Hook, Line and Sinker: Must-Have Kayak Rod Holders

Kayak rod holders are probably familiar to you if you own a fishing kayak. Rod holders might be a good addition to your kayak if you don't already have them.

For your next kayak fishing trip, we put together a quick guide on the different types of rod holders you can use.

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Kayak Rod Holders: Are They Worth It?

Rod holders can be very useful if you plan to fish from your kayak. You can keep your rods out of the way with dedicated rod holders while you paddle.

Rod holders allow you to increase the storage capacity of your kayak without taking up too much deck space. Thus, you can store your backpack, cooler, crate, and other essentials in the remaining space. .

Your kayak can also be equipped with accessory tracks, which allow you to attach additional items besides multiple rod holders. When it comes to adjusting the position of rod holders on your deck, track-mounted rod holders can be useful, as you can usually slide them along to your desired location.

If you're trolling or just waiting for the bite, rod holders can be useful for holding your rod while you're fishing. With your hands free, you can paddle, tie lures, or tend to another rod. If possible, secure the rods to your kayak with a rod leash. Some types of rod holders may not allow you to do this.

Rod holders on kayaks often require drilling a hole to attach to the mount, which may not be something you'd like to do. If you want to avoid drilling holes in your boat, you may be able to find alternative options.

Fly fishermen may also find that some fishing rod holders interfere with their paddle stroke or their fishing line. Fishing rods can even get snagged on overhanging branches when using vertical rod holders.

Additional Usage Possibilities

You may not need or want rod holders on your kayak if you do not intend to fish from it.

However, if you have rod holders, you may find other uses for them, such as holding safety flags for visibility and diving. While paddling in hot weather, you can attach bimini shades to the rod holder to keep the sun off your deck.

Flush mount rod holders are usually more suitable if you want to use them for other things, such as mounting a sun shade or flag, and are often located in more convenient locations on the deck. Rod holders can also be used to attach some outriggers to kayaks.

Is it possible to drill into a kayak?

Drilling into a kayak is possible. Rod holders you purchase aftermarket often require drilling into your kayak's hull.

If you want to install other accessories on your kayak, such as a fish finder or a camera mount, you may have to drill into it.

You should keep all drill holes above the water line when drilling into your kayak. Any gaps in the hull can be filled with this to prevent water from seeping in.

Then, seal around the screws with a marine sealant to give an additional layer of protection against leaks after drilling a hole and installing your mounts or rod holders.

A track-mounted rod holder can be used instead of drilling into your kayak if you have gear tracks installed.

Kayak Rod Holders Types

Holders for flush-mounted rods

On most fishing kayaks, flush mount rod holders are a standard feature and are probably the most common rod holder. It is possible to install your own rod holders, even though they often come pre-installed.

They are designed to be flush to the deck, so that the rod's butt is within the hull while the majority is outside the holder when stored. Rod holders are mounted vertically, usually behind the cockpit, at a slight angle.

Generally, flush mount rod holders provide a secure storage solution for your fishing rods. While fishing, they can be ideal for trolling and can keep your rods secure. To prevent them from diving, attach a rod leash.

It is also possible to install other accessories, such as flags, outriggers, or sun canopies, with these types of rod holders.

Where Should You Place A Flush Mount Rod Holder?

Drilling a hole the same width as the rod holder is required to install a flush mount rod holder.

In order to create holes, you will usually need a hole drill bit or hole saw attached to your drill. According to the installation instructions for your rod holders, you'll need a hole drill bit of a specific size.

If you have a flat area of deck on your kayak with enough space underneath to support the length of the rod holder, flush mount rod holders can be installed anywhere.