Page 8 - Crappie NOW - May 2018

by Tim Huffman

David Baynard, a second-generation rod holder
guru with Driftmaster (Black River Tools), continues
to pave the way to more efficient, comfortable fishing.
Baynard, who is on our cover this month, listens to what
fishermen say and continues to add new products to
meet their needs.
“One of our products that has been around a while
is the Tip Saver. A two-piece set is for rods up to 12 or
14 feet and a three piece set for rods 14 to 16 feet. Rod
butts are laid at one end the tips on the other. They hold
eight rods with dividers to keep rods and line separated.
The primary purpose is to keep rod tips from being
broken and to keep lines from tangling. We also have a
Rod Locker that works as a Tip Saver but also secures
poles and reel with a locking system. You wouldn’t leave
a $1000 wristwatch on the hood of your truck and you
shouldn’t leave your rods and reel unprotected while you
are in a motel or eating at a restaurant.”
A new product that is just going into production is
the new Crappie Stalker with an adjustable base and
adjustable holder. Two major benefits are worth noting.
First, a holder on its individual stem isolates it from other
holders so when a fish hits it doesn’t shake all the rods
so it’s easier to see a bite and know exactly which pole
is active. The second, critical element is adjusting the
holders. The bottom pivot point allows the holder to be
pulled toward the fisherman so rod access is quick and
easy without bending or reaching. The stem and holder
can be lowered to the deck to get them out of the way. The
upper pivot at the holder allows rod tips to be adjusted
up or down. They are a strong, totally adjustable holder
system.
“Our company started making holders in the 70’s
for catfish guides on Santee Cooper,” says Baynard.
“We incorporated in the early 80’s. Our goal is to provide
products to help fishermen have exactly what they want.
It’s a pleasure to work and fish with fishermen. Everything
we make is solving a fisherman’s need. I like to think the
personalized service and high quality products, built to
last, sets us apart.”
For more information, go to www.driftmaster.com
or www.blackrivertools.com.

8 Crappie NOW May 2018