TOP 14 Best Tackle Bags & Boxes for Saltwater Fishing – Get Organized in 2024!

Part of the joy of fishing is to do with the angler’s battle with the elements. Come rain or shine, nothing should stop you from getting out to enjoy what you love.

But the weather and the water can take its toll – and not just on us.

That’s why we need something tough, rugged, and durable to store our tackle in. Something that’s going to stand up to Mother Nature, and help to keep our gear protected.

So, read on to discover the best tackle bags for saltwater – and I’ve thrown a few tackle boxes in for good measure, too.

A buyer’s guide will follow.

Time to sort your kit out!

Saltwater Tackle Bags – At-a-Glance

There’s no point firing right into the reviews if you’re not sure what you’re looking for.

With that in mind, keep an eye out for the following features and factors when shopping for a new saltwater tackle bag.

  • Tackle bag style – bags or boxes? Crates or backpacks? Pick your poison.
  • Materials/weatherproofing – what’s the product made from, and is it going to take a beating?
  • Size, weight, and portability – how much gear do you need to carry – and how far do you need to go?
  • Pockets and compartments – how is everything organized? Do you like the design?
  • Straps and handles – is it easy to carry?
  • Extra features – find out what’s useful to you.
  • Cost – Does it come within your budget?

Focusing on these points, I’ve compiled a list of my top three saltwater tackle bags, to help guide you in the right direction.

See if you agree with my choices:

First up, it’s hard to overlook this KastKing tackle bag. Affordable, built to last, and with an excellent amount of five-star reviews, it’s up there with the best tackle bags ever made.

Next, I’ve gone for the Plano weekend series – an attractive and practical option that’s also offered at a great price point. Highly portable, this is a great option for fishing on the go.

Finally, I love the Ugly Stik fishing bag – which is anything but ugly! Packed with clever storage solutions and offering loads of room, this is another highly rated option that anglers are raving about.

So, what are your thoughts? Keep reading for an in-depth review of all these bags and more, and see if you can find the one that’s right for you.

The 14 Best Saltwater Fishing Tackle Bags and Boxes 2024

KastKing Saltwater Fishing Tackle Bag

After weighing up all the options, it was a pretty easy choice in the end to lead with this behemoth of a tackle bag from budget-friendly fishing stalwarts Kastking.

Fully saltwater resistant, you can store up to seven 3600 lure boxes, all protected in the super-tough, 420 Denier rip-stop nylon.

A generous 12 internal and external pockets will help you sort all your gear, while a hydroponic coating repels water on the outside, and a PVC lining protects anything inside.

A molded tool holder keeps useful equipment to hand, and a pair of these amazing saltwater fishing pliers would look great added to a bag that’s simply packed with useful features.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Very highly rated.
  • Neo-grip shoulder strap.
  • Large capacity.
  • 100% waterproof bottom.
  • Choice of colors.

Cons

  • Might be too large for some.

Takeaway

Tough, durable, and loaded with cool stuff, this is easily up there with the most popular saltwater tackle bags on the market today, and would be a great addition to any self-respecting angler’s gear.

Plano Weekend Series Tackle Storage

To be honest, I could have filled an entire review simply by using Plano tackle boxes and storage – as they are regarded as some of the best in the world.

But that simply wouldn’t be fair on everyone else now, would it? This is their Weekend Series premium tackle storage bag that will fit four, 3600 boxes in the main compartment.

On the outside, you have three zippered pockets and three meshed pockets – with a sturdy tool-holder in a convenient location.

A light-colored interior assists in finding tackle when it gets dark, and the lightweight, portable design makes it perfect for those spur-of-the-moment fishing trips.

Pros

  • Great price.
  • Name to trust.
  • Highly rated.
  • Two 3600 boxes included.
  • MOLLE compatible.

Cons

  • Be aware that it’s actually very small.

Takeaway

It’s not the best tackle bag if you need to carry a large amount of gear, but for casual anglers that want to get away at the weekend with a skeleton kit – look no further.

And speaking of, pair it with one of these awesome telescopic rods when you need to leave for the water in a moment’s notice.

Ugly Stik Fishing Bag

Let’s take things back up a notch now with this roomy – but manageable – 15-liter fishing bag from Ugly Stik, who are, of course, a subsidiary of the more well-known Shakespeare fishing brand.

This is a practical and well-thought-out tackle bag that offers plenty of versatile storage options, while the non-slip, compression-molded bottom prevents it from sagging.

It can hold up to four tackle boxes, with a padded shoulder-strap and mesh-top carry handle for comfortable transport.

Tough and durable, it features a pliers holder on the front which is removable and comes with a handy belt clip, and also provides built-in dividers to keep things tidy.

Pros

  • Very highly rated.
  • Attractive design.
  • Four tackle boxes included.
  • Great size for a kayak.

Cons

  • Storage boxes aren’t the best.
  • Not everyone will like the “Ugly Stik” name/emblem.

Takeaway

A quality tackle bag that is well-designed, spacious without being too large, and looks stylish and smart. If you can see past the name, that is…

Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack

This Piscifun offering is one of the best fishing backpacks around (and if you want to see more – follow that link). I’ve included it here as an alternative to normal fishing bags, and to give you more of a choice.

It boasts so many features that it might be too much for some people, but is as tough and durable as they come, made from superior high quality water-resistant 1200D high density nylon fabrics, paired with durable KAM buckle and SBS zippers.

A total of 11 independent compartments offer plenty of room for tackle storage, with a removable clapboard in the main compartment to keep things organized.

Rubber feet protect it from the ground/damp, and a built-in rain cover keeps everything safe in a downpour.

Pros

  • Very highly rated.
  • Premium-quality construction.
  • Water bottle pocket.
  • Hard sunglasses case.
  • Highly portable.

Cons

  • A little more expensive – but you’re getting a lot for your money here.

Takeaway

It’s hard to find fault with this, and it’s probably one of the best saltwater tackle backpacks around. All kinds of quality from Piscifun, and it even comes with four tackle trays and in a choice of colors.

Flambeau Outdoors 4007 Tuff Tainer

I did say I’d include some saltwater tackle boxes to mix things up amongst the bags, and so I’m true to my word with this basic option from Flambeau Outdoors.

While this might be one of the cheapest saltwater tackle boxes ever, it’s certainly garnered a lot of decent reviews.

Perhaps that’s because of the Zerust anti-corrosion technology, with a formula that’s included in the dividers to release a corrosion-inhibiting vapor and forms a protective layer on metal that prevents rust.

Sounds like some James Bond kinda stuff to me, but I’m all for it if it stops my lures getting damaged.

Pros

  • Up to five years of rust protection.
  • Outstanding price.
  • Very highly rated.
  • Easy-to-view lid.
  • 12 adjustable dividers included.

Cons

  • Not the most durable – but you get what you pay for.
  • Latches might be problematic in some copies.

Takeaway

You might as well give this a go if you’re looking for a decent saltwater fishing tackle box that’s going to protect your gear – and it can certainly rival the more well-known brands for an equivalent box at this price.

Plano Weekend Series Kayak Crate Bags

Another addition to their Weekend Series is this kayak crate soft bag from Plano. Capable of carrying up to nine stowaways, it comes with two as standard, and is designed to fit securely in a milk crate on your craft.

It can still rest freestanding as an alternative to using a crate for kayak fishing, and it has been made with durable, water-resistant fabric that can be secured with a series of sturdy zippers, straps, and buckles.

The large interior has two main sections for bulk storage, while the ingenious, four-panel design allows you to carry as much or as little as you need.

It’s finished with multiple D-rings and two tool holders for even more carrying options to keep your gear right where you need it.

Pros

  • Affordable price for what you get.
  • Name to trust.
  • Highly customizable.
  • Large lid storage area.
  • Perfect for kayak fishing.

Cons

  • Not that useful for anything else.

Takeaway

If you’re a keen kayak angler, then something like this should really be an essential choice for the back of your craft.

Wild River Fishing Tackle Bag

Now, if you’re looking for something a bit special – maybe you want to pick up a premium gift for the angler in your life – then you could do much worse than this beautiful fishing tackle bag from Wild River.

There isn’t enough space here to list all its awesome fishing features, but it includes a retracting steel cable lanyard for tools, keys, or other valuables you don’t want to risk losing.

It can fit up to five trays, with two, adjustable dividers for customization, as well as a clear waterproof pocket inside for anything you really don’t want to get wet.

And there’s also a handy LED light system located in the handle for finding your gear in the dark.

Pros

  • Packed with features.
  • Five trays included.
  • Rugged, durable construction.
  • Sunglasses holder.
  • Solid bar handle.

Cons

  • Expensive.
  • On the bulky side.
  • Mixed reviews on saltwater use.

Takeaway

There’s no doubt this is a beautiful fishing tackle bag that has more features than you can shake a rod at, but the price and size might put some anglers off.

KastKing Fishing Tackle Bags

Let’s throw in another Kastking option now – since they seem to have this salt and freshwater tackle bag stuff covered.

This is another tough, durable, and well-made offering from their range, made from a water-resistant, 600 Denier rip-top polyester.

Capable of holding up to five 3700 tackle boxes, it has plenty of internal and external storage pockets for equipment and gear, with a water-resistant PVC lining inside for added protection.

Rubber feet on the bottom prevent any damage from the ground, and the loop pulls and zippers are designed to be high-visibility for when you’re fishing in lower light conditions.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Pliers holder.
  • MOLLE compatible.
  • Comfortable padded shoulder strap and handle.
  • Bungee cord system.

Cons

  • No tackle boxes included.
  • More colors would have been nice.

Takeaway

An ideal tackle bag for surf fishing, this is a practical, vibrant, and durable product from Kastking that will get the job done no matter the conditions.

Plano Angled Tackle System

We certainly hadn’t seen the last of Plano products in this review – not when we’re covering their specialist subject – and this is a highly durable angled tackle box system for use just about anywhere.

Designed to be super-sturdy and reliable no matter the conditions, it offers three tackle boxes up at a 15-degree angle for easy access.

You’ll find that three of Plano’s revered stowaway boxes are included, with additional storage located in the lid and at the sides. And with Duraview covers and doors – you can see what you’re looking for without having to open everything up.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • Compact and highly portable.
  • Configurable for saltwater lures.
  • Solid construction.
  • Attractive design.

Cons

  • Not waterproof.

Takeaway

As rugged and durable as they come, this is a quality tackle box from Plano that should stand up to whatever you throw at it, or whatever you throw it at.

Flambeau Pro-Angler Evolution Tackle Bag

Flambeau Pro-Angler Evolution Outdoor Tackle Bag

Here we have a pro-level tackle bag from Flambeau that features a large opening for easy access to all your gear, as well as loads of pocket options, compartments, and storage space.

Capable of holding up to five 5007 Flambeau utility boxes with Zerust dividers, there’s more than enough room here for the kitchen sink.

Three boxes are included, and there’s a collapsible back slot that can hold a further two boxes if you really need more space.

A diamond gusset mesh pliers holder is within easy reach, and the padded shoulder strap ensures a comfortable transition from home to fishing spot – even if this bag is bursting to the brim.

Pros

  • Professional design and quality.
  • Mesh zippered top pocket.
  • Heavy-duty zippers and hardware.
  • Plenty of storage compartments and pockets.
  • Choice of colors.

Cons

  • On the more expensive side.

Takeaway

If you’re looking for a professional grade fishing tackle bag, then the Evolution Outdoor from Flambeau is a great fit. And it’s also available as a backpack – if you’d prefer something a bit more travel-friendly.

Plano KVD Signature Series Tackle Bag

Speaking of durable, let’s stay with Plano now for this tank-like tackle storage bag that has most certainly been designed to combat the elements and saltwater erosion.

A sort of hybrid tackle box and bag, it’s available in the 3600 or 3700 size, with four compatible tackle containers included in the size you choose.

The molded plastic top holds an additional stowaway, while the tough, elevated base is waterproof with rubber feet. Made with a TPE coating, it offers you excellent water-resistant protection, and has an additional waterproof pocket to keep your valuables.

Pros

  • Name to trust.
  • MOLLE attachment points.
  • Rugged construction.
  • Velcro pliers holder.
  • Mesh back pocket.

Cons

  • On the more expensive side.
  • Not the most portable.

Takeaway

If you’re really concerned about the weather and the water conditions, then this could just be the tackle bag/box for you. It probably helps if you’re using a boat, but it’s easily one of the best tackle boxes for saltwater fishing. Or bags. Whatever.

Ozark Trail Saltwater Fishing Tackle Bag

Ozark Trail Saltwater Fishing Tackle Box

With a capacity of 15-liters and built to withstand even the harshest of environments, the Ozark Trail Saltwater Fishing Bag will suit just about any angler.

Three medium utility boxes are included, as well as 10 bait bags, and there’s more than enough room to house everything you need.

A top-loading design, it offers a padded carry handle and shoulder strap for ease of transport, with multiple zippered pockets inside to keep things organized.

Two further zippered pockets on the sides helps you have fast access to important tools and gear, while stretch mesh compartments inside the compartments are a nice touch for ensuring this bag is as tidy as it is stylish.

Pros

  • Great price point.
  • Attractive design.
  • Pliers holder.
  • Top zip pocket.
  • Impact-resistant base.
  • Rear mesh pocket.

Cons

  • None to speak of.

Takeaway

I can’t find fault with this, and I’m considering picking one up myself! The Ozark Trail Saltwater Fishing Bag looks great, with loads of storage solutions, all housed within a tough, durable exterior with reinforced bottom. And at this price point, you really can’t go wrong.

Runcl Fishing Tackle Box

Let’s add one more solid tackle box for saltwater fishing now with this tray that is available in a choice of sizes.

It’s been designed and built with a thicker material than your average stowaway, so you’re getting a more durable tackle box as a result.

With easy-to-open but secure latches, anti-slip removable dividers, and a 360-degree waterproof gasket, you can be sure that anything you keep inside one of these boxes is going to be protected.

And it comes with multiple dividers, so you can customize it to fit those larger saltwater lures with no problem. Probably one of the best saltwater tackle boxes out there.

Pros

  • Rugged, durable construction.
  • Sun-protection for contents.
  • Compact, yet spacious storage.
  • Spinnerbait rack.

Cons

  • A little more expensive than your usual stowaways.

Takeaway

There’s plenty of features to like and enjoy about this tackle box, not least the durable construction, waterproof features, and that UV protection is a nice touch to keep your expensive lures as bright as when you first bought them.

Last Cast Tackle Surf Fishing Tackle Bag

As surf fishing is saltwater, it’s probably a good idea to throw in an option specially designed for anglers who like to head to the beaches and shorelines.

This is a highly portable tackle bag that has been made exactly for that purpose, and features three internal tubes for larger plugs and lures.

Side pouches offer additional storage options for tools and extra gear, while a slide pocket in front is a great space to carry line. And we’re not done there, as another pouch is useful for even more jigs, spoons, bucktails, and swimmers.

Made with a durable, highly water-resistant material, this bag should be more than competent at handling most fishing situations by the surf.

Pros

  • Affordable price for what you get.
  • Lightweight and portable.
  • Great storage options for surf anglers.

Cons

  • Not the most attractive bag out there.
  • Only really useful for surf fishing.

Takeaway

Highly weather and water-resistant, this is one of the best tackle boxes for surf fishing around. And check out these options if you’re looking for some great fishing jackets to keep YOU protected as well.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Saltwater Tackle Bag

There are plenty of things you need to consider when you’re in the market for something to store and transport your fishing tackle in, so read on for some tips and advice in our complete buyer’s guide below.

fisherman fishing at the ocean

Bag/Box Style and Design

When it comes to choosing the right saltwater tackle bag for your needs, your first decision should be to pick the style/design that’s going to suit.

Are you looking for a portable bag with shoulder straps and carrying handle? Or is it more a tackle box that’s made from hard plastic to store and organize your lures and other gear?

I’ve included both bags and boxes in the review, and there are even some products that could be considered a hybrid of the two in featuring the best of both worlds.

Of course, if you’re saltwater fishing, it’s probably a good idea to use both a box for your saltwater tackle, and a bag to carry it in.

Materials/Weather and Waterproofing

The levels of weather and waterproofing that these products provide depend greatly on the materials they’re made from, as well as some of the features included.

Look for bags that have a high Denier rating as they will be the most durable, but also make sure they have been treated with a water-resistant coating or other finishing to help keep the elements out.

Remember, unless you’re looking at a very expensive bag that can survive underwater, all of these products will let moisture in eventually, given the right circumstances.

As such, you still need to take care that your bags and belongings don’t get too wet – and make sure you properly clean and rinse all your gear as soon as you can.

fisherman fishing in ocean from beach

Size, Weight and Portability

If you’re an angler that likes to have all the toys, then look for a larger tackle box. Likewise, if you’re just a casual, weekend fisher-person, you’ll likely prefer a more compact design.

Look for lightweight bags if you need something that is easy to transport, such as when you might be carrying it for long distances yourself during a hike to the water.

But the weight of a bag is still important for kayak fishing – as you don’t want to overload the craft once you’ve boarded with all your gear as well.

And if you’re throwing in a rod from a shoreline, river, or lake bank – then you should take a look at the best fishing chairs on the market so you can take the weight off your feet, too.

Pockets and Compartments

While the amount of pockets and compartments will, of course, affect the size of the tackle bag or box, you should also consider what they’re used for and how they’re designed.

If you like to keep things very organized, look for bags that have dedicated pockets for certain gear, lures, or equipment. There’s nothing better than having everything in its right place as you set out on a fishing adventure.

(Because it’s certainly not going to be in its right place when you’re coming back.)

Additionally, the very best saltwater tackle bags will have a main compartment that is customizable, with removable dividers so you can choose how best to set it up for your needs.

Likewise, tackle boxes will offer a similar system, and you can build your own compartments to suit different sized lures, jigs, hooks, and other gear.

fishing equipment lures tackles hooks in tackle box

Straps and Handles

Not to be overlooked, the straps and handles (as well as other hardware) of a tackle bag or box is important.

You want something that’s going to stand up to a bit of wear and tear, but at the same time be practical and comfortable to use.

Look for cushioned or padded straps that will make carrying the bag a little easier, and removable or adjustable options can be useful as well.

And don’t forget to thoroughly check out buckles, zippers, Velcro, belts, or any other such features on your potential purchase – as it’s at these stress points that a bag will often fail if they’re not good quality.

Extra Features

While not necessary for salt or freshwater fishing, some of these bags and boxes come with a few extra features to help sway your decision.

Built-in, hard-case glasses holders are a nice touch for keeping your specs or sunglasses safe and within easy reach.

Mesh or bungee compartments/webbing can be handy to stash items of clothing – which is especially useful for wet weather gear.

Which reminds me, you should check out this article on the best rain gear for fishing on the market.

Removable tool pouches or belts are a nice addition – especially for regularly-used equipment like fishing pliers.

Water bottle holders Beer holders are always a welcome extra feature.

And don’t overlook the benefits of high-visibility loops, zippers, flashes or finishes to help locate your belongings in poor light. Some tackle boxes even have a built-in LED for added safety and convenience.

Cost

A good-quality tackle bag will likely set you back somewhere between $30-$100, so you’re not really going to break the bank on this one.

You’ll pay more for the well-known brands, but when it comes to protecting the rest of your gear – I would say it’s worth investing a little extra anyway.

Tackle boxes aren’t expensive, either, and generally speaking, I feel that you’ll easily find what you’re looking for – even if you’re on a tighter budget.

fishing tackle box and rod on wooden pier at riverside

FAQs

What is a tackle box used for?

A tackle box is used by anglers to keep all the fishing gear they use in one place. From line to lures, jigs to weights, shot to spoons – having a tackle box can really keep you organized.

This is especially true if you’re starting to build a collection of tackle yourself, or you know someone who is. A tackle box can make a great gift.

Tackle bags – on the other hand – are predominately used to store and transport your tackle boxes – plus any other gear you might need for the day/night.

Should I have a tackle box or a tackle bag?

Good question – and I believe you should have both.

They’re actually two different things, although sometimes people get them confused, particularly when you’re talking about modern-day tackle bags or old-school tackle boxes.

Tackle boxes tend to be made out of durable, hard plastics with lots of compartments to keep your lures and other accessories.

Tackle bags are softer, and usually designed to carry smaller stowaway tackle boxes inside, as well as additional gear.

You should be using a hard-shell tackle box or container for your lures, hooks, etc. And then a soft-shell bag to carry them in.

What should be in a saltwater tackle box?

That’s a great question, and it might take me a full article to answer it. Instead, check out this video below on all the things you need to get started in saltwater fishing.

Then you’ll have a basic idea of what you need to include in your tackle box.

What is the best tackle box?

Of the ones I’ve included in the above review, I particularly like the Runcl tackle box for its extra durability, solid latches, and waterproof silicone gasket. The UV protection is a nice touch, too.

Are all tackle boxes protected against saltwater?

Some will be better than others – and that’s exactly true of all the products in this review.

If you’re in doubt, look for tackle bags that specifically say they’re for saltwater environments, or that have been treated with anti-corrosion finishes and materials.

In the end, it’s still always a good idea to thoroughly clean your saltwater gear as soon as possible when you return from your trip.

How do you clean saltwater fishing gear?

I’m so glad you asked – what a perfect follow-on question. Check out the video below for some excellent tips on how to clean all your saltwater fishing equipment when you come home.

Don’t forget this step as part of your fishing trip – it might be a chore, but it’s a vital one.

What should be in a beginner tackle box?

Perhaps I’ll do my own, in-depth article on this very subject at some point in the future, as it’s a question that comes up a lot.

For now, take a look at this article on what to put in a fishing tackle box for an easy-to-follow, basic list that should suit most beginners.

Why do they call it a tackle box?

Fishing gear – rods, reels, lines, hooks, weights, floats, lures, flies, (etcetera – ad infinitum) is known as tackle. So, it stands to reason that you would keep this in a “tackle box.”

And if that isn’t the right answer, I honestly haven’t a clue. I’m a fisherman, not an etymologist.

What is the best saltwater fishing tackle bag?

Ahhh, always the subjective question. It really depends on what your own personal needs are, and the type and style you prefer.

However, if pressed, I would choose either the Plano Weekender Series for convenience, or possibly this KastKing option for the durable, sporty look and feel.

Having said that, all the bags and boxes are in this review on merit, so why don’t you tell me which one you think is the best?

Summary

There’s an eclectic mix of options out there when it comes to finding the best tackle bags – and I hope this article has given you plenty of food for thought, and pointed you in the right direction to find one.

Let me know which product you’ve gone for and why – or just your own two cents on which one is the best.

Until next time – tight lines and happy fishing.

Bob Hoffmann

The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. Bob has spend most of his childhood fishing with his father and now share all his knowledge with other anglers. Feel free to leave a comment below.

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