Super-Crate

I'm far better at design and fabrication than I am at fishing, so any time I can build or modify something for the kayak it's a really enjoyable rabbit hole to fall into for me. Here's the latest rabbit hole.

Goals:
-incorporate two modular rear rod holders for multi-rod drifting--without adding any holes to the kayak.
-Reinforced mounting system for crate to support additional load from rod holders
-3-rod holder
-use no parts or materials prone to corrosion
-incorporate easy-access dry storage
-Don't lose livewell functionality

Materials:
-1.5" x 1/8" x 4' piece of aluminum stock
-Assorted stainless steel nuts and bolts
-2 Scotty Rocket Launchers
-1 3-rod mounted rod holder
-4 nickel rings
-4 plastic pad-eyes
-bonus fly-fishing dry-bag/fanny pack (for reel storage on surf launches/landing) and Yeti Sidekick.

I'll let the pictures do the talking but I'm pretty psyched to take it out and give it a whirl. There is some flex in the crate when I load the rod holders, but I think it's still sturdy enough and my drag will never be locked out when the line is the water so it should be all good. The mounting system works well too--once the straps are synched the crate has virtually no slop. Pretty stoked 

That looks good. The rocket launcher rod holders are a nice touch.

Like button “pressed”.  I need to get motivated...lol

Looks good. Nice work

love these kinds of projects....very very nice

Nice work!  I really like the rod holder idea.  Gonna piggy back on this idea for some inspiration in future crate mods.  Thanks for sharing!

Thanks guys! Happy to share details, measurements etc. if desired. I'll report back on the integrity of the rod holders after this weekend, too.

looks SLICK. Nicely done.

Update on the crate-mounted rod holders. Had the best test scenario in Tomales bay yesterday. Was drifting live chovies, with one rod perpendicular to the yak in left holder. Drag was maybe a little too tight because as I looked the other way to check my other rod's bait, the drag started screaming and nearly tipped me over. But, the crate and rod holder were bullet proof. It was not a 20 lb halibut as I hoped, but a mere bat ray. I was glad to test the integrity of the system though. Overall super stoked!

My crate+ has holders that are more for storage than active fishing, and my live well is just a bucket. But my crate doubles as the cart I use to wheel the yak around. The wheels are positioned so they rest comfortably on the raised sides of the rear deck, and I even padded the bottom. PVC, pool noodles, and zip ties. Cheap tires from Harbor Freight, a threaded rod, and a set of big nuts with washers did the job. It has four PVC holders and I can slide my gaff between the bucket and side of the milk crate for an extra storage spot. Along with the two built-in holders on the yak and one rocket launcher rod holder on one of the rails, there's lots of room for rods and nets and bilge pump and whatnot.

Some people really love pool noodles.. ah it's a dual purpose.. nifty

Like the way you strap the crate down. Going to try it.👍👍👍

Love your SuperCrate!  I think I may be stealing your side mounted rocket launcher mounting, that seems pretty awesome!  I still have issues drilling holes in my yak, but have no problems putting holes in crates