How to Transport a Fishing Rod on a Car Roof Rack

It's time to go on that vacation, and you'll be able to fish. But you aren't sure how you're going to carry your fishing rods with you. Don't despair, because there's a way to get them to their destination secure and ready for use. If you've got a roof rack, you're set to go.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Bungee cord Rope
Bungee cord
Rope

Step 1

Determine which and how many rods you plan on bringing. You'll need to know this when you buy the items that will be used to strap them to the roof rack. If you've got a long rod like a surf rod, you might want to break it down before transporting it on the top of the car.

Step 2

Buy items needed for securing the rods. This can be anything from multiple-size bungee cords, to rope. Make sure the rope is thin enough to work with but strong enough to hold the rods in place without breaking. It's better to be overly cautious than assume everything will hold just fine.

Step 3

Remove any tackle that you have attached to the rod. If you've got hooks or lures tied to the end of the line, it might be a good idea to take them off. The last thing you need is the line coming loose and flying carefree in the wind as you're driving down the highway. Tie the loose end of the line to one of the rod's eyes.

Step 4

Place your rods neatly together, laying side by side. Take a small bungee cord and firmly secure it to the rods at the top and the bottom, by wrapping it around them. The rods will now be in one neat little package, held together by the cords. There will be less chance of them coming loose and flying off if strapped together.

Step 5

Lay your rods on top of your roof rack. If they are to be the only things riding up there, you might want to position them close to the metal railing on either side of the rack. It's not necessary for them to ride in the center. The metal bar will also add a little more stability for the rods.

Step 6

Hook the end of a bungee cord around the metal bar of the roof rack. You'll need to do this in two places, so start one bungee at the top of the rods and the other at the end of the rods. Wrap it around the rods one time, encircling them. Pull the bungee across the top of the rack and hook it on the opposite side's metal frame. You may have to use another bungee connected to the original one to do this. Make sure the bungee cord is pulled very tight with very little, if any, give to it. Repeat the step at the other end of the rod.

Step 7

Wrap rope around the rods and roof rack if you desire. Rope can be used instead of bungee cords. Follow all of the steps above, substituting the rope where the bungee cords would be used. Remember rope can become loose, so make sure it's pulled really tight.

Article Written By Joyce Starr

Joyce Starr is a professional writer from Florida and owns a landscaping company and garden center. She has published articles about camping in Florida, lawn care and gardening and writes for a local gardening newsletter. She shares her love and knowledge of the outdoors and nature through her writing.

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