Do you ever feel the necessity of adding rod holders to your kayak? Rod holders are really important for the kayak anglers. It provides the option to have hands-free fishing. It is really tiring to keep paddling and holding the rod at the same time. But, how to add rod holders to kayak?
The process is simple and straightforward. If you want to add one or two flush mount rod holders, you need to drill a hole in the kayak. So, how can you do that? In this content, I’m going to share with you the step-by-step guideline to add holders. After reading this content, you can do this without less effort and save your money. So, without further discussion, let’s get started.
Can You Add A Fishing Rod Holder To A Kayak?
No matter what brand or model of kayak you own. It is possible to add one or two fishing rod holders. You need to have some essential tools. Let’s see some tools that you should collect:
- (i) Drill
- (ii) Jigsaw
- (iii) Measuring Tape
- (iv) Phillips Screwdriver
- (v) Clamp
Those are the essential tools that you need to add a fishing rod holder to your kayak. Now, let’s back to the point.
So, if you don’t have minimum knowledge, can you do this?
The answer is “Yes” and “No” both. If you are enough enthusiasts and have patience then you can do this. But, I recommend you to take the help of an expert or friend who has done this before. They will guide and assist you throughout the process. So, it will be easy for you to add a fishing rod holder following their tips.
Where Should A Kayak Rod Holder Be Placed?
Placing your rod holders depends on your fishing style. Some fishermen suggest placing it behind the paddler. Some of the professionals recommended putting it in front of the paddler. Both have different advantages and disadvantages as well.
So, is there a rule of thumb for the placement of kayak rod holders? The answer is, unfortunately, no. Different kayakers will have different opinions, and what works for one person might not work for another.
The best thing to do is experiment with different positions and see what works best for you. Try placing your rod holders in different spots and see how it affects your fishing experience. You might be surprised at what works best for you.
Here Are Some of The Advantages of Placing Rod Holders Behind on Kayak
- (i) The kayak is more stable when paddling with a rod in the back
- (iii) The main facilities are in the back of the kayak like a live well or fish finder. So it is more convenient to place the rod holder behind.
03 Best Ways To Add Rod Holders To Kayak
Different fishermen have different preferences for where they like to place their rod holders on their kayak. Some kayakers might prefer to have their rod holders up near the front of the kayak. So they can easily reach them, while others might prefer to have them placed further back.
Here are 3 best methods to add rod holders to kayak:
(i) With adjustable rod holders
You can get these from most kayak dealers. You just need to insert the base of the holder into a scupper hole on your kayak. Let’s see the step-by-step guideline:
01: Decide where you will be fishing and place the rod holders accordingly.
02: Drill a hole through the kayak at the desired location
03: Run the wires through the holes
04: Attach the rod holders to the wires.
You can try this method but if you are not comfortable with drilling the hole, then you can go for the other methods.
(ii) With flush mount rod holders
It is a common method and people feel more comfortable with this method. You don’t need to drill any holes for this method. Just follow the steps:
Step 01: First, you need to measure the depth of the scupper hole.
Step 02: Then cut a piece of PVC pipe according to that measurement.
Step 03: Now, take a hacksaw and make a slit lengthwise down the center of the pipe.
Step 04: After that, insert the pipe into the scupper hole.
Step 05: Push it until the flanges on the bottom of the pipe are level with the top of the scupper hole.
Step 06: Finally, screw the rod holders into the pipe.
This is one of the simplest ways to add rod holders to your kayak. You can also try another different method as well.
(iii) With a vertical rod holder
A vertical rod holder is another option that you can go for. It is a great way to save space on your kayak. You can easily store your rods in a vertical position. Just follow the steps:
01: Cut a piece of PVC pipe according to the measurement of the scupper hole.
02: You have to make a slit lengthwise down the center of the pipe.
03: Now, insert the pipe into the scupper hole.
04: Push it until the flanges on the bottom of the pipe are level with the top of the scupper hole.
05: Screw the rod holders into the pipe.
This is a great way to save space on your kayak. You can store your rods in a vertical position. This is one of the best methods to add rod holders to kayak.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Adding Rod Holders To Kayak
Everything has its pros and cons. So, you will get some advantages of adding rod holders. On the other hand, it also has some drawbacks as well.
Let’s see some advantages of adding rod holders
- 1. You will be able to go fishing even when you are alone.
- 2. It will keep your hands free while you are paddling.
- 3. It will help you to catch more fish.
- 4. You can use it for different purposes like holding a net or a line.
- 5. It is a great way to store your rods when you are not using them.
Some disadvantages of adding rod holder
- 1. It can be difficult to find the right place to add the rod holders.
- 2. It can be difficult to install the rod holders.
So, if you are a fishing enthusiast, then adding rod holders to your kayak can be a great idea. However, you should also be aware of the drawbacks of doing so.
5 Tips For The Beginner To Add Holders For The First Time
For a beginner, adding a rod holder is difficult. But, if a beginner techniques has enough patience, dedication and follows some tips, they can do it easily. So, here are some tips to convert yourself from beginner to PRO:
1. Decide the types of adding rod holders: There are various types of rod holders available in the market. So, before purchasing one, you must decide the type of rod holder you need for your kayak.
2. Select the position of adding rod holders: You should also select the position of where you want to add the rod holder. It is better to add it in the middle or back of the kayak.
3. Purchase the materials needed: Then, you need to purchase the materials needed such as screws, washers, nuts, and drill bit. You can purchase it in any hardware store or online.
4. Drill holes for adding rod holders: After that, you should drill two holes on the kayak using a drill bit. Then, insert the screws in the holes and add washers and nuts.
5. Add the rod holders to the kayak: Finally, you can add the rod holders to your kayak. It is better to add two rod holders so that you can easily carry two rods with you.
By following these tips, adding rod holders to your kayak will be easier and you can do it like a pro!
Precautions
Never avoid the precautions. Everyone should maintain their safety before any process is done. As a beginner, you should know about kayaking and rowing. Here we go with some precautions:
(i) Use the proper tools: While adding the rod holders to your kayak, you should use the appropriate tools. It would be best if you had gloves, screwdrivers, and a measuring tape.
(ii) Don’t do it if you have no knowledge: This is a risky task, and you shouldn’t do it if you have no knowledge about it. You may end up damaging your kayak.
(iii) Follow the instructions: Read the instructions. You should carefully do it before adding the rod holders to your kayak. This will help you avoid any mistakes.
(iv) Take help from someone who knows: If you are not sure about the process, then take help from someone who knows about it properly. You can hire someone in this regard.
(v) Be careful while working: This is a high-risk job. You should exercise caution while working on it. A single error might cause your kayak to suffer damage.
By following these precautions, you can ensure your safety while adding rod holders to your kayak. These are essential for anyone who wants to take up this task. Make sure that you follow them strictly to avoid any accidents.
Frequently Answer Questions(FAQs)
Question: How do you put accessories on a kayak?
Answer: There are a few different ways to put accessories on a kayak. It depends on what type of accessory it is. For example, if you want to add a fishing rod holder, you would attach it to the kayak using screws and bolts.
If you want to add a paddle leash, you would tie it onto the kayak using rope. Moreover, if you want to add a storage compartment, you would attach it using Velcro straps.
Basically, it just depends on the accessory and how it needs to be attached.
Question: How does an anchor trolley system work on a kayak?
Answer: Anchor trolleys are a type of rigging system that can be used on kayaks and other small boats. They provide a way to attach an anchor line to the boat. So, it can be pulled from the water and secured on deck.
Anchor trolleys typically consist of two pieces of webbing or rope. One of which is attached to the bow of the kayak. Besides, the other is attached to the stern.
The anchor line is then threaded through a loop in the webbing or rope. This forms a pulley system. This is how anchor trolley systems work.
Final Word
If you are planning to go fishing and want to do it in the most efficient way, then we recommend that you get a kayak with rod holders. It will save you a lot of time and energy in the long run.
You should collect all the safety materials. Besides, you can collect all types of screws, nails and tie downs that you think might be helpful to you. All these materials will help you to complete the project in a better way.
Now, we are at the last stage of this content. If you need to know more than you can ask me. You can share your valuable information by leaving a simple comment below the post. Thanks!