Trekking Poles for Fishing Rod Holders While Hiking?

For outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy combining hiking and fishing, the quest to minimize pack weight while maximizing utility is endless. While dedicated fishing rod holders exist, they often add bulk and weight to your gear. Fortunately, with some ingenuity, a piece of equipment you're likely already carrying—your trekking poles—can be transformed into an effective, improvised fishing rod holder. This not only lightens your load but also adds a layer of versatility to your hiking gear, allowing you to seamlessly transition from trail to tranquil fishing spot.

Why Use Trekking Poles as Fishing Rod Holders?

Trekking poles are designed for stability and strength, making them surprisingly well-suited to double as fishing rod holders. Their sturdy construction (often aluminum or carbon fiber35) can reliably support a fishing rod, especially in low-wind conditions or when you need hands-free convenience during short breaks by a lake or stream.

The primary advantages include:

• Weight Reduction: Eliminates the need to carry a separate rod holder.
• Immediacy: Allows you to take advantage of spontaneous fishing opportunities without cumbersome setup.
• Space Saving: Especially beneficial for ultralight hikers or those with limited pack space.

How to Set Up Your Trekking Pole Fishing Rod Holder

Creating a secure holder requires minimal effort and tools. Here are a few effective methods:

1. The Basic Strapping Method:This is the simplest approach. Plant your trekking pole(s) firmly into the ground near the water's edge. Using accessory straps, Velcro ties, or even parachord, securely attach your fishing rod's handle to the shaft of the trekking pole. Ensure the strap is above the reel to prevent the rod from sliding down. For added stability, especially with heavier rods, use two trekking poles in a tripod configuration with the second pole providing a rear support leg.
2. Utilizing the Pole's Built-in Features:Some trekking poles, like the Black Diamond Pursuit, come with a built-in hex tool4. While primarily for maintenance, this tool can be crucial for tightening any components on your fishing reel or pole setup in the field, ensuring everything is secure before attaching it to your trekking pole.
3. The Basket Advantage:Most trekking poles come with removable baskets (often called mud or snow baskets)37. These can act as a small ledge or stop, preventing your fishing rod from sliding too far down the pole shaft once attached.

Key Considerations for Success and Safety

While convenient, this improvisation has limitations. Keep these points in mind:

• Stability is Paramount: This setup is best for calm weather. Always ensure your trekking pole is planted deeply and securely in the ground. Avoid leaving your rod unattended in windy conditions, as it could be pulled over, potentially damaging your fishing gear.
• Rod Compatibility: Lighter fishing rods and collapsible travel rods (like the six-piece Redington Trailblazer2) work best. Heavy surf rods or long, heavy baitcasting rods may be too cumbersome and unstable for a trekking pole holder.
• Protect Your Gear: To prevent scratches on your fishing rod, you can wrap the trekking pole shaft with a bandana or soft cloth before strapping the rod to it.
• Have a Backup Plan: This is an improvised solution. Always have a plan for securing your rod if the terrain is too hard to plant the pole or if conditions deteriorate.

When to Avoid This Method

There are situations where a dedicated rod holder is superior:

• Frequent or Heavy-Duty Use: If fishing is the primary goal of your trip, invest in a proper, sturdy rod holder.
• Rough Weather: High winds can easily topple a trekking pole setup.
• Very Soft or Very Hard Ground: Soft ground may not hold the pole firmly, while rocky ground might make it impossible to plant the pole securely.

Conclusion

Using trekking poles as improvised fishing rod holders is a brilliant hack for the minimalist hiker-angler. It embodies the spirit of outdoor ingenuity, allowing you to make the most of your multi-functional gear. By understanding the simple techniques and important limitations, you can enjoy hands-free moments by the water, soaking in the scenery while waiting for a bite—all without adding an ounce of unnecessary weight to your pack.

Remember, this method is best for spontaneous, short-term use in favorable conditions. For more dedicated fishing endeavors, specialized equipment remains the best choice. But for those times when you stumble upon that perfect, unexpected fishing hole during your hike, your trekking poles will once again prove to be an indispensable tool on your adventures.