Doggman,
You'll see lots of different ways to leash the rod. I use a large SS split ring, double HD tie wraps, swivel eye boat snap and nylon cord. The ring is up and out of the way of the reel. They are tied to the rod holders so there is no way to forget them, unless I forget the bait tank, that is. They have saved me lots of gear in my less than elegant blue water moments.
One thing you have watch is turning around to face towards the back (my old Cobra was notorious for this). Its easy to lose your balance this way. In this position, if you start to tip, you will naturally lean into the tip and not away from it. Sayonara!