How to Organize a Tackle Box
By Debbie Hanson
Jun 15, 2021
How to organize a tackle box based on the species you target, techniques you use. Easy steps for organizing different baits, soft plastics, fishing tools, line
When you know how to organize a tackle box by using a system that is based on the techniques you use and species you target, you’ll be better prepared and equipped to rerig your lines quickly when needed.
Although, before considering the best way to organize a tackle box, make sure you have the right tackle box or bag for the type of fishing you do. For example, if you’re learning how to fish from a bank or shoreline, consider a backpack-style tackle bag that frees up your hands for carrying fishing rods. If you fish from a boat or kayak, you’ll want to look for a tackle bag or box with clear trays that latch securely (waterproof trays are a particularly good idea for kayak anglers).
Easy Tackle Organization Tips
Once you have the best overall fishing tackle organization system (either a tackle box, tackle bag, or backpack-style bag), follow a few easy steps to learn how to organize a tackle box.
1. Organize by species
One of the most basic fishing tackle storage ideas is to group all tackle that you would use for a particular species together. For example, you can keep all of your crankbaits for largemouth bass in one tray. Labeling each tray is always helpful too. This way, you can quickly grab all of your bass lures based on a label such as, “largemouth bass – crankbaits”.
2. Use adjustable dividers
If your tackle trays have adjustable dividers, use them to match lure sizes and maximize your amount of storage space.
3. Separate soft plastic baits
Keep all of your soft plastic baits separated, leaving them in the original packaging if possible. Use a soft bait binder to keep them in their original shapes. Avoid mixing different brands, types, or colors of soft plastic baits since they can often melt or bleed together. If you want more information on this, look for a fishing tackle guide or video that covers how to store soft plastic baits.
4. Use small trays for hooks and small tackle
Utilize small trays or compartments for hooks, weights, floats, and other types of small terminal tackle.
5.Use front pockets to store pliers and bigger items
Use front pockets or large compartments to store tools such as pliers, line cutters, and de-hookers.
6. Keep line in side pockets
Keep spools of leader material or fishing line in side pockets or use a smaller separate bag for your extra spools of line.
Now that you know about the best way to organize a tackle box, you might want to get ideas for organizing fishing tackle in a garage (which is an entirely different subject). Then, put all of your organizational skills to the test by buying your fishing license and getting out on the water to catch a few!
