Best Fishing Tackle Boxes 2024: Plano, StowAway, and Waterproof Systems Reviewed
Plano's ProLatch StowAway boxes are the best modular tackle organization system. The Plano Waterproof StowAway is best for kayak and saltwater applications. The Flambeau Outdoors System Box is the best large-capacity bass angler solution.
Tackle organization seems mundane until you're searching through a tangled mess of lures while a school of bass is blitzing. Good tackle storage saves time, protects expensive lures from tangling damage, and makes fishing more efficient. Here's what works.
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Plano 3600 ProLatch StowAway
Buy a dozen. Dedicate boxes by category: topwater, jigs, soft plastics, spinnerbaits, crankbaits. Label each with masking tape. This system immediately eliminates the 'search for the right lure' problem.
Plano Waterproof StowAway
Every kayak angler should have at least 2-3 waterproof boxes for saltwater lures and terminal tackle. Fresh water + salt + time destroys non-waterproof storage.
Flambeau Outdoors Portmaster 5007
Best used as a home base or boat tackle box rather than carried on foot. The size allows carrying a full season's tackle in one unit.
Buying guide
Fishing Tackle Organization Guide
Modular vs. monolithic: A single large tackle box stores everything but creates a tangled mess over time. A modular system (multiple smaller boxes, each by category) keeps lures organized, reduces tangles, and allows carrying only the relevant boxes for each trip.
Organization by fishing type: - Bass fishing: Separate boxes for topwater, crankbaits, jigs, soft plastics, spinnerbaits - Trout/panfish: One or two boxes — lighter tackle doesn't need extensive categorization - Saltwater: Waterproof boxes by species/technique — striper plugs, jig heads, soft plastics, fluke rigs
Box size guide (Plano standard sizes): - 3500 (small): Flies, small hooks, split shot - 3600 (medium): Standard freshwater lures and jig heads - 3700 (large): Large swimbaits, crankbaits, larger soft plastics - 3700 deep: Deep lures, umbrella rigs, large terminal tackle
Lure protection: Treble hooks tangle between lures. Use hook sleeves (small foam tubes) on treble hooks in loose storage to prevent tangling. Jig heads and soft plastics should be stored separately — the plasticizer in soft plastic baits can damage hard lure finish over time.
Saltwater storage: Every piece of saltwater terminal tackle should be in a waterproof container. Wire leader, crimps, circle hooks, and snap swivels rust quickly in a non-sealed container exposed to saltwater spray.
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