The 6 Best Fishing Backpacks Any Angler Will Love

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Any angler knows having the right gear can make or break a fishing trip. After all, going fishing isn't always as simple as packing up your tackle box and fishing rod. Sometimes, you need a whole slew of fishing gear — and having a fishing backpack is essential for keeping all of your items neatly organized (and easily portable) in one storage space. Not only are these some of the best fishing backpacks for anglers of all skill levels, but you'll be amazed at how much a shoulder bag designed for fishing increases the accessibility of all your gear. You'll have easy access to your fishing pliers, tackle boxes, and anything else you might need, all with the help of some shoulder straps.

Whether you use it as a rod holder while you're fly fishing, a place to hold your water bottle or tackle trays, or need to store lots of essentials for a whole day out on the water, we rounded up the best options below:

 

1. Our Top Pick

Wild River Tackle Tek Recon Lighted Backpack - Amazon, $129.00 

This option from Wild River is our top pick for a great fishing backpack that doesn't have a rod holder — but all of the other bells and whistles make this one close to unbeatable. It has an LED light system that can help you find anything if you're fishing in the dark, and it also has a removable pliers holder and a steel cable lanyard keep all your small tools nearby for the ultimate in convenience. Some of its other features include a rain cover that will keep your gear safe when the weather gets bad, as well as a clear pocket to keep things like maps and your fishing licenses easily visible. An included rain cover keeps your fishing gear safe from inclement weather, and a clear internal pocket keeps your valuable items like licenses, maps, and phones safe but visible. You can also fit up to four trays in this durable backpack. One reviewer writes: "Well thought out design and quality materials...If you want to haul all of your gear for boat fishing or deep sea fishing, this may not be for you. However, if you are like me and selective about what you bring according to where and what you will be fishing, this is absolutely perfect."

2. Our Top Pick With a Rod Holder

Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack with Utility Boxes - Sportsman's Warehouse, $59.97

Featuring a rod holder and carry system, this pack from Spiderwire is an angler's best friend. This is the choice if you're looking for a backpack with a rod holder — but it also includes three utility boxes for all your fishing must-haves as well. There's also a built-in sunglasses case with foam padding, as well as an adjustable main compartment that can be divided into three separate compartments. A cooler compartment keeps your drinks, food, and bait cool throughout the day, and the side pockets allow for easy access to smaller tools you may need quickly.

3. A Unique High-Tech Option

Wild River Nomad XP Lighted Backpack with Charging System - Amazon, $229.00

This bag is built for durability and is a great fishing tackle bag for any fisherman — but it's the addition of a USB power supply that makes this a unique choice. It also comes with a charging cable and four adapter tips for every type of device. There's also a three-level, rotating LED light system in the main compartment allows for easy access to gear even in low-light situations — and can change from white to green if you need it. There are also two tackle trays included to keep your items organized. Other features include shoulder pads for comfortable wear, internal and external mesh pockets, and a waterproof cover.

4. Best Sling Option 

KastKing Pond Hopper Sling Fishing Backpack - Amazon, $44.99

The KastKing backpack is a great deal if you're looking for a lightweight simple option. It features a removable main compartment, storage space for four tackle trays, and water-resistant nylon fabric and PVC coating. Two waist strap pockets are perfect for holding small tools like fishing pliers, line, or soft baits. There is a rod holder on this one, so you'll be able to keep your hands free. It's easy to use: Unzip the side pocket, place the rod butt in the pocket, then secure the rod to the top of the bag with the bungee loop. Some customers said they were able to fit two collapsible rods in it!

5. This Option With 11 Pockets 

Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack - Amazon, $79.99

This Piscifun pack is made of high-quality water-resistant nylon fabrics and features padded adjustable shoulder straps — but what makes it stand out is its wealth of compartments for the ultimate in organizing. The main compartment can fit four included trays, but you can adjust this to create one large storage space. There is a total of 11 zippered compartments in this backpack, and there are up to 18 small areas in those zippered compartments for everything you'll need to bring. It also has a padded foam sunglasses case, a retractable bottle pocket, and smart details like rubber feet to keep the bag elevated. It's an organization-lover's dream.

6. A Sleek, Stylish Fishing Backpack

Plano A-Series Tackle Backpack - Amazon, $79.99

If you are looking for something a little sleek and stylish (which would make a great gift, this Plano A-Series backpack provide both without sacrificing functionality. This easily fits the five included utility boxes, has internal dividers for organization and outer side pockets and dual side attachments to keep anything in reach. The padded straps and back cushion make this a comfortable option as well.

This post was originally published on June 15, 2021. 

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