What is perhaps the most important piece of equipment in a fisherman’s arsenal? That’s right it’s his tackle box! It is vital for any and every kind of fishing trip you embark on. So, finding just the right tackle box for your next saltwater fishing excursion is first and foremost.
If you want to know what your options are, then look no further. That is what this article is all about, giving you a list of some of the best picks for you to choose from and learn more about.
Everyone is a little different in their preference for tackle boxes, which is why we have listed several options. Anglers are often looking for features like the amount and size of compartments, utility, easy access, durability, quality, waterproof/ resistance, and much more.
There are so many options out there, which is why we are here to help guide you through this list of selected best saltwater tackle boxes. By the end, we’re certain you will find the one that will fit all your needs and necessities.
IN A HURRY? HERE ARE OUR TOP PICKS…
| Best Saltwater Tackle Box | Product | Dimensions LxWxH | Weight | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flambeau Outdoors Classic Tray Tackle Box |   | 16 x 9 x 8.25 inches | Click to Edit | Check price |
| Ready2Fish Fishing Tackle Box Organizer With Tackle Included |   | 13.9 x 7.6 x 7.4 inches | Click to Edit | Check price |
| Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box |   | 20.75 x 13.4 x 10.7 inches | Click to Edit | Check price |
| Plano One, Two, and Three Tray Tackle Box |   | 13 x 8 x 6.78 inches | Click to Edit | Check price |
| TopPlano Angled Tackle System |   | 8.43 x 11.34 x 9.69 inches | 5.65 lbs | Check price |
Table of Contents
Review Of The 5 Best Saltwater Tackle Boxes
Flambeau Outdoors 6391
- Classic Design: Cantilever 3-tray design for easy access and organization
- Capacity: 32 tackle compartments, increased base storage, and additional top latch compartment for tools, gear, etc
- Durable Materials: Oil resistant resin construction makes it water resistant and all-weather purposed
- Customizability: 13 removable dividers to adjust size of lure sections. Able to fit large and small tackle
- Material: Resin/plastic
- Weight: 2.8 pounds
- Compartments: 33
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This tackle box is special in a few ways. The first is that it is the 1-tray classic tray Pink Ribbon tackle box breast cancer support edition. This means that a portion of what you pay for this fishing tackle box is donated to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.
Customers love it because of its small size, yet surprising storage capacity. Anglers will appreciate how easy it is to carry, it’s water-resistant and the classic lift-up tray-style offers easy access.
There are 8 compartments on each tray with 6 removable dividers so you can stay well organized. The removable dividers are great for creating space for larger lures or tackle. Personally, I think a well-organized and compact tackle box like this is the way to go. Especially, if you’ll be walking along shore or fishing in a kayak.
The last feature is the increased base storage and volume to accommodate your bulkier tools and necessities like jaw spreaders, large spools of line, and pliers. The flip-top lid accessory is part of this feature. The top cover has extra storage compartments for such items which is great when you need to get to something quickly.
Ready2Fish Fishing Tackle Box Organizer With Tackle Included
- Folding Design: 2-tray tackle box with lift-up design provides simple and efficient access
- Included Accessories: 132 pieces of various assorted tackle and beginners fishing guide
- Durability: made from a strong and sturdy material to withstand long-term wear
- Capacity: Deep molded bottom storage, 2-trays with removable dividers on top tray to customize size of sections, and extra storage area on top lid
- 136 Piece Kit Features: Float, Swirltail grubs, Swirltail worms, Jigheads, Marabou Jig, Splitshot, Hooks, Fish stringer
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
This nifty little tackle box made it onto our list because of how true it is to its name. Essentially, you could pick this tackle bag up and just go right out fishing without needing anything except your rod.
Built durable and lightweight for easy portability no matter where you plan to go. It’s a classic single tray-style tackle box, as it is a formula that has worked for years. There are divided compartments in various sizes that can fit most of your necessary fishing tackle.
Customers are not only provided with the tackle storage system they are seeking but also with 132 pieces of ready-to-go fishing supplies. This assortment includes a variety of hooks, jig heads, soft plastic worms, a stringer, and more.
AND it includes a guide to give beginners tips on how to catch fish! I would have loved this when I first started out fishing, it’s a great way to get kids and amateurs started with all the basics they need and fast.
Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box
- Design: Compartment and 4-drawer design for maximum storage space and stays well organized
- Security: The brass-bailed latch provides optimal security while transporting this tackle box
- Capacity: Features 4 removable bait racks in the top compartment, 4-drawer compartments, bulk storage beneath lid, and side tool storage space
- Included Accessories: Two 3700 stowaway boxes that feature removeable dividers to organize your tackle as needed
- Warranty: Limited lifetime warranty
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Plano series for tackle storage has been around for a long time, and for good reason. They know how to design quality tackle boxes and fishing bags that anglers will actively choose over others. This is a more heavy-duty and storage-focused style of the tackle box. It would be perfect for fitting larger saltwater tackle and more of what you would need when fishing on the beach or the surf.
Some of its key features include a limited lifetime warranty, removable bait racks for added versatility and space, and the Plano four-drawer system. There is no shortage of storage area in this one, and it includes easy access side tool storage for your hook removers or pliers. As well as other specialized pockets for your saltwater fishing tackle.
There is also the brass-bailed latch for maximum security while traveling and transporting your tackle box. You won’t have to worry about it accidentally popping open and having a huge spill of lures and fishing equipment in your car, boat, or onshore.
It is the largest of the fishing tackle boxes in the Plano series which may make it a bit more bulky for carrying around over distances. However, if you are on the pier or fishing boat, this is the tackle bag you want because you’ll be able to fit all your necessities, favorites, and more for your fishing trip.
Plano One, Two, and Three Tray Tackle Box
- Design: Folding shelf tackle box available in single, two, or three trays
- Durability and Security: Sturdy carrying handle for easy transportation. Rust-proof brass-bailed latch for a secure seal
- Capacity: Single tray style, 2 top compartment storage pockets, and bulk storage in the bottom
- Customizability: 7-13 removable dividers, and the option to choose it in a couple of different colors
- Weight: 2.49 pounds
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
If you want Plano’s renowned quality that all anglers love AND easy portability, then this is the best tackle box option for you.
Here is another classic tray-style tackle box that every angler will love. It includes all the notable features of Plano like the brass-bailed latch that makes that sturdy snap so you know it’s secure. It also features two top-access storage areas and a cantilever tray with 7-13 adjustable compartments.
It was made small for convenience but still maximizes storage space with its deep tackle storage section that will fit your spool of line, pliers, knife, and larger fishing equipment.
When I first started out fishing back when I was young, I had an ancient Plano tackle box that was extremely similar to this one. It was my favorite for the longest time because I could take it with me wherever I went. I wish I still had it now because I would’ve used it as a travel box.
Plano Angled Tackle System
- Style: Angled stowaway boxes to store lures for optimal organization
- Security and Durability: Sturdy quality handle for carrying to and from your fishing site. Secure latch system that you can rely on
- Capacity: Bulk storage beneath the lid, dual side pockets, and 2 top-access storage pockets
- Included Accessories: Two 3560 stowaway boxes that fit into the main compartment and are present at a 15 degree angle, DuraView lid covers so you can see into storage areas and easily grab what you need
- Material: Blend
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Plano Angled Tackle System features three 3560 utility boxes, fishing tackle storage, and quality tackle storage.
For the kind of angler that likes to have more organization options for their fishing gear, this saltwater tackle box offers just that. The three 3560 utility boxes provide great space to store your soft tackle and hard plastic tackle separately.
With Plano’s quality build, it also includes DuraView doors and covers on the side pockets so you can see what fishing gear you store in there while getting used to the new layout of your tackle box. This is great for quick access and acquisition of lures and tools instead of having to open up every compartment to search for what you need.
The main compartment of this tackle bag is designed at a 15-degree angle to allow you convenient access.
Our Top Choice
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
The Plano Angled Tackle System is a sturdy tackling box in every direction. You are equipped with more than enough capability to fish anywhere and everywhere. You won’t have to exchange equipment before each trip. Plus you can take one or two of the stowaway boxes when you go kayak fishing or know you will be doing a lot of walking to different spots.
It is the best fishing tackle box on the list because of its versatility.
It’s great for saltwater fishing when fitting all your larger lures and equipment. It’s not super bulky, it keeps everything neat, and the clear lids ensure you know what is where so you can grab it quickly.
You just can’t go wrong with a Plano series tackle box, and this one just has that little bit extra that the others on the list don’t quite have.
How To Choose The Best Tackle Box: Buying Guide
Choosing the best tackle box for you is based on your personal preferences and needs. Take a look at the fishing gear you already have and ask yourself what you wish you could do, fit, or how you would want it organized.
Tackle bags are all about storage space. Do you want a fishing tackle box that is big enough to fit everything you already have plus what you plan to buy more? Do you want one that is small and convenient for kayak fishing, or shore fishing?
You need to know what purpose you want to use it for so that you can find the best tackle box for that.
Tackle boxes come in all sizes and styles, but they all maximize capacity and storage space no matter what. They help anglers to keep their gear well organized. Some people may be drawn more towards larger boxes that include the utility boxes for added lure separation and organization.
Others may like the tray-style tackle boxes because of the convenience and looser organization they can manage on the trays, and the bulky items they can store in the deep bottom storage area.
Let’s take a deeper look into the criteria of how to choose the best tackle boxes for you, and how we were able to come up with the list of choices above.
Types of Tackle Boxes
You can find small tackle boxes to carry with you in a kayak, or when you’re hiking back to a secret fishing hole. There are large tackle boxes that are bulky enough to hold everything you could possibly dream of using and that you would keep on you when you’re out in the boat, fishing from the beach or a pier.
There are plastic tackle boxes with folding trays, drawers, stowaway boxes, and more. These are the most popular type of tackle boxes that you will see. Almost every angler has had a plastic tackle box at some point in their life, and you almost always see kids with small ones.
Tackle bags are made from fabric material and often have a padded shoulder strap that makes them comfortable to carry. They have various pockets for your tools and gear, and often you carry varying sizes of clear, stowaway boxes to organize your lures, in this style tackle bag.
A tackle backpack is another style of tackle bag that you may see a few anglers sporting. It’s comfortable and convenient with dual padded shoulder straps and features pockets that are designed specifically to hold your lures and tackle. A tackle backpack is likely to have rod holders as well for your break down rods.
The main backpack section is able to hold several of the clear Plano stowaway boxes for you to organize and set up as you want. Unfortunately, this isn’t the best tackle bag choice for most anglers since they tend to be rather expensive, and perhaps should only be considered if you will be hiking to different fishing sites.
Plastic Tackle Boxes
Plastic tackle boxes are by far the most common style of tackle boxes. A formula that was created during older and simpler times that still holds up today. This hard tackle bag usually functions with folding trays that make it easy to organize your tackle. The trays have compartments that can be adjusted by removing or adding dividers to create more space for large saltwater tackle or more compartments for the small soft tackle.
The iconic folding tackle box is truly one of the best tackle boxes you can choose. There is a reason they are still around, and why they are on our list.
If you truly want the best of the best tackle boxes then the Plano tackle series is what you want. Most anglers have at least one Plano tackle box or had one at some point in their life. They have a strong reputation for quality, versatility, and durability.
They also have different style hard plastic tackle boxes like the 4-Drawer, and the Angled Tackle System. Both have made the list as the top tier of plastic saltwater tackle boxes because of their high ratings, great reputation, and usability. Both of them feature an ample amount of space to store all of your equipment and keep you organized.
The only downside is that they are bulkier and harder to carry around. However, it is my own expert opinion that every angler should have more than one tackle box: a large one, and a small one. This way when you go out on the boat or are spending the day on the pier fishing you can have all the lures and tackle you need from your large tackle box.
Then, when you’re going to be walking onshore, or kayak fishing you can just grab the lures and equipment you need to put in your small tackle box and go. The Plano One Tray Tackle Box is perfect just for that!
If you want your tackle box to be durable and high quality, then you can’t go wrong with a plastic tackle box.
Waterproof
If you’re going to be out fishing, then making sure your tackle box can withstand the elements is an important feature. Most anglers will be carrying some sort of electronics on them in some way whether it’s a camera or phone, etc.
A majority of tackle boxes have some sort of water protection. The hard tackle boxes are simply made from hard plastic that is water-resistant but may not be entirely waterproof. This doesn’t mean that your equipment isn’t protected from inclement weather like rain or getting splashed occasionally from the surf, typically they do quite well.
However, if they get submerged in a significant amount of water there may be leaks and you’ll find that water has indeed gotten inside.
There are similar issues with soft tackle bags and backpack tackle bags. Usually, they have hard plastic compartments or stowaway boxes inside that are durable and water-resistant or waterproof, but the material of the bag itself may become sodden if submerged or left out in rain.
Even if it doesn’t explicitly say waterproof, doesn’t mean it’s not at all. Nearly all tackle bags and boxes are water-resistant so your lures and electronics will be protected most of the time. It is up to the angler to be aware of their equipment’s limitations and prepare appropriately.
Size
The size is the most important feature to keep in mind when looking at tackle boxes. On the other hand, you shouldn’t consider a tackle bag that would be too big to get into the water or along a beach if that’s how you fish most of the time. If you fish many different species, you need perhaps a great variety of tackle and gear every trip.
So, choosing a tackle bag or box with the right size and features is important so you can pack along with all the gear that you know you’ll need and use the most.
Design
Anglers with a properly fitted back shape should have a tackle bag design that allows them ease and comfort while carrying. Anglers should be able to carry their gear and allow them to tailor their travel. You should order the bag according to the size and depth.
This is why a tackle bag with a padded shoulder strap feature is a good choice. Some anglers may have a harder time carrying a large plastic tackle box with just the handle, especially if it’s heavy. Having a shoulder strap that you can sling across your body will make transporting it easier on your body.
Small tackle boxes won’t cause as much of an issue because of their lightweight design. They were made to be carried and to travel around with. You can find small tackle boxes that feature a surprising amount of storage space, and that may be all that you need. Hence why we listed a few of these as some of our top picks.
Durability
Your tackle boxes are supposed to be a rugged piece of equipment, capable of withstanding the elements and getting tossed around a bit. So, you want them to be durable, and durability is determined by materials, construction, and how you take care of them.
A soft fishing tackle bag made from fabric material is pretty durable. It’s also comfortable because they have a padded strap handle or shoulder straps. But, when loaded down with all your fishing lures, boxes, and tools, it can put a lot of pressure on that fabric. Which usually means it will wear faster over time and begin to fray or split sooner than you’d like.
You can prevent this from happening to your soft tackle bag by not overfilling it to the point where the weight is visibly putting strain on the material, and just take care of it and store it properly. Shoulder strap tackle bags are very comfortable and easy to carry around, and they are typically quite durable. So, do your part in ensuring its’ longevity.
Tackle backpack bags may hold up a little better since the weight is distributed more evenly through the shoulder straps.
Plastic fishing tackle boxes are notably durable as well. Sometimes, more so than a fishing tackle bag. This is because of the material, these tackle boxes are typically built from a blend of plastics and resin. This makes them durable, water and oil-resistant, and all-around constructed to take a bit of a beating.
This is why our top 5 list of saltwater tackle boxes consists of all plastic tackle box options. They are the most common and oldest design of tackle boxes. Tried and tested true over many years which is why they are still around today. The main issues you’ll find with plastic tackle boxes are hinges breaking, or compartment lids popping off. Most of which are fixable.
Key Insights & Takeaways
Choosing the right tackle box or fishing bag can be hard. There are so many options that you may not know what to choose. That is why we are here, though. We have provided you with a list of saltwater tackle boxes that are great for more than just saltwater fishing!
They can be used any way that you need them. We provided a variety of small, portable options for those that prefer kayak fishing or walking along the shores. As well as larger options for those that need all their large saltwater tackle with them at all times.
Whether it’s because you’re stationary on a beach or pier, or on a charter, or fishing boat. We have covered as much ground as possible in what could be the best tackle box for you.
-Happy Fishing-
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Tackle Bag?
Tackle boxes and tackle bags are anglers’ primary ways of storing all their fishing gear, lures, and equipment. They are the main way to transport all your fishing supplies to where you’ll be fishing. They are designed to be convenient to carry with you and come in all shapes and sizes. A tackle box is an angler’s most important piece of equipment, other than their fishing rod.
Choosing the right fishing tackle bags and boxes for you take some consideration. What kind of fishing will you be using it for? Are you going to be walking or traveling a lot? Are you fishing from shore or a pier? What are the main features you’re looking for? These are the questions you should think of answers to while shopping for your tackle box.
Stay tuned for the rest of this article because we will not only provide you with a list of the best tackle boxes that we’ve found, but also answer some of your questions about the different types of tackle bags and fishing tackle boxes, their features, and more.
What are the Advantages of using tackle bags?
If you are considering purchasing a tackle box, the main question to answer is why and what are the benefits?
Some people may prefer to go out with as little gear to carry as possible. Maybe you just take a couple of lures in your fishing vest, a pair of pliers and that’s it. There is nothing wrong with that, it’s easy and it’s fast.
However, the vast majority of anglers that you meet will be sporting some kind of tackle box or tackle bag. Why is that the case? Because there is a huge advantage to having one with you! Your tackle box is your lifeline when you’re out fishing. It is there so you can try a variety of lures to see what the fish will bite.
You carry it with you because it is security for any of the multitude of things that could go wrong. Whether you get a nasty knot in your line and have to cut way more off than you expect, you lose lures to fish, trees, underwater structures, or you wind up with a hook in your hand.
Carrying a tackle box with you can really help you out of many snags so you can stay out fishing for as long as you want. You can fit basic first aid materials in it, spools of line, spare swivels, weights, bobbers, etc. It is, in fact, the most important piece of fishing equipment for you to carry with you.
What is the best type of tackle box?
It is all about preference, but the most popular kind of tackle box is a plastic tackle box. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and it is what most anglers choose to carry. They’re able to store a lot, the folding trays are a great design for organizing lures and having everything right there.
Their bulk storage is capable of storing everything an angler would need like extra spools of line, pliers, scale, hook remover, jaw spreaders, etc. Most bulk storage pockets on plastic fishing tackle boxes are capable of storing large items like those.
How do you choose the best saltwater tackle box?
Every angler’s needs are different, so choosing the right tackle box depends on what you intend to use it for. We have reviewed all of these qualities to come up with the best tackle boxes suited for saltwater fishing, though they can be used for every kind of fishing!
The ideal fishing tackle box should feature:
– Capacity to store all necessary tackle.
– Adjustable/ varied compartments for organization of your hard and soft tackle.
– Easy accessibility to lures and gear.
– Durable material to withstand the elements and transportation.
– Can easily carry and travel in a kayak, boat, or onshore.
– Waterproof/ resistant.
What is the best saltwater tackle box?
If you’re planning on saltwater fishing then it is best to have a tackle that has the quality to withstand the strength of saltwater fish species. As well as the ability to resist the high corrosiveness of the saltwater.
A few well-known lures to keep in your fishing bag are:
– Soft plastic paddletail
– Gold Spoon
– Berkley Gulp Shrimp
– White Bucktail jig
– Top-water popper
– Soft plastic jerkbait
– Twitchbait
Overall we recommend The Plano Angled Tackle System as the best saltwater tackle box.
What is the best setup for saltwater fishing?
Basic is often the best way to start out with any kind of fishing. Other than wanting to look into saltwater fishing tackle boxes, you’ll want to get the right rod setup.
A seven-foot graphite rod with an 8-12 pound monofilament line and a 3000 to 4000 size reel is a great set up to start out. It is similar to what you would use when fishing in freshwater, but it works just as well when fishing for various saltwater fish species. Some of which include Redfish, Snook, Trout, and Tarpon.
What is the best large tackle box?
If you are looking for a large tackle box that features the capacity to store all your lures and gear then the best tackle bag to go with is either the Plano Angled Tackle System or the Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box. Not only are they made from a quality brand with a great reputation, but their functionality suits all your needs when it comes to features, accessibility, and capacity.
The Plano 4-Drawer Tackle Box has an ample amount of room to organize all your lures and baits in the drawers, separating your hard and soft tackle. The main compartment beneath the lid has removable bait rocks for lures like spinnerbaits and buzzbaits.
You can also fit gear like pliers, gloves, or hook removers there as well. The lid features two side pockets to also fit other tools and equipment you may want to reach quickly.
The Plano Angled Tackle System is our top pick because of its versatility. You can remove the smaller stowaway boxes to use out in the kayak and leave the main box at home or in the car to save space which is an option most anglers would appreciate.
Besides that, the entire tackle box is constructed with anglers in mind and has quick access to all your gear through the stowaway boxes set at a 15-degree angle for easy reach, see-through lids to side pockets, and room to hold all that you need.
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