RAM Tube vs Tough-Tube Rod Holder: Flush Base or Flat Base
By RAM Mounts Google Search | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Comparisons
Compare the RAM Tube Jr. with round flush base and the RAM Tough-Tube with bulkhead/flat surface base. Learn which base type fits your kayak or boat deck.
Quick answer
Choose the RAM Tube Jr. with round flush base if you want a clean, low-profile mount that drops into a drilled hole on your deck. Choose the RAM Tough-Tube with bulkhead/flat surface base if you need to mount on a flat or vertical surface and want tilt adjustment.
Mounting surface decides the base type
The RAM Tube Jr. uses a round flush base, so it installs into a hole cut in your deck or gunwale. That gives you a nearly flush surface when the holder is removed, but it requires drilling a sized hole and having access underneath for backing.
The RAM Tough-Tube uses a combination bulkhead/flat surface base. It screws down onto a flat deck or a vertical surface such as a bulkhead, so you avoid a large cutout. The trade-off is a raised base footprint.
Adjustability and rod handling
The Tough-Tube includes a 2-inch ratchet spline post arm that lets the tube tilt forward and back 180 degrees. That helps you aim the rod for trolling or drift fishing without repositioning the base.
The Tube Jr. is described as suitable for right- or left-handed use and for spinning or level-wind reels. It does not list a ratcheting tilt arm in the supplied facts, so treat it as a fixed-angle holder unless you add a separate RAM arm and base.
When a flush mount is the wrong call
A flush base leaves a hole in your deck when the holder is out. On a kayak or small boat, that hole can collect water or snag lines if not capped. Also, if you cannot reach underneath to secure the base, a flush mount may not be practical.
The Tough-Tube avoids the large cutout, but its raised base and ratchet arm add height. On a low-profile kayak deck, that can interfere with paddling or gear storage.
Key trade-offs
- Deck cutout vs surface mount: Flush base requires drilling a hole; flat surface base screws down without a large cutout. Check underneath access before choosing flush.
- Fixed angle vs ratcheting tilt: Tube Jr. has no listed tilt arm; Tough-Tube includes a 2-inch ratchet arm for 180-degree adjustment. If you change trolling angles often, the ratchet arm saves time.
- Low profile vs raised footprint: Flush base sits nearly flush when removed; Tough-Tube base and arm add height above the mounting surface. On low kayak decks, measure clearance for paddle strokes.
Product facts
- RAM® Tube Jr. ™ Rod Holder with Round Flush Base: Round flush base installs into a drilled hole; holder is reversible for right- or left-handed use and spinning or level-wind reels. You get a clean deck profile and one holder that works for different anglers, but you must commit to a cutout.
RAM® Tube Jr. ™ Rod Holder with Round Flush Base - RAM® Tough-Tube™ Rod Holder with Bulkhead/Flat Surface Base: Includes a 2-inch ratchet spline post arm for 180-degree forward/back tilt and a combination bulkhead/flat surface base. You can adjust rod angle without tools and mount on vertical or flat surfaces, but the base sits above the deck.
RAM® Tough-Tube™ Rod Holder with Bulkhead/Flat Surface Base
Which should you choose?
Best for
- Anglers with a drillable deck and under-deck access who want a clean, low-profile mount.
- Families or kayak fleets that need one versatile holder for different users and reel types.
Not for
- Boat owners who cannot cut a large hole or reach underneath to secure a flush base.
- Anglers who need frequent rod angle changes without adding a separate RAM arm.
