A modified reel and mounting assembly for attaching a fishing reel to a fishing rod. The assembly includes a cutout in the reel which conforms to the surface of the reel seat and an arcuate slot on both ends of the cutout. The cutout in the reel mates with surface of the reel seat, and the seat mounts are received by the arcuate slots. The arcuate slots create a lip which is clamped into place by the clamps of the rod seat. In the preferred embodiment, a clamp bar is also provided for increased stability.