Fishing rods are getting lighter, thinner, and more fragile. Graphite is more brittle than fiberglass or Boron. As a kid, I remember one of my first rods was made from a light metal rod. This was bulletproof, which is why my dad probably gave it to me.
On one fishing trip, my dad put his brand new ultra-light Shakespeare rod in the back seat of his Impala. The next day was opening day, and he was so excited to use his modern and new rig until…
Once in the car, he pressed the button to raise the new power windows. He forgot that his rod was sticking out the window. CRUNCH!!! His opening daydreams and rod were shattered in a instance. Fortunately, my brother made a quick road trip to the local fishing shop and found a duplicate rod. It was more expensive but that was a small price to pay.
Transporting fishing rods has been a problem for all anglers. Tubes, socks, and lockers have become more important as the price for modern rods has gone up. Fly Guys often spend several hundred dollars on graphite fly rods. Rooftop rod lockers accept fully assembled rods. You can see them attached to roof racks.
A regular rod tube is a good idea, but most tubes require that you disassemble the rod to fit it in. A cloth case protects rods from vibration damage due to travel. Constant vibration will separate graphite fibers.
As a fishing guide, I required that every angler disassemble their rod before getting to the takeout ramp or truck. 90% of broken rods happen getting in or out of a boat, or when loading the truck. Everyone is in a hurry, tired, and ready for a cold beer. In their haste, the rods get busted, lost, or damaged.
Rednecks often place rods in a gun rack but fail to understand that dicer sun and heat will also damage their rods and fishing line. Other lazy anglers lay their gear in the truck bed along with spare tires, tools and sliding junk that ultimately destroys rods and tackle. They also leave their rods rigged and strung. Usually, the rods are bent under pressure. After several days in the truck, in the heat and sunlight, the rods will end up with a permanent bend.
Security is also important for your gear. Out of sight is important. Thieves prey on fancy rods that are seen or on the truck roof. Most locks on rod holders are cheapo and easily defeated. Expensive, stolen rods end up in pawn shops.
So, how do you store rods safely, securely, and out of sight?
Truck bed drawers. These flat units can be homemade or bought to lay in the bed of the pickup or SUV bed. They are maybe 6-8 inches high, so they take up very little space. If there is a carpet on top, or the usual junk, no one will even see the drawers which are out of sight and secure when the tailgate is up.
Roof Rod holders Suspended rod hammocks can be made that will attach on the ceiling of the truck cap or roof. This means 2 straps. One for the front third of the rod and one to hang the butt. The gear sways with the vibrations. With privacy films on the windows, they can be unseen. Heat can still be a concern so use the rack when you go fishing.
Truck bed rod racks Using PVC can be a sturdy way to secure and transport rods. They can be the length of the truck bed. You still need a foam insert or cloth case to dampen vibrations.
Rod Tubes Any rod tube is better than none. The best tubes should be crush proof. PVC pipe works well. A truck can drive over a tube without smashing them. You can get end caps and line them easily with pipe insulation foam. Make them the size you need. They can be painted to make them less obvious.
Great gear is a luxury. After many fun trips, the memories increase their personal value. Keeping them protected will ensure a lifetime of great fishing trips.
Stay Rod Ready!
Montana Grant
