> I just finished a CLC Chesapeake 17. Anyone out there have any
> suggestions on how to rig it up for fishing - installing a rod holder,
> etc.?

Dave,

Although I have seen the other extreme of kayak fishing- live bait tank, fish finder, rod holders, gaff and net on deck, thermos, etc.,- I like the KISS approach to kayak fishing.

This is what I use: 1) PVC tube, 18" long by 1.5" diam, strapped under the forward hatch bungies. The skinny end of the rod goes into the tube; the butt of the rod slips under the bungies in front of the cockpit. This holds the rod very securely for paddling, yet allows for quick deployment.

2) A carabiner (or similar clip) clipped to a deck bungie behind the cockpit secures the rod for trolling. To troll, clip the rod in front of the reel with the carabiner. Lay the rod down on the rear deck and secure the butt of the rod under the deck bungies. Set the drag real light and have the clicker on. Paddle until you hear the clicker. Duane- thanks for this tip!

3) A small plastic box (say 1"x4"x6")with loops of bungie cord attached at each end serves as the tackle box. I clip it on to the forward pad eyes in front of the cockpit, so it is not in the way of paddling. The top of the box has a small loop of bungie, where the needle-nose pliers slip under. Of course the pliers are tethered to a deck bungie.

4) A diver's game bag is secured under the rear bungies. The game bag serves as a net as well as for keeping the fish that you catch.

Add a spare paddle (I always have one on deck, but it's even more important when fishing since you're more likely to let go of the paddle, and a paddle leash would just get in the way), deck mounted or PFD mounted knife, and the usual safety gear. The knife is for fighting off the sharks or in case you get tangled in line. I set everything up so that: the spray skirt never has to come off, I can roll or go through surf without fear of losing any gear, paddle unhindered, and of course simplicity. Catch the big one!

Rick Rubio