Fishing rod bed rack DIY - Version 1

I just got finished with version 1 of my fishing rod holder for my truck bed. I got tired of cramming rods into the cab or having them rattle around in the bed. The key components of this design is the Builtright molle rack, and some folding shelf brackets.


I’m trying to decide whether to trim the tubes to the same length, or keep the longer length tubes . The longer length tubes allow me to stagger the rods easier so the reels don’t get in each others way.


The folding brackets allow me to store the rack out of the way, but they are fairly easy to remove as well.


Of note, the longest 2 piece rod I could fit in a fore aft storage is 8’-6”. There’s a finger tip space between the end of the rod and the tailgate. My 9 foot fly rods and big surf rods will have to stay in their cases and fit wherever.

Very nice. I saw your other post about the molle rack here:

https://www.mavericktruckclub.com/forum/threads/builtright-molle-panel-bed-rack-installed.22969/

I remember adding it to my list and thinking "maybe" lol.

Very cool! I've been thinking about different ways to put rod holders in the bed (especially with kayaks). I definitely stealing your idea. LOL

Nicely done!

WannabeST said:

Very cool! I've been thinking about different ways to put rod holders in the bed (especially with kayaks). I definitely stealing your idea. LOL

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Here is the rod holder I made with a gap in the middle that my 12' Kayak fits nicely into. I loose ~1" of bed length for the Kayak. 2x4 across the bottom, 1x8 on the sides with metal brackets holding them together and rod holders bolted on. I have added a soft rollup tonneau since this picture and it works great with it rolled up.

Very nice!! You have my gears turning!

HiYoAu said:

I just got finished with version 1 of my fishing rod holder for my truck bed. I got tired of cramming rods into the cab or having them rattle around in the bed. The key components of this design is the Builtright molle rack, and some folding shelf brackets.


I’m trying to decide whether to trim the tubes to the same length, or keep the longer length tubes . The longer length tubes allow me to stagger the rods easier so the reels don’t get in each others way.


The folding brackets allow me to store the rack out of the way, but they are fairly easy to remove as well.


Of note, the longest 2 piece rod I could fit in a fore aft storage is 8’-6”. There’s a finger tip space between the end of the rod and the tailgate. My 9 foot fly rods and big surf rods will have to stay in their cases and fit wherever.

Click to expand...

Cool set-up!!

Nice set up. You did a nice clean job. I only carry two rods and when I move up and down the beach to find a new spot I just toss them through the rear window. Most of the bed is filled up with the proper equipment required by New York State to go on the beach such as air compressor Jack and Jack board shovel tow chain extra storage battery and fishing equipment etc.

stihlsawer said:

Very nice!! You have my gears turning!

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yeah, it took a few paper napkin sketches before I arrived at this design. I had originally conceived an idea using the basic shelf brackets but that was too crude. Be interesting to see others designs.

Grand Nat. said:

equipment required by New York State to go on the beach such as air compressor Jack and Jack board shovel tow chain extra storage battery and fishing equipment etc.

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Really!? Granted it's not a bad idea to have some gear but required by law...

Swede. said:

Really!? Granted it's not a bad idea to have some gear but required by law...

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The rules apply to the permit holder for beaches that are run by the State that allows 4x4 access. I assume In private beaches or any other areas these rules do not apply. If you get stuck with your vehicle or need help in any unauthorized area your on your own. I do stay away from Gilgo Beach if you know what I mean.

Swede. said:

Really!? Granted it's not a bad idea to have some gear but required by law...

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I honestly wish Montana would require drivers to carry recovery gear. My goodness people are helpless and it's dangerous. Especially through park areas. Your geo metro doesn't belong going down that road and I'm just trying to get to my alone spot in the mountain lakes or a spot to shoot... but now I gotta stop and spend half my day recovering someone (not so much anymore now that I have a smaller truck) just so I can get around them. Especially in areas with no cell service. Like, what was their plan? At least carry some basics and make an effort to get out.

Now days people can't even change their own tires. It's why so many vehicles don't even come equipped with spares anymore (that and cost cutting). Drivers tests should require 360 walk around inspections and the ability to show you know how to check tire psi, change a bulb, etc etc... /rant.

HiYoAu said:

I just got finished with version 1 of my fishing rod holder for my truck bed. I got tired of cramming rods into the cab or having them rattle around in the bed. The key components of this design is the Builtright molle rack, and some folding shelf brackets.


I’m trying to decide whether to trim the tubes to the same length, or keep the longer length tubes . The longer length tubes allow me to stagger the rods easier so the reels don’t get in each others way.


The folding brackets allow me to store the rack out of the way, but they are fairly easy to remove as well.


Of note, the longest 2 piece rod I could fit in a fore aft storage is 8’-6”. There’s a finger tip space between the end of the rod and the tailgate. My 9 foot fly rods and big surf rods will have to stay in their cases and fit wherever.

Click to expand...

i'm not big fisherman guy but i LOVE the ingenuity of your mod!

Very clever!