Rod holders come in all sizes, shapes, and materials. Some work better than others. A good rod holder could save your rod from getting dragged down the Ice Hole!
The Silo’s store, on Canyon Ferry Lake, was always the go-to spot for information and gear. The staff were kind and had just what you needed to have a successful day on the ice. One of their DIY products was a folding rod holder.
The Silo Rod Holder was heavy, sturdy and simple. The PVC tube kept the rod in place. The folding feet could be positioned securely. The entire rig is bigger than ice holes. My only complaint was that the PVC tube required you to pull the rod out and then up to set the hook.
For Canyon Ferry rainbows, keeping the rod above the ice is more important than setting the hook. Usually, the rainbows take the bait well enough that you just need to crank them in.
I use several styles of rod holders but always carry the Silo Style. This holder is perfect for kids or for the far-out rod set ups. At Canyon Ferry, you can use 6 rods at once to fish. Spreading them out means you need time to get to the bite before the fish takes your rig into the depths. The ice at CF is usually clear and slick so moving too fast means a crash.
I have also used the Silos Rod Holder idea on shore, when bank fishing. No fish has defeated the rod set up.
If you have a flat iron piece of metal, you can make your own. I found a 2-foot length flat iron the other day and made my own rod holder. You can bend the metal using a vise and a hammer. A few drill holes allow you to make connections. The PVC tube is easily cut by hand with a hack saw. For bolts, I used a lock nut and washer to secure them.
I now can use 2 far out rods comfortably without losing my gear.
Hold onto your rod!
Montana Grant
