Fishing Tackle Bags
Most anglers have accumulated all sorts of hooks, lures, weights, rods, reels and other assorted tackle over the years. We know which equipment works best in certain conditions, so the variety of equipment for any and all conditons can end up as an ‘organized mess’ when it comes to tackle storage. Being prepared with the right equipment is one of the keys to a successful fishing trip. One way to prepare yourself is by having an organized tackle system.
You have probably collected more fishing gear than you would ever need to use in one fishing trip, so why not separate your tackle in to separate tackle boxes (or the newer style tackle fishing bags) to make your fishing life a little easier? Take all of those baggies stuffed in bins and in pockets on your boat, and where ever the rest of your mess is, lay it all out, and start organizing.
Fishing tackle bags and boxes come in every size and shape you could ever need. What type of tackle storage system you choose is basically dependent on the quantity of certain types of fishing equipment you have, so it is really a matter of personal choice. Following are a few suggestions for storing your fishing tackle that you may be able to fit into your situation.
There are basically two types of tackle storage – a hard tackle box, or a soft tackle bag. We all know about the hard tackle boxes – they come in a variety of sizes, are made of hard plastic, so they are very tough when it comes to wear and tear. Tackle boxes have many different organizational features, such as drawers, fold out trays and top loading bins. The only down side to tackle boxes is their weight – especially the larger sizes, when filled.
Your other option is the soft tackle bags, which have become very popular in recent years. Fishing tackle bags are lightweight, with waterproof outer shells containing many storage pockets, and an interior that holds a number of plastic utility boxes to hold your lures. The number of boxes it can hold depends on the size of the bag, of course. This is the best feature about these tackle bags, because you have the option to load only the boxes you need for a particular outing, while leaving the others behind.
If you are only taking your trolling rods out, just take your trolling gear; if you are planning to just fish the reef, then take your reef gear and leave the heavy trolling boxes behind! Buying extra utility boxes is an inexpensive way to separate your tackle and have it ready to load and go on your next trip.
Tackle binders help to organize your lures and fit in to your tackle box or bag for easy access. We have also used individual plastic baggies for each lure and put them in one of our utility boxes. This way, they are in one place and not a tangled mess when one is needed in a hurry.
Tackle boxes and bags both have their positives and negatives, check them both out before deciding which is best for you. Look for something that is durable, with strong handles or straps than can handle the weight when filled. Also check to see if it is waterproof, or watertight. Can water still get inside? If so, you would not want to use it to store expensive equipment. Some boxes come equipped with this in mind, and have removable parts that allow it to be aired out.
Take the time some rainy or non-fishing day, to organize your fishing gear and you will be sure to have the right equipment every time you fish.
