The device includes a tube for holding a fishing rod, which pivots to an at-rest position under the action of a main spring. The tube is held in an at-ready position by a latch. The latch is tripped by a tug on the fishing line. A safety-catch is automatically cocked, when the fisherman sets the tube, to a position where the safety catch blocks the latch, and prevents the latch from tripping. This enables the latch to be set automatically also when the fisherman sets the tube. The safety catch is released by hand when the device has been fully prepared and adjusted.