How to Make a Clamp-On Rod Holder for a Canoe

When you canoe fish, often times you need to rest the rod somewhere to correct the float or make a few paddle strokes. A rod holder comes in handy during times like these because you keep the fishing line in the water as you make the corrections or do your tasks. A canoe rod holder doesn't have to be intricate or complicated; in fact, it's more efficient to keep it simple. Using a clamp-on rod holder lets you remove it when you don't need it and quickly put it on when you do.

Things You'll Need

  • Section of 2-inch PVC tube
  • Bench vise
  • Felt-tip pen
  • Measuring tape
  • Hacksaw
  • Sandpaper or file
  • Chamois cloths
  • 2 small c-clamps
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the PVC section into the bench vise, horizontally. Measure 6 inches down from the end and mark it with a felt-tip pen.

    • 2

      Use the hacksaw and cut out the 6-inch section of the PVC tube.

    • 3

      File or sand down the cut end to remove any spurs or rough edges.

    • 4

      Insert a chamois cloth into the inside of the tube so that the edge and tube are covered in the cloth. Make sure that the PVC hole is still open.

    • 5

      Place the rod holder against the inside hull of the canoe and use the c-clamps to attach the rod holder to the inside of the canoe. Angle it as needed by adjusting the clamps and pushing the tube fore or aft. Add another chamois to the side of the canoe should you have a wood or fiberglass canoe hull you don't want to mar.