Snap Lock Rod Holders - How strong are they?

[NormC]

Here is the scenario:
We do most of our fishing in NT, around snags for Barra and Jacks. Often while flicking lures, we will have a couple of livies over the side as well, with the rod in a holder.

I'm looking for different rod holders for the new boat. I've got a couple of Snap Locks, but they have not been seriously tested yet as we've only had the new boat out a couple of times and have not yet tangled with any big stuff in it. What I like is the rail mount and the fact that it is easy to get the rod out of the older, even with a big fish on.


I'd like to get a couple more, but my question is, how strong are they. When fishing around the snags, we have the drags done up pretty tight. Will the holder handle the power of a big barra, or do I risk losing my rod and reel as well as the holder. Losing a fish and even the rod holder would be bad enough, but losing the rod and reel is not in my thinking.

Anyone out there who has used these holders on 'big stuff'.

Norm C

[Stik-ugly]

Normc I had a couple on my boat I didn't like them and bought a couple of scotys much better. Don't know how they will hold up on big fish though. The plastic tab on the lever fell off that holds the rod in

[Jeremy]

Bottom line - plastic is not as strong as steel.

If you have to use them, make up some safety lanyards our of VB cord tied to your boat and with slip loop knots to attach to the reel handle. Insurance.