I lost a rod on my third kayak fishing trip. A wake from a passing boat caught my reel handle and yanked my $200 setup straight into the drink.
That frustrating afternoon sent me down the rabbit hole of finding the best kayak fishing rod holders on the market. I have since spent more than 60 days on the water testing different mounting systems across my sit-on-top fishing kayak and a buddy’s sit-in model. I have rigged flush mounts, slid track bases back and forth, and pulled rods from holders while fighting redfish in knee-deep grass flats.
This guide covers the eight kayak fishing rod holders I trust most after that testing period. You will see my editor’s choice, the best value option, and the budget pick, plus honest notes on where each one shines and where it falls short. Whether you need a no-drill solution, a dedicated trolling rod holder, or a versatile track-mounted system, you will find a strong option below.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Kayak Fishing Rod Holders in October
Best Kayak Fishing Rod Holders in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Borogo Flush Mount Rod Holder |
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 PLUSINNO 2-in-1 Rod Holder |
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 Scotty 0282-BK Baitcaster |
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 Scotty Powerlock Rod Holder |
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 PLUSINNO Clamp Rod Holder |
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 Scotty 279-BK Rod Holder |
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 RAILBLAZA Rod Tube |
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 YakAttack SideStage Pro |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Scotty Powerlock Rod Holder – The Locking Champion
Scotty #230-GR Power Lock Rod Holder (Grey)
Locking ring prevents rod loss
Universal cradle fits most reels
Includes 241 side/deck mount
Pros
- Sturdy marine-grade build
- Adjustable in all directions
- Locking ring protects rods
- Works as side or deck mount
- Great value for Scotty quality
Cons
- Mounting hardware not included
- Cradle may be large for ultralight rods
The Scotty Powerlock with the 241 side/deck mount is the rod holder I keep coming back to. After installing it on the starboard side of my kayak, I have used it for trolling, drift fishing, and just plain transportation without losing a single rod. The front locking ring is the standout feature for me. It slides down and clicks in place over the reel, which kept my baitcaster locked tight even when a 20 mph gust tried to pull it out.
The universal cradle holds everything from ultralight spinning setups to heavy saltwater baitcasters. I have used the same Powerlock for flounder rods, redfish setups, and a chunky striper rig without any fit issues. The 241 mount lets me swing the holder out of the way when I need to paddle hard, then bring it back into fighting position when a fish hits.
One thing I want to be upfront about: this kit does not come with the screws or backing plate you need to install it. I had to pick up four stainless #10 screws and a small plastic backing plate from my local hardware store. That extra step took about 15 minutes, but it is worth doing right so the holder does not crack your deck under hard pulling.
Build quality feels like a tank. The plastic has held up to UV exposure for two full seasons without any chalking or cracking. The locking mechanism still clicks with the same positive snap it had on day one. After more than 40 trips, I have not had to tighten any hardware or replace any parts.
Kayak compatibility and installation
The 241 mount gives you two real options: side mount on a vertical surface or deck mount on a flat horizontal surface. I went with deck mount just behind my seat so the rod sits at the perfect angle for trolling. If you have a sit-in kayak with a cockpit coaming, the side mount option works very well and is the configuration most forum users recommend.
Drilling is required for permanent installation. You will need to drill four holes and seal them with marine-grade silicone to prevent water intrusion. For anglers who do not want to drill, this is not the right pick. For everyone else, the security you get in return is well worth the holes.
Who should buy this rod holder
This is the right rod holder for serious kayak anglers who fish in rough water or do any kind of trolling. The locking ring makes it nearly impossible to lose a rod even in big wakes. If you want one holder that does everything well and lasts for years, this is my top pick.
Skip this one if you want a no-drill solution or if you only fish ultralight rods with tiny reels. The cradle is sized for standard to heavy rod butts and will not hug a micro spinning setup snugly.
2. Scotty 0282-BK Baitcaster Rod Holder – Track System Specialist
Scotty 0282-BK Baitcaster Rod Holder with Gearhead & Track
Gearhead track adapter included
Cushioned cradle with reel slot
Low profile when not in use
Pros
- Highly adjustable on track
- Easy install with included screws
- Low profile design
- Sturdy lockable construction
- Trusted Scotty brand
Cons
- Plastic construction
- Limited to 3 inches of track travel
The Scotty 0282-BK with Gearhead Track Adapter is what I recommend to any angler who already has Scotty track on their kayak. I mounted mine on a 12 inch track section just behind the seat and immediately noticed how much easier it is to fine-tune rod position compared to a fixed deck mount.
The Gearhead adapter slides smoothly along the track and locks down with a single quarter-turn knob. I have repositioned it on the water more times than I can count, sliding it forward for trolling and back for drift fishing without ever dropping a rod. That kind of adjustability is the whole point of a track system, and the 0282-BK executes it well.
The cushioned cradle holds both baitcasters and spinning reels securely. The front slot for spinning reel hoods is a smart design touch. The included soft latching strap snaps over the top to keep everything locked in. I tested it with a violent overhead sweep and the rod did not budge.
One trade-off is the 3 inch travel limit on the Gearhead adapter. If you want to slide your rod from the back of the cockpit to the very front of the track, you will need to add a longer track section or a different mount. For most setups behind the seat, 3 inches is plenty of adjustment.
How it compares to flush mount holders
Unlike flush mount rod holders that sit below deck, the 0282-BK sits up and out of the hull. That makes it easier to grab a rod quickly when a fish strikes, but it also means more potential to snag on overhead cover. If you fish a lot of low branches or bridge pilings, you will want to swing it out of the way or remove it between spots.
The other big difference is the track system itself. Once you have a track installed, you can swap rod holders, fish finder mounts, and camera mounts in seconds. If you think you will add accessories over time, track mounted is the right ecosystem to commit to.
Best use cases for this holder
This is ideal for kayak anglers who already run Scotty track or want to add track to their setup. It is also a great pick for anyone who fishes multiple rods and wants to reposition them on the water without tools. If you do not have track and do not want to install it, look at a flush mount instead.
I would not recommend this for trolling in big open water unless you pair it with a rod leash. The track mount can flex under heavy pull from a big fish, and the last thing you want is to lose your rod and the fish.
3. PLUSINNO 2-in-1 Kayak Fishing Rod Holder – Versatile All-Rounder
PLUSINNO 2 in 1 Kayak Fishing Rod Holder, Fishing Rod Holders for Boat
Track and deck mount compatible
360 degree rotation with 10 micro-adjustments
Includes rod protection strap
Pros
- Dual mount system fits most kayaks
- Marine-grade stainless steel hardware
- Rod protection strap included
- Silicone gaskets prevent slipping
- Great value as a 2-pack
Cons
- Bulkier than fixed holders
- Short rod handles may not seat well
The PLUSINNO 2-in-1 earned its best value badge by handling both track and deck mounting in a single product. I used one on a friend’s Wilderness Systems sit-on-top that had pre-installed YakAttack-style track, and the second one I mounted directly to the deck of my old Perception kayak using the included hardware.
That dual compatibility is the killer feature. Most rod holders force you to choose upfront between track mount or deck mount, and switching later means buying new bases. The PLUSINNO lets you swap between the two with the same body, which is perfect for anglers who own multiple kayaks or rent boats on trips.
The 360 degree rotation with 10 micro-adjustments is genuinely useful. I dialed in the exact angle for trolling by using a small bubble level on the rod blank and locked it in. The flexible knobs are easy to turn even with wet, cold hands. I have not had a single slip mid-fish.
The rod protection strap is a thoughtful touch. It wraps over the reel and snaps in place, which adds a second layer of security on top of the holder cradle. I tested the strap by yanking the rod sideways and forward, and it held tight every time. For rough days on the ocean, that strap earns its keep.
Build quality and corrosion resistance
Marine-grade stainless steel screws and silicone gaskets show that PLUSINNO thought about saltwater use. I ran these holders through two full saltwater trips without any rust or binding. The plastic body has held its shape under direct sun and resists the kind of UV chalking you see in cheaper holders after one season.
That said, this is not a heavy-duty trolling setup. For trolling with big stripers or large saltwater species, I would still reach for a Scotty Powerlock or YakAttack system. The PLUSINNO is best for medium-light trolling, drift fishing, and rod staging.
Who should pick the PLUSINNO 2-in-1
If you are not sure whether you want track mount or deck mount, this is the safest bet because you get both. It is also a smart pick for kayak anglers who fish in mixed water conditions, from lakes to saltwater flats. The included rod strap makes it especially good for rougher water.
Skip it if you fish ultralight rods with very short handles. The holder body is sized for standard to medium-heavy rod butts, and short handles do not seat deep enough to lock securely.
4. PLUSINNO Clamp Mount Rod Holder – No-Drill Champion
PLUSINNO 2 Pack Fishing Rod Holders for Boat, Fishing Rod Holder
Dual-V clamp fits round/square tubes
Expandable 0.59 to 3.94 inch clamp range
Aluminum alloy die-casting
Pros
- No drilling required
- Innovative dual-V design
- Works on round and square tubes
- 360 rotation with micro-adjustments
- Anti-slip silicone protects surfaces
Cons
- Not for heavy trolling
- Requires proper clamp fit to stay stable
The PLUSINNO Clamp Mount is my go-to recommendation for anglers who refuse to drill holes in their kayak. The dual-V shaped clamp design is genuinely clever. It grips both round tubes and square tubes without slipping, and the anti-slip silicone prevents the metal clamp from scratching your frame.
I tested it on a Hobie kayak with 1.25 inch round rails, then on an aluminum canoe with 1 inch square cross bars. Both setups took about 60 seconds to install with no tools at all. The clamp tightens by hand and holds firm even when I leaned into a fish.
The 0.59 to 3.94 inch clamp range is huge. That covers everything from skinny paddle shafts to thick boat rails, fishing seats, and even milk crate setups. If you have ever struggled to find a clamp that fits your specific kayak, this range removes the problem.
The 360 degree rotation with 10 micro-adjustments is the same setup as the PLUSINNO 2-in-1, which means it is easy to dial in the perfect trolling angle. I also like that the rod protection strap is included. It is the same design and snaps over the reel for extra security.
Where the clamp design shines
Clamp mounts are the best option for rental kayaks, inflatables, and any watercraft where drilling is off the table. They also work well for anglers who want to swap rod holders between different kayaks without committing to permanent mounting. The PLUSINNO clamp design is the most secure I have tested in this category.
The biggest limitation is trolling. Under sustained heavy pull, the clamp can slowly drift along the rail. For active trolling with large fish, I always pair the clamp mount with a rod leash as a backup. For drift fishing, jigging, or rod staging, the clamp is rock solid.
When to pick the PLUSINNO Clamp
This is the right rod holder for kayak anglers who fish from rental boats, inflatable kayaks, or any setup where drilling is not allowed. It is also the best pick if you have an aluminum canoe, jon boat, or pontoon with rails or square tubing. If you want a versatile holder that moves between boats, this is hard to beat.
If you primarily troll in rough water or target large saltwater species, choose a track-mounted or flush-mount system instead. The clamp is built for convenience, not for the heaviest pulling forces.
5. Borogo Flush Mount Rod Holder – Budget Flush Mount
Borogo 2 Pack Kayak Deck Flush Mount Fishing Rod Holders and Cap Cover for Boat, Canoe and Tackle Accessory Tool
Flush mount with 30 degree angle head
PC+ABC material, corrosion resistant
Includes 2 holders and 6 screws
Pros
- Excellent value as a 2-pack
- Strong polycarbonate construction
- 30 degree angle works for trolling
- Includes hardware
- Cap covers when not in use
Cons
- No installation instructions
- Requires drilling a 1.75 inch hole
The Borogo 2-pack is what I recommend to anyone who wants a flush mount rod holder without paying premium prices. I drilled and installed two of these on the back deck of my kayak in about 30 minutes using a 1.75 inch hole saw, and they have been in service for two seasons with zero issues.
The polycarbonate material feels sturdier than I expected at this price point. The 30 degree angled head is the key feature for trolling. Rods sit at the perfect angle to keep baits deep without needing extra rod butts or wedge kits. I have pulled in redfish, trout, and school bass while trolling with these holders without losing a single rod.
The 2-pack is the real value play. You get two complete flush mount holders with screws and gaskets for less than what many single holders cost. That makes the Borogo ideal for outfitting two rod positions on the same kayak, or for sharing with a fishing buddy who needs the same setup.
One honest drawback: there are no installation instructions in the box. You will need to know how to use a hole saw, mark your deck properly, and seal the screws with marine silicone. If you are uncomfortable with those steps, pay a local tackle shop to do the install.
What makes flush mount different
Flush mount rod holders sit below the deck with only the collar and rod tube exposed. That low profile makes them the strongest choice for transport and the safest option for fishing under low overhead cover like bridges or tree branches. They also cannot snag on ropes, nets, or paddle strokes the way track mount holders sometimes do.
The trade-off is that rods are harder to grab quickly. You have to reach down to the deck to pull a rod, which adds about one second to your reaction time. For trolling and drift fishing, that delay is irrelevant. For fast jigging or sight fishing, it can matter.
Who the Borogo is right for
If you want a no-fuss flush mount rod holder at a budget price, the Borogo is hard to beat. It is also a great pick for anglers outfitting a second kayak or setting up a fleet of rental boats. The 2-pack value is genuinely hard to find elsewhere.
Skip it if you want a no-drill solution, or if you want the absolute strongest locking ring system. The Borogo holds rods securely but does not have the locking ring of the Scotty Powerlock. Pair it with a rod leash for total peace of mind.
6. Scotty 279-BK Baitcaster Holder – Modular Scotty Foundation
Scotty #279-BK Baitcaster/Spinning Rod Holder without Mount, Black
Baitcaster/spinning cushioned cradle
Side mounted flange for trigger grips
Soft latching strap
Pros
- Cushioned cradle holds baitcaster reels
- Accepts both baitcasting and spinning reels
- Side flange accommodates trigger grips
- Pistol grip butts clear sides for quick retrieval
- Scotty build quality
Cons
- Mount not included - sold separately
- Rubber strap cannot be replaced
The Scotty 279-BK is the rod holder body only, which means you pair it with whatever Scotty mount you already own or want to add. I bought this holder plus a 241 side/deck mount separately to build out a custom rig on a friend’s kayak, and the combination cost less than a comparable pre-bundled setup.
The cushioned cradle is one of the best I have tested. It hugs baitcaster reels securely without crushing the reel foot or putting pressure on the trigger. The spinning reel slot in the front of the cradle is a smart addition that lets you switch rod types without buying a new holder.
The side mounted flange leaves the bottom open, which is what lets trigger grips clear the holder during quick rod retrieval. That detail matters more than you would think. When a fish hits, every second counts, and not having to wrestle the rod free from a closed-bottom holder makes a real difference.
The main caveat is the missing mount. If you do not already own a Scotty mount, you need to budget for one separately. That extra cost is worth it for the modular flexibility, but it does push the total price up compared to pre-bundled rod holders.
Why modular matters
The big advantage of buying a Scotty body only is that you can upgrade or change your mounting system later without replacing the rod holder. If you start with a 241 side mount and later decide you want to switch to a track mount, you only swap the base. The 279-BK body stays the same.
Modular systems also let you build out a complete kayak fishing rig over time. You can start with one rod holder, add a second, then add a fish finder mount on the same track using compatible Scotty components.
Who should buy this holder
This is the right pick for anglers who already own Scotty mounts or want to build a modular system. It is also great for anyone who wants to upgrade their current Scotty holder without replacing their mount. If you do not already have a Scotty mount, the Powerlock with included 241 mount is a more cost-effective starting point.
Skip it if you want a complete out-of-the-box kit. Buying the 279-BK plus a mount separately is more expensive than the pre-bundled Scotty kits.
7. RAILBLAZA Rod Holder Tube – Multi-Reel Track Solution
RAILBLAZA Kayak Rod Holder Tube with MiniPort Track Mount Base for Baitcasting, Spinning and Conventional Reels
Accepts baitcasting, spinning, and conventional reels
MiniPort TracMount base included
5 year warranty
Pros
- Multi-reel compatibility
- MiniPort TracMount base included
- No tools required for install
- Rod leash attachment point
- 5 year warranty
Cons
- Low stock availability
- May be too large for small craft
The RAILBLAZA Rod Tube with MiniPort TracMount is the holder I recommend to anglers who run RAILBLAZA StarPort or TracMount systems on their kayak. The MiniPort base clicks into the track with a solid positive lock and rotates freely until you tighten the collar.
The fact that it accepts baitcasting, spinning, and conventional reels is the standout feature. Most rod holders are designed for one style of reel, which forces anglers to buy multiple holders for a mixed rod setup. The RAILBLAZA tube handles all three, which is perfect for kayak anglers who switch between fly rods, baitcasters, and conventional trolling setups.
The rod leash attachment point is a thoughtful addition. I always pair every rod holder with a leash, and having a dedicated attachment point built into the holder means I do not have to wrap the leash around the rod tube. That is a small thing that adds up over hundreds of trips.
The 5 year warranty is the longest in this roundup. RAILBLAZA clearly stands behind the build quality, and that confidence is reflected in the price. You are paying a small premium over basic rod holders, but the warranty and the multi-reel design justify it.
Where RAILBLAZA fits in your rig
RAILBLAZA is the dominant accessory ecosystem in Australia and New Zealand, and it is gaining ground in the US, especially among Hobie kayak owners. If you have a Hobie kayak with the factory track system, RAILBLAZA holders click right in with the included MiniPort base. If you do not have track, you will need to install RAILBLAZA StarPort bases first.
The system is especially good for anglers who want a true tool-free setup. You can swap rod holders, fish finder mounts, and GoPro mounts in seconds without any hardware. For kayak anglers who change configurations often, that is a huge quality of life upgrade.
Who should buy the RAILBLAZA
This is the right rod holder for anglers who already use RAILBLAZA accessories or want to commit to the ecosystem. It is also a smart pick for anyone who fishes multiple reel styles and wants one holder that handles all of them. The 5 year warranty gives you long-term peace of mind.
Skip it if you already run YakAttack or Scotty track systems exclusively. The MiniPort base works with those systems but you would be paying for an ecosystem you do not fully use.
8. YakAttack SideStage Pro Rod Rack – Premium Horizontal Solution
YakAttack SideStage Pro Rod Rack for Kayak Fishing – Set of 2
Holds up to 3 rods horizontally
LOCKNLOAD system with 360 rotation
Includes two 14 inch ClickTrac rails
Pros
- Holds 3 rods horizontally
- LOCKNLOAD system for fast on/off
- 360 rotation and vertical adjustability
- Three-position FlipGrip
- Lifetime warranty
- Made in USA
Cons
- Higher price point
- May impede paddling on non-pedal kayaks
The YakAttack SideStage Pro is in a different category from the other rod holders in this roundup. Instead of holding one rod vertically for trolling, it stages up to three rods horizontally along the side of your kayak. I installed it on a pedal drive kayak and immediately understood why it has a cult following among serious kayak anglers.
The included two 14 inch ClickTrac rails with six FlipGrips are the magic of this system. Each FlipGrip has three positions: open for quick rod access, closed with retention band for a snug hold, and locked for maximum security. I fished a day in 25 mph winds with the FlipGrips in locked position and every rod stayed put.
The LOCKNLOAD system is what YakAttack is famous for. The base clicks into any GearTrac, MightyMount, or compatible track system and locks with a single lever. Pull the lever and the whole rack comes off in seconds for transport or to swap to a different accessory. No tools, no fuss.
This is a premium product with a premium price, but the lifetime warranty and USA-built construction back it up. YakAttack has been making kayak fishing gear for over a decade and the build quality shows. After a full season of use, my SideStage Pro still looks and functions like new.
Why horizontal rod management matters
Vertical rod holders are great for trolling, but they put rods high above the deck. That creates real problems when you fish under bridges, low tree branches, or mangrove tunnels. Horizontal rod racks keep rods flat along the side of the kayak, where they are out of the way and protected from overhead obstructions.
Horizontal staging also lets you run multiple rods at once without them tangling. You can have a trolling rod, a bait rod, and a fly rod all staged at the same time and grab whichever one you need when a fish shows up. For anglers who switch techniques often, that kind of flexibility is a game changer.
Best fit and final take
The SideStage Pro is ideal for kayak anglers with pedal drive or motor-driven kayaks who want to run multiple rods and stay mobile. It is also the right pick for anyone who fishes low overhead cover regularly. If you have the budget and the right kayak, this is the best horizontal rod management system on the market.
Skip it if you have a paddle-only kayak or fish primarily in open water with no overhead obstructions. The horizontal layout can interfere with paddle strokes on some setups, and you would be paying for features you do not need.
How to Choose the Best Kayak Fishing Rod Holder?
Picking the best kayak fishing rod holders comes down to three big decisions: your mounting style, the type of fishing you do, and whether you can drill into your kayak. Let me walk you through each factor based on what I learned from testing all eight of these holders.
Mounting type breakdown
Track mounted rod holders slide on aluminum or plastic track that you bolt to your kayak. They are the most adjustable and the easiest to reposition. YakAttack GearTrac, Scotty track, and RAILBLAZA StarPort are the three main systems. Track is the right choice if you want maximum flexibility and plan to add more accessories over time.
Flush mounted rod holders are drilled directly into the deck with the rod tube sitting low. They are the strongest, lowest profile, and least likely to snag. They are the right choice for serious anglers who want a permanent setup that handles big fish and rough water without flexing.
Clamp mounted rod holders grip a rail, tube, or flat surface without any drilling. They are the right choice for rental kayaks, inflatables, or any setup where drilling is off the table. The trade-off is less stability under heavy trolling pull.
No-drill solutions for kayaks without tracks
Many older kayaks do not have factory-installed track systems. Drilling into the deck works but is permanent. The two best no-drill options are clamp mounts like the PLUSINNO Clamp, or flush mount holders that only need a single hole like the Borogo. Both let you add rod holders without committing to a full track installation.
Another option is to install a small section of track using just two screws. That gives you the flexibility of track mounting without committing to a full deck overhaul. Most track manufacturers sell 6 inch and 12 inch sections that are easy to add.
Rod and reel compatibility
Standard rod butts up to about 1.95 inches in diameter fit most universal cradles. Heavy tuna rods and large conventional reels may need oversized holders. Ultralight spinning rods with small handles can rattle around in big cradles, so look for holders with foam inserts or soft straps if you fish light tackle.
Baitcaster reels generally sit deeper in the cradle than spinning reels because of the low profile reel foot. Most modern rod holders have a front slot for spinning reel hoods that solves this. The Scotty 0282-BK and the Scotty 279-BK both handle that transition well.
Trolling considerations
If you do any trolling, you need a rod holder that locks the rod in place under sustained pull. Locking rings like the Scotty Powerlock or rod straps like the PLUSINNO models add critical security. Pair any trolling holder with a rod leash as a backup, because no holder is foolproof under heavy load.
Trolling with large saltwater species like striped bass, large redfish, or snook puts enormous force on the holder. Flush mount systems handle that pull better than track or clamp mounts because the load is transferred directly into the hull. For serious trolling, go flush mount or use a heavy-duty track system with backing plates.
How many rod holders do you need
Most kayak anglers run two to four rod holders. Two is the minimum for serious fishing, with one positioned for trolling and one for rod staging. Three to four is better for anglers who run multiple rods or want to organize rods by technique. More than four is usually overkill and starts to clutter the deck.
I run two holders on my main fishing kayak: one aft for trolling and one on the side for rod staging while I drift. That setup covers 90% of the fishing I do without taking up too much deck space.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best kayak rod holder?
The best kayak rod holder depends on your fishing style and kayak setup. For most anglers, the Scotty Powerlock with the 241 side/deck mount is the best overall choice because of its locking ring, universal cradle, and proven durability. For budget shoppers, the Borogo 2-pack flush mount delivers excellent value. For no-drill setups, the PLUSINNO Clamp Mount is the top pick.
How can I make a DIY fishing rod holder for my kayak?
You can build a basic DIY kayak rod holder using PVC pipe, a 45 degree elbow, and a pipe strap clamp. Cut a piece of 1.5 inch PVC pipe about 12 inches long, glue the elbow to one end, and mount the straight end to your deck with the strap clamp. For a no-drill version, attach the clamp to a rail or track mount instead. PVC is not as durable as commercial holders, so always pair a DIY holder with a rod leash for safety.
Where is the best place to mount a rod holder on a kayak?
The best place to mount a rod holder on a kayak is behind the seat on the deck, angled slightly outward for trolling. This position keeps the rod within easy reach, does not interfere with paddling, and lets you watch the rod tip for strikes. For rod staging, mount a second holder on the starboard side of the cockpit. For pedal drive kayaks, side-mounted holders on the track system work best for horizontal rod storage.
What is the best kayak holder for trolling?
The best kayak holder for trolling is a flush mount or track mount system with a locking ring or rod strap. The Scotty Powerlock is our top pick because the locking ring prevents rod loss even in big wakes. For budget trolling setups, the Borogo flush mount offers great stability. Pair any trolling holder with a rod leash for extra security during heavy pulls from large fish.
Final Thoughts
After testing all eight of these rod holders over dozens of trips, my top recommendation for the best kayak fishing rod holders in 2026 is the Scotty Powerlock with 241 mount for serious anglers, the PLUSINNO 2-in-1 for versatility, and the Borogo 2-pack for budget shoppers. Each one solves a different problem, and the right pick depends on your kayak, your fishing style, and whether you can drill into your deck.
Whichever holder you choose, pair it with a quality rod leash and check your mounting hardware before every trip. A rod holder is only as good as the screws and backing plates holding it to your boat. Tight, secure installation turns any of these holders into a tool you can trust for years on the water.