Fishing is unpredictable. One moment you’re waiting for lazy, sleepy fish to bite, and the next second, you spot a prize catch in the water. It’s specifically times like these that you’ll want the best fishing rod holders and storage racks on your boat to quickly switch loadouts and help you react faster to changing conditions on the waves.
Best Fishing Rod Holders and Storage Racks Reviewed In This Guide
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Fishing Rod Holders and Storage Racks Buyer’s Guide
There aren’t too many things you need to consider when buying a fishing rod holder, but the few things that you do need to look at are very important.
Space
The first thing you need to check is space. There are a couple of things you need to measure: the length and width of your rods, the length and width of the rack you’re planning to get, and the available space on the surface you’re planning to mount the rack on. Take note that some fishing storage racks can be mounted on ceilings, so if you’re running out of space on your boat’s or home’s walls, you can opt for a ceiling-mounted rod holder.
Material
Next is the material. Fishing rod holders on boats should be made of tough material, preferably aluminum or stainless steel as these can withstand the rigors of rough travel and a wet environment. Plastic or PVC is also a cheaper, feasible alternative.
Customization
Finally, you may want to invest in a customizable rack. While some fishing rod holders have a static amount of rod slots, others have adjustable caps and slidable parts that allow you to increase (or reduce) the number of rods that you can hold. Keep in mind what you’re planning to use the rack for, and plan accordingly.
Now that you know what to look for in a fishing rod holder, here are some of the best fishing storage racks that you can get online today.
Best Fishing Rod Holders and Storage Racks
Scotty #230 Powerlock Rod Holder
Special Features
- Universal cradle that holds virtually any rod
- 241 Combination Side/Deck Mount that can be mounted on top or side of gunnel
- Full vertical adjustability with 360 degrees of horizontal rotation
Pros: Affordable, comes in three different colors, universal cradle works with almost any rod
Cons: Doesn’t come with its own screws, plastic design may not appeal to everyone
The Scotty #230 Powerlock Pole Holder is an incredibly impressive fishing rod holder. Its combination of affordability, versatility, and ease of use easily lands it the number 1 spot on this list.
This storage rack comes with a universal cradle, allowing anglers to store almost any rod they own on this fishing rod holder. It also comes with a 241 combination side/deck mount for easy mounting, and full vertical adjustability coupled with 360-degree horizontal rotation allows you to set up the Scotty #230 Powerlock Rod Holder just the way you want it.
And in spite of its great functionality and customization features, this storage rack is very affordable!
Bottomline: Fishing rod holders and storage racks really only have to work well, and with the Scotty #230 Powerlock Rod Holder, simple is best and can’t really be beat.
KastKing Patented V15 Vertical Fishing Rod Holder
Special Features
- Vertical storage for up to 15 fishing rods in less than 18 inches of wall space
- Tough and durable polymer construction
- Easy installation via 3 mounting holes
Pros: Easy to install, highly configurable, compact design, affordable
Cons: Needs to be secured very tightly
If you’re trying to minimize the amount of space your fishing rod holder uses while maximizing its storage space, give the KastKing Patented V15 Vertical Fishing Rod Holder a go.
This vertical pole holder has space for up to 15 fishing rods while taking less than 18 inches of wall space – though admittedly, this number will vary greatly based on the size of your fishing rods. The KastKing Patented V15 Vertical Fishing Rod Holder is also easy to install, thanks to its 3 mounting holes, though some customers have said that you need to secure this fishing rod holder rather tightly.
Bottomline: The KastKing Patented V15 Vertical Fishing Rod Holder is one of the best vertical fishing rod holders you can get today, simply because it’s easy to use and install, and it barely takes up any space on its own!
Rush Creek Creations All Weather Fishing Rod Storage
Special Features
- Light but durable aluminum construction
- Detachable caps and aluminum sliding track helps you customize holder
- Easy assembly
Pros: Weather resistant, lightweight, can have more caps attached to it for extra storage
Cons: Customer service isn’t that good
Aluminum is both lightweight yet tough, and the Rush Creek Creations All Weather Fishing Rod Storage uses it to great effect. This is a great fishing rod storage rack that can easily be attached to walls and even ceilings while providing perfect protection for your fishing gear.
The Rush Creek Creations All Weather Fishing Rod Storage features both detachable caps and an aluminum sliding track which allows you to both add or remove storage caps to suit your needs.
Bottomline: Light, tough, dependable. If you like metal pole storage racks, you’ll love the Rush Creek Creations All Weather Fishing Rod Storage.
StoreYourBoard Fishing Rod Storage Rack
Special Features
- Extremely durable stainless steel and PVC construction
- Quick and easy assembly
- 25 year warranty
Pros: Looks great, sturdy materials, very long warranty
Cons: Pricey
Sometimes classic designs are best, and that’s what the StoreYourBoard Fishing Rod Storage Rack is for. This tiered storage rack looks stylish and sleek, but its fancy appearance belies its super-tough stainless steel and PVC construction. This steel has been specially treated to withstand the rigors of fishing, and is extremely resistant to water and corrosion.
The StoreYourBoard Fishing Rod Storage Rack can hold up to 24 rod and reel combos, whether you’re going fishing in saltwater, freshwater, from your boat, or on the pier. And if you’re going from place to place, don’t worry: this storage rack is easy to both disassemble and set up.
Bottomline: While the StoreYourBoard Fishing Rod Storage Rack does command a high price tag, it’s hard to beat this fishing rod holder in terms of sheer style and durability.
Rush Creek Creations Round 16 Fishing Rod Rack
Special Features
- Classy wood design
- Storage space for up to 16 freshwater rods
- No tool assembly
Pros: Looks great, sturdy
Cons: Rubber caps are better suited for smaller rods, special caution required for laminated top and base
If you’re looking for something a little different, how about a round fishing pole rack?
The Rush Creek Creations Round 16 Fishing Rod Rack features a beautiful yet sturdy handcrafted solid wood center post, which may fit the aesthetic you’re looking for. In spite of its classic looks, this fishing storage rack is just as sturdy as its competitors, and can hold up to 16 freshwater rods for all your fishing needs.
Special caution needs to be taken when using this rod though, as it uses laminated wood for its top and base. In particular, try to avoid getting this rack too wet, and protect it from heat exposure as much as you can.
Bottomline: The Rush Creek Creations Round 16 Fishing Rod Rack is a fantastic decorative and functional piece that you can use for storing your fishing gear – though do be mindful of its wood construction.
FAQs about Fishing Rod Holders and Storage Racks
What is the best material for a fishing rod holder or fishing storage rack?
Aluminum is the best material for an onboard fishing rod holder as it’s lightweight enough that it won’t get in the way, is reasonably durable, and is innately resistant to corrosion.
A close second would be stainless steel. While it’s heavier than aluminum, stainless steel is very tough and is also resistant to corrosion, making it great for wet environments.
How do you store a fishing rod holder or fishing storage rack on the wall?
Most fishing rod holders come with their own securing methods via mounting holes. With a drill and some screws, you’ll easily be able to tightly fasten your rod holder to the walls of your home or your boat.
How do fishing rod holders or fishing storage racks hold rods?
Fishing pole racks use a combination of caps, hoops, and sometimes clips to secure your rods.
Are fishing rod holders waterproof?
Most fishing rod holders or fishing storage racks are water-resistant. Water resistance depends on the material that your fishing rod holder is made of.
Can you store any rod in a fishing rod holder?
It’s always wise to check what kind of rods a fishing rod holder can take before buying it. Some rod holders, for example, are made specifically for lighter freshwater rods and can’t safely store thicker saltwater rods.
A Place for Everything
By having all your fishing rods in one place, you’ll be able to switch rods at the drop of a hat, and thus be able to spend more time fishing and less time organizing your gear. And with better-organized gear comes a much more relaxed and fulfilling fishing experience!