Ice fishing rod protectors....

[Skillz]

Ok, let me explain my situation. I have chosen to go portable with my ice fishing, and thus, have a problem that many others like myself face from time to time. I own a 4x4 jimmy, with just enough space with the seat down to allow all of my equipment to fit in the back. I made some ice fishing rod protectors out of 1 1/2 inch pvc pipe, (basically a sleeve for the rods, and attached a rubberband to hold the reel in place...) but I would like to find some way to protect my reel from ice, banging around while driving here and there, etc. I thought and rattled my brain trying to figure out where I could find some 7-8 " x 35" pvc or similar piping so I could make some sort of carrying case for both rods I take with me. I thought about carpet roll- type cardboard stuff, but if this got wet, well you can figure this out.

Makes sense to spend $5 bucks on some pvc to protect a $30-40 rod. Easy to make, and if you are like me, I have 2 of these rods. It really pissed me off to find one of my tips broken and the other rod with a bent eyelet. Thoughts???

skz

[Backwater Eddy]

I recommend the Croxton Pond Ice Tote.

Store your rods, reels, and lots of vital gear safely, with ease of access. Also functions as a back pack and will strap on a ATV for excursions.

Priced around $40 -/+.

A great system, I have 2. One for ice fishing and the other for packing rods into streams.

Backwater Eddy ~ ~ ~><sUMo> ~ ><>

[Dave S]

For my cheap ice fishing rods I used pipe installation as you mentioned. For my expensive graphite rods it use rod and reel protectors manufactured by Ready Rig. They are very nice and not only protect your rod by also have lambs wool zippered cover for your reel. I just purchased an additional Ready Rig from Thorne Bros who's website shows them along with several other types of rod protectors at http://www.thornebros.com/winter/rods/rods_accessories.html

[Skillz]

I failed to mention that I am planning (and trying to pay for) my wedding for June. I want the cheapest method to protect possible. I've seen rod protectors in stores, but would rather spend the money on the equipment than the protection. How do you guys get around the wife's concerns for $$$???

skz

[Chad]

Seperate checking accounts.

[Backwater Eddy]

Endeavor to persevere, or how I like to view it, reaming single.

:D

Backwater Eddy ~ ~ ~><sUMo> ~ ><>

[bernie]

its easier to ask for forgiveness then permission.... as for your rod holders make a sleeve out of a soft material and make the end of it large enough for the reel use velcro to hold over the reel and slide the rod encased in material into your pvc .... cheap and efFISHent...the pvc can be picked up at hardware, lumber yards or local plumbers always have extra they might just give you there scrap for free.......knowledge is a wonderful thing. My mind is a scary place Thanks Bernie

[manitobawalleye]

if you want 7"-8" diameter plastic pipe you will not find it at a regular hardware store...
this dia. is typically used for underground water lines or storm drains... look for a excavating or commercial plumbing company and they could probably swing you a couple of cut offs...
good luck with 7" don't think that size exists...