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How to Build Fishing Rod Holders on Your Boat

How to Build Fishing Rod Holders on Your Boat

fishing boat image by Pat Lalli from <a href='http://www.fotolia.com'>Fotolia.com</a>

When you are out fishing on a boat, you might have times when you need to set down your rod. You could be fishing with more than one rod at a time or need to help someone else haul in their catch, or you might just want to stop and take a break with a snack or drink. Whatever the reason for putting the rod down, a fishing rod holder will allow you to keep your line in the water while you attend to other tasks.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:
  • 2-by-4 board
  • Saw
  • PVC cross connector (1 1/2 inch)
  • Drill
  • Drill bits
  • Screw bit
  • Four 1-1/2-inch wood screws
  • Six wood or machine screws or stainless-steel bolts
Step 1
Cut a 2-by-4 board to a length of 1 foot.
Step 2
Lay the board flat on the ground in front of you with the ends pointing sideways.
Step 3
Place the PVC cross connector flat on the board. Situate it so two of its four ends lie at the edge of the board closest to you and one end hangs off the board toward you.
Step 4
Rotate the cross connector slightly downward toward you so the section hanging off the board is lowers slightly and the opposite end is up in the air , not touching the board. (Keep the two ends running left to right touching on the board.) The end of the connector pointing upward will serve as your rod holder; rather than making a major rotation, turn the connector just enough so that when you place the fishing rod into it, it will point at an upward angle, which will keep it from flying out of the holder when a fish strikes the line.
Step 5
Hold the cross connector in place, and mark where you will attach the pipe section to the board. After marking, keep the cross connector in place and drill four pilot holes into the cross connector---two on each side. (These pilot holes will prevent the pipe from splitting when you install the screws.) Drill four 1-1/2-inch screws through the pilot holes and into the pipe and board.
Step 6
Attach the rod holder board to the boat with screws or bolts, depending on where you want to attach it. If you can reach the other side of the location where you plan to place it and can screw in the nuts required for bolts, use bolts. Drill pilot holes in the wood first before attaching your rod holder. Drill holes in each of the four corners of the board, and then two more holes closer to the cross connector. Install the screws or bolts through these holes.

Resources

Article Written By Tara Dooley

Tara Dooley has written for various websites since 2008. She has worked as an accountant, after-school director and retail manager in various locations. Dooley holds a Bachelor of Science in business management and finance.

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