Looking at 9 Great Fishing Tackle Bags

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Looking at 9 Great Fishing Tackle Bags

Best Fishing Tackle Bags

When I first started fishing as a young kid back in 1995, fishing was pretty simple. We would lug our rods, a couple drinks, and one of those clunky, gray Plano tackle boxes out to the boat and hit the water almost every day each summer.

Eventually, as we moved from fishing for crappie and other smaller species to muskie fishing, the rods got bigger, the reels got heavier and the tackle boxes got clunkier.

The late 90s saw an era of “bigger is better,” where not only our tackle boxes got bigger, but so did our vehicles, our movies, etc.

As fishing has evolved, though, anglers have to rely on more versatile and practical solutions for transporting their gear. Kayak angling has become increasingly popular and they simply can’t expect to lug around forty pound boxes filled with lures, line, and terminal tackle.

Even for those who have easy access to a boat or comfortable sport on the shore, traditional tackle boxes are taking a backseat to the lighter and more well-rounded tackle bags.

These bags allow anglers to transport just as much gear as they would in a traditional box while being worn on the back, effectively freeing up an extra hand (or two, depending who was lugging the box). The market has really evolved over the past decade, and the options for great tackle bags has exploded.

Today, we are going to take a look at some of the best tackle bag options on the market. First, we are going to examine what a tackle bag is, what some pros and cons are to having one, and why you should consider getting one.

A Quick Look at Some of The Best Fishing Tackles Bags

For convenience, we are going to provide a quick list of the fishing tackle bags that appear on this list below:

High-End Fishing Tackle Bags: Top-of-the-Line Options

Mid-Range Fishing Tackle Bags: High Quality, Reasonable Price

Economically Friendly Fishing Tackle Bags: Gets the Job Done at the Right Price

High-End Fishing Tackle Bags: Top-of-the-Line Options

Wild River Tackle Tek Nomad XP Lighted Backpack with USB Charging System

When the comes to creating the perfect fishing tackle bag, the folks at Wild River have come pretty darn close.

In terms of storage, this bag allows anglers to load up either six (6) 3600 tackle trays or four (4) 3500 trays, meaning they won’t have to be selective about their lures choices for a day or even weekend fishing trip.

The bag is also a perfect choice for those who will be incorporating some hiking or camping into their plans as well. Multiple storage compartments have hold tools, matches, first aid kits, medications, knives, sunglasses, and more.

If you will need to have electronics during your time out, the bag also has a 5000mAh rechargeable USB power supply with four charging ports. This allows users to charge both Apple (lightning and 30-pin) products and devices using a USB connection (micro and mini). LED lighting also is great for those fishing early mornings or late nights.

As one of the top bags on the market, it is also going to carry a higher price point than others on the market. This is to be expected given all the features you will find with this model, however.

Our Recommendation: Pair this bag with either the Plano Worm Stowaway 3600 Utility Box or Cabela’s 3500 Utility Box 4-Pack

Wild River Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack

Wild River Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack

Much like the Tackle Tek Nomad XP Lighted Backpack with USB Charging System, this model contains the same generous storage space (six 3600 or four 3500 tackle trays, sunglasses holder, LED lighting system).

The major difference, however, is that this bag does not feature the USB charging option.

For anglers or outdoors enthusiasts who simply want a high-end, reliable fishing tackle bag that will last them for years, the Wild River Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack is an excellent option.

Also, it is worth nothing that because this bag does not have the option to charge devices, the price point will generally run lower than its sister model.

Our Recommendation: Equip with either the Plano Worm Stowaway 3600 Utility Box or Cabela’s 3500 Utility Box 4-Pack

Flambeau Portage Backpack

Ok, so we’ll admit this right out of the gates: the Flambeau Portage Backpack is not the most attractive fishing tackle bag in the world. The design and color scheme absolutely screams “1980s,” and that, in itself, may be a turnoff to many anglers who are looking for a sleek, more modern, masculine design.

What this model lacks in visual appeal, however, it absolutely makes up for in durability and organizational design.

Just take a look…

Flambeau Portage Backpack_Open

This model leaves absolutely no wasted space as it comes equipped with four 5000-series Flambeau Zerust Max Waterproof Tuff Tainers.

The bag’s “attic” compartment also has ample room to store your car keys, wallet, glasses, and other essential items.

EGO Backpack Tackle Bag

Complete with Kryptek camo technology, the EGO Backpack Tackle Bag ticks all of the boxes — stylish, versatile, and economical.

Much like the other bags on this list, Ego’s fishing bag allows anglers to bring plenty of tackle on their trips, dedicating room for four (4) 3600 tackle trays — plenty for a day or weekend fishing trip practically anywhere in the country.

Additional storage comes in the form of multiple exterior pockets and a large upper compartment that can store a plethora of fishing, camping, hiking or other outdoor accessories.

Our Recommendation: If you are planning on picking up this bag, we recommend pairing it with the Plano ProLatch StowAway 3600 Utility Box

Mid-Range Fishing Tackle Bags: High Quality, Reasonable Price

Cabela’s Fisherman Series Tackle Bag

Cabela's Fisherman Series Tackle Bag

As an affordable, mid-range tackle bag, the Cabela’s Fisherman Series continues the brand’s reputation for quality products at a reasonable price.

Complete with seven zippered pockets, anglers and campers will have plenty of compartments to store their essentials. the bag is also notable for being especially durable and comes with rubber, nonskid feet to prevent it from slipping off your boat or kayak.

In terms of tackle storage space, this model has plenty of room! The bag comes with six (6) 3700 series tackle tray with room for an additional tray is you absolutely need to bring a larger tackle arsenal with you.

The over-the-shoulder model may not be quite as versatile as the backpacks on this list, but it can certainly free up valuable hand space when making longer commutes to your fishing or camping spot.

Our Recommendation: Pair this bag with a Plano Worm Stowaway 3700 Utility Box

Plano KVD Series Signature Tackle Bag

Plano’s mid-range fishing tackle bag is a hybrid of sorts, blending the comfort and traditional elements of a tackle box with the versatility and modern convenience of a bag.

The KVD Series Signature is a thick, durable model with elevated, waterproof base and resistant coating throughout to prevent saturation.

The bag features 34 attachment points, a dedicated holder for your pliers, and a bright red interior that is incredibly helpful during low-visibility situations.

The bag also comes equipped with five (5) Stowaway tackle trays.

Our Recommendation: Pair this bag with Plano StowAway Utility Boxes

Wild River Tackle Tek Recon Lighted Compact Backpack

Wild River Tackle Tek Recon Lighted Compact Backpack

As Wild River’s mid-range fishing tackle bag, the Tackle Tek Recon Lighted Compact Backpack offers many of the same desirable features of the higher-end models while checking in at a considerably lower price point.

As a slightly smaller, more compact version of the Tackle Tek Nomad, this model has the same LED light features of the larger bag. It also have numerous compartments where you can store tackle essentials like knives, scissors, and pliars.

With room for four (4) 3500 or two (2) 3600 tackle trays, it is also capable of transporting a considerable haul of lures and terminal tackle.

Our Recommendation: Consider pairing this bag with a Plano ProLatch StowAway 3500 Utility Box

Economically Friendly Fishing Tackle Bags: Gets the Job Done at the Right Price

Bass Pro Shops Extreme Qualifier 360 Backpack

Bass Pro Shops produces pretty much anything an angler or outdoor enthusiast could want. While their products are not always considered “top of the line” in many cases, they aren’t designed or promoted that way. Instead, they provide affordable tackle and gear that won’t prevent anglers of varying incomes or spending habits to break the bank.

The Extreme Qualifier 360 Backpack is a perfect example of this.

Prices considerably lower than the other models on our list thus far, the bag is not going to win any awards for its versatility, design, or uniqueness.

What it will do, though, is hold up during your next camping or fishing trip.

Made to hold both Bass Pro Shops 360 and 370 tackle trays, the Extreme Qualifier also has sufficient storage space for personal and practical items.

Our Recommendation: We suggest pairing this with the Bass Pro Shops 370 Storage Box

Flambeau IKE 400 Tackle Bag

Flambeau IKE 400 Tackle Bag

As an affordable, entry-level model, Flambeau’s signature Mike Iaconelli tackle bag is deceptively roomy and versatile.

The IKE 400 Tackle Bag is compact, but has a surprising amount of storage space. Anglers can easily fit necessary and valuable items in any of the bag’s numerous front and side pockets.

Lightweight, the bag also has room for four (4) 4007 tackle trays. This gives anglers plenty of room to equip themselves for a fishing trip at any level.

Our Recommendation: Stock up on some Flambeau Zerust 4007 Utility Boxes to pair with this bag

Fishing Tackle Bags vs. Tackle Boxes

Ok, so this is self explanatory, right? One is a box, one is a bag, and they both hold your fishing gear.

Easy enough…

But there is a reason that tackle bags have become so popular in recent years.

In a lot of ways, I am a traditionalist when it comes to fishing. I like old-school gear — especially the stuff I grew up with and trust — as much as the next guy. For me, that meant having everything stored away neatly in a giant Plano tackle box.

You simply cannot replicate the ease and versatility of a tackle bag, though. Unlike just lugging out a duffel bag or typical backpack, the bags you will see below are made specifically with fishing and the outdoors in mind.

Pros

There are obviously a lot of positives to using a tackle box vs a tackle box. Below, we will discuss three major advantages: convenience, versatility, and technology.

  • Convenience: This will always be toward the top of the list, and for good reason. There’s a reason we don’t go to the gym carrying our workout gear in a suitcase. There’s a reason most of us don’t go shopping and carry our groceries out in a box. A bag — and, in this case, a well-constructed and intentionally designed bag — is easier to carry, especially if you are covering a considerable distance to your fishing or camping spot. Also, if you have ever tried to secure a clunky tackle box on a kayak, it isn’t fun…
  • Versatility: A tackle box — even a really nice, top-of-the-line model — will always be just that. Using a tackle box for any other reason than to store fishing tackle just seems wrong. A tackle bag, on the other hand, can double as a gym bag, or simply a “weekend getaway” pack. Many are designed similarly to duffel bags or backpacks, so using them for outings that are not inherently outdoors-related won’t look strange.
  • Technology: With some of the models below, like the Wild River Tackle Tek Nomad XP Lighted Backpack with USB Charging System, you can actually charge your electronic devices. Some higher-end bags also come equipped with LED light systems.

Cons

Even the best fishing accessories come with their share of inconveniences. When it comes to fishing tackle bags, the old adage often holds true: you get what you pay for.

  • Durability: Probably the biggest known when it comes to the bags, it’s important to get a product that will last more than a year. I have met plenty of anglers who have made one tackle box last them a decade or longer. I’ve also met plenty of guys who seem to be buying a new bag every year. Fishing is expensive enough as it is, so consider making a solid investment ahead of time. A ten dollar bag will serve its purpose, but a higher-end (or even an entry-level bag) is something you can use for years to come.

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