Buying a Fishing Rod Holder

Fishing rod holders keep your fishing line out of the way, allowing you to focus on other tasks such as bait casting, checking lines or landing a catch. They are essential accessories for both casual and serious anglers. A rod holder is a great addition to any boat, whether you’re trolling on open water, bait fishing from shore or setting up ice fishing lines. They are designed to safely store and carry multiple fishing rods without tangling lines or damaging expensive rods.

Depending on the type of fishing you do and the size and design of your boat, there are several types of fishing rod holders available. Flush mount holders keep rods vertical or at a fixed angle, while swivel/pivot and clamp-on mounts allow the rod to rotate under side-pressure, protecting your line from chafing on the sides of the rod guides.

The most important thing is to find a rod holder that fits your needs and the type of fishing you do. Some are freestanding or stake holders that can be used in the grass or pier, while others are mounted on the bow or stern of the boat. Some are also portable and can be moved from spot to spot when moving to different locations.

Generally, a stainless steel rod holder is best for boats because it’s durable and won’t rust when exposed to the salty seawater. However, if you fish in calmer waters or prefer a more economical choice, there are plastic and fiberglass fishing rod holders that are good options as well.

A clamp-on rod holder attaches to a horizontal rail, such as a stern push pit or the bow pulpit on a tower or hard-top. They are versatile enough to be placed almost anywhere in the boat, and you can quickly adjust the holder to the desired position with the use of set screws. Flush mount holders can be inserted in existing holes on the gunwale, or they can be attached to a rail using a flush-mount base plate. Some have a swivel or pivot function that allows the rod to rotate under side-pressure, which is particularly useful for trolling.

Those looking to permanently mount a rod holder to the boat should consider a weld-on model. These are often made from stainless steel or aluminum and can be purchased individually or in kits that include multiple rod holders and mounting hardware. They are easy to install and can be positioned on any part of the boat, including the stern push pit, tower or bow pulpit. They can also be adjusted by loosening the two set screws and rotating the holder to the optimum position.