Abstract: A fishing rod holder includes a generally U-shaped frame having right and left legs and a base leg connected between the right and left legs. A U-shaped support frame is operably connected to the legs of the first frame so that the support frame will pivot about an axis extending between the connecting points of the support frame to the first frame. A rod retention plate is connected between the legs of the first frame and includes a pair of elastic bands which are stretchable to form loops to frictionally hold the handle of a fishing rod. A pair of guide members are connected to the base leg of the first frame to retain an upper portion of the rod when the rod is retained by the elastic band. An extensible arm extends between the base leg on the first frame and the base leg of the U-shaped support frame, so as to selectively stop the pivotal movement of the support frame to prop the first frame at the desired angle.