An essential piece of equipment for anglers is rod holders. A good rod holder should hold your rod and reel securely while providing gentle support. It must be adjustable and simple to install, and it must be security-proof as well as easy to access.
If you’re looking for a new rod holder then you’ll have to look no further than our reviews of some of the best kayak rod holders available on the market today. The good news is that top brands may now give an amazing performance without breaking the bank thanks to contemporary composites. We’ve put together a shopping guide to assist you in choosing the one that best suits your requirements and price range.
Quick Comparison Of The Best Kayak Rod Holders
Review Top 10 Best Kayak Rod Holders
1. PLUSINNO Rods Holder
Review:
Plusinno’s clamp-mounted rod holders are ideal for kayak fishermen who don’t want to mount a base for a rod holder. The mounting setups won’t fit a sit-on-top fishing kayak, but they function well enough to be helpful rather than an inconvenience.
In order to connect to the gunwale of a Jon boat or other small aluminum boat, Plusinno employs a conventional clamp – but it eliminates the need to drill holes and add screws to the cockpit.
It rotates more than 90 degrees vertically and 360 degrees horizontally and works very well in all weather conditions. In comparison to Cannon, RailBlaza, Scotty, and YakAttack, this holder is a little on the cheap side, but if maintained firm, it works well.
It should be able to hold casting and spinning gear, and it’s simple to secure your rod until you need it. I don’t think it will stand up to trolling, therefore I wouldn’t advise it. But it makes installation simple for fishermen who sometimes fish from a kayak.
Pros:
- Secures rods in place
- Utilizes spinning or casting tackle
- Suitable for recreational kayaks
- No drilling is required.
- Very adjustable
Cons:
- Most fishing kayaks won’t be compatible
- Isn’t as powerful as its rivals.
2. YakAttack Omega Rod Holder
Review:
The YakAttack Omega rod holder is sturdy, simple to use, and has a long lifespan. It is simple to connect to YakAttack tracks and the majority of factory tracks. This is a great rod holder for your kayak because of its straightforward, lightweight construction.
The LockNLoad mounting method is used on this rod holder. The rod holder clicks into the mounting base after it has been placed onto the track. It is simple to use on the fly if you need to change the rod holder’s position while you are on the water.
The rod holder can be spun clockwise or counterclockwise by turning the knob on its side. Without removing the mount, it is simple to remove the holder for storage or movement. Your fishing pole is held in place by the collar on top of the holder – without this, it is easy to lose or damage.
Pros:
- Fully adjustable
- Most stock tracks and YakAttack are compatible.
- Simple to install
- Strong, well-built rod holder
Cons:
- Your kayak requires the installation of a track.
- More costly than other models
3. HITORHIKE Fishing Rod Holder
Review:
HitorHIKE’s HITORHIKE Fishing Rod Holder may be attached directly to the kayak’s deck for the majority of kayaks. There are mounts designed to suit 7/8″ to 1″ tubing if you have a canoe or boat. The range of various configurations distinguishes the HITORHOE fishing rod holder from competitors.
There are a few different base mounts available for kayaks that are simple to install. The screws are a little too lengthy, which is the only issue with the simple mount configuration. If you install the mount on the sit-inside kayak’s deck, this can be an issue. Depending on your demands, there are several solutions available.
The adjustable collar will hold your fishing rod securely in position. The rod holder may be adjusted vertically up and down as well as 360 degrees around to suit your requirements. To avoid having your pole fall into the water, it is usually a good idea to attach your rod to your kayak.
This kayak rod holder comes with a locking mechanism to keep the rod holder securely in place after installation. The drawback of this rod holder is that installing it can install drilling some holes in your kayak. In no time, you may be up and fishing again as long as you have the correct installation materials on hand.
Pros:
- Great for fly, spinning, and bait casters
- Lightweight and robust construction
- Various configurations are available based on your requirements.
- The rod holder is fixed in place by the base.
Cons:
- Square tubing does not fit the rail mounts.
- Needs some DIY expertise
4. Anndason Fishing Boat Rod Holders
Review:
The Anndason flush-mounted kayak fishing holder is one of the most popular and comes with all the hardware you need to quickly install it in your kayak. Fishing rod holders may be covered with their protective lids when not in use, to prevent water from collecting inside and damaging them. The head is inclined at 30 degrees and has three fishing points for varied adjustment, making it easy to insert and remove rods as needed.
Top-notch solution if you want to upgrade your current setup or add flush-mounted fishing rod storage to a standard kayak. The mounting head is then sealed with a gasket, resulting in a flush, tight fit. Straightforward, efficient, and easy. If only life were always the same.
Pros:
- Highly regarded
- Two-pack includes
- Made of robust, long-lasting materials
- Great price
- Simple to install
Cons:
- Consider changing the screws since they aren’t the best.
- Some rods may find it a touch too short.
5. Scotty 229-BK Rod Holder
Review:
Scotty rod holders are one of the most valuable brands on the market. By adjusting the knob on the side of the item, this rod holder is adjustable up and down. The Power Lock rod holder can accommodate several rod designs and has a variety of rod angles.
There is no mount included with the rod holder, but you may get the mount that is best for your kayak separately. A locking ring to secure your pole is located on the front of the Rod holder. There is no mounting kit for kayaks, but it’s a good idea to make sure your rod is securely fastened to the kayak.
Scotty fishing rod holders are stylish, well-made, and a great bargain. This is a great choice if you’re looking for the best kayak rod holder. There are alternatives to accommodate your setup whether you require a clamp mount or deck mount. Overall, this is a reliable, practical rod holder that is affordable.
Pros:
- Up-and-down adjustable
- Rod holder in the open style
- All-purpose cradle
- Robust and trustworthy
Cons:
- Fewer features than competing models
- Does not include a mount.
6. Cannon 2450169-1 Rod Holder
Review:
Cannon’s rod holders are everywhere kayak fishermen go, from Florida to Alaska, Maine to southern California, and from New England to the Pacific Northwest.
Cannon bases are the usual mounting solution for Cannon rod holders, but there are lots of other ways you can attach them to your ‘yak. The flat-based type that takes four screws to lock it securely in place is the most common and easiest to install. These bases may be mounted on the top or the side of your ‘Yak, giving you a lot of alternatives since the connection articulates over a huge range of motion.
The numerous mounting solutions are varied and simple to use since you simply need to disconnect your rod holder and slip it into a new base thanks to alternative bases that fit 360 degrees while locking securely in place.
The rod holder is made of robust, resilient thermoplastic that is uncomplicated and can accommodate either spinning or casting gear. There is almost no chance that your pricey equipment will wind up in the water since a locking ring secures your rod no matter how violently the waves may shake your kayak.
These rods are sturdy enough to support trolling, making them a great tool for fishing for walleye or crappie. Overall, it’s quite difficult to dislike Cannon’s adjustable rod holders. That’s why they continue to be widely used by anglers all over the world.
Pros:
- Secures rods in place
- Utilizes spinning or casting tackle
- As well, aftermarket components enable rail mounting.
- Dependable and robust
- Excellent bases with side or top mount options
- Very adjustable
7. Berkley Tube Rod Rack (Black)
Review:
Berkley is one of the best fishing companies in the world and produces some top-notch angling equipment. This tube rod rack is very adaptable and can be mounted wherever there is a sufficient area for it. You are only limited by your imagination in terms of where you put it.
The sturdy, corrosion-proof design is perfect for use with a kayak fishing box and can hold up to three rods, nets, or other appropriate equipment and gear. This option is straightforward and simple to install, helping to keep your fishing rods secure and out of the way until you need them.
Pros:
- One to believe.
- Flexible usage; you can fix it wherever.
- Great for milk cartons in a kayak.
- A reasonable pricing range.
- A robust, long-lasting design.
Cons:
- There is no cut-out area for reels.
8. RAILBLAZA Rod Holder
Review:
A cheap rod holder that is a great addition to your kayak is the RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R. This type is among the best kayak rod holders since it is lightweight, adjustable, and strong. The only drawback is that you’ll need to install a track if your boat doesn’t already have a rod holder.
For use with spinning, baitcasting, and fly reels, use the RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R. Kayak track mount rod holders are simple to use, and adding one is simple if you already have a track. A personal favorite of mine is the miniport track mount for most kayak gear tracks.
The top strap on the rod holder performs a great job of holding your fishing pole in place, but we still advise tethering it to your boat. Although the strap is good, it is best to maintain the rod fastened. The rod holder works best for fishing in freshwater and near shore. When you are trolling for huge fish, this is not advised.
The rod holder’s location may be simply changed to allow full 360-degree rotation. The accompanying mount is designed to accommodate other RAILBALAZA products and features a star-shaped (tooth) structure that allows for easy access to all its accessories.
With the knob on the side, you can simply change the angle of the rod holder up and down. This is advantageous since it allows you to aim your pole in various ways depending on how you are floating or if you need to paddle rapidly. The mount also incorporates a locking mechanism that keeps the holder in place.
Pros:
- Simple to remove for storage or transportation
- 360 degrees of adjustable clockwise adjustment
- Most kayak tracks will fit
- A strap to secure your rod
- Up-and-down adjustable
Cons:
- You will need to install a track if you don’t already have one.
- Use of a track system is required.
9. Scotty 241 Rod Holder
Review:
Scotty’s iconic 280-rod holders are perhaps the most well-liked rod holders you’ll ever come across. Screws are used to attach the base to the deck or side of your kayak, and as would be expected, it is highly secure. They’ve been tested in the field year after year, and have stood the test of time.
Similar to its rivals Cannon and RailBlaza, it is fully articulating in both the horizontal and vertical directions. Casting and spinning tackle, standard reels, and pistol-grip rods are all simply compatible with Scotty’s 280. In general, if it is an entry-level rod or reel, it will fit in the Scotty, be safely held, and be in your hands for a hookset in a flash.
Scotty rods are held in place by a soft, rubberized band, and there is no chance that they will harm any delicate paint. This Scotty mount may be combined with Scotty tracks and other mounting options using aftermarket accessories.
Pros:
- Secures rods in place
- Excellent bases with side or top mount options
- Very adjustable
- As well, aftermarket components enable rail mounting.
- Dependable and robust
- Utilizes spinning or casting tackle
10. Scotty 244 Rod Holder
Review:
The flush mount kit is included with the Scotty Baitcaster rod holder, which offers great performance. It is convenient to have on your kayak, simple to use, and robust. The flush-mounted rod holder is different from the other rod holders on the list.
You must drill a hole (or holes) in your kayak to install the mount, so you’ll need some basic DIY skills. If it makes you uncomfortable, you may wish to choose a different model. The mounting kit has a sealed base that makes it waterproof. The package includes a rod holder and flushes mount.
This kayak holder has a splash cover to prevent water from entering the hole when the rod holder is not connected to the kayak. When moving or storing your kayak, it is simple to remove the mount from the mount. The rod holder may be moved up and down as well as 360 degrees. It also includes a cradle that is padded and an easy-to-use mounting system.
Pros:
- Fully adjustable
- Includes a mount and a rod holder
- A strap to secure your rod
- Strong and well-made
Cons:
- Needs you to drill holes in your kayak
- Installing the flush mount base is required.
Instructions for mounting a kayak rod holder
Depending on the model you choose, mounting a fishing rod holder on your kayak might be a daunting prospect. For mounting your rod holder, read the following advice.
Kayak rod holders that don’t need drilling
If you’re looking for a rod holder for your kayak, you may want to consider drilling holes through the side of the kayak or using a clamp mount. Some kayak rod holders can also be installed without drilling holes, but are more likely to require a screwdriver.
Being off-center is OK
Install your rod holder in a location where you can reach your fishing pole with ease and where it won’t interfere with your paddling stroke. On your yacht, the rod holder doesn’t have to be in the exact middle. Wherever suits you best is where you may install it.
After drilling, there is no turning back.
There is no turning back if you need to drill holes to install the rod holder. If the rod holder has a template, use it. Before you begin, you may also use a pencil to outline the drill holes. For a variety of reasons, you don’t want to drill more holes in your boat.
How Can I Pick The Best Kayak Rod Holders? Buyers Guide
Kayak track mount rod holders
Most fishing kayaks have a track, and track mount rod holders are common. Rod holders from several well-known manufacturers, including Scotty, RAILBLAZA, YakAttack, etc., are compatible with kayak factory tracks. It’s simple to install a rod holder and modify the location on tracks, which is great. Tracks are quite adaptable and may be given different extras.
Cost
Fishing rod holders for kayaks won’t break the bank, but if you’ve already invested money in other facets of your activity, you may need to make some cuts. For the most part, $25 will buy you a decent rod holder, but it doesn’t have to be brand new. Premium variants may cost up to $100, while high-end ones can cost anywhere from $30 and above. The adage “buy once, weep once” really applies in this situation – don’t splurge on something you’ll only wear once.
Kayak fishing rod holding capacity
A fishing pole and reel don’t often weigh much, but the weight might mount up depending on the kind of fishing you do. One thing to think about is if the kayak rod holder will sustain more than just your fishing gear. The main thing you need to be on the lookout for is when that monster fish strikes—not if it does.
If your bait or lure snags when you are drifting or trolling, that is another factor to take into account. You don’t want a fish to dive into the water and take your pole and rod holder with it. Will the pressure be too much for your rod holder?
Grip
The main duty of a rod holder is to safeguard your rod. They must be sturdy when your kayak is swaying when you roll it due to an emergency, and when you hook a large fish while the rod is still in the holder. The high-end rod holders we evaluate are reliable for doing precisely that. But I wouldn’t suggest using the Plusinno for trolling.
Select your rod holder after choosing your mounting method.
The top brands, Cannon, Scotty, RailBlaza, and YakAttack, are safe, dependable, and simple to mount. They operate very similarly, in my opinion, thus what differentiates them is your preferred mounting method. What you look for in a rod holder is safety, dependability, and easy access.
If you want a no-drill alternative, your choices are restricted to the Plusinno. To choose a rod holder, it is best to first decide the mounting method you like, then choose a holder that is compatible with that mounting system. This is still true for recreational kayaks, but if you’re looking for an alternative, you need to look at the options available on the Plusinno website.
Resilience
Paddles are made to withstand the blows and bumps of paddles, docks, and other perils they may encounter on the water – but they need to be made sturdy enough not to take a hammering from the sun. A good design should make it simple to remove rod holders, and an easy-to-use app should also make it easy for users to switch between paddles.
Thermoplastics used by Cannon, Scotty, RailBlaza, and YakAttack are generally equivalent and very durable. They can withstand the abuse Mother Nature will throw out and endure for years. The long-term durability of the Plusinno rod holder isn’t nearly as good.
Kayak rod holder flush mount
A kayak rod holder with a flush mount is flush with the deck of the boat. In a sit-inside kayak, they are often mounted behind the seat. When you are paddling, flush mount rod holders under the seat are a great method to keep your fishing pole out of the way.
If your kayak doesn’t come with a flush mount for fishing rods, you can install one on your own. There are alternative possibilities if you don’t have the stomach for that. You must drill a sizable hole in your boat to install a flush-mounted rod holder.
Mount on deck
A deck mount is a base that is fastened to the deck of your kayak. It’s generally a good idea to evaluate the location before installing a deck mount rod holder. When you are paddling, you want the rod holder to be accessible yet out of your way.
Flexibility
Rod holders must be able to flex at least 90 degrees in the vertical and 360 degrees in the horizontal. That enables you to set up trolling rods, for example, modify them while you’re running several ones, and keep them safe. On our shortlist, every item is quite adjustable – and each individual rod holder has a range of tens and hundreds of degrees of flexibility.
FAQs About Rod Holders
Can a kayak have a rod holder attached to it without drilling?
Many kayak owners are hesitant to begin poking holes in their kayaks. Clamp rod holders come in handy in this situation, and the Plusinno model discussed in the article is a great example. All you need to do to be good to go is make sure your kayak has a surface to which the holder can clasp.
Where ought a kayak rod holder go?
Installing the rod holder will install you to paddle while still having easy access to the fishing pole. The rod holder shouldn’t be in the way of your stroke, so choose a good location and do a dry run before trying it out.
Am I allowed to drill into my kayak?
You may need to drill into your kayak to install curtain rod holders. If you’ve never done it before, it could be frightening. Be cautious, however; you may want to find out whether this impacts your warranty by contacting the kayak manufacturer. Try a clamp-on kayak rod holder if you don’t want to Drill into Your Kayak.
Where ought a kayak rod holder go?
Whether you like a boat with a track system or a deck-mounted rod holder is largely dependent on the person sitting in the cockpit – and whether you are right- or left-handed. Some fishermen like having their rods fastened to the gunwale, while others prefer the mobility provided by the track system. Between the paddler’s legs, between-seat rod holders are also common.
The ability to swap between different rod holders, one of each kind, might be advantageous depending on the circumstances. You should make sure the rod holder is accessible and won’t interfere with other activities, notably paddling, wherever it is positioned. Experiment to see what works best for you, and don’t be afraid to make changes if necessary.
Can a kayak have a rod holder attached to it?
Aftermarket accessories for kayaks are built to match the craft. As a result, even if you buy a cheap toy boat like a Sun Dolphin or Perception Zip, for example, you can simply pick up a good fishing rod holder to turn it into a fishing kayak.
What kayak rod holder works the best?
If you’re searching for an articulated rod holder, a flush-mounted rod holder won’t be ideal, and vice versa. There is no “overall winner”; the best product will be the one that manages to meet your needs. This question could be answered by any of the rod holders in this review, but it depends on which one is best for you.
How many rod holders do I require for fishing?
Some recreational kayaks come with rod holders behind the seat, while others have a deck mount on the front of the kayak. I have two behind my seat and one on the deck, and both are flush mount so I don’t need to change them every time I use them.
What about a kayak that is inflatable?
An inflatable may install a rod holder, but the necessary parts must be present. For instance, Scotty creates an inflatable kayak-compatible glue-on pad. However, depending on the material your inflatable is constructed of, you must purchase the appropriate sort of adhesive.
Scotty’s Scotty kayak pad does not come with any glue, even though it works with all types of glue. A Scotty mount and rod holder may be used once the pad has been placed. Since you require an adhesive that is suitable for your inflatable kayak, the Scotty pad comes with no glue.
Conclusion
The good news is that there are so many fantastic options for rod holders, which are a need for kayaks. You may connect a competent rod holder to your ‘yak using any of the mounting systems you desire, and we can assure you that you’ll be delighted with any of the items on our list.
The Omega Pro or RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R are great options if you have a tracking mount. There are several kayak rod holders on the market. Based on their ease of installation, use, and toughness, we’ve chosen some of the top models. The information in this post has enabled you to focus your search on the best kayak fishing rod holder.
Moreover, in the realm of kayak fishing, where we’ve delved into the nuance of selecting the ideal rod holders, we must not overlook another pillar of our angling journey – the essential safety garment known as the Personal Flotation Device (PFD).
This indispensable piece of equipment plays a role equal to that of your chosen rod holder, guarding your well-being on the restless waters. The best kayak fishing PFD isn’t merely a safety buoy; it’s an extension of the fisherman’s body, granting freedom of motion to cast and draw, even as it holds you afloat if you find yourself unexpectedly in the water.
Imagine a garment tailored to the angler’s needs, with specially designed compartments for gadgets and gear, woven with fabrics that breathe yet never hinder. For the fishing enthusiast, safety isn’t a mere footnote. It’s part of the craft, the art, and the joy of the catch. Success on the water is about more than landing the big one; it’s about melding skill with safety, comfort, and confidence.
