A rod holder assembly formed from an upper flange member securable to receiving a socket mounted beneath a gunnel surface. The upper flange has concealed fastening bosses located beneath the flange member which are used to engage fastener that secure a backing plate that is coupled to the receiving socket. The backing plate can be attached directly to the lower surface of the gunnel wherein removal of the upper flange allows for refinishing of the mounting surface and/or the upper flange, without disturbing the receiving socket mounted position.