An indisputable similarity between most modern-day high-performance center console fishing boats is an abundance of rod holders. Typically checkering these vessels from near the bow and running down the gunwales, with a multitude of rod holders on the T-top and even on the stern as well, it seems as if there truly never are too many rod holders for some. To some extent, it may seem excessive, and at times it certainly could be. However, the convenience of the 360-degree fishability of center consoles is what ultimately creates the demand for the placement of all these rod holders and rod holder accessories.
Rod Holders – Not Just for Rods Anymore
In addition to being used for their intended purpose of holding fishing rods in place, innovation over the past years has churned out a variety of rod holder accessories that can turn a rod holder into a dredge boom, outrigger, center rigger, deep drop lead holder, drink holder or cutting board, and one can even turn a single rod holder into three for kite fishing. The possibilities are seemingly endless, and the best part about these types of accessories is that apart from the rod holder itself, they are not permanent alterations to the vessel and can be taken off the boat as needed.
Not all Rod Holders are Created Equal
One thing to keep in mind is that not all rod holders are created equal. Often factory mounted rod holders may not have a thru-bolt backing plate installed. For most applications, this is not a major concern, but for applications such as dredge booms, large electric reels such as Lindgren- Pitman’s, downriggers and other applications that put a high level of pressure on the rod holder, care must be taken to ensure that the rod holder is properly installed with a backing plate. Inferior mounting solutions may last for a while, but ultimately the high load will lead to the rod holder becoming loose. This could result in a complete failure of the rod holder itself at the worst possible time. Additionally, loose rod holders can cause spider cracks in gelcoat and even cause damage to the fiberglass itself. It is worthwhile to ensure that rod holders expected to operate with accessories requiring a heavy load are adequate for the task at hand.
Dredge Boom Fishing Gear
By far the most unique and game-changing rod holder accessory over the past few years has been the invention of the dredge boom. Products such as Tigress Outriggers Poseidon XD dredge boom offer the center console crew the capability to fish like a larger sportfish, with the ability to run a dredge from any properly mounted backing plate reinforced rod holder. Designed to be used with a heavy-duty electric reel such as a Lindgren-Pitman or Hooker, the 7-foot dredge boom allows for the dredge to be pulled clear of the outboard props and turbulent wake associated with the outboard motors. Most crews prefer to run the dredge boom from amidships, which allows for some epic pitch bait action just feet from the boat. Tigress also offers quality rod holders with heavy-duty backing plates for use with the dredge boom.
Must Have Rod Holder Accessory
A tool that I can’t live without onboard my boat is a cutting board. I often fish on other boats and am amazed at how often there is not a decent location for bait rigging and cutting. While there are a variety of manufacturers who make these fishing accessories, styles and materials available for rod-holder-mounted cutting boards, my preference is the 31-inch Magma cutting board with the level lock mount. This board is large enough to support any bait rigging and cutting duties, yet small enough to stow away when not in use. The level lock feature on the mount is adjustable and built to allow the board to sit evenly in any angled rod holder. This is especially nice for messy bait-cutting jobs, as the board can sit with easy access to the washdown hose, making cleanup a breeze. After use, the mount lays flat against the board for storage, taking up minimal space while stowed away.
Sandbar Accessories
Rod-holder-mounted grills, cocktail bars, flag poles, cup holders and many other options allow a seemingly limitless chance to set up a vessel for both fishability and comfort. With a typical array of rod holders on a center console, rod-holder-mounted options offer a modular approach to needed items that do not require permanent attachment to the boat. Now, even center consoles that are somewhat utilitarian or designed as hardcore fishing boats when they came out of the factory can provide conveniences and comforts that were traditionally only available to boats designed to spend time on the sandbar.
The following vendors were mentioned in this article. Tigress Marine, Magma Products, Taco Marine and Birdsall Marine
About the Author: Captain Adam Peeples is a passionate USCG licensed charter boat captain with extensive experience on the water. His journey began as a young boy fishing for redfish in St. George Island’s “cut,” and he quickly developed a lifelong love for saltwater fishing. After growing up fishing diverse areas for various saltwater species, Capt. Adam served in the U.S. Army for nine years, including deployments to Iraq and instructing at the U.S. Army Sniper School. This experience led to the name “One Shot Charters.”
Adam’s accolades include Sportfishing Magazine’s Charter Captain of the Year for 2016 and 2017, “Best charter of the Emerald Coast 2017” by Emerald Coast Magazine, and notable tournament wins. If you’re seeking a captain who’s truly passionate about fishing, Adam is the ideal choice. To reach Adam send an e-mail to [email protected]
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