Hey there my fellow fishing enthusiasts and welcome to my post covering my 3 best surf fishing tackle box options to fill up this year. When I first started fishing on the beach years and years ago, I used to carry all of my tackle on a single ‘lunch box’ style tackle box. In time however, I outgrew that so I splurged and bought a massive all in one bag with 6 tackle box trays inserted so I could carry all of my gear.
The problem was that again, as time passed, I found the big tackle box cumbersome to drag all the way to the beach. And on top of that, I also noticed that a lot of my tackle way starting to rust before I even got the chance to use it. I have now moved to a smaller box/tray that I keep in my surf fishing back pack and I find it works so well for me. So based on these findings, let’s see if I can find 3 good tackle box options to assist you in your surf fishing expeditions?
My 3 recommended tackle boxes for surf fishing
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:
What are surf fishing tackle boxes?
Now here is the problem. There are so many different types of tackle boxes out there that I really could (and probably will) do different posts on each type. So for today’s post, I am going to focus on the type of tackle boxes that I personally recommend for fishing at the beach. This is based mainly on the two influences that I touched on in the opening paragraph above – these are:
- I like to travel light when I go surf fishing so I like a smaller tackle box that fits in my back pack.
- I don’t want to expose tackle that I am not going to use to the elements every time I go.
So based on this, my recommended tackle management processes (like that? haha) are as follows:
I store my tackle in a large tackle box in my garage, and on the shelves, on the ping pong table, oh and in the glove box of the car too – my wife just loves it!! When I go surf fishing, I then pack my smaller box with just enough tackle (hooks, swivels, sinkers etc.), lures and leader line for that trip. That way, again, I am not carrying all of my tackle and my main stock stays dry and rust free.
As a base though, when it comes to surf fishing tackle boxes, there are a few types that could fit into my recommended processes above so let’s run through them below:
- Plastic tray: This is simply a plastic tray with a lid and segregated sections inside for tackle, lures etc. Some come with movable barriers to adjust compartment size or little handles for carrying etc. These options are also used if you have a tackle bag or backpack with slots for a tackle box as well.
- Small covered tackle carry bag: These are not much larger than the first option however the plastic tackle tray is included within a small zip up bag that usually also contains other options such as plastic holder sleeves (for leaders, lures etc.) and mesh pockets. These are just a little easier to carry and will hold extras for you too.
- Larger tackle bag/backpack: If you are looking for an all in one equipment carrier with a tackle box included, then a surf fishing backpack/bag will suit. These not only contain tackle boxes but also pockets, clips for tools, rod holders, wet and dry compartments and so on.
Note: I will not be covering the backpack or tackle bag options here however if this is where you think you would like to head, then you can view them here on my 3 best surf fishing backpacks post.
What should you be looking for?
Again, the function here is pretty simple in that you are looking for something that will keep your tackle in a dry and safe whilst you are fishing at the beach. Even within this simplicity however, there are some influences to consider prior to purchase:
Target species – The type of fish being chased will obviously determine the type of tackle that you need. For example, if you are chasing larger fish with larger lures, then a small box may not suit. Alternatively, you may go for the bag option where lures can be kept in a plastic sleeve instead.
Location hazards – If you are fishing on a beach where there are lots of logs, rocks, coral or other hazards then you are going to be susceptible to more snags. More snags means potentially more tackle loss so a larger tackle box may be needed here as well.
Weather patterns – Surf fishing is generally a wet experience at the best of times, however if your local beach in one that has wind, surf spray or rain more often than not, then waterproofing may be something to investigate when if comes to a good tackle box.
Other stuff – Like anything, there are some really tricked out options out there. There are heavy-duty options available for those with large equipment setups whilst others come with external pockets or even cooler bags. I have even seen some with a chair attached. I haven’t listed any with those here but if you like to sit a lot, then the convenience of a fishing tackle box/bag with a chair might be worth the extra cost involved.
At the end of the day, you need something that is not too bulky but big and strong enough to hold your tackle safely and securely within the environment that you wish to fish in.
FAQ
What goes in a surf fishing tackle box?
Taking a tackle box with you when surf fishing is a great way to make sure you are covered should you lose your rig on a snag, fish or anything else that may be lurking beneath the waves. Take with you as a minimum a couple of spare hooks, sinkers and swivels of different sizes as well as a knife and pliers.
What do I use?
So, as I have mentioned in many of my posts, I use a surf fishing backpack with all of my gear inside. For my tackle box option I use a small covered tackle bag (pic below) for a number of reasons:
- It is small enough to fit into my backpack
- It is waterproof
- It has a plastic tackle box for my hooks and stuff
- It contains plastic sleeves where I keep lures, leaders and my fishing license.
The only problem I have found with these types in the past is that the zippers tend to corrode quickly if they are not made of plastic (which not many appear to be) but apart from that, I have found them very effective in keeping my gear safe and dry whilst I fish.
My three recommendations broken down
As mentioned, there are literally hundreds of fishing tackle boxes available online so I have chosen the following three in an attempt to give you options taking into consideration the information above (I.e. a smaller box to go inside a bag or backpack). Based on this, I recommend the following options:
1. Plano Double-Sided Tackle Box
This first one is a basic option for those looking to get themselves a decent fishing tackle box for a decent price. It is obviously very straight forward and simple but for those who just want an option to keep some tackle of differing sizes in, then this one will work fine. Specifications as follows:
- Size: 3500 double-sided
- Waterproof: light water only
- Adjustable compartments: up to 23 adjustable options
Other inclusions:
- Secure latches
Why have I chosen it?
I like this one purely for its ability to hold a good amount of tackle for the price. It will fit most surf fishing tackle and lure options for those who want to throw it in a bag and get on with things.
2. RUNCL Fishing Tackle Box (two box kit)
Our next box is a better quality option of the first one above. In its base use it is again one that can be filled with tackle, lures etc. and thrown into a bag or back pack for ease of use on the beach with the second box perfect for sorting larger items either on the beach or at home. Both are however made of stronger materials with greater waterproofing and sun protection in the lid. Main specifications include:
- Size: 14″x 8.65″x3.15″, 10.65″x7.1″x1.89″
- Waterproof: 360-degree waterproof gasket in lids
- Adjustable compartments: yes with ability to create bulk storage area in second box
Other inclusions:
- Sun protection based colour
- Deeper capacity than most other boxes
Why have I chosen it?
Again, as above, this model (the two boxes) will do everything they are supposed to do, which is hold your tackle with a few more extras such as superior water and sun proofing. Perhaps the only thing to keep in mind here is that the larger box might be a bit long for some backpacks and/or tackle bags so if this is the type you are after, you may need to just double check your bag size options.
3. KastKing Fishing Tackle Storage Bag
The third option I have chosen is the same type that I use which is a tackle storage bag with a plastic sleeve inside to carry soft baits, tackle, tools, and leader line etc. The only down fall is that whilst there is space for a 3200 sized tackle box, it does not come included with the bag. These are good for those who want to carry just a little extra but still be able to keep it in another bag or backpack. Specifications as follows:
- Size: 13.4″ x 9″ x 4″
- Waterproof: Yes – 420D Ripstop Nylon
- Adjustable compartments: No, 10 internal plastic sleeves do differ in size though.
Other inclusions:
- External mesh pocket for tools
- Front zipper pocket
- Soft padded handle
- Space for 3200 plastic tackle box
Why have I chosen it?
Again, this is a great one for those looking for a bag type tackle holder with a few more storage options for a good price. It is small enough to go into a bag yet strong enough to sit in the beach as well. I used one like this and love it and find it works well in a kayak too.
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Primary Rating:
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Primary Rating:
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Primary Rating:
3.5
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$38.99
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$39.99
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Conclusion
And there they are – my 3 best surf fishing tackle box options to fill up this year. 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
