Best Fishing Backpacks – How To Buy The Best Fish Bag

Any fishing trip, regardless of how short or long, is going to require a considerable amount of fishing gear.

Fishing backpacks have emerged as the best way to store all of your equipment in a compact and easy to carry manner.

While these backpacks may resemble the traditional bags, they have been designed to cater to an angler’s requirements.

This guide gives you some insight on how to choose the best fishing backpack

The Best Fishing Backpacks

The best fishing backpack has greater durability, specific storage options, and is better equipped to handle the elements.

The following bags have these properties and more:

How To Buy A Good Fishing Bag

There are different types of fishing backpacks and they have each been constructed for a specific purpose.

This guide will help you determine which one is right for you:

Type of Fishing Backpacks

Fishing backpacks are typically categorized according to where you wear them on your body.

The most common styles are traditional fishing backpacks, sling packs, waist packs, and chest packs.

Waist packs and chest packs are better suited for smaller loads. For instance, if you are only looking to carry a few lures then these bags should do just fine.

However, if you looking for something that is larger, or more comfortable, you may want to choose one of the other two designs.

Slingbacks generally aren’t overly large either. They do have the distinct advantage of allowing you to wear your backpack while you are fishing, nonetheless.

These types of bags are usually constructed in such a way that it is easy to access your gear while fishing.

Since they go around your chest and back, the bag is well-placed and doesn’t put too much strain on your torso.

If you like taking as much gear with you as possible then you are going to require a backpack that can be slung across your shoulders.

Not only do these bags tend to be larger, due to their design, they offer a greater amount of weight distribution.

Storage Option

With fishing backpacks, you need to consider both, volume, as well as design functionality when it comes to the storage space.

Volume, of course, is important if you are looking to carry a lot of gear, equipment, and perhaps even food and a change of clothing.

At the same time, you need to look at how the bag is segmented.

Are there enough pockets?

Are these pockets appropriately sized so that you can securely fit in different types of gear?

Remember, you should look for bags with different types of storage options.

For instance, it is not enough to simply have zippered pockets – you will also need mesh pockets.

Many fishing backpacks have been constructed with utility trays in mind.

This is a clear advantage as you can simply place your lures into the tray so that they can be more readily accessed.

You should also watch out for backpacks that have fishing rod holders as this means you will be able to keep your hands free.

While not all bags have this feature, some have compartments for rods that can be dismantled into several pieces.

Durability

Fishing backpacks need to be rugged.

They will have to contain large weights and will also need to stand up against to the elements.

This is why it is vital that you choose a thick material that will not tear easily.

This way, you will be able to prevent tears and snags in your bag.

“The only catch here is that the tougher the material, the heavier the bag tends to be, even when it is empty”

Therefore, you need to find a compromise between these two factors to choose a sturdy yet light bag.

Durability is not just about the material that is used but also how well the bag is held together.

This comes down to how the seams together, with stitching the most common technique used.

The seams are going to need to be tough enough to hold despite the load placed in the bag.

Then there is the matter of the zippers, rings, and other small features on the bags.

It is best to look for components that have been made from heavy duty plastic or stainless steel.

These materials aren’t prone to corrosion and will help to prolong the durability of the bag.

Water Resistance

You should get a fishing backpack that is water resistant.

This is not only because of your proximity to the water but also to protect your belongings in the case of rain.

Some backpacks are built with materials that are either waterproof or water resistant.

This feature is great if you are worried about your bag getting splashed while you are fishing.

However, this aspect may not help to keep the bag dry when it begins to rain. Remember, water can always seep in through the zippers even if the material is waterproof.

For this added level of protection, consider fishing bags that come with rain covers. These can be pulled over the bag to ensure that the bag will be kept dry, even if there is a storm.

Carrying Comfort

Some anglers prefer a fishing backpack that they can hike with.

If you want a bag that is going to be comfortable to carry over long distances, you should look at the straps and the back part of the pack.

Aim for wide, padded straps to minimize how heavy the backpack will feel.

For the backrest, consider material that is not only comfortable but also breathable. This prevents you from sweating as well as the sweat being absorbed by the material.

If you want to get an oversized backpack, you will need support. In this instance, look for bags that have chest straps as well as waist straps. This will help to prevent back pain.

Additional Features

Features that tend to be quite useful are D-rings, hooks, and tool holders on the outside of the fishing backs.

This serves two purposes. First, it allows you to carry additional items. It also lets you store the gear in a way that is easy to access while fishing.

Each backpack is different and each manufacturer will make claims on various other features such as cooler compartments, sunglass pockets, etc.

It is up to you to decide whether you actually require these features or whether they are an addition that you can do without.

Fishing Backpack Reviews

Here you will be able to read the results of an extensive research project to find the top fishing backpacks available:

Custom Leathercraft Wild River Tackle Tec

The Custom Leathercraft Wild River Tackle Tec is a fishing backpack that has it all.

Not only is there a large amount of space to put all of your gear, the compartments allow you to organize everything better.

For instance, the outermost compartment has been designed to accommodate up to four trays where you can store your tackle, lures, and more.

Even the side pockets are divided into further compartments, allowing you easier access to the gear that you need.

The front pocket actually folds down to form a rigid platform, providing you with a mini work surface.

There are also lanyards and hooks where you can attach tools or gear that you need to quickly access.

This backpack has a lighted system, which lets you see the contents of your bag even when fishing at night.

The Tackle Tec comes with a waterproof rain cover to protect the backpack during all types of weather.

This is a durable bag with the base of the bag supported by pads to reduce the effect of wear and tear on the backpack.

The shoulder straps are wide and well padded. There is also a sternum strap to more equally distribute the weight of the bag.

Complete with a molded compartment for your sunglasses, it is not an exaggeration to say that the Tackle Tec has everything that you need in a fishing backpack.

Specs:

• LED light system
• Waterproof cover
• Compartment with tray accommodation
• Internal and external mesh pockets

The MadBite Slingback fishing backpack is ideal for individuals who are either fishing on small kayaks or don’t want to be burdened by heavy backpacks.

This is a bag that can be worn while you are fishing as it sports an ergonomic design.

It has been constructed to sit on your back to ensure that you can move as freely as you want and doesn’t restrict your movement as you are casting.

Despite this, all of your tools are easily accessible.

Your pliers can be hung on a secure hook on the exterior of the bag and easily retrieved.

The slingback is made from thick, waterproof oxford polyester.

In addition to durability, this bag will keep all of the internal compartments of the bag dry.

Most of the parts of the bag are made from plastic or non-corrosive materials, making it ideal to be kept in wet conditions.

Since the slingback has been designed to rest on your back, this inner lining is made from mesh. This prevents sweat from accumulating and allowing the bag to dry faster.

The bag isn’t overly large but you should be able to fit at least one tackle box in the main compartment.

This is a bag that is best suited for recreational anglers.

Specs:

• Waterproof Oxford polyester
• Mesh lining
• Ergonomic design

Spiderwire Fishing Backpack

The Spiderwire fishing backpack is the perfect accompaniment to a day-long fishing trip.

It is a medium sized bag that is segmented into various compartments to make organizing your gear that much easier.

One of the compartments even has a cooler feature allowing you to store either food or bait.

This bag comes along with its own utility trays which give you the option of neatly storing your tackles and lures.

A particularly useful feature is that it comes with a place for you to store your fishing rod.

This is great if you need to hike to get to your fishing spot or if you want to keep your hands free.

This backpack has plenty of smaller zippered pockets on the exterior of the bag to securely store smaller pieces of gear.

It also has a tool holder for quick access while fishing.

There are adjustable bands on either side of the backpack. These can be tightened to make certain that the contents in the bag don’t move around.

The bag has been constructed with a flat bottom which means that it will always stand upright, making it easier to find what you are looking for.

The straps are thick and comfortable and have durable stitching on the shoulders, where it connects to the bag.

There are also straps going around your chest and your waist, to make it easier to carry a heavy load.

Specs:

• Made from polyester
• Tray compartment with trays
• Cooler compartment
• Fishing rod storage space
• Tool holder

Okuma Nomad Tackle Backpack

If you are looking for durability and excellent construction, then the Okuma Nomad tackle backpack is an excellent option.

This backpack is constructed from heavy duty 600 denier ripstop polyester. This material is resistant to most types of rips and tears and is long lasting.

The PVC coating not only adds to this in terms of protection, it also happens to keep the bag dry to a large extent.

Even the other features on the Nomad fishing backpack is tough.

For instance, the zippers are made from corrosion resistant composite and all of the seams have been reinforced.

This is the type of backpack that is able to withstand weight, the elements, and daily use and abuse.

At the same time, it has plenty of storage space.

There are five, large external compartments. The interior of the bag is divided into smaller nine compartments. There are also three utility boxes to ensure that all of your smaller pieces of equipment are kept separate and secure.

“Due to its size and the materials used, the Okuma Nomad bag can be a little heavy”

This is a testament to its durability, however.

The padded shoulder straps are wide, balancing out this added weight quite a bit.

Specs:

• Ripstop material with PVC coating
• Composite zippers, reinforced seams
• Utility trays included
• Segmented compartments

Shimano Blackmoon Backpack

The most notable feature on the Shimano Blackmoon backpack is just how well it distributes the weight of your load between your shoulders.

This makes it a lot easier to carry your gear and tackle, which is what makes this an excellent option for longer treks.

The bag has also been constructed to be as functional as possible.

It holds its shape well, even as you are unpacking the bag.

The lower compartment has utility trays which allow for greater organization.

The truly great feature on this bag is that the flaps on all of the outer pockets can be completely opened, allowing for complete access to all of your gear.

There are mesh rod holders on either side of the bag, which allows you to take at least two rods with you, fuss-free.

The elastic loops allow you to store small fishing tools, including a pair of pliers.

The textured material that the backpack is made from is durable and resistant to minor abrasions.

Although the backpack is not waterproof, it does come with a rain cover. This is enough to protect the backpack and your belongings from drizzles and light showers of rain.

The way that this backpack is built means that the interior is structured.

This makes it easier to find what you are looking for, especially when you are on a moving vessel.

Specs:

• Made from textured material
• Rain cover
• Utility trays
• Mesh rod holders

Calcutta Tackle Backpack

While the Calcutta tackle backpack may look flashy, it is actually quite functional.

The best feature on this is the utility trays that are in a built-in compartment.

Not only does this make it easy to store your lure and tackles, slipping the trays in and out is convenient as well.

You also get pull out storage lure pockets and many of the compartments on this bag are further segmented to improve organization.

This is also definitely a backpack that will hold up well against the elements.

It has a waterproof pouch to protect the internal contents.

For more extreme weather conditions, there is a storm cover that can cover the bag more thoroughly.

It is quite easy to hike with the Calcutta tackle backpack. The straps are thick and comfortable.

Furthermore, the rear of the backpack has breathable foam.

This means that despite the extra padding, your back will remain cool while walking.

The only downside with this backpack is that there aren’t external loops or D-rings.

Therefore, there really isn’t an easily accessible storage area for your tools. Apart from that, the backpack is a sturdy and functional bag that works well in all fishing conditions.

Specs:

• Utility trays
• Waterproof pouch
• Storm cover
• Backrest padding
• Pull out lure storage

It is important to purchase backpacks that have been specifically designed for fishing purposes. This guide not only tells you what to look for but also offers some quality options.

This page was last updated on 2022-08-29. Affiliate links and Product Images are from Amazon PAAPI