Hook Set Innovations Float 'n Tote (Rod Holder)
By Scott Clayton

The right fly line is critical to stillwater fly fishing success. Carrying multiple lines while float tubing isn't difficult but changing lines while on the water can be a real challenge. When possible I like to avoid situations where dropping a rod or reel into the drink could easily happen. So rather than carrying all my lines on extra spools I'm in the habit of carrying two rods completely strung up and ready to go. With this setup I can quickly change between two different line types and increase my odds of catching fish. As flexible as this is, it can be a real hassle unless the secondary rod is stowed securely out of the way. In order to do this a rod holder is a requirement. I've tried several different styles of rod holders from simple Velcro straps to 360-degree adjustable models; none of them stood out. That is until I tried the Hook Set Innovations (HSI) Float 'n Tote Rod Holder.

The HSI rod holder is an example of the principle the whole is greater than the sum of its parts. First inspection reveals a conspicuously simple design. Just how simple you ask? How about a bombproof Delrin (really tough plastic) rod tube attached to a Delrin saddle with a stainless steel bolt. A Nylon strap is threaded in and out of the saddle a couple of times effectively hiding the head of the bolt preventing would be abrasion. The strap includes a sturdy buckle for easily attaching around a float tube. Throw in a Velcro leash that helps hold the rod tube at the preferred angle plus adds a bit of security locking the rod into the tube. And there you have it.

Out of the box the HSI rod holder is configured for use on the left-hand side of a float tube to stow a rod out of the way (pointing to the rear of the float tube). Or if you attach it to the right-hand side it works for hands-free trolling (with the rod pointing the to front of the float tube). If you're feeling really creative you can strap it around your waist for use as a third hand. The design allows for easily changing between left and right-hand stowing by loosening the bolt, rotating the rod tube 180-degrees and then reattaching it. The rod tube accommodates spin casting or fly rods.

I've been disappointed with the too simple, Velcro-strap, rod holder on my Caddis Navigator since I got it. It holds the rod parallel to the side of the left pontoon bladder. While it does the job of holding a second rod out of the way, I constantly have to monitor it. My rod tip usually ends up pointing down into the water. While that doesn't sound too harmful, just imagine what would happen if my tip caught on a weed or the shoreline. I've been waiting for that ominous "snap".

The HSI rod holder is a welcome accessory on my float tube; it fits nicely behind the left-hand pocket making it very accessible. It holds my second rod out of the way at a good angle.

While fishing I seldom pay attention to my second rod, making the Velcro leash an absolute necessity. With this setup it usually took two hands to swap rods. I'd like to see some thought put into making it easier to remove, and then add, a rod with a single hand, while still maintaining the security afforded by the Velcro leash.

On a windy day the rod tube tended to slip a bit too much. You can adjust the tension on the rod tube by tightening the bolt on the underside of the saddle. To do this you'll need a flat screwdriver or something similar to remove the nut cover. To get the tension real tight you'll need a Phillips screwdriver and a wrench to hold the nut. Best bet is to give it the once over before heading out.

The Hook Set Innovations rod holder is all black and retails for $35 to $40.

Summary:
The HSI Float 'n Tote rod holder works very well for carrying a second rod while float tubing. All I can say is finally! Someone actually sat down, thought about it, and came up with a simple, focused design. It's sturdy construction and reasonable price make it a must have for any float tuber in need of a spare hand.

Scott Clayton is the Fly Fishing Editor at GearReview.com.

For more information, contact:
Hook Set Innovations
Suite 447, 205-329 North Road
Coquitlam, B.C. V3K 6Z8
nick.batistic@telus.net