I have written previously about full-length Fishing rod tube travel cases and how to pack them. But I also stressed the fact that you should use a guide’s Fishing Rod travel case if possible. A compromise solution is to bring a multipiece or “travel fishing rod travel bag.” These are much easier to pack than the 7-foot sticks and definitely easier than your flipping or swimbait Fishingrod travel case.
Your Fishing rod travel bag is a great idea if you are hopping on a commercial flight. This will reduce the chances of them getting lost during transit, and it also makes it easier to place them safely. Most airlines will allow you to carry a single with a small-diameter tube. However, if your package becomes larger, it might be more difficult. You may be asked to take it off the plane if your package looks more like luggage. This is especially true since most are between 24 and 36 inches in length, exceeding the official carry-on size limits. TSA guidelines state that Fishing rods travel cases are allowed in carry-on and checked baggage, but passengers should verify with their airline that they fit within the limitations for carrying-on items.
What can you do then?
First, ensure that you keep your Fishing rod travel bag safe. Second, make sure that the accumulated Fishing rod travel cases look like something that should not be taken with you.
Most come in one tube. Although you can tape, or other attach four or more of these together with ease, this “Frankenstein” approach could be cumbersome or attract unwanted attention. I believe it’s better to get a single tube that can hold multiple. This is why I have a Sage Ballistic Fishing rod transport case Tube. It cost $60. It measures 4 inches in diameter, and is available in three lengths. It has been used to transport four around Southern Africa and Alaska. You can also choose from versions with a 2-inch or 6-inch diameter.
PVC pipe can be used to make similar items, particularly if you are worried about having to inspect it. The Sage tube was damaged once, but the Travel case for the Fishing rods survived.
Fly fishing seems to be more concerned about this issue than either the spinning or baitcasting industries, but that doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t still use their gear. The high-end Jackalope Tube (29.5″x3.75″) is available from Fishpond at a price of 100 dollars. It can hold up to six 9-foot, 4-piece fishing rod travel cases.
You also get a 45-inch long Dakota Fishing Rod Travel Case and Reel Case
Simms sells a GTS and Reel Vault at a price of just $200. The case has multiple compartments to hold reels and fishing rods. It is primarily intended for fly anglers but can also be used by conventional tackle users.
