Riversmith Product Support and Customer Service Guide
This page covers the River Quiver rod carrier, Swiftcast raft rod holder, and Convoy bag line. It includes model selection, mount compatibility, installation, maintenance, accessory details, warranty information, and answers to the questions customers ask most often.
River Quiver Models
The River Quiver is a lockable aluminum rod carrier that mounts to a vehicle roof rack or truck bed. It holds fully rigged fly rods — rod assembled, reel attached, line through the guides — during transport. Every River Quiver shares a 2-inch internal tube diameter (the opening the rod slides into), a 5-inch maximum reel diameter, and a 12-weight rod capacity. The tube is open by design, not sealed. A sealed tube traps condensation, which damages rods and reels over time.
Standard River Quiver
For full-length rods up to 10'4" on a roof rack.
- Overall length: 10'5.75"
- 2-Banger (holds 2 rods): weight rating 22 lbs, minimum crossbar spacing 28"
- 4-Banger (holds 4 rods): weight rating 44 lbs, minimum crossbar spacing 33"
The 2-Banger works in more rack situations and is the recommended starting point for most customers.
ShortCut River Quiver
For customers with garage clearance concerns, low crossbars, or truck bed use. Rods fold in half using included Rod Chairs and slide into the shorter tube. Same rod capacity as the Standard — rods up to 10'4".
- Overall length: 5'8.75"
- 2-Banger: weight rating 15 lbs
- 4-Banger: weight rating 25 lbs
- No minimum crossbar spacing, but must be fully supported by two crossbars
- Compatible with Standard, Quick Release, or LP T-Track mounts
If garage clearance is a concern or the customer has a truck bed shorter than 70", start with the ShortCut.
Euro River Quiver
For two-handed rods (spey and switch) and single-hand rods over 10'4". The Euro adds a rigid 12-inch aluminum extension to the rear of the Standard unit.
- Overall length: 11'5.75", carries rods up to 11'4"
- 2-Banger: weight rating 24 lbs
- 4-Banger: weight rating 47 lbs
- Maximum one Euro Extension Kit per unit — do not stack two extensions
- Not for use on a unit already rated for 11'4" rods
Loading a two-handed rod: Remove the reel, attach it to the butt section using a reel case or rubber band, fold the rod using Rod Chairs, slide into the Quiver. Re-attach the reel at the water.
Truck Bed River Quiver
For mounting inside the truck bed rather than on the roof. Uses the ShortCut extrusion. Mounts to factory cargo rails or drills directly into the bed panel.
- Long version: 68.75" overall, carries rods up to 10'4"
- Short version: 59.25" overall, carries rods up to 9'6"
- 2-Banger: weight rating 15 lbs
- 4-Banger: weight rating 22 lbs
- Do not mount through gapped drop-in bed liners — hardware will flex and loosen
- Spray-in bed liners bonded to the metal bed are fine
- Ford BoxLink compatible — no drilling required with the Ford BoxLink Adapter Kit
Truck bed mount spacing
- First mount: 13 to 18 inches from the inside of the tailgate
- Third mount: 36 to 40 inches from the first mount
- Middle mount: 18 to 20 inches between the first and third
- If the reel box contacts the closed tailgate, shift all three mounts forward
No factory cargo rails? Options for GM and Dodge trucks
- Direct drill-in: simplest option. Video: youtu.be/VzZxcdoWt-I
- Built Right MOLLE Rack: no-drill, 2020+ Silverado HD and Sierra HD only. builtrightind.com
- Front Runner T-track rail via etrailer: requires drilling. etrailer.com
- 8020 aluminum extrusion: DIY fabrication. 8020.net
- Unistrut on factory GM tie-down points. Video: youtu.be/pYX25vpKR8s
Mount Selection
The mount attaches the River Quiver to your crossbars. There are three roof-rack mounts and one truck bed mount. Before selecting a mount, confirm the crossbar type, crossbar spacing, crossbar thickness, and how high the bars sit above the roof.
| Mount | Height added | Best for | Watch-out |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Mount | ~6" total | Most factory, Yakima, and Thule bars | Extended bolts needed if crossbar is over 1.5" thick |
| Quick Release Mount | ~4.125" total | Frequent removal, round or unusual bars | Pivot mount open fully before seating strap; do not force latch |
| LP T-Track Mount | 2 5/8" off crossbar | Native 18mm T-track crossbars | Included hardware is 18mm square; non-18mm tracks need hardware from rack manufacturer |
| Truck Bed Mount | Varies by rail height | Truck beds, factory cargo rails, Ford BoxLink | Mount surface must be rigid; do not use gapped drop-in liners |
Standard Mount
Works with most factory crossbars and Yakima and Thule bars. Standard bolts reach crossbars up to 1.5" thick. If the crossbar is thicker than 1.5", extended bolts are required. If the crossbar is very close to the roof (common on Toyota 4Runner and Honda CR-V), shorter bolts may be needed.
Quick Release Mount
The most versatile mount option. Best for customers who remove the River Quiver frequently. Installation requires pivoting the mount open fully before seating the strap around the crossbar, then tightening. Forcing the latch without pivoting first is the most common installation error. The latch pin must seat completely before driving.
LP T-Track Mount
The lowest-profile mount option. Works on all standard 18mm T-track platforms. The included hardware is 18mm square. Prinsu Pro racks use 1x2" aluminum extrusion with integrated drop-in points, not standard 18mm T-track — the LP T-Track is not compatible with Prinsu Pro. Yakima T-track requires the SmarT-Slot Kit 3 adapter. Gobi and basket racks use tube construction with no T-slot — LP T-Track will not work.
Extended Bolts
Required when crossbars are over 1.5" thick. Common on Yakima OverHaul HD, many overland racks, and some factory setups. Available at riversmith.com/products/mounting-bolt-extended.
Spacer Kit
Available for vehicles with rear spoilers, power liftgates, or other obstructions that prevent the River Quiver from sitting flat on the crossbars. The Spacer Kit raises the unit for clearance. Extended bolts are also required when using the Spacer Kit. Contact info@riversmith.com to confirm fit before ordering.
Mount Lock Upgrade
Available at riversmith.com/products/mount-lock.
Fitment Details
Crossbar Spacing
- 2-Banger: 28" minimum (center of front bar to center of rear bar)
- 4-Banger: 28" minimum
- More spacing is always better — wider crossbar spacing means a more stable mount
Reel Diameter
Maximum reel diameter is 5", measured across the face of the reel. Reels confirmed not to fit: Tibor Pacific, Siegler XBF, and some oversized Cheeky models.
Fighting Butt Length
Maximum fighting butt length is 4". Longer fighting butts will not load correctly.
Reel Box Orientation
The reel box can face up, down, sideways, or hang below the rack. There is no performance difference between orientations. Choose based on vehicle clearance and hatch operation.
- Reel box up: most common; reel protected from below
- Reel box down: reduces overall height; requires minimum clearance between the roof surface and the bottom of the crossbar (2 7/8" with Quick Release, 1.5" with Standard Mount)
- Reel box placement: use 62" from the front mount as the reference point for ShortCut units
- Both mounts on the rear half of the unit: acceptable when the coupler-to-reel-box distance is 65" or less
If you want the reel box oriented a specific direction before shipment, leave a note at checkout and the build team will set it.
Prinsu Pro Racks
Prinsu Pro uses 1x2" aluminum extrusion with 6 integrated drop-in points. These are not standard 18mm T-track. LP T-Track is not compatible. Standard Mount or Quick Release are the correct options. The rack typically terminates near the rear hatch, so reel box up is usually the most practical orientation. Reel box down requires removing the rearmost crossbar, which is a straightforward process.
Installation
Coupler Assembly
The coupler joins the two extrusion halves. Any gap between the halves creates a catch point that can damage rod blanks during transport.
- Support both halves evenly during assembly
- Start all coupler bolts by hand — if a bolt will not start by hand, stop and realign; do not use the bolt to pull misaligned sections together
- Tighten evenly, alternating between bolts rather than fully tightening one before moving to the next
- Zero gap is correct and expected
- Hand tighten only — no power tools on coupler bolts
Hardware Checks
- Recheck all hardware after the first drive
- Recheck before every trip and after rough roads
- Record vehicle height with the River Quiver installed before the first garage approach
Quick Release Mount Installation
Pivot the mount fully open before seating the strap around the crossbar. Then tighten. Do not force the latch. The latch pin must seat completely before driving. Square crossbars require extra attention to strap tension and latch clearance. Installation video: youtu.be/lONjecB7DOk.
Mount Swap Video
For switching between mount types on an existing unit: youtu.be/y6IMxgXo2T8.
Reel Box Pads
Dry-fit all pieces before removing any adhesive backing. If pieces appear to not fit, lay out all remaining pieces alongside what is already installed before assuming anything is missing. Most issues are installation sequence rather than missing parts.
Maintenance and Cleaning
Washing
Hand wash only. Do not use automated brush car washes. Touchless or brushless washes may be acceptable if there is adequate clearance between the River Quiver and the wash equipment, but hand washing is always the right answer.
Liner Cleaning
Use high-pressure water — a garden hose with a spray nozzle or a self-serve car wash wand. The liner is up to 11 feet long and must be rinsed thoroughly, not just lightly sprayed. The unit must dry completely before loading rods. After saltwater exposure, rinse all metal hardware and the extrusion interior with fresh water.
Winter and Coastal Use
Year-round mounting is fine. In winter or coastal environments, check hardware more frequently and rinse the extrusion interior at the start and end of the season.
Lock Care
If a lock is jammed, use compressed air into the keyway. Do not use WD-40 or any other lubricant — it damages the lock mechanism. If compressed air does not resolve it, contact info@riversmith.com.
Liner Behavior in Heat
The aluminum extrusion and the polypropylene liner expand at different rates in warm temperatures. If the liner appears to be sticking out from the end of the unit, set it in shade or bring it inside for a few minutes. It will seat correctly on its own.
Wind Noise
Highway wind noise is almost always caused by exposed T-track channels on the crossbars, not the River Quiver itself. Most crossbars have a T-slot groove on the underside for attaching accessories. If the rubber wind strip that seals this groove is missing or partially out, air hits the channel at speed and creates noise. Check the underside of the bars first.
Locks and Keys
Finding Your Key Code
The key code is stamped on the face of the lock cylinder. It is also in the product manual, on the QC checklist in the original packaging, and in your product registration account. Save the code now.
Replacement Key (code known)
riversmith.com/products/riversmith-replacement-key
Replacement Lock (code unknown)
riversmith.com/products/replacement-lock
River Quivers use 30+ key codes. If your key code begins with LS005, that is an outdated platform and current replacement keys will not match — order a replacement lock.
Matched Keys
To have replacement locks keyed to match your existing unit, note the key code stamped on the lock barrel in the order comments at checkout when purchasing replacement locks.
Lock Installation Video
Accessories
Rod Chairs
Foam saddles that mount inside the River Quiver and cradle rods during transport. Good for cushioning on rough roads. Rod Chairs are light and can blow away in wind when set down at the tailgate. For heavier rods (7-weight and above) in a ShortCut, Rig Wraps are a better primary option. riversmith.com/products/rod-chairs
Rig Wraps
A braided expandable sleeve that slides over a fully rigged rod — assembled rod, guides, tippet, and flies — and holds everything in place. Snag-resistant. Covers the full rod including the cork grip. No elastic cord to tangle with flies. Better than Rod Chairs for heavier rods in a ShortCut, for multi-fly rigs, and for anyone who wants protection that travels with the rod rather than staying in the tube. Rod Chairs and Rig Wraps can be used together. riversmith.com/products/rig-wrap-fly-rod-sleeve
Euro Extension Kit
Rigid 12-inch aluminum extension that converts a Standard River Quiver to Euro configuration. Maximum one per unit. Not for use on units already rated for 11'4" rods. riversmith.com/products/euro-extension-kit
ShortCut Conversion Kit
For converting a full-length River Quiver for truck bed use. See the full-to-ShortCut conversion section below. riversmith.com/products/short-cut-conversion-kit
TroutRoutes Pro
Every River Quiver purchase includes a free one-year TroutRoutes Pro membership — a fly fishing mapping app with access roads, public land overlays, and fish species data. The activation code is included in the shipment. TroutRoutes is not included with scratch-and-dent units.
Full-Length to Truck Bed Conversion
If you have an existing full-length River Quiver and want to convert it for truck bed use, Riversmith offers two options that preserve your warranty coverage.
Option 1: In-House Conversion
Ship the unit to Riversmith. Return shipping is flat-rate: $45 for 2-Banger, $55 for 4-Banger. No labor charge. Factory result, warranty intact.
Option 2: Trade-In
Trade in a functional unit for 30% off a new purpose-built Truck Bed River Quiver. Start at riversmith.com/pages/trade-in.
DIY Conversion
If you prefer to cut the unit yourself, the following applies. Any cutting or drilling done outside Riversmith's facility voids warranty coverage on the modified sections.
- Get your exact bed length first. Beds under 70" require a cut-down to Truck Bed spec. Beds 70" and over use the standard ShortCut conversion.
- Cut target: bed length minus approximately 1". Account for bump-outs, tie-down hardware, and any protrusions before measuring.
- Remove the nose cone before cutting.
- Use a miter saw or radial arm saw with a metal blade.
- After cutting, re-drill the rear extrusion for the nose cone. Do not drill through the polypropylene liner. If the liner is penetrated, fly line and guides will snag every time a rod is loaded.
- Unused coupler bolt holes can be left open or sealed with plastic plugs from any hardware store.
Parts needed for DIY conversion: ShortCut Conversion Kit, Truck Bed Mounts, and the Ford BoxLink Adapter if applicable.
Swiftcast Raft Rod Holder
The Swiftcast is a raft-mounted rod holder. It mounts to the frame of a rowing raft and holds one rod per unit, reel up, guides up. A 4mm hex wrench is required for installation. Hardware has thread-locking compound pre-applied from the factory. The Swiftcast is designed for transport on the water, not long-term storage.
Tube Configuration by Raft Length
| Raft length | Configuration |
|---|---|
| 8 to 10.5 ft | One curved tube only. Remove the end cap. |
| 10.5 to 12 ft | Use one 12" straight tube in place of one 24" curved tube. |
| 12 to 15 ft | Standard configuration — two 24" curved tubes as included. |
| 15 ft and larger | Add or swap in one 24" straight tube to extend the length. |
Frame Diameter
- Frames 1.625" OD or smaller: use the orange rubber spacers inside the universal mounting brackets
- Frames approximately 2" OD (e.g. Down River Equipment XD frame): remove the orange spacers
Curved Tube Behavior
The curved tubes pivot freely at their junctions. This allows them to follow the natural curvature and rocker of the raft. Do not force them into a fixed position — let them rotate naturally into place.
Mount Gap Warning
Do not allow the gap in the universal mounting bracket to contact raft rubber. If it does, abrasion will wear through the material over time. Reinforce with foam tape if the gap is near rubber in your installation.
Mounting by Frame Brand
| Frame brand | Supported configurations |
|---|---|
| NRS, River Rat Rafts, Rocky Mountain Rafts | All four: inboard, outboard, front facing, rear facing |
| Down River Equipment, Riverboat Works | Inboard standard; outboard requires mount extension; front and rear standard |
| Smithfly, Stealthcraft | Inboard and outboard standard; front facing not confirmed; rear standard |
| WaterMaster | Inboard and front facing standard; outboard not confirmed; rear standard |
Swiftcast Assembly Sequence
- Determine mounting position and direction before building.
- Pre-assemble slot hardware onto reel box, nose cone, and channel connector — 2 to 3 threads only, loose.
- Slide reel box and nose cone onto the ends of each channel extrusion via the T-track. Press flush and tighten with a 4mm hex wrench.
- Slide universal mounts into the bottom T-track of each channel extrusion, leave loose.
- Join the two channel extrusions with the channel connector centered on the seam and tighten.
- Elevate the raft frame off the tube. Clamp universal mounts around the crossbars, positioned as far apart as possible, then fully tighten.
- Lower the frame back onto the raft and re-secure straps.
- Slide curved tubes onto the nose cone end. Secure each with a pipe clip. Let tubes pivot to follow raft rocker. Attach the included Molle velcro to existing tie-down webbing.
Swiftcast Pairing Kit
The Swiftcast Pairing Kit ($39.95) attaches two Swiftcast units using one set of universal mounting brackets. Supports side-by-side, opposing, and inboard/outboard configurations using a slotted center plate. Also works as a universal mount extension — extends reach up to 2 inches — for Down River Equipment and Riverboat Works frames where outboard mounting requires extended reach. Compatible with Smithfly, Flycraft, Stealthcraft, River Rat frames as well. Kit includes two mounts and hardware and supports one Swiftcast. Four Swiftcast units on one raft is not unusual. riversmith.com/products/swiftcast-pairing-kit
Convoy Bag Line
Convoy Hauler
Waterproof bag for guides, floaters, and boat anglers. 100% waterproof roll-top closure with a waterproof side-panel zipper for quick access without unrolling. Abrasion-resistant molded bottom. MOLLE webbing. Colors: Shadow Kelp, Gray Cadmium.
- 45L: 22"x13"x11.5", 3.9 lbs — day trips and compact travel
- 60L: 24"x16"x12", 4.4 lbs — multi-day floats and extended trips
riversmith.com/products/hauler
Convoy Gear Roll
Tri-fold storage for trucks and lodges. Unrolled: 54"x26"x2". Rolled: 16"x26"x12". Weight: 4.75 lbs. Holds two rods plus a full-size net and pack. Waterproof valuables pocket, removable changing mat, dedicated boot and wader storage. Colors: Shadow Kelp, Gray Cadmium. riversmith.com/products/gear-roll
Convoy Duffel
Structured travel duffel. Foam-reinforced chassis — holds its shape empty or loaded. Full clamshell zip-top plus a deployable roll-top for waterproof protection. Separate wet and dry zones. External rod tube straps. Backpack straps. 3.3 lbs. $249.99. Colors: Shadow Kelp, Gray Cadmium. riversmith.com/products/duffel
Convoy Travel Pack
For traveling with assembled rods. Rigid foam chassis. Holds up to 6 rods up to 10 feet. Dimensions: 33"x13"x7.5". $299.99. Colors: Shadow Kelp, Gray Cadmium.
Carry-on compliance cannot be guaranteed. Most airlines use a 22-inch carry-on limit. A 9-foot, 4-piece rod often measures 27 inches without a tube. Airlines enforce this inconsistently. The Travel Pack is designed to protect gear if it is checked. Always verify with your airline before travel. riversmith.com/products/travel-pack
Convoy PackOut Bag
Compact on-water pack. 11"x8"x2", 0.5 lbs. $49.99. Two water-resistant compartments and hemostat straps. Removable strap. Velcro attachment for wading belt, raft frame, car seat, or cooler handle. Includes a removable, machine-washable 11"x22" trash bag. Colors: Shadow Kelp, Gray Cadmium. riversmith.com/products/packout-bag
Warranty
River Quiver products carry a limited lifetime warranty to the original purchaser. Coverage requires purchase from Riversmith or an authorized dealer, valid proof of purchase, and installation and use per the official guide. Register your product at riversmith.com/apps/redo/returns-portal/login?register_only=true.
Coverage applies to defects in materials and workmanship under normal use. It does not cover misuse, overloading, modification, improper assembly, aftermarket hardware, cosmetic damage, loss, theft, or normal wear and tear. Scratch-and-dent and custom items are covered for functional defects only, not cosmetic. Warranty is US only.
To open a warranty claim: riversmith.com/apps/redo/returns-portal/warranties/register
Full warranty policy: riversmith.com/pages/warranty
Returns and Exchanges
Returns and exchanges are handled through the Riversmith returns portal: riversmith.com/apps/redo/returns-portal/login.
For questions about a return before initiating it, contact info@riversmith.com.
Trade-In Program
Riversmith accepts trade-ins of functional competitor or older Riversmith rod carrier systems toward a new River Quiver purchase.
- Fully functional systems (any brand): 30% off a new River Quiver
- Damaged or homemade systems: 15% off
- Swiftcast model swaps: 30% off
Ship or hand-deliver the trade-in to Riversmith HQ. After the unit is received and verified, a one-time discount code is emailed to you. The code is single-use and cannot be combined with other promotions.
Start here: riversmith.com/pages/trade-in
Pro Program
Riversmith offers a professional discount program for fly fishing guides, whitewater guides, specialty fly shop employees, fishing industry professionals, casting and paddling instructors, broader outdoor industry professionals, active duty military, veterans, and first responders. The discount applies at checkout — not on product pages.
The program was updated in 2023. All members must reapply regardless of prior status. Admission is not guaranteed.
Apply at riversmith.com/pages/professional-application.
Common Questions
The liner looks like it is sticking out from the end of the unit
This is heat expansion. The aluminum extrusion and the polypropylene liner expand at different rates in warm temperatures. Set the unit in shade or bring it inside for a few minutes and everything will seat correctly.
There is a gap at the coupler
Any gap allows rod movement during transport. Disassemble the coupler and reassemble: support both halves evenly, start all bolts by hand before tightening any, and tighten evenly by alternating between bolts. Zero gap is the correct result. If the gap persists after proper reassembly, contact info@riversmith.com.
I hear wind noise at highway speed
Almost always caused by exposed T-track channels on the crossbars, not the River Quiver. Check the underside of your crossbars for a T-slot groove. If the rubber wind strip that seals this groove is missing or partially out, replace or reseat it.
My lock is stuck
Use compressed air into the keyway only. Do not use WD-40 or any lubricant. If compressed air does not resolve it, contact info@riversmith.com.
I lost my key
The key code is stamped on the face of the lock cylinder. If you have the code, order a replacement key at riversmith.com/products/riversmith-replacement-key. If you do not have the code, order a replacement lock at riversmith.com/products/replacement-lock.
The reel box hinge is cracked or separated
Reel boxes use AES plastic, a high-impact engineering polymer with excellent UV resistance. If the hinge is cracked but still functional, document it and monitor. If the hinge has fully separated, contact info@riversmith.com — full reel box replacement requires specialized tooling and is not a DIY repair.
The reel box door is misaligned or the lock does not catch
If the interior hinge is intact, reel box door replacement can be done at home. If the full reel box needs replacement due to separation from the extrusion, contact info@riversmith.com.
Can I take it through a car wash?
Hand wash only. Automated brush washes can damage the unit and the crossbar attachment points. Touchless washes may be acceptable with adequate clearance, but hand washing is always the right answer.
Can I leave it on the vehicle year-round?
Yes. Year-round mounting is fine. In winter or coastal environments, check hardware more frequently and rinse the interior of the extrusion with fresh water at the start and end of the season.
Does it fit my vehicle?
Fitment depends on your crossbar type, spacing, and thickness — not just your vehicle make and model. Crossbar configurations vary significantly within the same vehicle line. See the mount selection and fitment sections above, or contact info@riversmith.com with your vehicle, rack brand, and crossbar details.
Will it fit my spey or switch rod?
Yes. The Euro River Quiver carries rods up to 11'4". Load by removing the reel, attaching it to the butt section, folding the rod using Rod Chairs, sliding it in, and re-attaching the reel at the water.
What reels will not fit?
Any reel over 5" in diameter. Confirmed non-fits include the Tibor Pacific, Siegler XBF, and some oversized Cheeky models. If you are unsure, check your reel's diameter before ordering.
Can I take the Travel Pack as a carry-on?
Carry-on compliance depends on your airline and aircraft. Most airlines use a 22-inch carry-on limit. A 9-foot, 4-piece rod often measures 27 inches without a tube. Always verify with your airline. The Travel Pack is built to protect gear if it is checked.
Ordering and Production
River Quivers are built to order. Payment is required before an order enters the production queue. For current lead times, availability, and order status, contact info@riversmith.com.
Riversmith HQ is a warehouse and production facility in Boulder, CO. Parts, accessories, and Convoy bags are available there. Installations are not performed at HQ.
Authorized installation centers: riversmith.com/pages/authorized-riversmith-installation-centers
Scratch-and-dent inventory: riversmith.com/collections/scratch-and-dent