Strategic Placement Of Rod Holders On Your Boat

Rod holders are essential fishing accessories for boats, and mounting them in the right locations is key. There are several factors to consider when deciding where to install rod holders on your boat to maximise accessibility, comfort, and fishing efficiency. This includes the number of anglers, the type of fishing, and the species of fish being targeted.

For example, mounting rod holders down the centerline of a boat can be convenient for multiple anglers, while mounting them along the gunwales provides the ultimate setup for casting. Placing rod holders at the transom is ideal for vertical jigging and trolling, and mounting them on the casting deck or bow enables anglers to make long, overhead casts.

The number of rod holders needed depends on the size of the boat and the number of anglers, with a recommended minimum of one rod holder per seat. With careful planning and consideration, anglers can maximise their fishing success and enjoyment by choosing the best locations for their rod holders.

Down the center

Mounting rod holders down the center of your boat is a convenient setup for multiple anglers targeting various species. This setup is especially useful for boats under 20 feet where space is limited. The main advantage of this setup is ease of access and versatility for almost any type of fishing. Rods are easily within reach from any angling position on the boat, whether you are standing, sitting, or even partially reclined. This allows anglers to switch between casting, jigging, and trolling techniques without having to move around too much.

However, a center mount setup offers limited versatility for any single angler. There is often interference between anglers when targeting the same school of fish or structure. Therefore, center boat rod holders work best when anglers are fishing independently for different species.

When considering where to place your rod holders, it's important to take into account your specific needs, fishing style, boat size, and the species you're targeting. If you frequently fish with others and space is limited, a center mount setup could be a good choice. This setup maximizes accessibility and convenience for multiple anglers, allowing everyone to fish comfortably without interfering with each other's space.

Additionally, the ease of access that a center mount setup provides can be beneficial for those who like to switch up their fishing techniques. Anglers who prefer to have the freedom to cast, jig, or troll without having to constantly adjust their position on the boat will find this setup advantageous.

Overall, while there are some drawbacks to consider, mounting rod holders down the center of your boat can be an efficient and versatile option, particularly for boats with limited space accommodating multiple anglers.

Along the gunwales

Rod holders along the gunwales are a great addition to your boat, especially if you're an avid fisher. Here's a detailed guide on installing them:

Planning:

Before you start, it's important to carefully plan where you want to place the rod holders. Take into account the number of holders you plan to install to ensure they are within reach and don't interfere with each other. The angle of the holders to the gunwale is crucial; you don't want rods to cross and tangle. The saying "measure twice, cut once" applies here, as working with materials like fibreglass and wood can be tricky to patch if mistakes are made.

Materials and Tools:

• Painter's tape
• Drill
• Jig (a simple jig can be made from a one-inch scrap of wood)
• Hole saw
• Screwdriver
• Sandpaper or a Dremel with a burring bit
• Gasket
• Backing plate
• Adhesive sealant

Installation Process:

• Tape the area where you plan to install the rod holder. This will help protect the surrounding surface and avoid chipping or cracking.
• Mark the centre of the rod holder position on the tape. Most rod holders come with a drilling template to make this step easier.
• Create a jig using a scrap piece of wood that is wide enough to clamp over the gunwale. This will guide your hole saw to establish the proper angle of the cut.
• Clamp the jig over the template and slowly guide the hole saw into it. Apply pressure carefully to prevent binding.
• Drop the rod holder into the cut-out and check that it aligns correctly. Mark the screw holes and then remove the holder.
• Drill the screw holes using a quarter-inch bit.
• Slightly countersink the screw holes to prevent cracking and file or sandpaper the centre hole's edge to smooth it out.
• If the coring is wood, seal it with epoxy resin. For non-wood coring, use a polyurethane-based sealant and allow it to cure.
• Apply a bead of sealant to the rod holder flange and the screw holes.
• Put the rod holder in place, install the screws, backing plate, washers, and locknuts, and tighten them securely.
• Remove any excess sealant with a damp-gloved finger and allow it to cure.

Tips and Tricks:

• When choosing rod holders, consider the angle. Flush-mount rod holders come in various angles, typically 0, 15, and 30 degrees. The steeper the angle, the more space is required under the gunwale.
• Choose open-bottom holders if you're okay with rainwater draining through them, or select those with drain tubes that can be routed to the cockpit.
• If you're looking for a hassle-free installation without drilling, consider horizontal rod holders that mount securely on your gunwales. These holders can accommodate multiple rods and are a great option for additional storage.

By following these steps and planning carefully, you can successfully install rod holders along the gunwales of your boat, enhancing your fishing experience and overall enjoyment on the water.

At the transom

Mounting rod holders at the transom of your boat is ideal if you plan on using techniques that involve vertically presenting baits, such as jigging and trolling. The transom location works well for vertically jigging baits to suspend fish and placing rods in inline, gimbal, or outrigger mounts when trolling. Having the rods at the back of the boat also allows for an unobstructed view of your fishing area from the console.

A transom rod setup usually requires a more permanent installation since the rod holders are often moulded into the material of the transom. This setup also has the disadvantage of limiting your view of your lines, and you won't be able to see biting fish before setting the hook. Nonetheless, for anglers who focus on techniques like vertical jigging for species like crappie and white bass or low-speed trolling for walleye and panfish, mounting rod holders along the transom can be very productive.

When mounting rod holders for trolling, the placement of your rods is crucial for efficient line management and angles that minimise line twists. There are several rod holder configurations for trolling: inline, gimbal, and outriggers. Inline setups have rods lined up side-by-side, pointing straight back, which spreads lines evenly but provides little directional control. Gimbal mounts, on the other hand, allow for adjusting line angles to control depth and centralise weight for less vessel strain. Outriggers provide superior directional control of lures and flies for targeting specific zones by mounting rods towards the bow and holding them at varying angles.

The key to productive trolling is matching the rod holder design and placement with the type of trolling you plan to do. For example, slow-speed trolling for walleye may require inline rod holders placed at the transom, while deeper crankbait trolling for salmon may work better with outriggers.

On the casting deck

Mounting rod holders on the casting deck or bow of your boat is ideal for anglers who favour making long, overhead casts. The main advantage is the unobstructed view it provides and the distance it allows for making long casts. With an open space in front of you, it's easier to watch your line and see fish strike. This location also provides greater clearance for landing bigger, fighting fish on the deck.

However, a potential drawback is the accessibility of your rods. Mounted rods on the bow or deck can be more difficult to access, especially if you're seated towards the middle or stern of the boat. You'll likely need to get up and move forward to reposition or change out your bait.

If long overhead casts and a good line of sight are priorities for your fishing style, mounting rod holders on the deck and bow provide an effective setup, as long as you don't mind the extra effort in accessing your rods.

When it comes to choosing the right rod holders, consider the size and type of your boat, as well as your specific fishing needs. Clamp mount rod holders are easily installed on boat railings and can be removed if needed, while flush mount rod holders are installed in the gunwale. Surface mount rod holders offer the flexibility to be mounted vertically or at an angle.

For heavy-duty ocean fishing, stainless steel or chrome-plated brass holders are recommended due to their rigidity. On the other hand, nylon, fiberglass, and ABS plastic rod holders are more affordable alternatives for calmer waters.

Additionally, consider the adjustability of the rod holders. Adjustable rod holders can be tilted, rotated, and locked in place, offering convenience and versatility. They are often used in spinning or bait-casting setups. If your boat is small or only occasionally used for fishing, removable rod holders that can be installed or removed quickly may be more suitable.

Ultimately, the key to successful rod holder placement is to consider your fishing style, the techniques you use, and the available space on your boat. By choosing the right location and type of rod holder, you can maximise your fishing efficiency and improve your overall experience on the water.

For trolling

When it comes to trolling, the placement of your rod holders on your boat is key to success. Effective placement leads to more efficient fishing. While a couple of pairs of transom-mounted aft-facing holders might be adequate for light trolling, for a full spread of trolling baits, you'll need to consider the number of rod holders and their precise placement to complement your fishing style.

For example, if you want to troll with three rods on each side of the boat, you can use Scotty holders, which are suitable for trolling. Angle them towards the rear, slightly off to the side. You can also use a trolling rod mount that attaches to the back of the boat, or try a DIY version if you have the right tools. If you're keeping your rods on the side of the boat, invest in a T-track and adjustable rod holders that can slide and be removed for versatility and storage. Planer boards and line counters will also help you keep your lines apart.

If you're looking for a cheap option, the Scotty Orca is a decent price and easy to remove when a fish is on. However, if you want to go for two rods off the side and one straight back, the Orca might not be the best choice as a bit of the rod butt will be in the boat. In this case, the Scotty Rocket Launcher is a better option.

For serious trolling, the Folbe trolling rod holders are highly recommended. They are sturdy, simple to use, and a must for trolling crankbaits. You can get side or flush-mounted rod holders or pedestal-style mounts that work on rails. These rod holders have been known to withstand fish up to 54" in length.

Frequently asked questions