Fishing Rod Holders for Trucks: Butch Newell’s Rod-Runner Review

If you own a pickup truck, you know the struggle of transporting fishing rods. Laying them flat in the bed leads to tangled lines, scratched reels, and—worst of all—snapped tips when gear shifts during the drive.

In this featured review, longtime angler Butch Newell shows us exactly why the Rod-Runner is the ultimate solution for truck-bed rod storage. Whether you’re hitting the highway or bouncing down a dirt path to your favorite honey hole, here is how to keep your gear secure.

The Problem: The “Truck Bed Tangle”

Most anglers simply toss their rods in the back of the truck. This presents three major risks:

1. Bed Rash: Vibrations from the road cause rods to rub against the metal or spray-in liner, damaging the finish.

2. Reel Damage: Reels sitting directly on the truck bed soak up dirt, grit, and moisture.

3. The Tailgate Trap: Rods sliding toward the tailgate can get pinched or snapped if they shift during a sudden stop.

Watch: Butch Newell Tests the Rod-Runner on the Highway

Butch took his Rod-Runner for a literal “test drive” to show how the system handles high speeds and wind resistance in an open truck bed.

https://youtu.be/DY7sSi71DMM?si=ScdqdMyENo731br1

As Butch demonstrates, the Rod-Runner keeps your reels elevated off the bed and ensures your rod tips are spaced out safely over the tailgate, preventing them from knocking together.

Why the Rod-Runner is the Best Truck Rod Rack Alternative

While permanent truck racks are expensive and require drilling into your vehicle, the Rod-Runner offers a portable, no-install solution.

1. Loads in Seconds

You don’t need tools. Just set your loaded Rod-Runner into the bed, and you’re ready to go. Its unique design uses the weight of the reels and the low center of gravity to stay upright and stable.

2. Protects Your Reels

The deep-seated rod holders ensure that your expensive spinning or baitcasting reels never touch the truck bed. This keeps them clean and functional for a lifetime of use.

3. From Truck to Water in One Trip

The best part? When you arrive at your destination, you aren’t untangling a mess. You grab the handle and carry all 3 or 5 rods down to the dock or shoreline in one hand.

Pro-Tip for Truck Owners

For maximum stability in a pickup truck, we recommend placing the Rod-Runner against the cab-side of the bed or using a simple bungee cord through the handle to secure it to your truck’s tie-down points. This ensures that even on the twistiest backroads, your gear stays exactly where you put it.

Final Verdict

Thanks to Butch Newell for the great video review! It’s proof that you don’t need a custom-built rig to transport your gear like a pro.

Ready to stop the tangle and start fishing? [Shop the Rod-Runner Pro 5] | [Shop the Rod-Runner Express 3]