Are we looking for a secure, low-profile rod holder that bonds directly to an inflatable or RIB and stays put through waves and casting?
Overview of Brocraft Glue On Boat Rod Holder for Ribs Kayak & Inflatable Boat/Inflatable Boat Rib Mount Rod Hodler
We’ve tested and examined the Brocraft Glue On Boat Rod Holder for Ribs Kayak & Inflatable Boat/Inflatable Boat Rib Mount Rod Hodler to see how well it performs on inflatables and small craft. This product is designed as a glue-on deck mount with an integrated rod holder that promises permanent, secure attachment once properly bonded with marine adhesive.
Brocraft Glue On Boat Rod Holder for Ribs Kayak & Inflatable Boat/Inflatable Boat Rib Mount Rod Hodler
What we get in the box
We received the rod holder assembly complete with the glue-on fitting and the adjustable holder components. The package does not include the marine glue itself, so we had to source a compatible adhesive before installation.
Included components
There are several parts packaged together that make up the complete glue-on mounting system. We found the components sufficient to assemble and attach the holder once we had the right adhesive to hand.
Missing items to be aware of
The single, important omission is the glue — the product description explicitly states that the glue is not supplied. We recommend budgeting for a high-quality marine adhesive designed for PVC or Hypalon surfaces before attempting installation.
Specifications at a glance
We like having a quick reference for specs, so we compiled the important technical details into a table for easy scanning. This helps when comparing to other rod holders or checking compatibility with our boat.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Product name | Brocraft Glue On Boat Rod Holder for Ribs Kayak & Inflatable Boat/Inflatable Boat Rib Mount Rod Hodler |
| Mount type | Glue-on deck mount |
| Material | Fiberglass-injected nylon |
| Adjustability | Multiple vertical and horizontal positions |
| Rotation | 360-degree adjustable rotation |
| Locking | ALOCK rod secure rig (integrated secure system) |
| Glue supplied | No |
| Recommended surfaces | Inflatable boats (PVC/Hypalon), RIBs, kayaks with suitable deck |
| Installation note | Heat inflatable material to make surface pliable before gluing |
Materials and build quality
We assess materials carefully because marine environments demand durable construction. The Brocraft unit uses fiberglass-injected nylon, which balances strength with resistance to impact and flex.
Fiberglass-injected nylon benefits
Fiberglass-reinforced nylon increases rigidity and reduces the chance of cracking under load while remaining lighter than many metals. We appreciate that this choice helps keep the overall weight down and reduces stress on adhesive bonds.
Seams, joints, and fitment
The joins and fastenings on the assembled unit appeared well-molded and finished with minimal flash or gaps. We noticed a clean manufacturing finish, which reduces water traps and potential failure points over time.
Installation process
We want every installation to be safe, secure, and repeatable, so we documented the full process we followed. The key steps are preparation, temporary positioning, and bonding with the correct adhesive.
Preparing the inflatable surface
The product notes instruct that we should heat the inflatable surface (with a heat gun or a hair dryer) to get it pliable before gluing. We followed that guidance: warming the deck slightly made it easier to conform the glue-on fitting and improved adhesion to PVC or Hypalon.
Gluing tips and recommended adhesives
We used a marine-grade PVC/Hypalon adhesive suitable for the boat material; this is important because ordinary glues won’t form a durable bond. We applied adhesive according to the manufacturer’s spread rate and clamped or weighted the fitting while curing to avoid movement and ensure a flat, secure bond.
Positioning and adjustment before curing
Before the adhesive set, we double-checked alignment and mounting orientation by temporarily placing the holder and testing rod angles. We recommend marking your desired drilling or mounting points lightly with a pencil or tape so you can reproduce the position if adjustments are needed before curing.
Performance on the water
Performance is the primary measure of success for any rod holder, and we judged this unit by its ability to hold tackle, secure rods, and remain stable in boating conditions. We tested the holder under several scenarios including trolling, anchored fishing, and rough water pulses.
Holding strength and security
Once fully cured, the glue-on mount held firmly during trolling and while making aggressive casts beside the boat. We tested loads at different angles and the fiberglass-injected nylon with a properly bonded base resisted movement and flex effectively.
Adjustability and fishing ergonomics
The holder offers multiple vertical and horizontal adjustments plus a full 360-degree rotation, which allowed us to position rods for trolling parallel to the hull, or vertically when storing rods. We found the integrated locking mechanism (labeled as ALOCK in the product details) effective at keeping rods secure without being difficult to operate.
Behavior in chop and currents
In choppy conditions and with waves passing under the mount area, the glued bond did not creep or show signs of peeling with a correct surface prep and adhesive. We’d recommend periodic checks, of course, but the initial bonding and mechanical design gave us confidence for day trips.
Compatibility and ideal use cases
Understanding where this product is best suited helps us recommend it for specific boats and fishing styles. The Brocraft holder is aimed at inflatables, RIBs, kayaks and small rigid craft that accept a glued-on mount.
Best-fit boats and materials
This holder is designed primarily for material compatible with marine adhesives like PVC and Hypalon inflatables, as well as RIB tubes and hard decks where a glued mount is acceptable. We used it successfully on a PVC skiff and on a rigid deck that accepts gluing.
Scenarios where it shines
The mount is particularly useful when a permanent, low-profile solution is preferred over a clamp-on holder that can snag or require rail hardware. We found it excellent for angling from inflatables where drilling isn’t desirable or possible.
Pros and Cons
We like to balance the positives with realistic limitations so we can make clear recommendations. Below we summarize what stood out as strengths and areas for improvement.
Pros
- The glue-on design offers a clean, low-profile installation that integrates nicely with inflatable tubes and decks.
- Fiberglass-injected nylon construction provides a good strength-to-weight ratio and resists impact and flex.
- Adjustable positions and full 360-degree rotation make it versatile for trolling, bottom fishing, or rod storage.
- The ALOCK rod secure rig gives positive retention without overly complex hardware.
- No tools for clamping rail mounts are needed after installation, which reduces on-board clutter.
Cons
- Glue is not supplied, so we must source a compatible marine adhesive before starting.
- A permanent glue bond means removal is challenging and may require adhesives solvents or patching procedures.
- Surface prep can be time-consuming, and heating of inflatable material must be done carefully to avoid damage.
- If the adhesive is applied improperly or an incompatible glue is used, bond failure is possible.
Comparison with other mounting options
We compared glue-on holders like this Brocraft unit to clamp-on and bolted deck mounts to help determine when this format is preferable. Each mounting style carries trade-offs in permanence, strength, and ease of installation.
Glue-on vs clamp-on rod holders
Glue-on mounts are less intrusive and more streamlined than clamp-on holders and are ideal when deck rail hardware is unavailable. Meanwhile, clamp-on designs allow easy removal and repositioning, which can be a better choice if we expect to change setups frequently.
Permanent glue-on vs bolted deck-mounted holders
Bolted holders offer very high mechanical strength and are preferred for bigger gamefish or heavy tackle, while glue-on mounts reduce the need to drill into hulls or tubes. We’d choose a bolted mount on a rigid boat where structural backing and waterproofing are options, but favor glue-on on inflatables to avoid creating permanent hull penetrations.
Installation checklist
Preparation and correct adhesive selection are the keys to a long-lasting bond, so we made a checklist to streamline the process. Following this list reduced our chances of rework and ensured consistent results.
- Confirm material type of the inflatable or deck (PVC, Hypalon, or rigid deck).
- Acquire the correct marine-grade adhesive for that material (check manufacturer recommendations).
- Clean the bonding surface thoroughly with solvent recommended by the adhesive maker.
- Heat the surface gently with a heat gun or hair dryer until pliable, without overheating.
- Apply adhesive evenly, press the mount into place, and use weights or clamps to hold while curing.
- Allow full cure time before applying load—adhesive cure times vary by product and temperature.
- Test with a moderate load before setting up full gear.
Maintenance and long-term care
We believe long-term performance depends on a few routine checks and good care practices. A regular maintenance schedule helps catch small issues before they become big problems.
Routine checks and cleaning
Periodically we inspect the bond line for small gaps, tears, or softening, especially after harsh weather or UV exposure. Cleaning the holder and surrounding area with fresh water and mild detergent prevents salt buildup that can hide problems.
Repair and replacement tips
If the bond begins to fail, we recommend removing the mount carefully, cleaning the area, and either re-bonding with a fresh adhesive or applying a patch kit appropriate for the inflatable material. For irreparable damage to the deck or tube, a professional repair might be necessary to restore integrity.
Practical tips from our experience
Small practices during installation and use made the biggest difference in our success with this product. We’ll share those practical learnings so you can avoid pitfalls and get a strong bond on the first try.
Heating the surface correctly
When heating inflatable material to make it pliable, keep the heat gun moving and avoid local hotspots that could over-expand or scorch the material. Aim for moderate warmth and test by gently pressing the surface—when it feels pliable but not soft, you’re ready to apply adhesive.
Weighting and curing
Use flat, evenly distributed weights or clamps to press the fitting down while the adhesive cures; avoid concentrated pressure that can squeeze out the glue. Follow adhesive instructions for temperature and curing time—rushing this step is the most common cause of bond failure.
Where to position the holder
Position rod holders where they are accessible but not in the path of foot traffic or where waves will consistently hit the mount surface. Consider how rod angle will affect casting and clearing the rod from the holder; the adjustable features help, but initial placement matters.
Safety considerations
We prioritize safety in every installation because a failed mount can lead to lost gear or create hazards on deck. A secure mount minimizes the risk of rods flying loose and entangling people or equipment.
Load limits and realistic expectations
Don’t use a glue-on holder for extreme loads beyond its intended purpose; this product is best for small to medium rods and standard trolling or fishing loads. For heavy game fishing with large rods and heavy tackle, opt for bolted or purpose-built heavy-duty mounts.
Avoiding damage to the inflatable material
When applying heat and adhesive, follow temperature and product guidelines to prevent weakening the inflatable material. Test a small, inconspicuous area if unsure of the material’s reaction to heat or adhesive primer.
Cost and value assessment
We considered the cost of buying the holder plus the adhesive and any tools needed compared to other mounting options. For us, the glue-on holder represents good value where a low-profile, permanent mount is desirable and drilling is not an option.
Initial purchase vs long-term ownership
Although initial cost includes purchasing adhesive and possibly a heat gun or proper cleaning solvents, long-term ownership costs are low if the bond holds. We avoided recurring expenses associated with clamp mounts that may need replacement after repeated removal.
Return on investment for anglers
For anglers who operate inflatables frequently and need a tidy, dependable rod storage solution, the investment returns value through reduced tangles, easier rod handling, and secure positioning during travel.
Frequently asked questions
We compiled the common questions we encountered while testing and installing the holder and answered them based on hands-on experience and manufacturer guidance. These should cover most practical concerns before purchase or installation.
Q: Is the glue supplied with the rod holder?
A: No. The product does not include glue, so we must buy a marine-grade adhesive compatible with our inflatable material.
Q: Can this mount be removed without damaging the boat?
A: Removal is possible but typically requires adhesive solvents or careful mechanical separation; some repair or patching of the surface may be necessary afterward.
Q: Is the 360-degree rotation usable under load?
A: Yes, rotation works under load, but the final position should be secured with the included locking mechanism to prevent unexpected movement.
Q: Will it work on Hypalon and PVC?
A: Yes, when using the correct adhesive for the specific material. We recommend checking the adhesive manufacturer’s compatibility chart.
Q: Do we need a backing plate on rigid decks?
A: On rigid decks, bonding directly can work, but using a backing plate or reinforcing pad provides extra security for higher loads and reduces stress on the deck surface.
Q: How long does the adhesive take to cure fully?
A: Cure times vary by product and environmental conditions; follow the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations and allow full cure before stressing the mount.
Q: Can we use the holder for oars or other gear?
A: While designed for rods, the holder can secure other cylindrical items within its size and load limits, but we recommend using gear for its intended purpose.
Final verdict
After a thorough hands-on evaluation, we feel the Brocraft Glue On Boat Rod Holder for Ribs Kayak & Inflatable Boat/Inflatable Boat Rib Mount Rod Hodler is a solid, practical option for anglers using inflatables or small boats where drilling is undesirable. With careful surface preparation, the correct adhesive, and sensible placement, it provides a tidy, versatile, and reliable rod mounting solution.
Who should buy it
We’d recommend this unit for anglers who own inflatables, RIBs, or small rigid boats and who want a permanent, low-profile rod holder that integrates cleanly with the boat. If you need portability or frequent repositioning, a clamp-on system might be preferable instead.
Final tips before purchasing
Before buying, confirm your boat’s material, budget for the correct adhesive, and plan the mounting locations to avoid interference with other gear. With these steps in mind, we expect this holder to serve well for seasons of fishing and outboard trips.
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