The Many Uses of Rod Socks

As anglers, we invest a lot of money in our gear, with fishing rods often leading the pack. Although built strong, they are at their most weak and tangle-prone when in transit to and from the lake, stored in the boat or at the ready sitting in the cottage.

For those looking to organize and protect your fishing sticks, while maximizing your time on the water, be sure to pick up some rod socks for this coming season.

What They Are

Rod socks are tightly woven expandable mesh sheaths, designed to house fishing rods. Capable of protecting the length of the rod, including fragile guides and tips, they will also save fishing line from tangles and abrasions when lures are tied on.

Rod socks have many uses. They will keep dust out when stored, or in transit and traveling dirty roads. They will alleviate "rod rash" when in a truck bed or on a boat deck — moving to and from your spots.

Most importantly, they will keep rods organized and easy to access — whether from the rod locker or the deck of the boat. Line will not tangle with other rods, keeping each of your sticks ready for use in a moments notice.

Size Them Up

Rod socks come in variety of standard lengths, designed to fit almost all rods. A perfect fit should see the sock stop a few inches from the reel.

Spinning and baitcast models are both available. Socks made for spinning rods are wider in diameter, in order to house the larger line guides. Ensure you order the correct style for each of your rods.

Not all rod socks are designed to accommodate micro guides, as a very fine nylon weave is necessary. Always check before making your purchase.

Color Coordinate

The neat thing about rod socks is the various colors they can be purchased in. Use this to your advantage when organizing rods. For example, all of my "frog" rods are partnered with a green sock. My "flipping" sticks are housed all in black. Knowing what sticks are in which sock helps me quickly grab what I want from the deck of the boat, without rummaging through a pile of rods and haphazardly guessing. It also makes the task of grabbing specific rods before I head on each fishing trip a breeze.

Figure out a color pattern that works for you. It will make your life on the water that much easier.

Take a look at rod socks this season. These relatively inexpensive sheaths are worth their weight in gold when it comes to protecting and organizing your valuable investments.