A method and apparatus is provided relating to the use of fishing accessories attached to a fishing rod or reel. A fishing accessory, such as a fish hook retainer, can be attached to a fishing rod using a device with a shape suitable to be clamped between the mounting flange of a fishing reel and a fishing rod and/or reel clamp of the fishing rod. A fish hook retainer includes a pocket for retaining a fish hook, while protecting the point and barb of the hook from exposure.