So you’re a bank angler looking for the best way to store and transport your tackle. Well, you’re in luck. There’s a seemingly endless number of ways to do this. But all these options can be a little overwhelming at the same time. Our hope is to help you sort through all of this and key in on the few things that really matter. Here are some things to consider when selecting a bank fishing tacklebox.
Where to start
As you weigh your options, you’ll find that the majority of tackle storage solutions designed specifically for bank anglers can be lumped into two main categories: a tacklebox or a tackle bag. Tackle bags, backpacks, fanny packs and totes all essentially consist of some sort of soft fabric bag with multiple compartments that use VELCRO, straps or zippers to wrangle all the tackle within them.
Then there are tackleboxes, which are typically made of some sort of hard and durable copolymer like plastic. The best tackle bags and tackleboxes designed for bank fishing will usually have smaller tackleboxes inside them for loose baits and terminal tackle, as well as compartments or pouches to store larger items like spools of line, reels, packs of soft plastics and tools.
Some waterproof component
It’s not necessary for your whole tackle storage system to be waterproof, but there should be some waterproof component. Bank fishing exposes your gear to the elements as much or more than any other type of fishing. There’s always the chance that you get caught in a storm when you’re walking the bank or drop your tacklebox or bag into the water.
Treble-hooked baits like crankbaits, skirted baits like spinnerbaits and terminal tackle like hooks and jigheads are all prone to rusting, if their metal parts are exposed to water. Keeping items like these in a waterproof box within your tackle system ensures this tackle will be fit for use the next time you reach for it. So look for boxes or compartments that have a waterproof seal and strong latches.
Portable and durable
If you’re planning to fish from the bank, you’re going to need a tackle system that is portable as well as durable. The nature of bank fishing keeps the angler on the move, and no matter how particular you are with your tackle, you’re going to end up tossing it around a bit. Hopping in and out of vehicles, trekking along shorelines and needing to drop and pickup your tackle often, and sometimes in a hurry, makes portable and durable two must haves.
Backpacks are some of the more portable options, though they’re typically less durable. Where hard tackleboxes are more durable, but not as easy to carry. If you’re going to mainly be fishing from one location on a bank, like below a dam or from a friend’s yard, you’re likely better off with a good tacklebox. But if you’re going to be walking miles of creek or lake shore, being able to throw a backpack on and carry your tackle hands-free is hard to beat.
Don’t let all the options stress you out. Look for a tackle bag or a tacklebox that has waterproof storage solutions for your tackle with metal components. But make sure there are some larger compartments for the bigger items you might need. And decide as best you can if durability or portability is most important for your specific needs. If you take all of this into consideration, you’ll make the right choice.
