Best Kayak Rod Holder (2023 Reviews and Guide)

Kayak fishing is a popular outdoor activity.  It’s also a peaceful way to spend a day on the water.  This article will share the best kayak rod holders to help you get the most out of your fishing trip.

A kayak rod holder comes in handy when paddling to your favorite fishing hole or making your way back through a school of fish. A rod holder is also a tremendous help when you have multiple fishing poles on board. 

This guide will share many different kayak rod holders so you can choose the best one for your setup. After the reviews, we will walk through mounting options and how rod holders provide value.

Stay tuned if you are in the market for a rod holder for your kayak.

In a hurry? Here are the top picks:

Best Kayak Fishing Rod Holder

Which rod holder is best for your next kayak fishing adventure?  This article points out the features and benefits of each model and will answer common questions to help you choose. Factors such as how you will mount the rod holder and where it should be located on your boat play a significant role.

We have tried to choose a variety of rod holders that give you different attachment options. So, with that said, let’s get to it!

RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R with MiniPort Track Mount

Features

• Lightweight
• Kayak track compatible
• Adjustable angle
• Best for: Spinning, baitcasting, and fly reels

Review

A personal favorite, the RAILBLAZA rod holder comes with a MiniPort track mount to fit most kayak gear tracks, making it very versatile. The RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R works with spinning, baitcasting, and fly reels.

Kayak track mount rod holders are easy to use, and if you already have an existing track, it can be an easy addition.

The rod holder is best for fresh water and close to shore fishing.  This is not recommended when you are trolling for large fish. 

The strap on the top of the rod holder does a great job at keeping your fishing pole secure, but we recommend you tether your pole to your boat just in case. The strap is good, but the best practice is to keep the rod secured. Don’t rely on the rubber strap to protect your rod from going overboard.

The included mount has a star-shaped (teeth) configuration and is designed to fit other RAILBLAZA products.  Because the mount and the rod holder have star-shaped teeth, they fit snug together. 

You can easily adjust the position of the rod holder for 360-degree rotation. This is nice because you can have your pole pointed in different directions based on how you float or if you need to paddle quickly. The mount also has a locking mechanism to keep the rod holder locked.

You can easily adjust the angle of the rod holder up and down with the knob on the side.

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YakAttack Omega Rod Holder

Features

• Fits most factory kayak tracks
• Rotating collar
• Lightweight
• Best for: Spinning, baitcasting and fly reels

Review

The Omega Rod Holder from YakAttack has the LockNLoad mounting system.  It attaches easily to YakAttack tracks and most factory tracks.  The rod holder is easy to install and stays locked in place.  Once you slide the mounting base onto the track, the rod holder snaps on top of the base.

If you need to adjust the placement of the rod holder while you are on the water, it is easy to operate on the fly. Use the lever on the side of the rod holder to rotate the rod holder clockwise/counterclockwise as you need.

Use the knob on the side of the rod holder to adjust it up and down. 

It’s nice to adjust the position of the rod holder, depending on how you are floating or if you need to paddle back through a school of fish quickly. The collar on top of the holder keeps your fishing pole in place.

You can easily remove the rod holder for storage or transport without removing the mount. 

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HITORHIKE Fishing Rod Holder

Features

• Lightweight
• Durable
• Easy to use

Review

The variety of available configurations makes the HITORHIKE Fishing Rod Holder different from others.  You can install the mount directly to the kayak’s deck for most kayaks.  Mounts are made to fit 7/8″ to 1″ tubing if you have a canoe or boat. 

There are a lot of options available depending on what your needs are.  For kayaks, there are a couple of different base mounts that are easy to install.

The only problem with the basic mount setup is the screws are a bit too long. This can be a problem if you install the mount on the deck of the sit-inside kayak. Watch those knees!

You can rotate the rod holder 360 degrees around and vertically, up and down, to suit your needs.  The adjustable collar will keep your fishing rod in place. It’s always a good idea to tether your rod to your kayak, so your pole doesn’t end up in the water.

The downside to this rod holder is that you may have to drill some holes in your kayak to install it. Once installed, though, the base has a locking mechanism to keep the rod holder firmly in place.

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PLUSINNO Fishing Boat Rods Holder

Features

• Clamp on style
• Fits a variety of kayaks
• Stainless steel hardware

Review

The clamp on mount PLUSINNO rod holder gives you flexibility when it comes to placement. Because it clamps onto your kayak, you can put the rod holder where you want it. 

I will warn you that not all clamp-style fishing rod holders will work with your particular kayak. This model works best with a sit-inside kayak that has coaming to clamp to. 

The biggest benefit to this rod holder is that you don’t have to drill holes in your kayak to install it.  You can also use it on a different kayak since it is easy to remove and replace. The rod holder is adjustable 360 degrees, as well as vertically.

Another cool feature is you can attach the rod holder to other objects. You clamp it to the railing if you are fishing from a dock. You can also attach the rod holder to a sturdy object while kayaking, camping, and fishing from shore.

The PLUSINNO fishing rod holder is versatile and can be used on different watercrafts. Just make sure it will fit your kayak correctly.

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YakAttack Omega Pro Rod Holder

Features

• Fits most tracks
• Works with spinning, casting, and fly reels
• Lightweight

Review

The Omega Pro uses an existing track with the LockNLoad mounting system. It is simple to install and fits most factory tracks. You can install the rod holder on flat or side-facing tracks.

The Omega Pro has a leg up on the Omega because it elevates your reel a bit higher off the water and works well for long rod butts.

The rod holder rotates 360 degrees by squeezing the lever on the base. Press the lever to rotate the rod holder and release the lever to lock it in place.

The Omega Pro also has a spot to attach a rod leash. It’s always a good idea to have your fishing rod tethered just in case.

Two adjustable pivot arms make it easy to adjust the height and angle of the rod holder. You can set it exactly where you want it.

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Scotty #229-BK Power Lock Rod Holder

Features

• Universal cradle
• Open style
• Adjustable up and down

Review

One of the top names in the industry, Scotty rod holders, provides a lot of value. This rod holder is adjustable up and down by turning the knob on the side of the unit. There are many rod angles to fit your needs.

The Power Lock rod holder is a solid and robust unit that will fit various rod styles.  A locking ring to keep your pole in place is on the front of the rod holder. It is a good idea to tether your fishing pole to your kayak, just in case.

The rod holder does not come with a mount, but you can purchase a mount separately that works best for your kayak. If you need a clamp mount or deck mount, you have options to fit your setup.

Overall, this sturdy, functional rod holder won’t break the bank.

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Scotty Baitcaster/Spinning Rod Holder

Features

• Flush mount
• Latching strap
• Cushioned cradle

Review

The Scotty Baitcaster is different from the other rod holders because it’s flush-mounted.  The kit comes with a flush mount and rod holder.

You have to install the mount, so you need some DIY skills, i.e., to drill a hole (or holes) in your kayak. If you are not comfortable with that, you may want to choose a different model.

The mounting kit comes with a sealed base, so it is watertight.  It also has a splash cover to keep water from going down the hole when the rod holder is not attached.

The rod holder itself is solid and has a cushioned cradle. You can rotate the rod holder 360 degrees and up and down.  You can easily take the rod holder out of the mount while transporting or storing your kayak.

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RAILBLAZA Rod Holder II and Starport HD Base

Features

• Includes Starport HD base
• Mounting hardware included
• Easy to use

Review

The RAILBLAZA Rod Holder II is easy to use and not so hard to install.  We will get into installation in a minute. First, let’s talk about the rod holder.

The rod holder is easily adjustable, both up and down, and it rotates 360 degrees. You can put the rod holder and your rod in just the right spot. There is also an attachment point for a rod leash. It’s always a good idea to secure your rod to the kayak, just in case.

The rear gimbal lock will prevent your rod from rotating in the cradle. There is a collar to help keep your fishing pole in place on the top of the rod holder.

The Starport HD mount is easy to install, and it’s very versatile. You can use other RAILBLAZA accessories with this base.  I installed a Starport base on my kayak, and I couldn’t be happier.

The base has a lock on it to keep the rod holder secure. The rod holder is easy to adjust up and down with the knob on the side of the unit.

How to Choose a Kayak Rod Holder

A fishing rod holder is a fantastic accessory for your kayak. If your kayak doesn’t come equipped with a rod holder, you can install one yourself.  A rod holder frees your hands so you can paddle through a school of fish or take a little break when you on the water.

There are some things to consider when you choose a kayak rod holder. Let’s discuss these next.

Kayak Fishing Rod Capacity

One thing to consider is if the kayak rod holder will support not only your fishing pole setup. A fishing pole and reel don’t necessarily weigh a lot, but depending on the type of fishing you are doing, it can add up.

The biggest thing you need to watch out for is when (not if) that big fish strikes. Can your rod holder handle the strike? You don’t want a fish to take your pole and rod holder in the water with it.

Another thing to consider is if your bait or lure gets snagged while you are trolling or drifting. Will your rod holder be able to withstand the pressure? 

Is It Adjustable?

Many kayak rod holders are fully adjustable, meaning they can swivel 360 degrees and move up and down (vertically).  This is important so you can keep your rod tip up and also be able to move the fishing pole quickly if you need to paddle. 

Mount Type

There are quite a few different types of kayak rod holder mounts. Which one you choose will depend on your kayak.  Many kayaks come with sa rod holder already installed, but if not, you can always add one after the fact. Or, if your kayak doesn’t have enough rod holders, you can add more.

Let’s walk through the different types of mounts available so you can be prepared to choose what works best.

Flush Mount Kayak Rod Holder

A flush mount kayak rod holder is flush with the boat’s deck.  These are often installed behind the seat of a sit-inside kayak.  The butt of the rod fits down into the rod holder tube.

Flush mount rod holders behind the seat are a great way to keep your fishing pole out of your way when you paddle. You can install a flush mount yourself if your kayak doesn’t have one. 

Installing a flush mount rod holder requires you to drill a big hole in your boat. Other options are available if you don’t have the stomach for that.

Crate Mount Kayak Rod Holder

Some folks like to use a crate on their kayak, typically in the rear storage area, to keep fishing gear. There are rod holders designed to fit on a crate or a cooler.  You often see multiple rod holders attached to a crate.

Using multiple rods means having different poles with different lures or bait. A crate-mounted rod holder is a great way to go if you like to take multiple fishing rods on your kayak.

Clamp on Rod Holder for a Kayak

If you don’t want to drill holes in your precious kayak, a clamp mount might be a good option.  Clamp on kayak rod holders are versatile; you can put them where it fits best on your boat.  You can easily remove and re-clamp at your convenience.

The most significant benefit to using a clamp-mounted rod holder is no drilling. Keep that in mind if you are not great at DIY stuff or don’t want extra holes in your kayak.

Kayak Track Mount Rod Holders

Track mount rod holders are popular, and most fishing kayaks come with a track.  Many popular brands like Scotty, RAILBLAZA, YakAttack, etc., have rod holders that will fit kayak factory tracks.

The rod holder manufacturers sell their own tracks, so if your kayak doesn’t have a track, you can easily install one.

Tracks are great because you can easily install a rod holder and adjust the positioning.  You can also add other accessories to tracks, making them very versatile.

Deck Mount

A deck mount is just like sounds, a base attached to the deck of your kayak. This is a permanent solution, so proceed with caution. A deck mount kayak rod holder is an excellent option if you have the space for it, and you are okay drilling some holes in your kayak.

If you install a deck mount rod holder, it’s always good to test the placement before installing it. You want the rod holder to be accessible but not in your way when you are paddling.

Tips for Installing a Kayak Rod Holder

Mounting a fishing rod holder on your kayak can be scary, depending on the type you buy.  Here are some tips on mounting your rod holder.

Kayak Rod Holders With No Drilling Required

There are other options to drilling holes in your kayak, like a clamp mount or a crate-mounted rod holder. There are kayak rod holders that require no drilling. 

If you are not comfortable drilling holes in your kayak, you might want to check out these types of kayak rod holders.

It’s Okay to Be Off-Center

Choose a spot to install your rod holder where you can easily access your fishing pole and where the rod holder is not in the way of your stroke when paddling. The rod holder doesn’t have to dead center on your boat. You can install it wherever works best for you.

If You Drill, There Is No Going Back

If you need to drill holes to install the rod holder, there is no going back.  Use a template if the rod holder comes with one. You can also mark the drill holes with a pencil before you get started.  You don’t want to drill unnecessary holes in your boat for many reasons. 

FAQ’s

How Many Fishing Rod Holders Do I Need?

Many kayaks come with rod holders. Some recreational kayaks have a flush mount rod holder (or two) behind the seat. You will need to figure out how many rod holders you want or need. I have two behind my seat and added a deck mount to the front of my kayak.

Where Should a Kayak Rod Holder Be Placed?

You want to install the rod holder to easily access the fishing pole but still have room to paddle. You don’t want the rod holder in the way of your stroke. Try a dry run to find a good spot to install the rod holder.

Can I Drill Into My Kayak?

Some rod holder installations require you to drill into your kayak. This can be scary if you have not done it before.  Be careful, though. You might want to check with the kayak manufacturer to see if this affects your warranty. 

We discussed the common types of mounts earlier, so you can decide which type works best for your kayak. If you don’t want to drill into your kayak, you can try a clamp on kayak rod holder.

What About an Inflatable Kayak?

You can install a rod holder on an inflatable, but you have to have the right components. For instance, Scotty makes a glue-on pad that will adhere to an inflatable kayak. But you need to buy the right kind of glue depending on what material your inflatable is made of. 

The Scotty pad works with all kinds of glue, but it doesn’t come with glue because you need glue compatible with your inflatable kayak. Once the pad is installed, you can use a Scotty mount and rod holder.

Conclusion

There are a lot of kayak rod holders available. We have selected some of the best models based on their easy installation, use, and durability.  If you have a track mount, the Omega Pro or RAILBLAZA Rod Holder R are excellent choices.

The RAILBLAZA Rod Holder II with the included Starport HD base is a great option for a standalone deck mount rod holder.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.  Happy paddling!