While I am still a huge fan of the Ram Rod 2000 rod holder and believe it is tough to beat when everything is considered (versatility, weight, durability) I have a new favorite. The Attwood pro is quite a set-up. I added the optional extension which popped it off my gunnels substantially which allows me to have the rod within easy reach but yet out of the way for paddling. I'm all about hassle free. The only downside to the Attwood pro is it is heavier than the lightweight Ram and a bit bulkier. Still a very sweet set up however.........

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While I can make do holding my rod with my legs & knees. A rod holder is a nice luxury. I prefer Berkley's Quick-Set model. Tried others too.

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[quote author=mastertangler link=1349993131/0#0 date=1349993131]The Attwood pro is quite a set-up. .............. The only downside to the Attwood pro is it is heavier than the lightweight Ram and a bit bulkier.
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The flush mount base looks like a nice addition to the attwood, but again, adds weight.         (You need to Login or Register

Zski.........all this talk of rod holders has me feeling a bit wistful I must admit. It is funny how trips gain in pleasure over the course of time when one looks back on them. My next Basswood trip will definitely be a circumnavigation style trip. Just me, my trusty rod holder and a few plastic lipped volunteers, should be a riot.  8-)

One safety related item must be made known. I REALLY like having my rod up off the gunnels. I also like long rods while trolling, usually between 7 and 9 ft. Couple that with some heavy braid however and there is some extreme potential for leverage should you encounter a snag. Fortunately the thought had certainly crossed my mind and when my dipsy diver hung bottom just outside of Ranger Bay this summer I was glad I had my drag set correctly. Otherwise the possibility for an upset could be in the offing especially if your braid is a bit on the heavy side. Lets just say the scenario can and will get your attention.

So yea, a rod holder anchors your rod in a fixed position to the boat. The potential is there for an unsafe position if your drag is not set correctly.

In my mind the loss of my rod holder would be a severe blow to my morale......at least initially. I can't imagine doing a canoe trip where trolling will be involved without having one.

As I read the many posts on this site I see I have more to learn than I thought.  Many thanks for the opportunity.

I have held the rod while trolling without benefit of a holder, too, without thinking there was much option.  A holder sounds great, but as I look at the pictures I think I am seeing either permanent mounts (for the holders suggested in this thread), flimsy clamp-ons that I would not trust (in google search), and/or clamp-ons that would leave rub marks on rented canoes.  Are there clamps I am missing?  Any thoughts on the eagle claw deluxe clamp-on?      (You need to Login or Register

I think camp on rod holders are great.  If you are worried about marks on the canoe, just put a block of wood or leather between the clamp and the canoe.

Westwood

PA_ B,

If your a handy sort of fellow, you can easily make this homemade rod holder. I've used it along with a fancy Cablas Clamp-On Quick Draw model.
The Cabelas is a great holder and offers more bells and whistles, but for ease of use, quick detachment for portages or to switch mounting sided, this homemade model works great.
Basically a heavy duty caproenter type thermoplastic hand clamp, with a 1 1/2 pvc rod holder. The teeth of the clamp can be wrapped in duct tape or shrink tape and won't mar the canoe.
Here's a pic on photocbucket:   (You need to Login or Register

The c-mount aluminum rod holder from Cabelas is the only
Really good one I've found.  Use small, thin wood or plywood blocks for a rigid mount on canoes.  Have caught more fish trolling than otherwise.