Rocket Launchers ------Help or Hindrance

[dnej]

I am looking at getting a new canopy,and fitting a Rocket Launcher at the same time, to hold rods,while travelling and fishing.
I have been told that these can be a pain,when fishing,due to hang ups, while casting.
Any experienced users like to comment. Are they good or bad?
Also ,are the fold down ones, only so the boat can be stored.Cant see any other reason.
David

[Coontakinta]

David, i have found that they are a definate bonus in keeping extra gear out of harms way when fishing and also when underway. Sure I occassionally snagg the the rods in the holder from time to time when I have a brain fade and forget that they're there, but its much better than having them lying in the way looking for an accident to happen.

As for the folding ones, that helps with storage ;)

[Roughasguts]

I kinda like em, I have a custom fit one that will fold down, but mainly it sits on me ceiling ready to lower down on me boat if I wan't it.
But heres some things you need to know before getting one made up.
Mine when folded will hit the motor when on full lock, or tilt to high.

I have stress cracks from the rocket launcher where it bolts in to the gunhall, underneath needs more bracing.
Cause every one seems to lean on them, brace themselves, or wan't to swing on it. No problem with the strengh of the rocket launcher, it's just the leverage it puts on your gunhall.

Also make sure it is higher than the tallest person in your boat it misses my head but will scalp me mate, Ouch.

[banshee]

The beauty of a rocket launcher is that it will keep your rods and reels out of the way, but the biggest advantage comes when it's service time for the reels, there's nothing worse than plowing through the ocean with your reels in the gunnel holders on a rough day the salt water gets injected into the reel and stays there,I've seen some offshore reels that were well looked after externaly but once opened they were full of salt and corrosion all of the owners carried them in the gunnel holders.When I bought my boat it was ordered with a stainless bimmini and rocket launcher the price nearly gave me a heart attack but I have never regreted it since.

[Seahorse]

dont hestitate. get one.

[dnej]

Great info everyone.Was thinking of something like the attached,trailcraft set up.
Do you keep the rods in when bar crossing?
David

[seatime]

Would work a treat on your boat David, if your worried about hooking up when casting, have more casting practice.
I know you've done the bar crossing course, but it would be extreme conditions to have rods jump out one of those imo.

regards
Steve

[dnej]

Thanks Steve,
That was my thoughts, on crossings.
The shape of the boat in the pic, is the closest I could find, to give me an idea,of how mine would look,and work.
Thanks Again
David

[hungry6]

We used a occy strap to hold the rods in place when bar crossing,if the needs ever arise, as for versability, we chase alot of pelagics and they are most effective when you have multiple set up ready to go when you chance to cross a school of mac/tuna and not sitting around rigging up.

[brettski3]

just wondering if you guys have any problems getting the rods in and out because of the height you need for clearance.

[dnej]

Hungry 6
now there is a great idea.
Thanks
David

[billfisher]

My boat came with a rocket launcher but I soon gave up putting rods up there (its a handy place to put the net but thats it). On a rough day (more common than not off Sydney) my reels would be constantly lashed by driven spray and I was constantly maintaining them. Horizontal storage along the gunnels is best. #