if on a scooter. For convenience, handles or a special frame for riding are attached to the seat. The stability and speed of the device allows you to comfortably ride alone or together, as well as carry luggage.

Contrary to the name, Finnish sleds were not invented in Finland, but in Sweden. Initially, such sleighs were a traditional means of transportation in Scandinavian countries. Now they are used for outdoor activities in parks and skating rinks, transportation of fishing equipment and just for fun in the winter.

Finnish fishing sleds have a modified design. They have less weight (up to 8.5 kg), the length of the runners is shorter (1.37 m), which simplifies both movement over long distances and transportation in a car. The design of the sled allows you to move quickly on smooth ice and compacted snow (up to 15 km/h). For better gliding on loose snow, plastic runners, similar to cross-country skis, are attached over steel ones.

The high seat and a special frame attached to it reduce the load on the back. A sled is also used instead of a comfortable fishing chair with a high back. On a sleigh you can comfortably transport the equipment necessary for fishing, and on the way back, the catch. For greater convenience, additional hooks and elastic bands are attached to secure the tackle box. Collapsible Finnish sleds are especially convenient for fishing.

Assembling the sled frame

And so, the runners are ready, which means the most labor-intensive part is over. Regardless of what material your runners are made of, you should now focus on securing all the parts evenly so that the structure will be strong and reliable in the future.

If you have metal runners, but you want to make the overall structure lighter, then you can combine metal with wood at this point. If you use lightweight materials in the construction of the body, then the runners with the frame can be metal.

To prevent the sled from sagging under a heavy load, racks are installed on the runners, also known as hooves. Racks can be made of either wood or metal. Wooden racks are bars with a cross section of 30x15 mm, metal ones use pipes with a diameter of up to 25 mm. They are attached to the runners at a distance of 20-30 cm from each other. The more racks, the stronger the sled will be. If the sled is not designed to carry large loads, two stands on each runner will be sufficient. The racks must be the same height and installed strictly opposite each other so that further installation of the crossbars maintains strict parallels.

The crossbars can be cut from the profile. Wooden posts are attached to the runners and crossbars using metal corners. Metal racks are welded to the runners and crossbars. You can make racks with crossbars in one piece; for this, the pipes are bent in the shape of a “P” and welded to the runners.

Flooring is laid on the crossbars. The metal flooring is either welded or bolted to the metal crossbars. Wooden planks are screwed to the wooden beams and must fit tightly together to form the deck.

The shield can also be metal or wooden, and is attached to the front crossbars. In the same area, only plates for attaching shafts are welded to the runners.

The body and finishing materials should be light, since there is no force load on them. Plywood is used for the sides, and thin boards are used for the seats.

Insulation of the body from the inside and exterior finishing is, entirely, a flight of imagination of the master. You can approach the decoration of the sleigh creatively, using artistic forging, wood carving, oil painting and woven upholstery. The main thing is that the product pleases the eye of the master and is used for as long as possible.

With your own hands

The sled drag can not only be modified, but also made with your own hands from scrap materials. The task is not an easy one, and will appeal to DIY enthusiasts who like to make tackle, lures and equipment. The quality is not inferior to a purchased product.

Read: Catching bream in winter with a jig

Sleds for fishing in winter can be made of plastic, wood or metal. The first material is difficult to work with, but the last two are accessible and easy to process. On the Internet you can find drawings and diagrams with various design features. Let's look at some of them.

Made of wood

To make this sled you will need pine boards and timber, moisture-resistant plywood, wood glue, a jigsaw, a drill-driver, sandpaper, and self-tapping screws. The design presented below is universal, inexpensive, and easy to make yourself.

A brief manufacturing algorithm is as follows:

From two boards we make runners for a sled. Initially, we will draw them and then cut them out using an electric jigsaw.
With the help of cross bars, glue, tenons and screws, the runners are fastened together. The result should be a reliable, strong and rigid connection.
To strengthen the structure, additional strips are used, at the back and front, installed with spikes and glue.
All excess edges are trimmed, cleaned, and brought into presentation.
Now we need to prepare a cargo area on which the equipment will subsequently be attached. To do this, it is cut out of plywood 10–12 mm thick and cleaned of burrs. Next, drill the necessary holes and make grooves.
All that remains is to secure the platform to the bars installed vertically in the runners.
To increase the reliability of the sled, the rounding points of the runners are reinforced with sheet metal. This will minimize damage that is possible when the sled comes into contact with stones, hummocks, logs, and other obstacles.
It is advisable to treat wooden sleds made for winter fishing with a waterproof and protective coating, increasing their durability. After testing at home, you can safely go fishing.

Made of metal

In this case, the bottom of the sled is made of metal. To do this, you need stainless steel sheets 4–6 mm thick, pine boards for the sides, self-tapping screws, a drill and screwdriver, a grinder, a heavy hammer, and other tools if necessary.

Metal sleds can be made foldable

Homemade sleds are made according to the following instructions:

We cut out the bottom from sheet metal. Its width should be no more than the dimensions of a “motorized dog” and a snowmobile. We must try to find a middle ground so that the sled is stable, compact, and roomy.
We cut out the sides from wood, rounding them at the ends. The height of the sides is chosen to be about 20–35 cm, depending on how much gear and equipment is planned to be transported by drags.
Using self-tapping screws, we connect the wooden sides with the steel bottom.
We bend the metal at the front and back and also attach it to the sides.
Now you need to make a drawbar and shafts from a metal pipe with a cross-section of 20–40 mm. To attach them to the sled you will need a welding machine.

Metal sleds are more reliable and durable than wooden sleds. However, they weigh more, so it is better to use them in conjunction with a motorized towing vehicle.

The second version of the sled is made from metal pipes:

First, a rectangular frame is welded. To do this you will need 4 pieces of pipe. The frame can be strengthened by additionally welding cross members. We weld transverse posts onto the frame, the number of which depends on the length of the sled. Skis are made from pipes. To do this, use a hair dryer to heat them, make them flat, and bend the front part up. We fasten the skis to the frame

We pay special attention to the quality of welding in order to obtain the most reliable and durable sleds. All that remains is to make and secure the drawbar in the front part of the sled.

Finally, you need to install plywood flooring on the frame. That's it, the sled is ready for use on ice.

DIY Finnish sleigh

Finnish sleds are easy to make yourself thanks to their simple design. They consist of metal runners and a seat attached to them. A handle is installed at the top of the seat. They are used to move on snow or ice like a scooter. In places of mass exploitation, almost all copies are made by hand. By analogy, they develop equipment for dog sled racing. Is this type of transport common among fishermen? especially in the version with a motor.

Materials for production

For the base for the Finnish sled you will need:

steel sheets? 2 pcs.;
metal rod with double-sided thread? 1 PC.

Homemade fasteners and the frame of the chair are assembled from:

metal linings? 8 pcs.;
wooden blocks? 8 pcs.

For finishing you will need wooden blocks, tires, bolts, screws.

Suitable wood is thoroughly dried birch, oak and other hardwoods, which can be treated with varnish, special impregnation or paint. Variations on the moto theme require a strong frame.

Simple Finnish sleds are made by preparing aluminum pipes or plastic parts. In the latter case, stability on slippery roads and with a large layer of snow is noticeably reduced. If you plan to use a sled with a motor, then a small flap is mounted behind the wheels.

Assembly sequence

Steel sheets are bent so that the ends point upward. The arc should be smooth. Two holes are made for the threaded rod in the front part of the resulting runners. At the opposite end, where the feet will rest, homemade rubberized pads are installed. They do not allow the sole to slide on the metal surface.

Any drawing of a Finnish sled indicates the proportions in the design. The width of the top bar is significantly less than the distance between the runners. 0.86 m is retreated from the curved edge and at this point homemade overlays are welded on both sides, tilting them in the opposite direction from the front. They are fastened using a block with a cut side and bolts.

The horizontal posts are attached to the rod between the sheets by welding. The backrest is assembled with your own hands from blocks, as is the seat with a handle, screwed to the frame with screws. They also install various hooks and mount motor parts if necessary. The handle is trimmed with a piece of rubber for comfort.

Modernization

Finnish sleds can be turned into self-propelled ones. The engine is mounted on a separately assembled frame. A pipe with a rod is placed in it. The frame for the motor is installed on the lower part of the sled, under the chair. The second pipe is much shorter, welded to the rear side of the engine mount. It is connected to the fork of the wheel, which is based on a steel rim. The fork is attached by two springs to the base of the chair.

Is the finished homemade vehicle equipped with a motor? Suitable for Soviet scooters and low-power motorcycles. Internal combustion devices that run on gasoline, air-cooled, and have a single cylinder are popular. With a motorcycle engine, cross-country ability will be better due to the parameters and technical characteristics. It is necessary to calculate the gear ratio for homemade products in each case.

A small tank is placed behind the back. The fuel is supplied through a tube leading to the carburetor. The motor is controlled by levers. They get on the sled after directly starting the device. The speed of such motor sleighs reaches 50 km/h.

Factory-made fishing sled

For those who do not want to spend their time making sleds, there is the opportunity to purchase ready-made ones at a retail outlet.

Large Sport 1630

This is a light and, at the same time, durable sled, weighing 10.4 kg.
They are roomy and have dimensions: 165x81x43 cm.
Relatively high sides.
Transports well on icy surfaces.

Mini Sled 1110

This is a very light sled, weighing 3.6 kg, which is easy to transport by hand. They are made of polyethylene, which is not afraid of sub-zero temperatures. Thanks to the presence of wide skids, as well as a low center of gravity, they are stable under all operating conditions.

Children sledges

Some anglers use baby sleds for their fishing needs. If they are available, there is no need to specially make or buy sleds. Unfortunately, in the presence of noticeable snow cover, problems arise with their operation. In addition, these sleds are not intended for fishing and you will have to come up with additional elements.

Inflatable sled

This is the simplest design, which is very easy to transport, as they take up very little space. Unfortunately, such sleds do not fit many accessories necessary for winter fishing. In addition, inflatable parts are not particularly reliable.

Sled drag

Such sleds have a number of advantages. Firstly, they are quite spacious, and secondly, they will pass over any surface without any problems, due to the wide contact plane. The main material is plastic, which is not afraid of frost. They are easy to move on ice or snow using a regular rope. These sleds have high sides, which securely holds the load inside the structure.

Due to the use of lightweight material, the sled itself is not heavy, which means it is easy to use. There are structures that are attached to the snowmobile. This is especially true when there is a long hike ahead. Naturally, such conditions require more spacious sleds, up to 2 meters long.

How to make a drag sled with your own hands

Dragging sleds are not at all difficult to make with your own hands. For this you can use any available material, from wood to metal. The simplest design is wooden. To do this, a wooden frame is made, consisting of two runners and two beams connecting these runners. A sheet of plywood is attached to the beams on top or ordinary boards are stuffed. A metal handle or hitch must then be attached to the structure so that the sled can be moved by the snowmobile. If you use metal instead of wood, the structure will be much stronger, considering that you will have to move quite far.

In this case, special attention should be paid to the strength of the coupling mechanism. To make it, you can use two pieces of pipe, one of the ends of which should be attached directly to the sled frame

Option for attaching to sleds

Holes are made around the entire perimeter of the sled.
Metal cables with a special fastening should be inserted into each of the holes. Moreover, rubber bands must also be used for fastening, which always guarantee reliable fastening of the entire contents of the sled.
For ease of use, you will need a rope, which is attached to special bolts attached to the sled frame. The rope can be folded in four, and its length can reach about 20 meters.

Finnish fishermen widely use such sleds, while domestic fishermen do not really recognize them. The design consists of a chair, which is located on runners. Its advantage is that you can sit on it both while driving and while fishing. They are very convenient for moving fishing equipment.

The most common types of sleds for winter fishing

On frozen bodies of water, the most convenient types of structures for transporting heavy fishing equipment are:

Metal sleds, which in turn are divided into collapsible and non-collapsible.

Sleds with narrow metal runners are suitable for moving on ice or a thin layer of snow, but deep, freshly fallen snow becomes a real obstacle for them.

Read here Fishing boat - principles of use and secrets of catchability. Essence, effectiveness and features of use (125 photos)

Wooden sled. In order for wooden sleds to serve for a long time and properly, they must be treated with a special impregnation and covered with waterproof paint. These precautions will help protect the wooden runners and body of the product from moisture.

Dragging sleds for fishing. This manual transportation design has a whole list of advantages, which will be discussed below.

Inflatable sled. The simplest product, which is also the easiest to transport from home to the fishing spot. The only drawback is that inflatable sleds are not particularly durable and, accordingly, reliable.

Finnish sled. Many fishermen recognize only such sleds. This is a structure consisting of long runners and a high chair mounted on them.

The main advantage is that you don’t have to drag a Finnish sled. You can move on them in the same way as on skis, pushing off with your feet instead of poles. In addition, the fisherman already has a comfortable place to sit near the ice hole.

These and other types of sleds are convenient to attach to snowmobiles.

Alternative design

To make another version of a sled from a plastic box, you will need slightly different materials. These include:

two plastic pipes;
toolbox;
a piece of plywood and any soft material;
self-tapping screws;
rubber bands.

Instead of skis, two plastic pipes are installed at the bottom of this trough, which will provide better gliding on the snow.
The tool case, which is screwed to the box, will serve both as a seat and as a place to store gear (fishing rods, hooks, balance beams). Plywood about 10 millimeters thick is screwed onto the top of the suitcase, and some soft material is attached to it to make it comfortable to sit on. Such an improvised seat will not completely cover the sled, and there is enough space under it to put all the necessary things. The elastic bands are attached to two opposite walls of the box, and metal hooks are tied to them. Rubber bands are necessary to secure an ice screw or secure any bulky items placed in the sled.

Read Winter fishing in Komi

It is better to make a through hole in the sled along its length in order to secure the claw. It is designed to test the strength of ice and is actively used during the first ice. In addition, such a claw is also useful when the ice is thick, because usually the diameter of fishing drills is about 100 millimeters, and if a large fish is caught, then with the help of this claw you can widen the hole and thereby remove the caught fish.

It is better to immediately choose a longer rope for the sled, since a short rope is inconvenient during transitions. It is secured simply: you need to make two holes in the top of the sled, insert a rope and make knots at their ends in order to secure it. When moving between holes, a long rope is again inconvenient and can be easily shortened by making the knot a little higher.

In winter (especially on the first ice) you should never forget about safety. In view of this, a rope must always be secured to the sled in case someone falls through the ice. The length of the rope must be at least 20 meters. It is better to tie some kind of stick at its end. This is done to make it easier to throw the rope, since it does not fly well on its own, especially against the wind. In addition, it will be comfortable for a person to grab onto it.

This unique accessory is attached to the back of the sled and must always be taken with you. Even if we imagine a situation where the owner of the sled fell through the ice, those walking nearby can help by using his own rope, since the sled will remain on the surface of the ice.

Plastic drags

A fishing sled is a trough-shaped container with sides. Thanks to this, they are roomy, the sides do not allow things to fall from them. The corrugated surface of the bottom in the form of runners glides well over snow and ice. Polyethylene is durable, allowing the use of plastic fishing sleds to transport heavy loads over long distances at high speeds (for example, on a snowmobile).

On sale you can find sleds for winter fishing from various manufacturers, Chinese ones are cheaper, European ones are more expensive. The price also depends on the quality of the material. Cheap Chinese fishing sleds are thin and wear out when used on a snowmobile or after long treks. Thick-walled ones are more expensive, more durable, but heavier.

When choosing a winter fishing sled, you should pay attention to the size and height of the sides. Wide ones roll over less, but they can cause problems when moving in the forest along narrow paths

You need to choose the golden mean. Experienced fishermen advise paying special attention to the height of the sides - it should be at least 20 centimeters.

detailed instructions

Two boards can act as runners, which must be used first. A compass will help you draw half circles that are cut using a jigsaw. To secure special bars on the runners, holes are created. Their connection should be made using rounded probes using the gluing method. The created structure should be strengthened at the back and front of the runners; for this, transverse strips are laid on the spikes. The design should look beautiful, so after the glue has dried, the excess should be cut off. A fishing sled should definitely have a seat; a board can be used as a seat. In the area where the equipment box is installed, it is worth making grooves for connecting to the runners. In order to strengthen the structure, bars need to be glued to the back of the skis. In the areas where the runners are rounded in the lower part, it is necessary to reinforce a strip of steel with screws.

Before complete assembly, the design should be examined to check the accuracy of the connections. If there are parts that have been sanded before, they should be coated with waterproof varnish. Such sleds must be checked for strength after completion of work on their creation. To do this, all the equipment needs to be placed inside, because no one wants the product to fail at the most important moment.

Making a sled from aluminum

A fishing sled should not only be functional, but also quite light, because sometimes with their help a person has to move on ice that can crack. To create a sled made of aluminum, you should take a sheet of suitable material and a profile. The parameters must be selected based on the size of the tools being transported and the parameters of the fishing box. The design consists of three parts, namely:

Skids.
Bottom.
Two side walls.

The work will require a bending tool. You can get by with metal corners and a mallet. The side parts should be made identical and reinforced; the back wall is made in the same way.

The aluminum bottom is the latest to be made. It is necessary to make the edges of the sled safe; to do this, they are bent. Additionally, they also make runners. They can be made from aluminum profile. To make bending the runners easier, it is worth making slits in some places. At the last stage you need to assemble the sled. For this purpose, nuts, bolts and screws for metal connections are used.

Modification of plastic sleds

Such structures are made in the form of a trough, are lightweight, can withstand exposure to low temperatures and can have different dimensions.
But such sleds have one drawback: they do not have a rope attachment. Correcting this deficiency falls on the shoulders of the fisherman himself. Special drag sleds can be supplemented by equipping them with suitable fastenings. To do this, drill the required number of holes around the perimeter into which a metal cable with special fasteners can be inserted.

To install a special rope on the front side of the product, you should install 2 eye bolts, and the rope will be secured to carabiners. Eye bolts must be installed using nuts, which will be durable and quick to fasten. This modification of the fishing sled demonstrates that the fastening system has not failed over many years of use.

You can easily create a fishing sleigh with your own hands; they can be supplemented at any time. For example, modifications include the back, as well as the trunk and even decorative elements. Such durable sleds can be a budget option and an excellent alternative to factory models.

Homemade sled for fishing in winter

A real, experienced fisherman always has additional equipment. For winter fishing, it is advisable to have a tent, ice auger, fishing rod, box, and so on.

In this case, a lot depends on the fishing conditions of a particular region. If a body of water is somewhere nearby, then there are no special problems.

In such conditions, you can hide from bad weather at any time and return to take what you accidentally left at home.

If it takes a long time to get to a reservoir, then you need to have a device that could facilitate the process of movement.

The fact is that moving in winter, especially with all the equipment, is very difficult. Not only does clothing restrict movement, but you also need to carry equipment.

But if you have a sled for fishing in winter, then this problem can be solved. In addition, if you approach this problem correctly, the sled can have more advanced functionality.

For example, a sled can serve as a stool or a tent.

How to choose a comfortable sled for winter fishing

There are a huge number of different designs of sleds specifically for fishing. Sleds on metal runners are widely popular. Sleds can be either folding or solid.

Unfortunately, such sleds move well on ice, but on snow, and even with a load, this is a problem.

Alternatively, instead of runners, you can use children's skis, then there will be no problems with moving on the snow.

In this regard, many anglers began to switch to plastic structures with wide runners that do not fall through the snow. At the same time, such structures have low sides, which can be considered a disadvantage, since the load has to be secured additionally. Despite this, this factor suits many winter fishing enthusiasts.

How to make a fishing sled with your own hands

Manufacturing technology

You need to take two boards from which two runners will be made. The appropriate shape should be drawn on them and cut out with a jigsaw.
The runners need to be fastened together. For this, cross bars of the appropriate size are used. The connection may consist of glue and round tenons.
To strengthen the structure, additional transverse strips are attached to the front and back of the runners, mounted with glue and spikes.
For a more aesthetic appearance, all excess is cut off and cleaned well.
The board, which will serve as a cargo platform in the future, is prepared for subsequent fastening by cutting out all the necessary grooves and drilling the corresponding holes.
An additional bar for fastening is attached to the back of the 2 runners.
The places where the runners are rounded are reinforced with strips of aluminum or iron. This is necessary so that various obstacles do not damage the runners of the sled.
Before final assembly, it is better to check all parts for proper dimensions.
At the same time, you need to make sure that all elements are sanded and coated with waterproof varnish.

After the sled is assembled, it should be tested for strength by placing on it all the equipment that is used in winter fishing. Only after this does it make sense to take them with you.

Inflatable sled

Sled drag

Such sleds have a number of advantages. Firstly, they are quite spacious, and secondly, they will pass over any surface without any problems, due to the wide contact plane.

The main material is plastic, which is not afraid of frost. They are easy to move on ice or snow using a regular rope.

These sleds have high sides, which securely holds the load inside the structure.

How to make a drag sled with your own hands

A sheet of plywood is attached to the beams on top or ordinary boards are stuffed. A metal handle or hitch must then be attached to the structure so that the sled can be moved by the snowmobile.

If you use metal instead of wood, the structure will be much stronger, considering that you will have to move quite far.

Option for attaching to sleds

Holes are made around the entire perimeter of the sled.
Metal cables with a special fastening should be inserted into each of the holes. Moreover, rubber bands must also be used for fastening, which always guarantee reliable fastening of the entire contents of the sled.
For ease of use, you will need a rope, which is attached to special bolts attached to the sled frame. The rope can be folded in four, and its length can reach about 20 meters.

Finnish sleigh for fishing

Snowmobile sled

If you have a snowmobile, then you also need a sled. Many fishermen have become convinced that a sled is a useful thing. The main thing is to determine which design is more suitable for specific fishing conditions. It can be a drag sleigh or a classic sleigh with two runners.

As mentioned above, such sleds can be made at home. By the way, if you try, you can make a snowmobile. There are a lot of interesting and simple designs on the Internet that can be easily replicated at home.

Purchased sleds, as a rule, require some modifications, although not significant:

To prevent ice from collecting on the inner surface of the sled, they should be treated with a silicone-based lubricant or with a special ski wax.
For driving in the dark, reflective elements should be attached to the sides of the sled.
It wouldn’t hurt to attach a folding chair to such a sled to make fishing more convenient.

How to choose a comfortable sled for winter fishing

Two truths are unconditionally accepted by all forum members and are not subject to discussion. First: let the sled barely fit into the trunk, taking up all its space. And second: the sled should not tip over on snowy ice.

Everything else, down to the loops and knots, the composition of the fastening rubber and the size of the hooks on it, as well as the length of the “leash” on which the sled is pulled along, is being actively discussed.

Which sleds to choose and buy

Battles occur over the choice of sled types. Some argue that companies that advertise some special qualities of their products, such as “the box does not retain moisture inside,” are simply advertising that have no practical value other than inflating the price. We are completely satisfied with the simple Belarusian sled “for 400 thousand whites.” Others cite the long service life of imported sleds as proof of their durability. They buy “land” sleds for snowmobiles and ATVs, with their super-loading capacity and maneuverability. Some people pull a couple of sleighs with belongings along the ice like a “locomotive” for all cases of fishing unpredictability.