The best fishing rod rack

A fishing rod rack is an affordable way to organize, store and protect your valuable collection of fishing rods. No matter if you have fly rods, spinning rods, bait casters or ice fishing rods, a good fishing rod rack is the best way to keep your rods safe and out of the way when you aren’t out doing what you love best — fishing.

This guide will help you choose the fishing rod rack that best meets your needs by showing you what to look for when shopping around. Included are some recommendations, like our favorite, the KastKing Fishing Rod Rack.

Fishing rod racks come in many sizes, and if you have a lot of rods, you’ll need a bigger rack than if you just have a few. The thing about fishing rods is that you tend to accumulate more and more over time, so be sure to choose a rack that can handle more rods than you have now. Models are available to store anywhere from 4 to 24 fishing rods.

The type of fishing rods you have is an important factor. Do you have only fly fishing rods, or do you have large saltwater surf casters? Many models are adjustable to hold a wide range of rod types and sizes, but some are designed to fit only specific types and sizes, so make sure you check before buying.

There are three basic types of fishing rod racks, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

Many fishing rod racks are freestanding. They can be placed anywhere in a room or garage, on the porch or anywhere you have the space.

Some fishing rod racks mount on the wall, a good choice for those who don’t have the floor space for a freestanding rack or who like the idea of their fishing rods on display.

A few models mount on the ceiling. They take up no floor or wall space and provide a ready-to-go feel.

Whichever of these three basic types you choose, look at the mechanisms used to hold the rods in place. Racks that use clips to hold your fishing rods in place should hold the rods securely but not so tightly that it takes real effort to insert and remove them.

For some, a fishing rod rack is simply the place to you keep your fishing rods out of the way. Others prefer a good-looking rod rack, especially those who like the idea of having their fishing rods on display. Fishing rod racks are available in a variety of materials, styles and colors, so choose the one that best fits the surroundings in the room where you plan to put it.

Fishing rod racks are made from many different types of materials, including steel, aluminum, plastic and wood.

Steel rod racks are the most durable and the best choice for those with larger and heavier rods and reels. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and presents a clean, shiny image.

Aluminum rod racks are lighter in weight than steel but nearly as durable and are also resistant to rust and corrosion.

Wooden fishing rod racks are not as durable as other materials because they are made of porous material that absorbs moisture. They have an outdoorsy look, though, so they are often the choice of people who like to prominently display their rods.

Clips and slots are the most common methods of securing fishing rods to a rack so they don’t fall and get damaged. Clips should hold your rods snugly but not so tight that it is hard to get them in and out. Look for clips whose material and design protects your fishing rods. The best kind of clips handle large and small rods and the space between them is adjustable so you avoid damaging your equipment. Slots are less secure because the rods are cradled, not snapped in, but are much easier to use.

If you are considering a freestanding fishing rod rack, make sure it has a wide and sturdy base that keeps the rack stable when it is loaded down with rods and reels.

If you want a rack that you can take with you, make sure it has a comfortable handle that balances the weight of your gear.

Small, simple plastic racks can be found for less than $20. Racks in the $20 to $60 range are made of all different kinds of materials. Fishing rod racks over $60 are geared toward those with a real passion for fishing, tend to be built well and hold more rods.

A. Yes, installation is usually a straightforward process requiring only basic hand tools and skills. Installing ceiling racks overhead can be a bit trickier and will be easier if you have someone who can help.

A. Vertical fishing rod racks are for people who need frequent access to their rods. Horizontal racks are a better choice for people with children or pets because they keep your rods out of reach.

KastKing Fishing Rod Rack: available at Amazon

Our take: This award-winning, space-saving rack keeps fishing rods neatly organized and within easy reach.

What we like: The sturdy but lightweight aluminum frame needs no tools to assemble and is easy to load and unload. It accommodates up to two dozen fishing rods with cushioned rod holders that protect rod handles and lock them firmly in place. The generous spacing between the rods reduces congestion and the chances of damage. The rack is stabilized by reinforced foot braces and has a carrying handle that makes it easily portable.

What we dislike: The rack may tip slightly if you have put many heavy rods on it.

Berkley BAVRR Vertical Rod Rack: available at Amazon

Our take: This fishing rod rack is simple, affordable and flexible enough to fit anywhere.

What we like: It holds up to six rods of all sizes and can be used to store them horizontally or vertically. It is simple to hang and can be adjusted to hold any size of fishing rods, even children’s. It is made of sturdy plastic with foam grip pads to hold your rods neatly and securely in place.

What we dislike: The fit of the grip pads is so snug that it takes a little extra effort to remove larger fishing rods.

Rack’em Overhead Fishing Rod Storage Rack: available at Amazon

Our take: The overhead design is a great choice for those who don’t have the floor space for a freestanding rack or space for a wall-mounted rack.

What we like: It is made of heavy-duty steel that will not be affected by salt or sun and can be mounted in your home or under your boat’s canopy. It is easy to install and keeps your rods organized without taking up floor and wall space. The plastic coated hangers will not scratch or harm your rods.

What we dislike: It is not hard to install, but it would have been easier if they would have included instructions for hanging it.

David Allan Van is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.

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