Are you struggling to find a gift for a special angler this year? Landing on the right piece of tackle or apparel can be a challenge, especially if you have no experience in fishing. But tackle storage is always a good place to start. Most anglers know the challenge of storing their big lures, line spools, rods, and terminal tackle. We all fumble through pliers and loose hooks and weights it seems. However, selecting the best tackle box system for that special angler can also be difficult.
Especially if the angler seemingly owns a closet of fishing tackle with boxes from floor to ceiling. To illustrate this, I’ve grabbed my own must-have boxes and bags that go with me everywhere! Each item has played a crucial role in my fishing over the years and I couldn’t imagine a day on the water without them. Here are 3 perfect tackle box gift ideas that are frequently needed and always appreciated!
1.) Plano Waterproof StowAway Utility Boxes
The Plano Waterproof Stowaway is a perfect idea for storing large and small tackle. The models come in the 3700 for larger items and 3500 size. I use the 3500 for jerk baits (pictured above), but it could be used for all sorts of lures. Each box has adjustable dividers, making it easy to customize your lure selection anywhere. The tight sealing clamps give it the title – waterproof. Each snap lock clamps down hard and securely, giving the fisherman a feeling of relief. This feature is largely beneficial when fishing in saltwater. Ask anyone and they’ll tell you the worst feeling is opening your box to see rusted hooks and split rings. Another feature I like is the thin design, which allows you to slide it under seats and within compartments. It’s a gift that an angler will open and declare with a smile “A Plano Box! Nice!”
2.) Evolution Drift Series Backpack
When it comes to organizing everything in one tackle bag, the Drift Series Backpack from Evolution Outdoors knocks it out of the park. It’s an ideal gift for the person who will embark on a long fishing adventure. This storage system has a top hatch that fits a small tackle box, several soft plastic bags, an extra fishing line, and pliers. It is conveniently located at the top of the bag, which allows the angler to grab what they need fast while making a bait change.
The sides are outfitted with four pockets with rubberized mesh slips. The main body of the tackle bag is designed to hold six plastic trays that come with the bag. It’s a perfect storage gift for shore-based fishermen and boaters alike. The drift backpack’s compact size allows you to store it on a boat or kayak with convenient access. Each shoulder strap has reinforced padding, which makes it comfortable for carrying along shorelines. For a more in-depth review of this tackle bag, check out an in-depth review here.
3.) Plano Edge Fishing Tackle Box
Plano is one of the best tackle box brands on the market. Their designs are waterproof and easy to open and close. This security prevents salt spray from entering the box and ruining fishing tackle. Another great feature is the clear plastic cover, which allows the angler to scan what they need before grabbing it. Plano utilizes a special chemical inside the box that prevents rust, and toward the back of the interior is a water wick compartment that prevents moisture buildup. It’s also durable and allows the angler to fish in rough areas like rocky shorelines. This protects lures from spilling out and taking damage. Plano offers different sizes to hold terminal tackle (hooks, weights, and other fishing equipment) and lures such as jigs and top waters. If you’re looking to impress this holiday season consider the best tackle box brand.
4.) Evolution Outdoor Big Bait Bag
Evolution Outdoor recently released the Big Bait Bag which is a specialized tackle bag designed for giant lures. I’ve found this to be essential fishing gear. Big lures take up space. A hard box often isn’t equipped to store larger items. The box itself takes up space too. The Big Bait Bag folds out into four durable compartments designed to withstand large hooks. Additionally, each compartment has two vent holes for water to escape. The greatest thing about the Big Bait Bag is the compact size it folds into – you can store it anywhere – boats, kayaks, backpacks. But this storage system is meant for experienced anglers, as it takes practice to master fishing larger baits. But for that person who’s been dangling for years, surprise them with a brand new way to store big lures! For a more in-depth review of this tackle bag, check out an in-depth review here.
Honorable Storage Mentions
Lure slips: Evolution Outdoor produces high-grade material lure wraps to protect your environment and the lure from damage, which every outdoorsman appreciates! These durable covers are a great gift for anglers who hook more fabric than fish! They can also be placed around lures to protect car interiors when transporting a fishing rod. Hooks will become lodged in car seats (and sometimes skin!).
A rod rack: is a perfect idea for the angler looking to manage his arsenal of rods. When their fishing poles stored freely begin to resemble an enchanted forest of dead trees in the closet, it’s time for a change! Rush Creek Guy Harvey Bass 8 Rod Wall Rack (say that three times fast!) is for anglers looking to organize more efficiently. It’s an easy installation with all the necessary mounting components including a wall stencil, clear directions, and cool artwork backing. The rack fits eight rods of any size and fits almost anywhere. It’s perfect for freshwater and saltwater fishermen.
5.) Ugly Stik Tackle Bag
A plain and simple gift idea comes in the form of a basic tackle bag. Ugly Stik produces an affordable bag that redefines the word durable. With a waterproof, no-skid base, molded tool holster, and exterior pockets with grab handles, this bag is perfect for storing and transporting terminal tackle, small boxes, soft baits, and bobbers, over rugged terrain. The main compartment flap is protected by reinforced material and two durable buckles. I’ve been using this bag for several years and found that it fits what I need for a short trip to the lake.
It’s light enough that a fisherman can walk with it for miles without fatigue. The bag’s shoulder strap comes with a reinforced pad for comfort while carrying. It’s a perfect bag for those who fish from shore, ie. trout farms, and ponds. The compact size ( even when full) allows you to store it in boat compartments, behind the seat of a kayak (or secured to the bow), and shelved in a closet. Plus – it just looks stylish on the water! It’s perfect storage for anglers committed to freshwater fishing who transport bobbers, extra line spools, small utility boxes for hooks and weights, and pliers. Ugly Stik did a good job designing a bag that fits every freshwater anglers needs.
