Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts. Today we are going to see if we can help those of you looking to simplify your fishing processes as we discuss my 3 best fishing tool holders for kayaks in 2021. Now, if you have read any of my kayak reviews and lists on this site, you will know that I will often say that if a kayak doesn’t have rod holders, then it is not a fishing option.
That said, many that are designed for this purpose do have rod holders and dry wells but not much else. Hence, when it comes to all of those little fishing needs that arise on a kayak such as removing hooks and cutting line etc. then a little addition may be needed. So for those of you who are looking for something to keep your tools and the like in a manner that is a little more organised, I have had a look around and come up 3 recommendations for kayak tool holders below. Let’s check them out…
My 3 recommended fishing tool holders for kayaks
I will review these in more detail below but if you just want to get moving without all the carry on, my 3 are listed here for your convenience:
| Kayak Tool Holder | Price | Get it | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | ZUZZEE Nylon Mesh Kayak Canoe Storage Bag | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Rapala Magnetic Tool Holder | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Lemimoto Caddy Marine Holder | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What should you be looking for?
Ok, so before you go headlong into your purchase, as always there are some things to think about as you look for something to keep your kayak fishing tools in a place that not only makes them easy to access, but protected from the elements when not in use as well. These are:
Number of tools
This is probably an obvious place to start but I guess the first thing to think about is just how many tools you wish to keep in your holder. In most cases, you will want quick access to a knife, pliers and scissors however there are other needs there such as fish lip holders and rulers as well.
The trick here is to make your holder is large enough to hold everything you need when on the kayak but not too large that it gets in the way. Think about the tools you really use regularly and the rest can stay in your tackle bag or dry hatch.
Mounting space
The next consideration to account for here is mounting space for your tool holder. As we know, there is only so much space on a kayak meaning that you will need to install your holder in a spot that makes it easy to access without getting in the way of your body or legs when you are fishing.
With that in mind, the other influence here then is also how the holder is installed. Installation option here can include:
- D-ring clips
- Screwed into the inside wall of the kayak
- Slotted into drink or bait cavity (usually made for specific brands)
- Slid into mounting tracks
Again, whichever option you choose will need to be compatible with the anchoring and space capabilities of your kayak.
Waterproofing/Protection
Obviously if your tools are out in a holder, they are going to be exposed to the elements a little more than they would be if they were kept in the dry hatch or tackle bag. Of course we know that a holder means that they will not be lying in the water in our foot well (I have been guilty of that myself) however salt spray can still get to them. Anything that can protect a little more against this can work well.
Our other consideration here is that as you move around in a kayak, it is easy to bump things or have them come loose if the water gets choppy or you are fighting a monster. Check that your holder will hold the tools securely so that the chances of them falling out is reduced.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above, and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. ZUZZEE Nylon Mesh Kayak Canoe Storage Bag
This first option is a good one for those who want something that is easy to install and will hold most tools etc. simply and easily. It’s mesh build is lightweight and tough and will not get in the way if mounted beside you in the seat area. Specifications as follows:
- Composition – High quality nylon mesh
- Mount – Clip to D-rings, slide into mounting tracks or screw into inside wall.
- Holds – Tools, bags, tackle packets and so on
Other inclusions:
- Quick drying
- 3 separate compartments
- Screw knobs for mounting tracks
Why have I chosen it?
This is a great option for a kayak for a good price. It is perfectly suited to any vessel type and will hold all of your essential tools and tackle without getting in your way. Multiple mounting options are also an advantage here.
2. Rapala Magnetic Tool Holder
My second holder is another good option for those who want their main tools easily available when needed and stored securely when not. This one has magnetic stripes that will stop the tools from sliding out when things are ‘on’ with a slim profile meaning they won’t get in the way either. Oh, and the tools are included too. Its specifications include:
- Composition – Moulded sun resistant plastic
- Mount – Screw into inside wall
- Holds – Pliers, scissors and side cutters (included)
Other inclusions:
- Magnetic stripe in holder for secure storage
- Tools made of carbon steel with nickel plated finish
Why have I chosen it?
I use Rapala pliers and scissors and have no reason to fault them. Hence, I think this one is a great option for those who want a holder and some tools to go with it as well. The only concern here is around the fact that the main mounting option is to screw them into the wall of the vessel however some suction caps or string and d-ring clips would work as well.
3. Lemimoto Caddy Marine Holder
The third unit I have chosen is a good one for those who venture far and wide in their kayak fishing exploits and are looking for a little more storage space or the ability to hold a drink as well. It can be mounted a number of ways and has space to keep everything you could possibly need in both on and off shore conditions with specs including:
- Composition – High quality ABS material
- Mount – Screw into inside wall or sit in storage cavity
- Holds – Tools, drinks, phone, lures and more
Other inclusions:
- Specific slots for lures, keys and tools
- Drainage holes at bottom
Why have I chosen it?
This is a great one for beginners and avid fishermen alike who are looking for capacity to keep almost everything in one spot. It again can be installed in a number of ways and I like the lure and tool slots as well. My only issue with this one is that there is no real security to stop items from falling out or getting too wet.
Conclusion
And there it is – my 3 best fishing tool holders for kayaks in 2021. I hope it has been helpful and as usual, please let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time
Have fun
Paul
