Rod holder recommendations?

[Nick_Ia]

Sorry about revisiting an old topic but... After spending a frustrating 4 days with my current rod holders(Driftmasters), I'm ready to change immediately. I would appreciate some recommendations. Has anyone had much experience with the RAM holders? Do the RAM bases have/need covers?

[ETT]

Right off the top of my head I'd say Bert's Custom Tackle are the way to go, but there are many subtle things that effect your choice and I'd need to know specifics. Bert's are track holders that are tubular, and have 5 verticle adjustments from straight up to laid over horiziontal. Unlimitted adjustment horizonlally. heavy duty and salt water suitable. You'll have them forever, and they have starboard inserts to make step pads when not fishing. good luck.

[4-given]

I use Tite-loks and they have worked well for me with dipsy's and in-line boards. I have not used any others so I can't offer any comparisons.

[Nick_Ia]

Thanks, ETT. Unfortunately, I have a small boat and I would like to avoid track holders unless other options are far inferior. I'm looking for flush, gunnel mounts if possible.

[jld]

what do you dislike so much about your driftmasters? I've been using them for about four years now and like them much better than anything else I've used. Just curious

[Nick_Ia]

The threaded base plates-I can't seem to get holders tight enough, snags and large fish will turn the holder. I dropped one holder overboard while trying to place it while in a heavy chop. I also don't like the lack of adjustments-the lack of both vertical and horizontal adjustments limit your rod placement and require multiple holder changes or more base plates. The last thing is that I know there are systems that are as dependable as the Driftmasters but have greater flexibility. The Driftmasters are good holders but I don't know if they are the best for me.

[jld]

I do agree that there are limited adjustments available with the driftmasters, which might be a problem. As to the problem of not getting them tight enough, you have to make sure you have the right ones for the side of the boat you are mounting them on. Driftmasters are available with either right or left hand thread depending on the side of the boat you are going to put them on. They should tighten up when pulled on, not come loose.

[Tarbuggy]

I like the quick draws by Cabelas. They come with covers fitted right in the base and the quick draw makes re-loading the rod easy without leaning over the gunwale.

[BIG D]

I HAVE BEEN USING THE CABELAS ROD HOLDERS FOR THREE YEARS NOW. I THINK THAT THEY ARE AN EXCELLENT CHOICE FOR THE MONEY. BESIDES, IF YOU DONT LIKE THEM YOU CAN RETURN THEM WITH NO PROBLEMS. GOOD LUCK.

[bird dog]

I had problems with the Drift masters not tightening up & turning when a good sized fish hit.Try using a lock washer it helped alot.

[Punch1]

I can tell you what not to get. Attwood and Roberts. I bought four and wouldn't reccomend them. The securing latches are a bit flimsy. I've been eying up the Cabelas (Scotty) Quickdraws and will probably get some, after I sell the ones I have. Anyone want to buy some Attwood rod holders, really cheap!

[Chris K]

I have seen a lot of rod holders on the market, and the Scotty ones are the ones on my boat. The bases are great for flush mounting, the holders don't move or wiggle in the bases, and are rully adjustable in all positions. The Quickdraw's are made for Cabela's by Scotty and are nice too. Chris K

[Czar]

I like the Downeaster rod holders. Heavy duty, durable and fully adjustable. They also have flush mounts that you indicated you were interested in. Good luck with your choice.

[Tommy Mac]

Hi Nick

I have been using the RAM rod holders this year. I absolutely love them. They are a lot quicker than anything that I have ever used. Both putting the rod into and taking it out. I am sure you would not be dissapointed. Like all of their other products, they are very high quality. As far as a cover goes I do not see a need for any unless you use a flush mount system. I am not sure if they have a cover for that. I do know that they have all kinds of mounting systems for the rod holders. From rails to decks. They will also work in other mounts. I know for a fact you can use them in the Roberts mounts. Good Luck, e-mail me with other questions.

Catch A Big One!

[Mike]

Just did my new boat with Scotty from Cabelas. I used the flush mount bracket they work great.

[kingsway]

Here is a tip for saving a $150.oo rod & reel.
I use a 6' length of 50# mono with a heavy snap swivel on each end. One end snaps to the underside of the reel & the other end to an eyelet on the gunwhale out of the way. That way if a rod holder should break or twist off, all is not lost. I only use this setup when trolling.
Keep a wet line and practice C.P.R,
Rich