Mounting trolling rod holders - bolt or big screw?

[Mistermojo]

I'm mounting 2 Scotty rod holders to the 4" rail that runs around the top of my boat. It's carpeted with aluminum underneath. The area that I want to mount in is hard/next to impossible to get a hand into for getting a nut on a bolt. Can I get by with a hefty self-tapping screw or does it really need to be bolted?

Thanks,

Mojo

[ammoman16]

Without question I would find a way to use a bolt. It can be difficult to do, but in my experience there is usually a way. It might impact where you can mount though. If you truly can't get a bolt on it, I know some people rivet them, and I believe Scotty even sells rivets specifically for that purpose. Keep in mind I primarily fish for musky using 80 or 100 pound braid, so I may be more demanding than you.

[Mistermojo]

Thanks for the feedback - I might be able to use a deep socket with an extender to get up underneath the gunwale.

[CaptainMusky]

Bolting would definitely be the better choice. Thats how I installed mine, but I had easy access to do it.