Abstract: An automatic rod and reel support carriage apparatus automatically rotates the reel crank to retrieve a line. The apparatus provides a weighted base frame upon which is securely fastened a motordrive. A rotating hub provides radially spaced recesses which engage the reel crank. A carriage is also supported by the base for holding the reel in a position which engages the reel crank with the hub. A pivotally movable trigger provides a ferrule at its end portion which loosely engages the line so that the line can pass through the ferrule. The trigger actuates the motor drive when the line is tensed such as when a fish pulls on the line. When such tension pulls the line, the trigger is deflected and closes a microswitch that actuates the motordrive. Absent tension on the line, the trigger deflects the line away from the axis of the rod and the trigger is disengaged from the microswitch.