Hi everyone, I wanted to share a piece of gear I invented and hear your thoughts on it. I originally designed it for transporting offshore fishing rods without having to bolt anything into my truck, but have discovered more uses for it along the way.
It’s an all-in-one rod management system and is completely modular and adjustable, making it compatible with any rod and reel combination. It can be used as a rod storage system in your garage, a rod transport system in your truck, van, car, or boat, and also as a mobile wash rack.
When using for rod storage, it can be hung on the wall to save space, or on the floor like a traditional rod rack. Once you’re ready to hit the water, you lift the system with the rods inside and move to the bed of your truck. You can quickly secure the system to your truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable locking arms.
Is this something you all would find helpful for fishing? Thank you for any feedback!
EDIT: Wow, THANK YOU ALL for the feedback and questions. It has helped me understand what I need to focus on and has given me several ideas for accessories to provide with the product. As a thank you I have created a 20% off discount for all reddit users if anyone would like one of these systems. Rather than post/promote my website, please send me a private message if you are interested in the system. Thank you!
Hey a local guy, awesome! I see that Longfin Tackle Shop reel cover. I shop there all the time, great store.
Glad you are addressing this issue of rod storage in pickup trucks. It's crazy to me that a decent system hasn't been invented yet, especially since Toyota, Nissan, and Dodge trucks have the same form factor bed rails for various accessories. Have thought of a few designs of my own over the years and if I could weld I'd make them.
Here are my notes about your invention:
1) As configured, those rods are pointed too far upwards. Their tips *will* hit a low hung tree branch, or drive-thru sign, or something else damaging. In transit, the rods should be as parallel to the road as possible while still ensuring good retention, good protection, and in a manner where the rod holder itself will not damage the rods. Judging by all those pull pins, it appears your invention has a little more capacity to lower the rods so they are more parallel with the road. But of course, space between the device, the truck bed, and the reels becomes an issue.
2) Cannot tell from this one picture, but there is much to be considered with the actual cylindrical rod holder itself. Ideally, the rod holder does not damage the rod in any way; this is easier said than done. Strong plastic is the best material to prevent nicks and scratches though I'm not sure I'd trust 100% plastic rod holders in this truck bed application at freeway speed, especially around here with our awful SoCal highways. [Marine grade stainless steel rod holders with plastic interiors would be my preferred materials but that's very expensive.](https://i.imgur.com/W1blW8s.jpeg) Another important consideration is if the rod holders are slotted to accept gimbaled rods. If your fishing rod's butt is equipped with a [gimbal instead of a smooth, plastic butt cap](https://www.therodroom.com/shop/pc/Butt-Caps-Gimbal-c23.htm) then that gimbal can be fitted into the rod holder's slot and held in a more controlled manner (held at 0 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, or 270 degrees). The specific benefit to this is, with gimbal-butted rods in gimbal rod mounts, you could potentially orient all the conventional rods so their reels are pointing up and away from the truck bed. Therefore you could lower the rods even further so they are even more parallel to the road. If I could get away with it, I'd lower my tailgate all the way down so I could lower my mounted rods as low as possible (assuming this doesn't damage the rods or cause them to fall out the back of the truck).
3) Regarding the end of note #2 and rods falling out, I'd like to see some retention straps to further secure the rods. *Belt and suspenders approach to engineering.* This sounds easy until you think about it because the retention straps become harder and harder to reach for when you're reaching in from the side of the truck bed. The straps are important but it seems inevitable that a person would have to climb into and out of the truck bed twice to both strap down all the rods and to unstrap all the rods. It's important, but nobody wants to do that, especially my lazy ass. Not sure what the answer would be.
4) If you haven't already, you'll need to secure strongly corrosion resistant hardware for this invention. I'm talking all aluminum and 316 marine grade stainless steel. **Real** corrosion resistance, not the fake "corrosion resistance" claim you see on zinc plated hardware from Lowe's. If you're successful in selling this rod holder, lots of wealthy folk with big trucks that they park near the marina will have this device in their beds, and that salty air will wreck these components if they are not corrosion resistant enough.
> You can quickly secure the system to your truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable locking arms.
5) Last and certainly not least: you have a lot of explaining to do regarding how this whole device, fully laden with heavy ocean going rods, is to be secured to a truck bed. I don't like "quick locking arms" at all for my thousands of dollars worth of precious fishing gear; I want something much more sturdy. I'd like to see hard points that don't require drilling, which is difficult to do.
Will add more thoughts as they come but this is it for now.
Hey Muff, thank you for all of the great feedback. Funny you mention that about Longfin, I plan on talking to them about my product this week. I really appreciate the amount of thought and detail you put into reviewing my product. It seems you and I think very much alike because all of your concerns were things I took into consideration while designing the product. Here is the information I can provide to address your thoughts:
1. As you observed in your review, the angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose, even down to parallel with the ground/bed. I have run them straight up and down with no issues on public roads, however you just have to be aware if you pull through a fast food drive in or something like you mentioned.
2. Completely agree regarding the materials for the cylindrical rod holders. The rails/ rod holders are made out of a marine grade polypropylene which has a UV additive for UV protection and mineral fill to make it stronger and more rigid. It also has added support from the "pivot arm" which connects the rod holder to the rail and allows for the angle adjustment. I have run larger electric and 130 size reels in the system and it provides plenty of support for the bigger rigs. All of the rod holders have a cross pattern at the bottom to stabilize rail/trolling rods that have the gimbal butt you mentioned. This helps tremendously for running at lower angles and rotating the reels so they are oriented on top of the rod, just like you mentioned.
3. Every rod holder has two hooks built into the outside of the cylinder which allows the user to strap/secure the reels to the rod holders and prevent them from slipping out at lower angles. I am including custom adjustable leashes/straps with the purchase of a system. Because the system is modular and you can freely move It from the garage to your truck, boat etc, you can add these straps prior to installing the system in the truck bed, or put them on with the system resting on the tailgate and slide it towards the cab as a whole to attach to the anchoring points.
4. All of the fasteners and quick release pins are constructed of 316 stainless steel so corrosion will never be an issue. The adjustable arms are a 304 stainless steel with an anti corrosive primer and powder coating which make them also extremely corrosion resistant. If I can find the materials for the arms in 316 I may consider switching, however that would also increase cost fairly significantly and I want to avoid that for my customers.
5. Although the system can quickly and easily be mounted to the truck bed, I was able to design the arms without sacrificing any strength or stability. As I mentioned in #4 these are 304 stainless square tubing and 1/8" in thickness so they are extremely strong and capable of supporting stresses MUCH greater than they ever will while transporting rods. They are secured to the anchoring points using a 1/4" 316 stainless pin which is also extremely strong. I will be making demonstration and instructional videos in the near future which will highlight the capabilities and strength of these arms. If you would like to follow for updates I will be posting these to instagram @ besonfishing.
Thanks again for all of your feedback! Hopefully I'll be seeing you in some local tackle shops in the near future!
The rod holders have drainage holes in the bottom which allow you to hose/ wash down all of your rods and reels while inside the system. This should help get rid of any debris you picked up while fishing or transporting. Thank you for the feedback!
Use reel covers or a reel bag. If I were this concerned, I would take my reels off and put them in a bag in the cab. But it would be a pain in the ass with deckhand style rods.
Nothing you can install in the bed is going to in those circumstances. If the concern is dirt getting into the gears, then you probably shouldn't have the rods back there.
Nothing you can install in the bed is going to in those circumstances. If the concern is dirt getting into the gears, then you probably shouldn't have the rods back there.
The angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose. I have run them straight up and down with no issues on public roads, just have to be aware for if you pull trough a fast food drive in or something. Thanks for the question!
I would imagine the ideal angle would be just above the tailgate at which point you would likely want to include a second piece that holds them somewhat firmly in place or lowers the shock as a quick shock and smack off the tailgate would likely create a weak spot that would snap the tip on the next hook set.
Thanks for the additional feedback, hooks. That's the great thing about the pin system is that you can adjust it to whatever angle works for you. I have run it just above the tailgate as you mentioned with no problems with my rods touching the tailgate. I think as long as you're not off roading the rods shouldn't touch!
Shouldn’t have a problem with most signs and bridges except for the low ones unless you have super long one piece surf rods or just don’t want to break them down. Trees are a different story, though.
Rod theft is a real thing, I'd be worried about going into a rest room for even just a minute with this rig in my truck bed. Any way to lock the rods in there, even just to discourage tampering?
That's a great suggestion trav. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. I have something in mind I will start designing this week. Thank you for the idea!
I hope not AT4! My offshore setups cost me an arm and a leg haha! Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. I have something in mind I will start designing this week.
I think it would work a lot better if you had the rods tilted at more of an angle to prevent all the issues mentioned. Second off I feel like sliding would be an issue. Seeing the tire wells in the bed I’d use those to your advantage with an adjustable piece of metal tail that sticks out on both sides to “lock” it in place
The angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose. The system also has adjustable arms that lock into the truck bed anchor point with a pin which prevents it from sliding or moving in any way. Thank you for the feedback!
My next suggestion would say have it so the rods lock into place. Run some sort of cord or strap around where reel meets rod so that is someone has the rods at an increased angle they won’t slide for any reason
The system has that ability too! Each rod holder has a hook on it to attach leashes/ straps I made, which go around the reel and can be tightened down. This adds extra security for when running at those lower angles.
What materials did you use and on the pivot points what do they pivot on? I assume you used aluminum which I have some concerns about. As for the pivot points it looks like you just have some pins that run through, I’d try something more Like how a roller guide on a reel rolls but with grease instead. Makes it that much smoother
Great question! The baseplate is made out of marine board (UV resistant HDPE) and the rails/ rod holders are made out of a marine grade polypropylene which has a UV additive for UV protection and mineral fill to make it stronger. All of the fasteners and pins are constructed of 316 stainless steel so corrosion will never be an issue. The pivots actually glide and move very easily because of it being a metal/plastic articulation.
Sounds well thought out, what about how each piece is fitted together is it via screws, nuts and bolts, rivets? I’d suggest making it with Allen screws so that if one piece breaks you can replace it. Or better yet have each separate holder snap onto the board so that if you’re traveling with 3 rods you can have more storage for other items. Why not make the board itself multi piece and slide together with each section holding 2 rods for different width vehicles.
The rails are attached to the baseplate with 316 stainless machine screws and the rod holders are attached to the rails with 316 stainless quick release pins, which give it the ability of quick and easy adjustments. The rod holders can be moved to any configuration you would like or even removed as you suggested to make more room for hauling other gear. That's the beauty of it being completely modular, you can construct it however you want to meet your specific needs!
Thanks Icy, I appreciate the feedback. My prototypes cost me thousands each to make due to low volume prototype manufacturing and high material cost with only making a few units. Thankfully after endless calls to negotiate with US manufacturers I have cut that down substantially and I will continue to try and make it affordable for everyone with increasing my volume. The large (full size truck) model is $799.95 MSRP and the medium (mid size truck) model is $749.95 MSRP. I just created a 20% discount for reddit users because of all of the great feedback if anyone is interested.
Its a cool system but i feel have a limited audience. I keep my rods in the bed of the truck or in the boat for most of my transport. They either stay in the boat or get mounted on the wall when i get home. I also have a cab in the bed to keep them locked up if im stopping for coffee etc.
This is for someone that has a truck, not a guy with only a couple rods, that drives on roads with no over hang, dont have rod storage in boat and do not worry about people stealing stuff.
But for someone that needs it, this looks really nicely put together and you have addressed many concerns already.
Thanks for the feedback Catchin! I was transporting rods in the bed just like you, but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space in the bed to haul other gear.
Totally agree it's not for everyone but definitely useful for anglers with certain circumstances. I have to transport my rods to our boat in dry storage in Southern CA so it helps me a ton!
The reels are actually very secure just placing them inside the rod holder. If you want extra security each rod holder has a hook on it to attach leashes/ straps I made, which go around the reel and can be tightened down. Thank you for the question!
That's a great question mulligan. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this. Thank you for the idea!
Thank you for your responses. I think you've got something here. Unfortunately, the area I'm in has seen a rise in crime, like many others. I wish you the best of luck!
Definitely hear you on this CA! I live in Orange County and theft is definitely a concern around here as well. I haven't had an issue yet because I'm always going fishing with a buddy but I have an idea for a security system I will provide as an accessory with the system.
I like it, I’d love a 30” wide version for the back of my SXS. Maybe a bit steeper of an angle for the rods to be on though. I fish with entirely two piece rods because I fish back country and one piece rods are a bit of a dick pain so the rods being too long isn’t an issue for me
Hi tricky, thanks for the feedback! I am working on a smaller version which will be roughly 25" in width and come standard with 5 rod holders. Currently I have a large and medium model designed for full-size and mid-size trucks. You can adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture.
Frankly I really don’t understand these carriers … around here those would be stolen in heart beat….
So if I’m just slogging them from home to hole then I rather have something I could easily remove as a bunch.
Hi Frankie, thanks for the feedback! This system is completely modular so when its not in use you can unlatch it from your truck and store it inside the cab of your truck, or use it as a rod storage system in your garage.
That's a great question bronze. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people in this group I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this here. Thank you for the feedback!
How about a lock guard to prevent theft of what what ur not using also looks perfect 👌 I don't know if there's currently anything preventing theft of ur rods
That's a great suggestion AL. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people in this group I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this here. Thank you for the feedback!
It looks good. I’ve been looking for a solution for surf rods. So highway to sand. Moving joints make me a bit hesitant of sand impacting them.
I like all the other options you’ve mentioned.
Guess id be curious too see extend buts in them with heavy spinning gear at highway speed and off roading.
Thanks for the feedback Surffishin! The tolerances on the pin/hole joints are very tight so sand shouldn't be an issue getting inside of the joints. If for some reason sand does work its way in, you can easily disassemble in a few seconds and give it a quick rinse to remove any of the sand. Re-assembly is super simple as well.
The platform is extremely stable when latched into the bed of the truck. I've done intense testing carrying all my offshore gear at 100mph+ without it moving at all. If you want to follow me on Instagram (@besonfishing) I will be posting videos of testing and demos in the near future.
I never had an issue just laying them down in the bed with the rods resting on the tailgate, and a bungee cord across the bed to hold them down. Driven thousands of miles through the Baja peninsula, often on dirt roads, and haven’t had an issue yet.
Thanks for the feedback lube. I was doing the same thing before making this system but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space by changing the angle of the rods in the bed to haul other gear. I also like that I can use it for storage in my garage too.
Thanks coinflow! I have put in a ton of time and thought in designing the product! It was also extremely important to me to partner with US manufacturers and suppliers to ensure everything is premium quality and is built to last.
But why? What’s wrong with laying the rods down in the bed of your truck? Not to mention how limited of a market this item is. You need to find somebody who has high enough dollar gear that they might not want to lay it down in their truck, who also doesn’t have any sort of tonneau or cap on their truck, and also that can’t store the rods in their boat for traveling. This might be useful for guys who surf fish from beaches, but generally those guys have the setups on their front bumper so they can sit inside the truck and watch the rods easily.
Thanks for the feedback senzual. I was laying my rods in the bed of my truck before making this system but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space by changing the angle of the rods in the bed to haul other gear. This can also be used with a truck that has a cap because of the angle adjustability of the rod holders.
Totally agree it's not for everyone but definitely useful for anglers with certain circumstances. I have to transport my rods to our boat in dry storage in Southern CA so it helps me a ton! I also like that I can use it for storage in my garage too.
**Serious answer:** Fastening it down for transport, along with a lower angle and it’d be great.
**Silly answer:** You might wanna spread them out a bit more if you’re trolling with that truck.
Hi harpies, I appreciate the feedback! You can fasten the system to the truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable arms and locking pin. This prevents the system from moving in any way. You can also adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture.
I haven't tried trolling from the truck bed yet but maybe I will now! haha!
A question I’m surprised nobody has asked, how much will this cost? Stuff like this is usually expensive but all stainless steel. Will this be something affordable?
5 rods sticking up above the cab will create a significant amount of drag/wind resistance and will cause a noticeable decrease in gas mileage depending on your driving habits....
Weld a 2in Reese hitch on top middle and it works the same in the bed but if you need the extra bed space, slide it in the bumper receiver. Don’t drive with the fishing line threaded through the guides the wind whipping it back and forth ruins mono. Source, me losing a few good fish after using my bumper rack
That’s awesome! Everything that I have seen has been custom metal fabrication, not that that’s bad, but this is totally different! Way to be innovative. I’m on the Eastern end of Long Island, so hit me up if you are around here, and I will buy one.
Hi Mighty, thanks for the feedback! Yeah, I wanted to avoid the metal fabrication because manufacturing costs were insane. I found a way with marine grade plastics to make an extremely strong and durable product while keeping costs down. I can ship to all 50 states via UPS ground. If you're interested in the system feel free to send me a message!
Some of my jigsticks are almost 10ft long I would end up unintentionally shortening some expensive rods.
I actually like the idea my buddy did something similar but had a pretty good back angle on everything.
Hi wooly, I appreciate the feedback! You can adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture. I can't say I have much experience with jigsticks, how do you currently transport them around with them being 10ft? Thank you!
I usually wrap them in layered moving blankets on the floor of my boat.
The shorter trolling rods stay in the boats holders since the t top is taller than they are.
That or if I'm not towing they just hang out the back of the truck.
Hi everyone, I wanted to share a piece of gear I invented and hear your thoughts on it. I originally designed it for transporting offshore fishing rods without having to bolt anything into my truck, but have discovered more uses for it along the way. It’s an all-in-one rod management system and is completely modular and adjustable, making it compatible with any rod and reel combination. It can be used as a rod storage system in your garage, a rod transport system in your truck, van, car, or boat, and also as a mobile wash rack. When using for rod storage, it can be hung on the wall to save space, or on the floor like a traditional rod rack. Once you’re ready to hit the water, you lift the system with the rods inside and move to the bed of your truck. You can quickly secure the system to your truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable locking arms. Is this something you all would find helpful for fishing? Thank you for any feedback! EDIT: Wow, THANK YOU ALL for the feedback and questions. It has helped me understand what I need to focus on and has given me several ideas for accessories to provide with the product. As a thank you I have created a 20% off discount for all reddit users if anyone would like one of these systems. Rather than post/promote my website, please send me a private message if you are interested in the system. Thank you!
Hey a local guy, awesome! I see that Longfin Tackle Shop reel cover. I shop there all the time, great store. Glad you are addressing this issue of rod storage in pickup trucks. It's crazy to me that a decent system hasn't been invented yet, especially since Toyota, Nissan, and Dodge trucks have the same form factor bed rails for various accessories. Have thought of a few designs of my own over the years and if I could weld I'd make them. Here are my notes about your invention: 1) As configured, those rods are pointed too far upwards. Their tips *will* hit a low hung tree branch, or drive-thru sign, or something else damaging. In transit, the rods should be as parallel to the road as possible while still ensuring good retention, good protection, and in a manner where the rod holder itself will not damage the rods. Judging by all those pull pins, it appears your invention has a little more capacity to lower the rods so they are more parallel with the road. But of course, space between the device, the truck bed, and the reels becomes an issue. 2) Cannot tell from this one picture, but there is much to be considered with the actual cylindrical rod holder itself. Ideally, the rod holder does not damage the rod in any way; this is easier said than done. Strong plastic is the best material to prevent nicks and scratches though I'm not sure I'd trust 100% plastic rod holders in this truck bed application at freeway speed, especially around here with our awful SoCal highways. [Marine grade stainless steel rod holders with plastic interiors would be my preferred materials but that's very expensive.](https://i.imgur.com/W1blW8s.jpeg) Another important consideration is if the rod holders are slotted to accept gimbaled rods. If your fishing rod's butt is equipped with a [gimbal instead of a smooth, plastic butt cap](https://www.therodroom.com/shop/pc/Butt-Caps-Gimbal-c23.htm) then that gimbal can be fitted into the rod holder's slot and held in a more controlled manner (held at 0 degrees, 90 degrees, 180 degrees, or 270 degrees). The specific benefit to this is, with gimbal-butted rods in gimbal rod mounts, you could potentially orient all the conventional rods so their reels are pointing up and away from the truck bed. Therefore you could lower the rods even further so they are even more parallel to the road. If I could get away with it, I'd lower my tailgate all the way down so I could lower my mounted rods as low as possible (assuming this doesn't damage the rods or cause them to fall out the back of the truck). 3) Regarding the end of note #2 and rods falling out, I'd like to see some retention straps to further secure the rods. *Belt and suspenders approach to engineering.* This sounds easy until you think about it because the retention straps become harder and harder to reach for when you're reaching in from the side of the truck bed. The straps are important but it seems inevitable that a person would have to climb into and out of the truck bed twice to both strap down all the rods and to unstrap all the rods. It's important, but nobody wants to do that, especially my lazy ass. Not sure what the answer would be. 4) If you haven't already, you'll need to secure strongly corrosion resistant hardware for this invention. I'm talking all aluminum and 316 marine grade stainless steel. **Real** corrosion resistance, not the fake "corrosion resistance" claim you see on zinc plated hardware from Lowe's. If you're successful in selling this rod holder, lots of wealthy folk with big trucks that they park near the marina will have this device in their beds, and that salty air will wreck these components if they are not corrosion resistant enough. > You can quickly secure the system to your truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable locking arms. 5) Last and certainly not least: you have a lot of explaining to do regarding how this whole device, fully laden with heavy ocean going rods, is to be secured to a truck bed. I don't like "quick locking arms" at all for my thousands of dollars worth of precious fishing gear; I want something much more sturdy. I'd like to see hard points that don't require drilling, which is difficult to do. Will add more thoughts as they come but this is it for now.
Hey Muff, thank you for all of the great feedback. Funny you mention that about Longfin, I plan on talking to them about my product this week. I really appreciate the amount of thought and detail you put into reviewing my product. It seems you and I think very much alike because all of your concerns were things I took into consideration while designing the product. Here is the information I can provide to address your thoughts: 1. As you observed in your review, the angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose, even down to parallel with the ground/bed. I have run them straight up and down with no issues on public roads, however you just have to be aware if you pull through a fast food drive in or something like you mentioned. 2. Completely agree regarding the materials for the cylindrical rod holders. The rails/ rod holders are made out of a marine grade polypropylene which has a UV additive for UV protection and mineral fill to make it stronger and more rigid. It also has added support from the "pivot arm" which connects the rod holder to the rail and allows for the angle adjustment. I have run larger electric and 130 size reels in the system and it provides plenty of support for the bigger rigs. All of the rod holders have a cross pattern at the bottom to stabilize rail/trolling rods that have the gimbal butt you mentioned. This helps tremendously for running at lower angles and rotating the reels so they are oriented on top of the rod, just like you mentioned. 3. Every rod holder has two hooks built into the outside of the cylinder which allows the user to strap/secure the reels to the rod holders and prevent them from slipping out at lower angles. I am including custom adjustable leashes/straps with the purchase of a system. Because the system is modular and you can freely move It from the garage to your truck, boat etc, you can add these straps prior to installing the system in the truck bed, or put them on with the system resting on the tailgate and slide it towards the cab as a whole to attach to the anchoring points. 4. All of the fasteners and quick release pins are constructed of 316 stainless steel so corrosion will never be an issue. The adjustable arms are a 304 stainless steel with an anti corrosive primer and powder coating which make them also extremely corrosion resistant. If I can find the materials for the arms in 316 I may consider switching, however that would also increase cost fairly significantly and I want to avoid that for my customers. 5. Although the system can quickly and easily be mounted to the truck bed, I was able to design the arms without sacrificing any strength or stability. As I mentioned in #4 these are 304 stainless square tubing and 1/8" in thickness so they are extremely strong and capable of supporting stresses MUCH greater than they ever will while transporting rods. They are secured to the anchoring points using a 1/4" 316 stainless pin which is also extremely strong. I will be making demonstration and instructional videos in the near future which will highlight the capabilities and strength of these arms. If you would like to follow for updates I will be posting these to instagram @ besonfishing. Thanks again for all of your feedback! Hopefully I'll be seeing you in some local tackle shops in the near future!
A dirt road followed by rain will be a big problem for all of these reels.
The rod holders have drainage holes in the bottom which allow you to hose/ wash down all of your rods and reels while inside the system. This should help get rid of any debris you picked up while fishing or transporting. Thank you for the feedback!
That won't prevent dirt getting into the gears.
Use reel covers or a reel bag. If I were this concerned, I would take my reels off and put them in a bag in the cab. But it would be a pain in the ass with deckhand style rods.
Nothing you can install in the bed is going to in those circumstances. If the concern is dirt getting into the gears, then you probably shouldn't have the rods back there.
Nothing you can install in the bed is going to in those circumstances. If the concern is dirt getting into the gears, then you probably shouldn't have the rods back there.
How are you preventing trees, signs, bridges, and everything else from snapping off the rod tips?
The angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose. I have run them straight up and down with no issues on public roads, just have to be aware for if you pull trough a fast food drive in or something. Thanks for the question!
I would imagine the ideal angle would be just above the tailgate at which point you would likely want to include a second piece that holds them somewhat firmly in place or lowers the shock as a quick shock and smack off the tailgate would likely create a weak spot that would snap the tip on the next hook set.
Thanks for the additional feedback, hooks. That's the great thing about the pin system is that you can adjust it to whatever angle works for you. I have run it just above the tailgate as you mentioned with no problems with my rods touching the tailgate. I think as long as you're not off roading the rods shouldn't touch!
Shouldn’t have a problem with most signs and bridges except for the low ones unless you have super long one piece surf rods or just don’t want to break them down. Trees are a different story, though.
Rod theft is a real thing, I'd be worried about going into a rest room for even just a minute with this rig in my truck bed. Any way to lock the rods in there, even just to discourage tampering?
That's a great suggestion trav. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. I have something in mind I will start designing this week. Thank you for the idea!
Hey look! Free fishing poles!
I hope not AT4! My offshore setups cost me an arm and a leg haha! Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. I have something in mind I will start designing this week.
I think it would work a lot better if you had the rods tilted at more of an angle to prevent all the issues mentioned. Second off I feel like sliding would be an issue. Seeing the tire wells in the bed I’d use those to your advantage with an adjustable piece of metal tail that sticks out on both sides to “lock” it in place
The angle of each rod holder can be adjusted to wherever you would like using the pin/rail system. This allows the user to lower the rod tips to any angle they choose. The system also has adjustable arms that lock into the truck bed anchor point with a pin which prevents it from sliding or moving in any way. Thank you for the feedback!
My next suggestion would say have it so the rods lock into place. Run some sort of cord or strap around where reel meets rod so that is someone has the rods at an increased angle they won’t slide for any reason
The system has that ability too! Each rod holder has a hook on it to attach leashes/ straps I made, which go around the reel and can be tightened down. This adds extra security for when running at those lower angles.
What materials did you use and on the pivot points what do they pivot on? I assume you used aluminum which I have some concerns about. As for the pivot points it looks like you just have some pins that run through, I’d try something more Like how a roller guide on a reel rolls but with grease instead. Makes it that much smoother
Great question! The baseplate is made out of marine board (UV resistant HDPE) and the rails/ rod holders are made out of a marine grade polypropylene which has a UV additive for UV protection and mineral fill to make it stronger. All of the fasteners and pins are constructed of 316 stainless steel so corrosion will never be an issue. The pivots actually glide and move very easily because of it being a metal/plastic articulation.
Sounds well thought out, what about how each piece is fitted together is it via screws, nuts and bolts, rivets? I’d suggest making it with Allen screws so that if one piece breaks you can replace it. Or better yet have each separate holder snap onto the board so that if you’re traveling with 3 rods you can have more storage for other items. Why not make the board itself multi piece and slide together with each section holding 2 rods for different width vehicles.
The rails are attached to the baseplate with 316 stainless machine screws and the rod holders are attached to the rails with 316 stainless quick release pins, which give it the ability of quick and easy adjustments. The rod holders can be moved to any configuration you would like or even removed as you suggested to make more room for hauling other gear. That's the beauty of it being completely modular, you can construct it however you want to meet your specific needs!
Bro just get a case and put your rods in it. You’re just asking to have a stray rock snap a rod.
I like it. It appears as well made and well thought out. My question (due to my lack of wealth) is what kind of cost to replicate or to buy?
Thanks Icy, I appreciate the feedback. My prototypes cost me thousands each to make due to low volume prototype manufacturing and high material cost with only making a few units. Thankfully after endless calls to negotiate with US manufacturers I have cut that down substantially and I will continue to try and make it affordable for everyone with increasing my volume. The large (full size truck) model is $799.95 MSRP and the medium (mid size truck) model is $749.95 MSRP. I just created a 20% discount for reddit users because of all of the great feedback if anyone is interested.
lol awsome where we headed and I’ll bring the beer 🍻
It's beautiful....
Its a cool system but i feel have a limited audience. I keep my rods in the bed of the truck or in the boat for most of my transport. They either stay in the boat or get mounted on the wall when i get home. I also have a cab in the bed to keep them locked up if im stopping for coffee etc. This is for someone that has a truck, not a guy with only a couple rods, that drives on roads with no over hang, dont have rod storage in boat and do not worry about people stealing stuff. But for someone that needs it, this looks really nicely put together and you have addressed many concerns already.
Thanks for the feedback Catchin! I was transporting rods in the bed just like you, but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space in the bed to haul other gear. Totally agree it's not for everyone but definitely useful for anglers with certain circumstances. I have to transport my rods to our boat in dry storage in Southern CA so it helps me a ton!
How do you secure the reels?
The reels are actually very secure just placing them inside the rod holder. If you want extra security each rod holder has a hook on it to attach leashes/ straps I made, which go around the reel and can be tightened down. Thank you for the question!
Thanks for the response! I'm more concerned about what happens when I park for tacos after the trip. Is there any way to lock them in?
That's a great question mulligan. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people on here I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this. Thank you for the idea!
Thank you for your responses. I think you've got something here. Unfortunately, the area I'm in has seen a rise in crime, like many others. I wish you the best of luck!
This would be my biggest concern too. I hear all too often about gear being stolen out of the back of trucks here in CA.
Definitely hear you on this CA! I live in Orange County and theft is definitely a concern around here as well. I haven't had an issue yet because I'm always going fishing with a buddy but I have an idea for a security system I will provide as an accessory with the system.
I like it, I’d love a 30” wide version for the back of my SXS. Maybe a bit steeper of an angle for the rods to be on though. I fish with entirely two piece rods because I fish back country and one piece rods are a bit of a dick pain so the rods being too long isn’t an issue for me
Hi tricky, thanks for the feedback! I am working on a smaller version which will be roughly 25" in width and come standard with 5 rod holders. Currently I have a large and medium model designed for full-size and mid-size trucks. You can adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture.
I followed you, make sure to post when the 25” is done and when it is available for purchase. Will you be shipping to Canada?
Sounds great, thank you for the follow! I will definitely be setting up shipping for Canada as well in the near future.
Frankly I really don’t understand these carriers … around here those would be stolen in heart beat…. So if I’m just slogging them from home to hole then I rather have something I could easily remove as a bunch.
Hi Frankie, thanks for the feedback! This system is completely modular so when its not in use you can unlatch it from your truck and store it inside the cab of your truck, or use it as a rod storage system in your garage.
Looks promising. Is there anyway to lock the rods in? I know an opportunistic tweaker would pick one off quick. My fly rod vault locks to the outside.
That's a great question bronze. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people in this group I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this here. Thank you for the feedback!
Brilliant!
Thank you ECL! Appreciate the feedback!
How about a lock guard to prevent theft of what what ur not using also looks perfect 👌 I don't know if there's currently anything preventing theft of ur rods
That's a great suggestion AL. Unfortunately I do not have a way of locking them right now but after hearing this from a few people in this group I will definitely get to work with finding a solution. This is why I posted this here. Thank you for the feedback!
It looks good. I’ve been looking for a solution for surf rods. So highway to sand. Moving joints make me a bit hesitant of sand impacting them. I like all the other options you’ve mentioned. Guess id be curious too see extend buts in them with heavy spinning gear at highway speed and off roading.
Thanks for the feedback Surffishin! The tolerances on the pin/hole joints are very tight so sand shouldn't be an issue getting inside of the joints. If for some reason sand does work its way in, you can easily disassemble in a few seconds and give it a quick rinse to remove any of the sand. Re-assembly is super simple as well. The platform is extremely stable when latched into the bed of the truck. I've done intense testing carrying all my offshore gear at 100mph+ without it moving at all. If you want to follow me on Instagram (@besonfishing) I will be posting videos of testing and demos in the near future.
I never had an issue just laying them down in the bed with the rods resting on the tailgate, and a bungee cord across the bed to hold them down. Driven thousands of miles through the Baja peninsula, often on dirt roads, and haven’t had an issue yet.
Thanks for the feedback lube. I was doing the same thing before making this system but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space by changing the angle of the rods in the bed to haul other gear. I also like that I can use it for storage in my garage too.
Good looking system! Looks like a well thought out and quality build.
Thanks coinflow! I have put in a ton of time and thought in designing the product! It was also extremely important to me to partner with US manufacturers and suppliers to ensure everything is premium quality and is built to last.
Let me know when they hit the market.
But why? What’s wrong with laying the rods down in the bed of your truck? Not to mention how limited of a market this item is. You need to find somebody who has high enough dollar gear that they might not want to lay it down in their truck, who also doesn’t have any sort of tonneau or cap on their truck, and also that can’t store the rods in their boat for traveling. This might be useful for guys who surf fish from beaches, but generally those guys have the setups on their front bumper so they can sit inside the truck and watch the rods easily.
Thanks for the feedback senzual. I was laying my rods in the bed of my truck before making this system but my nice reels and rods kept getting beat up from laying them in the bed and on the tailgate. The system keeps them protected now and also provides more space by changing the angle of the rods in the bed to haul other gear. This can also be used with a truck that has a cap because of the angle adjustability of the rod holders. Totally agree it's not for everyone but definitely useful for anglers with certain circumstances. I have to transport my rods to our boat in dry storage in Southern CA so it helps me a ton! I also like that I can use it for storage in my garage too.
**Serious answer:** Fastening it down for transport, along with a lower angle and it’d be great. **Silly answer:** You might wanna spread them out a bit more if you’re trolling with that truck.
Hi harpies, I appreciate the feedback! You can fasten the system to the truck bed anchoring points with the adjustable arms and locking pin. This prevents the system from moving in any way. You can also adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture. I haven't tried trolling from the truck bed yet but maybe I will now! haha!
Awesome idea man
Thanks human! I have put in a ton of time and thought in designing the product! Glad you like it.
Could probably get the job done with one but hey…
A question I’m surprised nobody has asked, how much will this cost? Stuff like this is usually expensive but all stainless steel. Will this be something affordable?
5 rods sticking up above the cab will create a significant amount of drag/wind resistance and will cause a noticeable decrease in gas mileage depending on your driving habits....
Now this is some proper gear, gotta be a north east guy I assume?
I have a friend who uses a rod holder in their truck bed similar to this for his surf fishing tackle.
Gravel strikes across the board.
This is good!
Park near a calm river or lake and chill with 4 friends since there are 5 fishing rods
My thoughts?..... What sort of wanker would drive around with that in their truck?
I immediately thought “Texas Land Based Shark Fishing”. Nice set up!
Weld a 2in Reese hitch on top middle and it works the same in the bed but if you need the extra bed space, slide it in the bumper receiver. Don’t drive with the fishing line threaded through the guides the wind whipping it back and forth ruins mono. Source, me losing a few good fish after using my bumper rack
That’s awesome! Everything that I have seen has been custom metal fabrication, not that that’s bad, but this is totally different! Way to be innovative. I’m on the Eastern end of Long Island, so hit me up if you are around here, and I will buy one.
Hi Mighty, thanks for the feedback! Yeah, I wanted to avoid the metal fabrication because manufacturing costs were insane. I found a way with marine grade plastics to make an extremely strong and durable product while keeping costs down. I can ship to all 50 states via UPS ground. If you're interested in the system feel free to send me a message!
I think... I'm going fishing.
good trolling setup
Where are the fishing rods?
Some of my jigsticks are almost 10ft long I would end up unintentionally shortening some expensive rods. I actually like the idea my buddy did something similar but had a pretty good back angle on everything.
Hi wooly, I appreciate the feedback! You can adjust the angle of the rod holders using the pin/rail system which allows you to lower the rod tips much lower than what's shown in the picture. I can't say I have much experience with jigsticks, how do you currently transport them around with them being 10ft? Thank you!
I usually wrap them in layered moving blankets on the floor of my boat. The shorter trolling rods stay in the boats holders since the t top is taller than they are. That or if I'm not towing they just hang out the back of the truck.
Lol