Storage Basics

• Fishing rods and reels should be stored in dry, shaded areas, because equipment, especially fishing lines, can be damaged by overexposure to sunlight. Wet equipment can be damaged by rust and mold, and overly hot or cool environments can make the rods brittle and prone to breakage. Before storing fishing rods and reels, rinse them down with freshwater and--if they are to be stored in a closed-compartment unit--let the equipment dry completely so moisture is not trapped.
  
  

Storage Rack

• Rod and reel storage racks are wall-mounted systems that normally come with two separate racks--one for the base and one for the tip. The racks are aligned so the base of the fishing rod is set into the lower rack, while the tip is inserted into the upper rack, holding the rod and reel upright and out of the way. A storage rack helps keep a rod from being bent or accidentally stepped on in a crowded garage. Most storage racks are also adjustable to fit rods with the reels still attached, though more rods can be added to the rack if the reels are removed and stored separately.
  
  

Case

• A storage case can offer both protection and transportation. They come in a variety of forms, including foam-padded, hard-side cases, flexible nylon carry cases and bags with individual adjustable compartments for each reel. Storage cases help protect reels from corrosion, rust and mildew, plus often provide extra storage for a variety of fishing lines.
  
  

Freestanding Storage

• With their thin shapes, rods are conducive to being stored in PVC tubing which can be capped and set in a corner, or carried along on a fishing trip. For telescoping rods, fishing equipment suppliers offer collapsible tubes to accommodate any size rod. There is also a freestanding rod storage device known as the Rod Log, employing PVC pipes installed on a rolling base that allows for easy water drainage and air ventilation to help with rod cleaning and maintenance.
  
  

On-Boat Storage

• Fishing rod holders can be mounted to boats to allow anglers to have more than one line in the water at the same time, or to simply store rods for easy access. Some manufactured holders have clamps to secure the rod in place so it doesn't slip out should the line snag or hook a fish. Rod holders can come in stationary models or with joints and extensions to allow rods to be positioned and stored.