Disclosed are methods and systems for using a rigid-stem assembly comprising a plurality of interconnected rigid stems in a marine survey. An embodiment discloses a geophysical survey method comprising: deploying a rigid-stem assembly from a survey vessel into a body of water, wherein the rigid-stem assembly comprises a plurality of rigid stems that are interconnected and each comprise a stem body defining one or more interior chambers; towing the rigid-stem assembly from the survey vessel through the body of water; and either (1) detecting a geophysical signal with a sensor towed by the survey vessel, and/or (2) activating a geophysical source that is towed by the survey vessel. Also disclosed are survey systems and rigid-stem handling systems.