Fishing rods may not seem difficult to move, but they require careful handling to prevent damage. This is especially important when transporting fishing rods in a car, where space is limited. To ensure your rods arrive intact, follow these tips on how to pack and safely transport them.
Packing Your Fishing Rods
If you have a fishing rod carrying case, you’re in luck. These specialized containers are ideal for transporting fishing rods. If you don’t already have one, you can purchase them online or at certain retail stores for around $20 to $50.
If you don’t have a carrying case, don’t worry. Packing fishing rods is straightforward with the right supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A heavy-duty cardboard tube or plastic pipe (one per three rods)
- Caps for the tubing or pipes, or packing paper
- Air-filled plastic padding
- Packing tape
To determine the size of the tube or pipe, measure your rods from top to bottom and add a few inches. If you’re packing multiple rods, use the length of the longest rod as your measurement. You may need to cut the containers to the appropriate size.
Once you have your supplies, follow these steps to pack your rods safely:
Step 1: Remove the Reel
Your tube or pipe won’t be wide enough to accommodate the reel, so remove it. Take your time to avoid damaging the reel or rod. Wrap the reel in air-filled plastic padding and box it separately. If you’re removing reels from multiple rods, label the padding to match each rod.
Step 2: Arrange Your Rods
You can fit multiple rods in one tube or pipe. Group rods of similar length together. Wrap each rod individually with air-filled plastic wrap and use packing tape to secure multiple rods.
Step 3: Secure Your Rods
Gently slide the wrapped rods into the tube or pipe, using additional air-filled plastic padding or packing paper to fill any gaps. This prevents the rods from shifting during transport. Use caps on the container if available; otherwise, use crumpled packing paper to create a barrier and seal the opening with packing tape.
Alternatively, you can invest in a reusable fishing rod carrying case, eliminating the need for the above steps. These cases are durable and come in handy for future travels.
Transporting Your Fishing Rods in a Car
Now that your fishing rods are packed, it’s time to transport them. You can choose to keep them inside the car or use a roof rack. If you have limited space inside, consider utilizing the roof rack.
Inside the Car
Assess the available space after packing everything else in the car. If there are no passengers, recline the front passenger seat and place the rod containers lengthwise from the front windshield to the back windshield.
On the Roof Rack
Situate the rods lengthwise on the rack, ensuring they do not hang off the sides of your car. Secure them with durable bungees, using two bungees on each end to prevent shifting during transportation.
These tips are helpful not only when moving but also for any fishing-related travels.
Prefer to Leave the Transporting to Professionals?
If you’d rather not handle the transportation yourself, consider hiring a professional moving company. They can safely pack and transport your fishing rods, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your move. Use our free online moving company directory to find reputable movers in your area, and consider full-service movers for a hassle-free experience. Request quotes from at least three different companies to ensure you get the best deal. When contacting them, inquire about their experience in transporting fishing equipment if you have specific concerns.
For all your fishing rod needs, East Coast Paddle Sports is a trusted source for quality equipment. Check out their website here.
Transport your fishing rods with care and enjoy worry-free fishing adventures!
