Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base Review

The Story of My Time with the Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base

For years, my fishing excursions have been punctuated by the awkward dance of managing multiple rods, especially when I’m anchored or drifting in a spot that demands patience and precision. The constant need to set one rod down while retrieving another, or simply to have a second line actively fishing, often led to cluttered decks and near misses with expensive gear. It was during a particularly frustrating session, fumbling with a slippery rod butt while trying to adjust my drift, that I knew a more organized solution was in order. I needed a way to securely and conveniently hold my fishing rods without sacrificing valuable deck space or introducing instability.

After a bit of research, the Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base caught my eye. Ram Mounts has a reputation for producing robust, versatile mounting solutions across various industries, so the prospect of their expertise applied to fishing gear was appealing. The core concept – a high-strength composite holder with a bulkhead base designed for vertical mounting – promised a sturdy and adaptable solution. I briefly considered some cheaper, less specialized rod holders, but their flimsy construction and limited adjustability quickly ruled them out. The promise of 360-degree rotation and forward/back tilt on this particular Ram Mounts offering felt like a significant upgrade in functionality, a definite step up from the fixed, one-size-fits-all options. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid engineering; the composite material felt substantial, not brittle, and the mechanism for adjustment seemed well-designed.

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base took place on my small, but well-loved, aluminum jon boat. I chose a bulkhead location near the stern, a prime spot for controlling a second rod while operating the tiller or simply enjoying the scenery. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a few screws to secure the high strength composite base to the boat’s interior wall. The process was intuitive, and within minutes, the unit was firmly in place, ready for its first real task: holding a medium-action spinning rod for bass fishing.

The performance in this initial use was exactly what I had hoped for. The rod holder itself felt incredibly secure, with no noticeable wobble even when a decent tug came from a fish. Adjusting the angle was smooth and easy, allowing me to quickly find the optimal position for the rod tip to detect subtle bites. Even with the boat rocking gently from a light breeze, the holder maintained its position without any slippage. It handled the light moisture from occasional spray without issue, and the composite material showed no signs of degradation.

Extended Use & Reliability

As weeks turned into months, this fishing rod holder became an indispensable part of my setup. I’ve used it for everything from long days trolling for walleye on a local lake to quick evening trips targeting panfish. Its reliability in day-to-day tasks is where it truly shines.

The durability has been exceptional. Despite being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional bump from a fishing net, there are no signs of cracks, stiffness, or performance drop. The adjustment mechanism remains as smooth as day one, and the 1.5″ rubber ball system allows for a wide range of motion without ever feeling loose. Maintenance is practically non-existent; a quick rinse with fresh water after a saltwater trip is all it needs, and it stores easily without taking up significant space. Compared to some of the flimsier rod holders I’ve used in the past, which tended to warp or seize up after just a season, this Ram Mounts unit feels built to last.

Breaking Down the Features of Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base

Specifications

The Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base is constructed from high strength composite material, ensuring both durability and resistance to the elements. It features a 1.5″ rubber ball size, which is the standard for many Ram Mounts accessories, allowing for a strong connection and a wide range of adjustability. This ball connects to a swivel mechanism that provides a full 360 degrees of rotation. The rod holder itself allows for tilting the cradle forward and back, offering significant flexibility in angling your rod. The base is specifically designed for bulkhead mounting, meaning it’s intended to be affixed to a vertical surface, providing a stable and dedicated rod storage solution. This specific model comes as a single unit, designed for individual rod placement.

The use of high strength composite is crucial for a product intended for marine environments, as it resists corrosion and UV damage far better than metal alternatives. The 1.5″ rubber ball system is a testament to Ram Mounts’ modular design, allowing for potential future upgrades or integration with other Ram Mounts components if the user chooses. The 360 degrees of rotation capability is particularly important for fishing, as it allows anglers to quickly adjust to changing fishing conditions, casting directions, or the movements of a hooked fish. The bulkhead mounting design is not just for stability; it’s about efficient use of space on boats where every inch is valuable, keeping rods out of the way when not in use.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – holding a fishing rod securely and allowing for convenient adjustments – the Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base performs exceptionally well. It excels at keeping a rod steady, whether it’s actively rigged and waiting for a bite or just being stored temporarily. The holder’s design accommodates a good range of rod butt diameters without being too loose or too tight.

Its greatest strengths lie in its adaptability. The ability to pivot and rotate means I can fine-tune the rod’s position to minimize line twist, detect subtle strikes, or simply make it easier to grab when a fish is on. The holder has exceeded my expectations for a component at this price point, offering a level of adjustability and security that rivals much more expensive integrated rod holders. There are no significant weaknesses to report for its intended use; it does exactly what it promises with impressive reliability.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this rod holder is practical and functional, prioritizing utility over flashy aesthetics. The high strength composite material gives it a robust feel, and the finish is smooth and non-marring, which is important for not damaging rod blanks. The 1.5″ rubber ball system, while standard, provides a satisfyingly firm connection that feels built to last.

Ergonomically, it’s a breeze to use. The adjustment knobs for rotation and tilt are textured and easy to grip, even with wet or slightly greasy hands. There’s virtually no learning curve; you simply mount it, insert your rod, and make your adjustments. The clean lines mean there are no sharp edges to snag lines or clothing. The overall impression is one of thoughtful engineering focused on real-world application, a common hallmark of well-designed equipment.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base is built for longevity. I anticipate it will last for many seasons of regular fishing. The high strength composite is inherently resistant to the rigors of a marine environment, and the internal mechanisms seem equally well-built.

Maintenance is almost nonexistent, which is a huge plus for any angler. After use, a simple rinse with fresh water to remove salt or grime is sufficient. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, though it’s always wise to periodically check that the mounting screws remain tight, especially in a vibrating environment like a boat. The design is simple enough that if any part were to wear, it would likely be replaceable, though I haven’t had to consider that yet.

Accessories and Customization Options

As a standalone rod holder with a bulkhead base, the Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base doesn’t come with extensive accessories. Its primary customization lies within the 1.5″ rubber ball system. This means that if you already use other Ram Mounts products, you might be able to swap out the base or integrate this holder onto an existing Ram Mounts arm for even more positioning flexibility on different surfaces.

However, for its intended use as a dedicated bulkhead-mounted holder, the existing adjustability is usually sufficient. The key “accessory” here is the bulkhead mounting capability itself, which dictates where and how it can be attached. While not a direct accessory, the fact that it uses the common Ram Mounts ball system opens up a world of possibilities for users already invested in that ecosystem.

Pros and Cons of Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base

Who Should Buy Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base?

This rod holder is ideal for anglers who fish from boats, kayaks, or even docks where a vertical mounting surface is available. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate organized gear and want a secure, adjustable solution for holding a single fishing rod. If you fish with multiple rods and need a reliable way to deploy a second or third line without cluttering your deck, this holder is a fantastic option. It’s also a great choice for DIY boaters looking to add integrated rod storage that is both functional and durable.

Those who should probably skip this product are anglers who exclusively fish from shore with no vertical surfaces to mount it on, or those who need a holder capable of managing multiple rods simultaneously on a single base. It’s also not the best fit for someone seeking the absolute cheapest rod holder solution; budget-conscious buyers might find simpler, fixed rod holders that serve a basic purpose. For maximum utility, ensuring you have a suitable bulkhead or sturdy vertical surface is key. If you plan on using it on a kayak, you might need to explore additional mounting adapters that Ram Mounts offers, depending on your kayak’s configuration.

Conclusion on Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base

The Ram Mounts RAM-114-B Ram Rod 2000 Fishing Rod Holder Bulkhead Mounting Base has proven itself to be a robust, highly functional piece of fishing equipment. Its high strength composite construction, combined with the versatile 1.5″ rubber ball system and full 360 degrees of rotation, makes it an outstanding solution for securely holding and adjusting fishing rods. For its intended purpose as a dedicated rod holder mounted on a vertical surface, it performs flawlessly, offering adjustability and stability that significantly enhances the fishing experience.

Considering its durability and the convenience it adds to fishing trips, the $29.99 price point represents excellent value for money. This is a product that I would confidently recommend to any angler looking for a reliable and adaptable rod holder solution for their boat or dock. It’s a testament to Ram Mounts’ engineering that a single rod holder can make such a noticeable difference in organization and ease of use on the water. If you fish from a vessel with suitable mounting points, this holder is a smart investment that will serve you well for seasons to come.