Best Tackle Boxes in 2022 – Buyer’s Guide and Comparison

That was a silly question for a fisherman, wasn’t it? Do you need a best tackle box? You are most likely asking yourself, “Does this person know enough about fishing to write this article?” Of course! Every fisherman, even the beginner, understands the need for a tackle box.

The real question is…what tackle box do you need? Large or small? Soft of hard? How much junk (ahem…I mean, tackle and other supplies) do you need to carry around with you? Let’s look at different types of tackle boxes to see if we can find the best tackle box for your needs.

Top 10 Best Tackle Box Reviews in 2022

1. Plano Rack System Tackle Box

The Plano Molding Company was inspired by one thing – find a replacement for the metal tackle box. While metal tackle boxes provided everything a fisherman needed, there were two major drawbacks. First, they were heavy.

Secondly, they rusted easily, especially in saltwater environments. Pete Henning had the inspiration to use molded plastic – and the rest is history. Lighter, water-proof, and rust proof, Plano revolutionized the tackle box industry.

The Plano 4-By Rack System 3700 Series Tackle Box is one of the best hard tackle boxes available. It provides ample amounts of storage designed to provide the ultimate in organization. It is completely water-resistant and holds up extremely well for saltwater fishing.

2. Okeechobee Fats Fisherman Tackle Bag

When I look at this bag it reminds me of military designs. Made with solid materials and practical above everything else, it can be one of the serious options for the dedicated fisherman. Among the best fishing tackle boxes, it is made from fabric. However, it is water-resistant.

Even if you’re surprised by bad weather, it still keeps your lines, bait, and sunglasses dry. There’s a large main compartment design as well. It holds up to 8 utility boxes and it should be enough even if you’re out fishing for a few days. It also has a large top opener which makes access so much easier.

In terms of pockets, you may also easily organize your tools and accessories practically. It’s designed with a large front pocket. Two smaller pockets are added to the sides. All of these pockets are zipped so you won’t lose your tools. Top and back pockets are also added to the tackle box. They’re made from mesh and they’re more likely for you to use for sunglasses or fishing gloves.

A neoprene wrap handle holds everything in place. It is easy to clean and quick to dry after you give it a quick wash with soap and water. With a length of 16.4 inches, the tackle box also features other storage options. You may easily store your fishing hooks, tactical knives, and other accessories in a way that allows quick access.

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3. RUNCL Fishing Tackle Box

The RUNCL is a solid fishing tackle box for fishing enthusiasts. It is constructed with a more rugged and thicker frame to ensure excellent durability. This box also comes with solid and secure-locking latches for added safety of your valuables. Plus, the latches can be operated with one hand.

This angled system measures 1.89” H x 10.65” L x 7.1” W. Its small and compact size makes it a great choice when you plan a last-minute fishing adventure or when you have limited space.

Another unique spec is its 360-degree waterproof gasket that is crafted from natural silica gel. This gasket protects your tackle box from harsh elements and keeps your valuables free from moisture. Furthermore, its dark brown appearance helps to protect your valuables from harsh sun rays and prevents oxidation and fading.

Storing your valuable lures in this tackle box is made easy thanks to the removable dividers. You can effortlessly customize the storage compartments based on the category of your lures.

4. Wild River NOMAD Lighted Tackle Bag

For the best soft tackle box, consider the Custom Leathercraft Wild River Nomad. The Nomad can hold up to six small compartmentalized trays or four larger trays, offering the most in organization for your fishing tackle. Know where each piece of tackle is when you most need it – no digging around an unorganized bag when you are ready to change lures.

Wild River is a brand of CLC. CLC has been providing quality and innovative tool belts and tool bags for the construction industry for over 30 years. With the introduction of the Wild River brand, CLC is using that knowledge to provide the best fishing gear with innovative features, intelligent design, and superior quality.

5. Wakeman Fishing Tackle Box

Another excellent tackle box in our review is the Fishing Single Tray tackle box. As the name suggests, this box comes with a single tray that can be used for additional storage. Plus, you can easily remove the tray to access the space below.

If portability is of concern to you, you will be glad to know that this tackle box is straightforward to carry and transport, thanks to its collapsible handle. The product measures 5.5” H x 12.75” L x 7” W. The design comes with a clear lid that provides access to your lures inside.

The locking latches are strong and very secure to keep your valuable lures in place at all times. Other things included with this kit are spoon crankbait, line weights, round bobber floats, hook remover tool, snelled, standard and jig head hooks, vertical pole float, line clipper, fishing line, and plastic fishing lures.

6. YVLEEN Fishing Tackle Box

Lastly on our list of the best tackle boxes is this model from YVLEEN. This tackle box is large in size and a great option for anglers looking to spend a lot of time outdoors fishing.

Just from the look of it, this box features high-quality and durable construction. It boasts a high-density polyester construction and a water-resistant inner layer that will keep your lures protected from water and rust.

Besides the wear and water-resistant construction, this bag also features durable zippers made from alloy steel. Better yet, there are multiple pockets where you can organize your lures and retrieve them effortlessly.

For ultimate comfort, this tackle bag is built with an antiskid padded should strap that lets you carry the bag on your shoulders or as a sling bag. Besides, the shoulder strap is detachable should you want to carry the bag in your hand. Moreover, this fishing bag is versatile and can be used for other purposes like hunting and camping. It measures 12.2” x 8.3” x 8.3”.

7. Elkton Outdoors Rolling Tackle Box

This rolling tackle box is one of the first options you can think about when it comes to the best rated tackle boxes. Just imagine how difficult it is for someone with back or shoulder pain to look at any other design alternative.

Made with padding, this tackle box protects all your expensive gear. But some of the paddings may also be removed and you have a bit more freedom of adjustability than you may expect. In total, there are 18 compartments to rely on. Some of them are zipped. But you will need to keep this tackle box upright more than others as not all pockets are made with a zipper.

There are 4 fishing rod holders to count on as well. However, I still consider you should think about its rolling design more than anything else. If you like that you’ll be carrying it by its extendable handle, it may be the right option for you. However, I did discuss the design in my fishing group.

Swiftly, I found out not everybody was thrilled about its design and some found it would get dirtier sooner than the shoulder carry-on alternatives. But I still think it’s better when it comes to effort. Even on its own, the tackle box weighs 11.8lbs. It is one of the best tackle boxes for fishermen who don’t like to carry their fishing gear.

8. SouthBend R2FK Tray Tackle Box

For the beginner fisherman, a small tackle box will usually do the job. As you increase your knowledge and learn how to fish for different types of fish, you may need to upgrade to a larger box.

For now, though, a small box will hold everything you need to get started. One of the best small tackle boxes is the Tackle Box by SouthBend. Available with 1 tray, it is constructed of durable hard plastic and includes everything you need to learn to fish.

SouthBend has been helping the beginner fisherman for over 20 years. Their color code system helps you choose the right equipment for each species. Simply match the color-coded reel with the color-coded tackle box and head out to the water.

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9. Yogayet Portable Fishing Tackle Bag

Made using water-resistant 600D nylon, this tackle box is ready to deal with the most demanding situations. I’ve seen it in action as a few friends have it. As you may expect, it’s practical. But what you don’t see in the pictures is just how well it stands up in time.

Apart from some washing and cleaning up, the tackle box looks very good even after a year of use. As one of the best quality tackle boxes, it also has sufficient rooms for all your gear and accessories. Depending on what you put inside, it can tackle up to 15L.

In terms of its structure or layout, you won’t find anything revolutionary. It features the same large compartment with one front pocket and two side pockets. Its daily use looks very similar to what you’d see with the best tackle boxes. It also features padded shoulder straps.

Believe me, you will be looking for the padding after a long day when you start to regret packing so much gear for your fishing trip. The good part is that you may still use it as you wish even when rain hits it hard. However, you should not tumble dry it if you’re like me and you wash your tackle boxes frequently.

10. Wild River Multi-Tackle Backpack

In your search for the best fishing tackle box, you can’t overlook the Wild River Multi-Tackle Large Backpack. This tackle box offers tons of storage and lots of opportunity for organizing your tackle and bait. This Wild River bag can hold up to 6 small departmentalized trays of 4 large trays.

The bag also has a removable divider that allows you to convert the bag into a full-sized backpack for storing larger items. The avid fisherman understands the importance of having enough room for all your fishing supplies in one container that is easier to transport and keeps everything you need within reach.

Types of Best Tackle Boxes – Learn Before Buy

There are basically two types of tackle boxes – hard cases and soft cases. Both have benefits and drawback. If you do different types of fishing, you may even own both types. Let’s look closely at each type.

Hard Case

The main reason many people choose a hard case tackle box is because that type has been around much longer than the soft cases. Hard cases have been around for many generations – first in the form of a metal box, then a hard-plastic box. In most instances, a hard case is more durable. Who remembers their grandpa’s old, beat-up metal tackle box? It may have had dings and dents, but it still worked as well as it did when new.

Soft cases are subject to rips and tears caused by hooks, knives, or other sharp objects. A hook or knife will not stick in a hard case, so that automatically eliminates that worry. Hard cases have compartments that are designed to protect your tackle. Have you ever heard of worm proof trays? These trays are designed to protect your plastic baits and lures from melting together or becoming sticky.

When you keep your plastic bait in a worm proof tray, you simply reach in and grab it when you need it – it’s as good as new. Perhaps the two most vital benefits of having a hard case tackle box are water resistance and space. Hard cases do not soak up the rain water like a soft case will. A hard tackle box will protect your gear from the weather, splashes if you are in a boat, and any other spray of water.

Hard cases often have multiple compartments for organizing your tackle. Small compartments hold small gear, such as hooks, jigs, and other lures. Larger compartments give you ample space to store other necessities, such as fillet knives, pliers, first-aid kits, and much more. The main drawbacks for hard tackle boxes are the weight and the storage space they take up.

Soft Case

Soft case tackle boxes have advantages as well. First and foremost, soft cases are lightweight compared to their heavier counterparts. This is a plus if you have a long trek to your favorite fishing hole. Soft cases are also more flexible and take up less room for storage. If you have little storage room, a soft case can be “squeezed” in where a hard case has absolutely no give. Most soft cases include extra storage pockets for storing personal items, such as keys, cell phones, and bottled water.

It is still possible to be well organized with a soft tackle box. If they are not included, you can purchase compartmentalized plastic boxes to help keep your tackle organized. Perhaps one of the best aspects of a soft case is that it is easier to carry than a hard case. With a hard case, the only option you have is to carry it by a handle on top of the box.

Soft cases provide more options, such as a softer handle on top or some have the option to wear it like a backpack, keeping your hands free as you move around from spot to spot. The two main disadvantages of soft case tackle boxes are ripping/tearing and they are not waterproof. The soft material soaks up moisture when it rains or the surface you place it on is wet. Also, hooks and knives can puncture the material, or it can tear if it gets caught on something.

Tackle Box Essentials Include

Safety Tips

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What Can I Keep in a Tackle Box?

A: This depends on what you choose to bring in your tackle box, and your choices will depend on your fishing location and what you plan to fish. Although you plan to carry regular supplies with you, you need different and proper lures, sinkers, hooks, and tools such as hook extractors and pliers.

Q: What Are Some Ways to Keep My Tackle Box Organized?

A: The way a tackle box can be organized depends on the design of the tackle box you have. Nevertheless, there are general and simple ways to do this. Many tackle boxes have a bigger main compartment. Therefore, you can store your commonly used tools such as hooks, plastics, and lures.

You can put the side or extra pouch to store smaller things such as the container for hooks or sinkers, packed pre-rigged lines, and paste bait. For the tools, licenses, measuring devices, and other things you need to often access, you can place them in a zipped bag or a clear area above the box.

Q: What Kind of Tackle Storage Should I Get?

A: To answer this, you need to think of where you plan to fish, how you will go there, and your fishing method. If you plan to fish on a boat, a hard tackle box is recommended. If you plan to river fish from a bank or fly fish, you can consider a sling pack or fishing backpack.

Whatever you consider, choosing the right one will help you organize. You can find the tools and items you need, and transportation is convenient from your card until your fishing spot. It should also be able to protect your things from different conditions.

Final Thoughts

The key to success in almost anything we do is preparedness. Fishing is no difference. From experience, I can tell you there is nothing worse than running out of lures when the fish bite is on! Definitely not the makings of a fun day on the water. The avid fisherman is well away that losing lures and other tackle is simply a part of the game. Thus, the importance of a best tackle box so you always have extra on hand.

No one wants to cut the day short because of the lack of tackle. As most things do in life, it usually happens at the most inopportune time. Being prepared almost guarantees a fun and safe fishing experience – well, if the fish are biting, anyway. While most fishermen have their favorite brands and types of tackle, there are a few things that should be in every tackle box.