Good question-since we leave for Lake Norfork in the morning.
Here in Missouri I believe you are allowed 3 rods. But, you are allowed like 33 hooks if you trotline-which I never have done. You can have 30 hooks in the water-trotline or jugs, then fish with 3 rods for your 33 total. Don't know why you can't trotline or jug fish with 3 hooks and have 30 rods?
I only use 3 rods--dock fishing or boat fishing..that's why I have never tried spider-fishing.
All states are different--just look at the regs in the state you plan to fish!