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Finnegan, thank you for the detailed explanation - that cleared up the use of the three holes.

I may try a pair of 24 inch poles, per your instructions, and possibly a shorter, 20 inch one (do I have that much freeboard?).
The ease of use is a very good point - I had a guest on board recently, savvy tech guy and all. He was responding to my basic directions with a blank stare... it was funny!

I have a temporary, "redneck" rod holder setup, PVC pipe secured to rail uprights with zip ties.
If I really like it I may shop around for basic traditional rod holder sets.

Good stuff!