If you're going to go paddle fishing, a good kayak tackle box is a must.
Kayaks are quickly becoming one of the most popular fishing tools on the planet these days. More anglers than ever are discovering the benefits of a small craft that is more portable and can get back into shallow, secret spots that other boats will never reach.
Kayak anglers are also enjoying more of their own exclusive tournaments, and manufacturers are starting to design more gear specifically with paddlers in mind.
There's only one problem with kayak fishing, and that's storage space. It's at a premium on any small craft, but especially a yak. You want to be able to haul all your fishing line, fishing lures, rods, reels, and other gear and have them close on hand. The challenge then lies in finding a place to put it all and keep it out of the way of your navigating, casting, and most importantly, fighting a fish.
Even with kayaks that are specifically designed for fishing, many anglers find themselves incorporating DIY-style improvements to increase the storage capacity or to make their gear more accessible.
The good news is, fishing tackle storage systems are evolving with the times and many manufacturers are now making kayak fishing tackle boxes, utility boxes, and bags specifically for use in a kayak. We've researched some of the best tackle box options for a kayak on the market today, and can help you to finally solve the gear storage problems you're having with your kayak.
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Plano Kayak V-Crate
This Plano Edge box has a V-shape that is specifically designed to fit into kayaks. The base is 12.5 inches wide by 11 inches long, and six inches deep. Plano includes four of their stowaway utility boxes in a location and angle that allows for easy access when the box is sitting behind you in the kayak. This lets you haul a ton of lures and other fishing gear and swap out your presentations quickly.
The base has a waterproof compartment perfect for your cell phone, keys, wallet, and other valuables that you want to keep dry during a day on the water. Another feature we appreciate is the side rails that Plano built into this tackle box that are specifically designed for rod holders and other accessories that you want easy access to while fishing.
Perception Kayaks Saddle Bag
This bag is designed for the Perception Outlaw kayak, but there's probably no reason why it couldn't also be used with other brands. This soft tackle bag is made from a tough, 600-denier vinyl on the exterior and a 210-denier nylon liner on the inside. It'll stand up to the rigors of your fishing. It is 15 inches wide by 4.5 inches deep, and 9.5 inches tall. It will hold two 3600 Plano boxes. Perception also built in some bungee loops to help secure the bag to your kayak. It also has some loops for you to store your pliers, hook removal tools, and other items you want to keep close at hand for when you need it in a pinch. This one has excellent user reviews who tout the bag's toughness.
Pelican Exocrate Fishing Bag
This is an excellent option for the shore or kayak angler who loves to fish the salt. The Exocrate is designed to fit a standard sized milk crate that's 13 by 13 inches, although Pelican also includes panels so it can be used without them. The interior will hold multiple smaller tray tackle boxes and storage bags. This kayak crate is built using a tough 1,200-deneir polyester. It's UV and saltwater resistant for fishing in the elements. This bag has special tie down loops so you can securely fasten it to your kayak. It also has two fishing rod holders. There's a lot of versatility here for the serious kayak angler.
Propel Paddle Gear Ultimate Kayak Bag
This is another soft tackle system designed to work with a milk crate. This one has dimensions of 17 x 14 x 7 inches. It's constructed primarily of a heavy duty 1,200-denier coated canvas. It's one of the higher rated fishing tackle bags on Amazon. In addition to the large main storage area, it also has several accessory pouches. Some additional elastic bands help to keep your tools handy and close. It also has a couple of fishing rod holders built in already. Just transfer all your gear over and head out fishing!
Flambeau Outdoors "IKE" 400 Tackle Bag
This one is not specifically designed for kayaks, but at a little under 15 inches by 10 inches by nine inches, it's going to be easy to integrate into one. This one was designed by pro bass angler Mike Iaconelli, who has also become a dedicated kayak angler in recent years. This bag features water-resistant fabrics made of a tough 600-denier and 420-denier materials. The bag has anti-corrosion technology built into the Flambeau organizer boxes that will help protect all your expensive fishing lures from getting rusty while in storage. There are four exterior, zipper-sealed pockets, and a rubber coated mesh pocket on the back of the bag for all your other odds and ends. This bag will work nicely not just in your kayak, but for all your angling adventures.
Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate
This box is expensive, but it's one of the best kayak tackle boxes on the market today. The dimensions are 13 x 12 x 18, and this box comes with four rod holders that can be adjusted to make for easier access. That large main compartment will hold multiple Plano storage boxes to keep all your tiny fishing accessories organized from the largest jigs to the tiniest sinkers and spinners. The lid system has an additional storage area. This is a good option for anyone who dislikes soft tackle bags and wants something tough and durable. This box is blow molded for extra strength. Just add some tie-downs to secure it to your kayak and you're ready to fish.
Yak Attack BlackPak
This kayak crate has spots to attach up to ten rod holders for the angler who likes to keep a lot of different presentations rigged up for fast action on the water. Yak Attack offers this box in two colors, tan and black. It's a no-nonsense box designed for serious fishermen and women. The dimensions are 17 x 14.2 inches. There's plenty of room for your soft plastic bags, and extra plastic storage boxes inside. This one is a little more expensive, but you can feel good knowing you're buying from an American company that builds their boxes here in the U.S.A.
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