Best Tackle Box – The Complete Buyers Guide

By Get Fishing •  Published: 11/03/22 •  13 min read

You’re only as good as your gear, and an important part of gear for any fisherman is the tackle box. Tackle boxes come in all shapes and sizes, and at their most basic, store fishing gear. Line, lures, leaders and more can be tucked into compartments for easy organization. 

Best Tackle Box

Table of Contents

What Are the Different Types of Fishing Tackle Boxes?

The variety of tackle boxes is astounding, and there’s truly something for everyone. Let’s take a quick look at common styles and their benefits:

Best Tackle Box Systems

The Plano EDGE System

Plano EDGE Professional Series Tackle Storage

Plano EDGE Professional Series Tackle Storage

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Plano has been around for decades, ever since their founder decided to improve the tackle box back in 1952. And improve it he did. The Plano EDGE series is made for any and all anglers, to feed the needs of their whims, water sources, and storage needs. EDGE tackle boxes are versatile, easy to take with you on trips, and customizable. 

Of course there are plenty of other competitors out there who have made a name for themselves when it comes to tackle box design. Let’s get into the best of the best and what makes them worth your money.

Best Tackle Box Overall – Plano EDGE FLEX 3600

Plano EDGE Flex 3600 Tackle Box

Plano EDGE Flex 3600 Tackle Box

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Overview

The Plano Edge Flex 3600 is a 12.5 x 8.5 x 1.9 inch single-level tackle box made of polycarbonate and plastic. It has moisture-wicking and rust prevention capabilities that keep your tackle rust free.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About it

Best Terminal Tackle Box – Plano EDGE 3700 Terminal Tackle Box

Plano EDGE 3700 Terminal Tackle Box

Plano EDGE 3700 Terminal Tackle Box

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Overview

The Terminal Tackle Storage in gray and yellow comes with hook retainers, rust-resistant tech and is styled as a utility box. This is an upgraded design for easy use when picking out hooks, weights, and small gear. 

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Starter Tackle Box – Plano Ready-Set-Fish 3-Tray Tackle Box

Plano Ready-Set-Fish 3-Tray Tackle Box

Plano Ready-Set-Fish 3-Tray Tackle Box

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Overview

Taking on more of a classic approach, the Plano Ready-Set-Fish box has an expandable tray system and includes starter tackle. This is a great option for kids or new anglers looking for a head start with the basics. 

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Pocket Sized Tackle Box – Plano Compact Side by Side Tackle Box

Plano Compact Side by Side Tackle Box

Plano Compact Side by Side Tackle Box

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Overview

This 6.5 x 4.3 x 1.7 inch tackle box is perfect for keeping your most-loved tackle close at hand. The folding design and transparent lids allow for easy use and viewing.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Tackle Box for Soft Plastics – Flambeau Soft Bait Organizer

Flambeau Soft Bait Organizer

Flambeau Soft Bait Organizer

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Overview

A family-owned company, Flambeau’s focus seems to be on the experienced fisherman and providing quality products. The Soft Bait Organizer is straight-forward and gets the job done.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Travel Tackle Box – Plano Compact 1 Tray Tackle Box

Plano Compact 1 Tray Tackle Box

Plano Compact 1 Tray Tackle Box

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Overview

Plano’s one tray tackle box is a step up from their basic design and provides two layers of storage for lures. At 8 x 4.5 x 2.5 in., it’s still a great compact size for travel. 

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Waterproof Kayak Tackle Box – Plano Guide Series 3500 

Plano Guide Series 3500

Plano Guide Series 3500

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Overview

The Guide Series 3500 has a totally different look from other Plano products, with orange trays and a more rectangular design. While technically a tackle box, many anglers use this box to store important items when fishing.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Spinner Bait Storage Tackle Box – Plano Spinner Bait StowAway

Plano Spinner Bait StowAway

Plano Spinner Bait StowAway

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Overview

This tackle storage box is made specifically for storing spinners in a way that ensures they won’t get mixed up or tangled together.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Tackle Box for Jigs – Plano EDGE Premium Jig and Bladed Jig Box

Plano EDGE Premium Jig and Bladed Jig Box

Plano EDGE Premium Jig and Bladed Jig Box

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Overview

This box is designed specifically for jig and bladed jig storage, with dividers that keep tackle separate and organized.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Tackle Box for Leaders and Fishing Line – Plano Leader Spool Box

Plano Leader Spool Box

Plano Leader Spool Box

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Overview

House all your leader spools in one place for easy access with this spool box. 

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Crankbait Tackle Box – Lure Lock Tackle Box

Lure Lock Tackle Box

Lure Lock Tackle Box

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Overview

The Lure Lock box’s design is customizable to fit all your tackle needs, and is a 100% USA made product.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Kayak Storage Tackle Box – Flambeau Premium TUFF Krate

Flambeau Premium TUFF Krate

Flambeau Premium TUFF Krate

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Overview

Flambeau’s Krate is marketed for safe, waterproof gun storage while kayaking, but is also an awesome tackle storage solution.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

Best Tackle Box for Ultralight Jigs – Eagle Claw Jig Box

Eagle Claw Jig Box

Eagle Claw Jig Box

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Overview

Considered an “all purpose” kit, this jig box comes with 15 glow jigs with a variety of patterns.

Pros

Cons

What We Like About It

What Should I Look Out for When Buying A Tackle Box? 

While each fisherman varies, their tackle box should fit their needs. That means making sure compartments are big enough to hold your favored tackle, transportation is easy, and latches are secure. Additionally, waterproof boxes are obviously preferred.

What Should I Carry In My Tackle Box?

The answer to this question is dependent on what you’re fishing for. If you’re primarily a trout fisherman and using a fly rod, make sure your tackle box is outfitted for clean organization of flies. If you prefer fishing with spinner bait, compartments may get iffy with tangling. 

A basic tackle box should include tools such as pliers, extra line, extra hooks, swivels, sinkers, and bobbers if you use them. If you’re questioning what bait to bring, take a sampling of each: soft bait, spinners, classic lures and other favorites.

How Should I Organize My Tackle Box?

Organizing your tackle box is entirely based on preference but there are some simple rules you should follow to keep things organized. Lay out your tackle either by size or lure type. This will make it easier to find what you’re looking for when you flip that lid.

Other options include organizing by color (for soft baits, for example) or by species, if you keep all of your tackle in one box.

How Do I Take Care of My Fishing Lures

When it comes to making sure your lures are well-cared for, the number one rule is to keep them dry. This is why you see many tackleboxes with the added features of waterproofing and water wicking tech. When putting your lures away, make sure you dry them off carefully or let them sit in the sun for a while before storing. Try not to let them get tangled and take your time putting each lure away in its proper place.

Why Do I Need a Tackle Box?

Tackle boxes are really an essential for every fisherman, no matter how often you fish. They’re perfect for storing your lures and tackle easily with at least some form of organization. Tackle boxes can also be tailored to fit your specific needs. 

While not every fishing trip is going to be dangerous, staying organized will help you be a better fisherman. Know where your gear is and that it’s secure. Transport it easily from place to place as needed with the appropriate tackle box in your fishing backpack.

Are There Any Bass Lures You Can’t Put In A Tackle Box?

It can be hard to find tackle boxes for big lures like glide baits. They take up a lot of room and, for the most part, tackle boxes tend to be on the smaller “transportable” side. 

Z-Man Plastics don’t always do well in tackle boxes due to the fact that they melt under certain conditions. Be sure to store this type of bait in a temperate area with little exposure to heat.

Would You Recommend a Bass Tackle Box Kit?

Yes, MonsterBass Subscription boxes are the best kits. This subscription box offers a wide variety of lures for the curious and adventurous angler. Each box is hand-picked and curated, and includes a guidebook to show you how to use those baits. MonsterBass subscriptions include access to instructional videos, free tournament entry fees, and more.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a classic angler or looking for the new and improved design in tackle boxes or looking for a gift for angler you know, there’s a huge variety out there to choose from. Know your habits, your gear, and your needs and you’ll be able to find the perfect fit.

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