DIY belt and float stringer modifications

    I recently discovered the benefits of using old bands as stringer spike or spearpoint protection and thought I'd share some pics of my two stringers, one for the belt/waist and one for a float. I'm sure my mods aren't new, but at least now there are some pics and explanations out there on how to do it ;)




    The float stringer is made from a loop of monofilament with a small tuna clip put into the loop before it was crimped shut. Then I put the crimped end of the loop into the old band to form a spike protection and keeper. Now just connect the stringer to the small tuna clip and put the spike into the old band rubber. This way the stringer can unclips from the float very easily and the old rubber band protects the float and other stuff from puncture when it's not in use.




    The belt stringer is similar, but I used a smaller, less obtrusive pigtail swivel to attach the stringer on. the pigtail is tied onto a loop of stretchy cord, for attachment to the belt or any kind of clip. This provides stretch and tension for a stringer that will hug your waist well to not flop around too much. Again, I used an old badn to form the spike keeper, which can be attached to the belt or a clip.


    I made the rubber protectors/keepers so long so they would be easier to operate in cold water with 7 mm, three finger mittens. If you dive with thinner gloves it is probably a good idea to shorten them, especially the belt stringer version, in order to get some more space on the stringer for stretching around you waist.

    Very nice rigging Anders, I like that better then my system, now don't let one of those monster flatie's bite you in the butt.;)


    Cheers, Don

    "Great mother ocean brought forth all life, it is my eternal home'' Don Berry from Blue Water Hunters.


    Spearfishing Store the freediving and spearfishing equipment specialists.

    The only thing I can add is ....
    If the killer whale or big chewer lip locks your fish, unbuckle the wt belt.
    If kelp orline is snagged keeping you from the surface breath unbuckle the wt belt.
    If your coming up from a deep one without a trained buddy spotter unbucked, the wt belt.
    Train yourself to unbuckle if you wear wt, only with practice will a freediver do it when shite hits the fan. most of us will still have them on when and if the sea takes us.:(



    Cheers, Don

    "Great mother ocean brought forth all life, it is my eternal home'' Don Berry from Blue Water Hunters.


    Spearfishing Store the freediving and spearfishing equipment specialists.

    Edited 4 times, last by Don Paul ().

    Very good points Don Paul; safety first.


    We're lucky enough not to have any sharks that cause problems in Norwegian waters, so the only thing that can steal fish are seals and the occasional seagull (if the fish is on the boat or a board), but most seals are very shy since they are hunted in Norway. I only use the belt stringer for small fish, when hunting tiny flatties or small cod/pollack. The big flatties are best hunted with a break away float system and I expect a 100lbs halibut may feel a bit heavy on the belt stringer :D :D

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member to leave a comment.

Register a new account
Sign in now