But there is another use for these rails, they make a superb rod rest
Almost all charter boats today have stainless steel rails around the gunnels to comply with the DTI safety regulations. Initially many of us thought these rails were a nuisance and were too high for comfort, but experience has shown that they do make sense and are a real aid to safety and comfort in rough weather.But there is another use for these rails, they make a superb rod rest!! The problem is that the polished stainless steel tube needs a rod rest of some description to keep the rods from sliding around with the movement of the boat. Some skippers provide plastic Vee shaped rod holders which are fastened to the rail by means of a plastic cable tie, they are quite good in calm seas. But on most boats rod holders are a “bring your own” convenience.An ingenious solution which I saw on a recent charter trip consisted of a six inch length of foam pipe insulation and a couple of small hook end Bunjee cords which are available from walking and cycling shops.The rod is rested against the foam and fastened by means of a turn or two of the elastic bunjee cord. If a bite is indicated by the rod tip, then it is the work of a second to unclip the bunjee and the rod is in your hand. A second bunjee cord is used to fasten the pipe insulation to the rail so that it does not get knocked off into the water once you have taken the rod away.
Like most good gadgets, they cost next door to nothing and you end up giving them away to your friends…. Well, why not!!