How to Tie Fishing Rods to a Roof Rack

By: Emilie Sennebogen
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Packing up the old tackle box for a fishing trip is something any angler looks forward to. Whether you're into lakes and rivers or you like to brave the salty waters of the ocean, fishermen take a lot of pride in caring for their gear. A fishing rod only works right if it remains straight and strong. Any bends or cracks in the rod impact the integrity of the pole, and when you least expect it, it could break under the pressure of hauling in a nicely sized fish. That's why it's important for you to take good care of your rods when you're transporting them from home to your preferred body of water.

Some rod and reel packages are easy to break down and can be stored in cases small enough to toss in your backseat. Fly rods and deep sea fishing rods are longer, and you may not want to bother with breaking them down for a short trip. A lot of times, it's easier to leave everything in one piece so you can hop out and get right to the fishing. If you're interested in tying your rods to your car, truck or SUV roof, then read on. Hang that "Gone Fishin'" sign in your store window, and read on for tips to ensure that your rod and reel stay in perfect shape.

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Tips for Tying Fishing Rods to a Roof Rack

If you don't mind spending some money on the transport of your rod and reel, then you can always go out and purchase a roof rack or rear vehicle rack specifically made for fishing rods. There are wide, two-piece racks that are magnetized to stick tightly to your roof. The foam padding on the inside clamps down on the rods and allows you safely transport as many as eight to 10 poles. There are smaller versions that hold up to three rods vertically. They also use a magnet and foam, but are stuck to the rear of your vehicle, making them better suited for SUVs. They range in price, but count on about 10 bucks for each rod they hold.

If you don't want to drop any more cash, you can tie the rods to your built-in roof rack on your own. In either case, it's important to remove your artificial lures. They can get beat up in the wind and even fly off if they aren't tied on correctly. If it's just a hook, it's probably OK to keep it on and attach it to one of the rod eyeholes. If not, remove the lure and secure the end of your fishing line to an eyehole. If you have more than one rod, bundle them together tightly below the reel with a small bungee. Face the handle end forward and place it on the side of the rack. Then use two bungees to secure the rod bundle to the roof rack, one for the front and one for the rear. Make sure they're tight, without bending the rods. If you feel good about your knot-tying skills, you can substitute rope or cord for the bungee. If there's any doubt, then just go with the bungee, and you'll be out on the lake in no time.

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Lots More Information

Related Articles

  • "How to Transport a Fishing Rod on a Car Roof Rack." Trails.com, 2011.http://www.trails.com/how_31_fishing-rod-car-roof-rack.html
  • "Magnetic Rod Stand." Cabelas.com, 2011.http://www.cabelas.com/product/Auto-ATV/Auto-Interior/Fishing-Rod-Racks|/pc/104796180/c/104697180/sc/104329980/Magnetic-Rod-Stand/743556.uts?destination=/catalog/browse/auto-atv-auto-interior-fishing-rod-racks/_/N-1100768&WTz_l=Unknown;cat104329980
  • "Vehicle Roof Top Rack." Coldtuna.com, 2011.http://www.coldtuna.com/products/pc/viewPrd.asp?idcategory=11&idproduct=12

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