I have an older Ranger.  It is a great boat but it is dual console, so the rod locker is only 6'6".  Most of my rods won't fit.  I have been just putting them on the deck, but they get in the way.  Do you guys have any ideas on how/where to store them?

Store them in a new Ranger. Rods up to 8'6" can be stored in them. 

A lot cheaper to leave them on the deck and just be careful. 

With most older Rangers you can increase the rod locker length by opening the bow end with a 8" X 8" rectangular hole close to deeper side of the hull. The hole makes room for about a dozen rods and 12" of the rod tips. Just need to check for any wires that may be loose for the electronics, trolling motor or bow running lights.

I keep my rods in expando sleeve type rod socks, protects the tip and guides. Lay bath towels between the reel layers to cushion and protect them or use reel jackets, I prefer a towel it's easier and can always use a extra towel at times to wipe down hull, engine etc after fishing.

I don't think you have enough room to leave more than a few rods on the deck with 17' to 18' a dual console Ranger if fishing with a partner.

Tom

do what my buddy does, he puts all his extra rods next to the passenger seat. all with rod socks. he carries wayyyyy to many rods. he has a 373v that will hold maybe 6 on the deck.he carries 15 rods whenever he puts the boat in the water.

19 hours ago, WRB said:

With most older Rangers you can increase the rod locker length by opening the bow end with a 8" X 8" rectangular hole close to deeper side of the hull. The hole makes room for about a dozen rods and 12" of the rod tips. Just need to check for any wires that may be loose for the electronics, trolling motor or bow running lights.

I keep my rods in expando sleeve type rod socks, protects the tip and guides. Lay bath towels between the reel layers to cushion and protect them or use reel jackets, I prefer a towel it's easier and can always use a extra towel at times to wipe down hull, engine etc after fishing.

I don't think you have enough room to leave more than a few rods on the deck with 17' to 18' a dual console Ranger if fishing with a partner.

Tom

This. I have a 1988 Questar with 6'8" rod box. I drilled 3 1 1/2" holes in the end of the rod box. Rod sleeves and my 7'-7"6" rods slide easily into the rod box. Not sure about the Ranger, but my Questar did not leak any water into the rod box.

On 5/29/2016 at 2:25 PM, basscatcher33 said:

I have an older Ranger.  It is a great boat but it is dual console, so the rod locker is only 6'6".  Most of my rods won't fit.  I have been just putting them on the deck, but they get in the way.  Do you guys have any ideas on how/where to store them?

What model do you have?