When it comes to fishing tackle, nothing ruins lures, hooks, and fishing gear quicker than exposure to the saltwater environment. Enter the tackle box, a necessary tool for all fisherman to keep their tackle protected and organized. There is a direct correlation between being prepared and systematic to success on the water, hence the importance of a quality tackle storage system. In this article we will highlight some of the best tackle boxes and bags money can buy for the avid SoCal fisherman.
SKB Large Tackle Box 7200. 2021. Courtesy SKB Cases
- SKB Tackle Boxes
SKB Tackle Boxes feature an unbreakable rotationally molded construction with stainless steel hardware and fasteners. SKB offers their overbuilt tackle boxes in two different sizes, Small (7100) and Large (7200). Both sizes are a great option for those overnight and multi-day long range trips where an abundance of tackle and protection from the elements are a must. These indestructible tackle boxes feature the following:
- Four storage boxes with dividers
- Four rocket launchers installed on the side for optimal rod storage
- Top lid that opens up 90° or 180° presenting access to a flat storage area and clear acrylic storage panel
- Hanging jig area that extends to the base of the tackle box for larger trolling lures, irons, poppers etc.
The only downside of the SKB 7100 and 7200 is the sheer weight of these tackle boxes when fully loaded with tackle making transportation down to the dock a workout. Fortunately, SKB also offers other options such as their Tak-Pak backpack style tackle system making tackle transportation hands free for anglers.
Guide Series™ Tackle Bag (3700). 2022. Courtesy Plano
- Plano’s Guide Series™ Tackle Bags
Plano is well known by all fisherman and is the industry leader in tackle storage and organization. Chances are, if you have a plastic molded tackle box sitting around in the garage it is most likely manufactured by Plano. Plano’s newly designed Guide Series™ 3700 tackle bags are made of hard-backed 169 Denier fabric. A variety of sizes makes them compatible for multiple types of fishing. The Guide Series™ 3700 tackle bags feature:
- Large interior hold for size 3700 stowaways
- Sizeable slip pockets for storing spools of line, pliers, and other tools
- A magnetic drop zone on the top lid locks lures and pliers in place
- Non-slip thermoplastic rubber with molded foot pads prevents the bag from sliding on the deck while underway
- Front compartment with water proof pouch protects smartphones, wallets and other valuables from the elements
The only cons of Plano’s Guide Series™ Tackle Bags are they can be bulky and heavy when loaded up, as well as being offered in only one color. Otherwise, Plano’s Guide Series™ Tackle Bag is premium quality manufactured from a reliable and trusted brand.
FishLab Large Roller Tackle Bag. 2022. Courtesy FishLab
- FishLab Roller Tackle Bag
Another quality tackle bag option for SoCal Anglers comes from FishLab, offering a rolling tackle bag in a small and large size. The FishLab Roller Tackle Bag is made of heavy-duty water-resistant fabric and high-quality rust resistant zippers. Key features included are:
- Retractable luggage style handle and durable rubber wheels for ease of transportation down to the dock or along the pier
- Oversized storage on top with adjustable compartments for storing extra reels, fluorocarbon, and monofilament spools
- Front storage compartment with custom FishLab tackle boxes
- Four PVC rod holders with straps and plier holders
- Integrated rain shield that stretches over the whole bag to keep contents dry for those rough boat rides or rainy days on the water
Material durability could be a cause for concern over time with the FishLab Roller Tackle Bag; however, its light weight and rolling wheels brings utmost convenience and ease of transportation for anglers.
These are just a few tackle storage options available on the market. There are many other different brands and styles to meet the needs of SoCal fisherman. When buying your next tackle bag or tackle box, be sure to check out your local tackle shop to see which one meet’s your fishing necessities.
Images:
SKB Cases: https://www.skbcases.com/_next/image?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fpjorltt7%2Fproduction%2F5c31d9168adbd0c8665f88a9b4f583f98808d1c3-1200×611.png&w=2048&q=75
Plano Tackle Bag: http://media.purefishing.com/i/penn/Plano_PLABG370_alt1?w=2000&h=2000&img404=404&v=1
FishLab Tackle Bag: https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0226/6559/2906/products/FL-LRB.02.03.jpg?v=1618853888
