What is the Best Material For a Tackle Box? 10 Major Considerations
When it comes to fishing, a tackle box is one of the most essential pieces of gear you need. But with so many options available, you might wonder: what’s the best material for a tackle box? When you go to buy a tackle box, you’ll see both metal and plastic options. So, which one should you choose? Today, we’ll talk about this topic. We’ll look at what attributes make a tackle box the best, and then analyze different materials to see if they have these attributes. Let’s get started.
What Makes a Tackle Box Material Best?
When choosing a tackle box, the material makes a huge difference in your fishing experience. Based on my adventures, here are some key factors to consider:
1. Durability
You want a tackle box that can withstand harsh conditions. Plastic and metal are both excellent choices. Plastic offers great resistance to water, while metal provides superior strength. Wooden boxes, although requiring more maintenance, can last just as long if properly cared for.
2. Weight
The weight of the tackle box is crucial, especially if you need to carry your gear over long distances. Soft-sided bags and plastic boxes are typically lighter, making them easier to transport. Metal boxes, though heavier, offer unmatched durability, which can be a worthwhile trade-off for some.
3. Water Resistance
Fishing often involves exposure to wet environments, so water resistance is a critical attribute. Plastic tackle boxes excel here, with models like FLAMBEAU offering complete waterproof protection. Wooden boxes can also be highly water-resistant if treated with the right finishes, such as epoxy or spar varnish.
4. Versatility
A versatile tackle box can adapt to various fishing needs, from storing small lures to accommodating larger equipment. Soft-sided bags and customizable plastic boxes with adjustable dividers offer the greatest versatility. I find it incredibly useful to use separate trays for different types of gear, like plugs, spoons, hoochies, and jigs. This flexibility allows you to organize your gear efficiently and adapt your storage solutions to your specific fishing style.
5. Organizational Features
A good tackle box should have customizable sections. Brands like Plano Edge and Busby offer boxes with dividers that can be adjusted to fit your gear perfectly. This flexibility makes it easy to keep your lures, hooks, and other tools neatly organized and accessible.
6. Rust Prevention
Rust can ruin your expensive lures and hooks. Some tackle boxes, like the Flambeau Z-Rust series, have special coatings that prevent rust. This feature is essential for maintaining the quality and longevity of your fishing gear.
7. Stackability
If you have several tackle boxes, choose ones that stack well. Plano Edge and Busby boxes are designed to stack securely, helping you save space and keep your gear tidy, whether you’re storing them at home or in your boat.
8. Specialized Storage
For specific types of lures or baits, look for specialized storage options. Bass Mafia offers super strong “coffin” style boxes with foam inserts, which provide excellent protection for your gear. These are perfect for anglers who want to keep their equipment safe and well-organized.
9. Budget-Friendly Options
Plano offers a range of durable and affordable tackle boxes like the Stowaway series. These boxes are great for keeping your gear dry and organized without breaking the bank, making them an excellent choice for anglers on a budget.
10. Safety and Accessibility
Your tackle box should be easy to open but secure enough to prevent your gear from spilling out. Look for boxes with single, strong latches that provide quick access while keeping your equipment safe and secure.
Remember, the best tackle box is the one that fits your fishing style and needs. Whether you’re fishing in a lake or at the beach, there’s a perfect tackle box out there for you.
Materials and Their Attributes – Are They Best Material for a Tackle Box?
Picking the right tackle box can make your fishing trips more enjoyable and keep your gear organized and protected. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular materials and their attributes:
Plastic Tackle Boxes
Plastic tackle boxes are incredibly popular for good reasons. They are lightweight, waterproof, and usually quite affordable. For example, the FLAMBEAU series is well-loved for its durability and water resistance.
One angler mentioned, “My current one is a FLAMBEAU… a big plastic box with a handle. Top end hinged and waterproofed with a sealed ‘O’ ring.” This makes plastic boxes ideal for those who need reliable protection without adding too much weight to their gear.
Metal Tackle Boxes
Metal tackle boxes are known for their exceptional strength and durability. They might be heavier and prone to rust if not treated properly, but using stainless steel or brass hardware can solve this issue.
As highlighted by an angler during an interview, “If your hinges are genuine stainless steel or solid brass, rust will not be a problem.” Metal tackle boxes are perfect for heavy-duty use, providing robust protection for your valuable fishing gear.
Soft-Sided Tackle Bags
Soft-sided tackle bags are a great option if you prioritize flexibility and easy transport. They are lightweight and come with multiple compartments for versatile storage. One user shared, “I prefer soft-sided tackle bags. Lighter weight, with shoulder straps and side pockets for my tools and accessories.” These bags are perfect for organizing various types of tackle and accessories while being easy to carry, whether you’re fishing from a boat, the shore, or a kayak.
Wooden Tackle Boxes
Wooden tackle boxes offer a unique blend of durability and aesthetic appeal. They are often made from marine plywood or hardwood like mahogany, sealed with epoxy or spar varnish for water resistance.
As far as my suggestion is concerned, I use thin hardwood plywood as a base and veneer it with an attractive wood on both sides using epoxy. This makes it light, strong, and very warp-resistant. Wooden boxes are ideal for those who appreciate craftsmanship and are willing to perform regular maintenance.
You should also check our recommendations on Best Tackle Boxes For Fishing Trips – Top 6 Reviewed
So, What’s the Best Material for a Tackle Box?
From the above parameters, plastic tackle boxes appear to be the best material for most anglers. They are lightweight, waterproof, and usually quite affordable, offering great durability and versatility.
But remember; the perfect tackle box matches your fishing style. For example, if you’re like Tim Van, you might have a small, portable tackle box in your car, ready for any spontaneous fishing trip, with everything from flies to an extra tippet.
On the other hand, if you’re into saltwater fishing, Nelson Groome (our angler coalleague) suggests using a small canvas boat bag and packaging items in Ziplock bags to protect them from salt spray.
Choosing the best material for your tackle box depends on your needs. So, whether you’re packing a small, versatile box for quick trips or organizing a large collection at home, the right material and setup will make all the difference in your fishing experience.
Are Soft-Sided Bags Better Than Hard Tackle Boxes?
When it comes to choosing between soft-sided bags and hard tackle boxes, the answer largely depends on your use case. Soft-sided bags are fantastic for those who need something lightweight and flexible. They often come with shoulder straps, making them easy to carry, especially if you’re trekking to your favorite fishing spot. Plus, the side pockets on these bags are perfect for keeping your gear organized and within easy reach.
On the other hand, if you need to protect your fishing gear from being crushed or damaged, a hard tackle box might be your best bet. These boxes offer sturdy protection and are great for keeping your equipment safe in rough conditions. However, they can be heavier and less convenient to carry compared to their soft-sided counterparts.
One user shared during an interview, “I prefer soft-sided tackle bags. Lighter weight, with shoulder straps and side pockets,” highlighting the practical advantages of these bags.
So, whether you go for a soft-sided bag or a hard tackle box, it boils down to what works best for your fishing adventures. If you value mobility and ease of access, a soft-sided bag is a winner. But if maximum protection is your priority, a hard tackle box will serve you well.
How Can I Prevent Rust in My Tackle Box?
Preventing rust in my tackle box has been essential to keeping my fishing gear in top condition. One of the best ways I’ve found to do this is using stainless steel or brass hardware. These materials are much less likely to rust, so I don’t have to worry about deteriorating gear.
Proper waterproofing is also crucial. I ensure my tackle box is well-sealed to keep moisture out, as that’s the main culprit behind rust. I also regularly check my tackle box for any signs of moisture and address them immediately. If I notice any dampness, I dry it out immediately. Adding silica gel packs has been a game-changer for me. They absorb excess moisture and help keep everything dry.
However, we’ve also shared some of our tips to keep moisture out.
I’ve also discovered that epoxy resin is an excellent waterproof glue. Sealing potential entry points for water has added an extra layer of protection, significantly preventing rust.
I also benefit from keeping my tackle box in a dry, cool place when I’m not using it. I avoid leaving it in damp environments, which can increase the risk of rust forming on my gear.
Are Tackle Boxes Food-Grade Plastic?
The question of whether tackle boxes are made from food-grade plastic is an important one, especially if you’re considering using them for unconventional purposes, like storing food. Based on my research and various discussions, most tackle boxes are not designed with food safety in mind.
For instance, I’ve come across forum discussions where experienced anglers, like our colleagues, emphasize that “utility boxes aren’t made from food-grade plastics” and could release harmful chemicals if used for storing food. This means that these boxes likely lack BPA-free certification and might be made from materials that can leach toxins, especially when they come into contact with food.
From a regulatory standpoint, health departments require food to be stored in containers made from food-grade plastic to prevent harmful chemical migration. This ensures consumer safety, particularly when containers come into contact with hot liquids, which can accelerate the leaching process.
While modern tackle boxes are typically “wormproof” and designed to prevent reactions with fishing-related items like soft plastics, they are not suitable for food storage.
In fact, older tackle boxes might not even be safe for storing certain types of soft plastics as they could cause the trays to melt. This indicates that the materials used in tackle boxes are tailored specifically for fishing gear, not for food storage.
So, while a tackle box might be perfect for keeping your fishing gear organized and protected, it’s not a good idea to use it for storing food. Always opt for containers specifically labeled as food-grade when it comes to anything you’ll be eating.
In case you don’t have any tackle box and are looking for some alternatives, check our guide: Tackle Box Alternatives
FAQs
How do I clean and maintain my tackle box?
To keep your tackle box in top shape, regularly clean it by emptying all the contents, including terminal tackle and tackle trays. Use warm, soapy water to clean the inside and outside of the box. Rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely before refilling. If you store soft plastics, ensure they are dry before returning them to prevent mold and mildew. Plano boxes are known for their durability and ease of cleaning, making them some of the best tackle boxes for maintenance.
What are some features to look for in a tackle box for fly fishing?
When selecting a tackle box for fly fishing, consider one with multiple compartments and tackle trays to keep your tackle organized. Look for a lightweight tackle bag or backpack that is easy to carry, especially if you’re moving around a lot. Features like waterproof compartments and areas to store line spools and soft plastics are also beneficial. Compartments that hold various types of lures and terminal tackle are essential for surf fishing or bass fishing.
Can I customize my tackle box with additional compartments or trays?
Yes, many of the best tackle boxes, such as Plano boxes, offer customizable options. You can add extra tackle trays and dividers to create more compartments. This allows you to efficiently store soft plastics, terminal tackle, and line spools. Some tackle bags and backpacks also have modular designs, enabling you to adjust the storage space according to your needs. Customizing your tackle box helps keep your gear organized, whether you’re on your boat or someone else’s boat.
What size tackle box should I get for different types of fishing trips?
The size of your tackle box should match the type of fishing trip you’re planning. A small bag or compact tackle box will suffice for short, spontaneous trips. For longer trips, especially if you’re going surf fishing or bass fishing, a larger tackle box with ample space for terminal tackle, soft plastics, and multiple tackle trays is ideal. If you’re fishing from your boat, you can afford to bring a bigger tackle box. However, if you’re on someone else’s boat, consider a tackle backpack for easy transport and convenience.
How do I choose a tackle box that is easy to transport and carry?
When it comes to ease of transport, tackle bags and tackle backpacks are great options. They are lightweight and often have padded straps and multiple compartments to organize your tackle. Look for features like waterproof material, specialized pockets for terminal tackle, line spools, and soft plastics. Having a tackle box with handles or wheels can also be advantageous for those who frequently fish from their boat or someone else’s boat. Brands like Plano Boxes offer various portable options that are among the best tackle boxes for convenience and functionality.
