Disorganised tackle costs fish. Finding the right lure 30 seconds after the moment passed is a lesson most anglers learn once. Here is a storage system that prevents it.
The Problem With Most Tackle Storage
Most anglers accumulate tackle faster than they organise it — adding new lures and gear to existing boxes without a system, resulting in a collection that requires excavation when a specific lure is needed quickly. On the water, in a boat, in low light, with a fish feeding — this is not the moment for a search.
The Core Principle
Organise by what you will reach for under pressure, not by what makes logical sense at home. The lures you use 80% of the time should be in the 20% of your storage that is most accessible. Everything else is secondary storage that can be slower to access.
Tackle Box Types
Hard-sided multi-compartment boxes: The standard for soft plastics, jig heads, swivels, and small terminal tackle. Compartment sizes should match lure sizes — oversized compartments allow lures to tangle; undersized ones create the same problem. Waterproof seal matters for saltwater storage.
Shallow trays: Better for hardbody lures — you can see every lure without disturbing others. A lure partially buried in a deep box is a lure you will not use. Shallow trays solve this. Stack them in a waterproof bag or a boat storage compartment.
Soft plastic wallets: Resealable pages with slots for individual plastic packets. Keeps them organised by type, takes minimal space, and protects them from damage. Separate wallets by colour family or application (surface, mid-water, bottom) rather than brand.
The Float Bag System for Wading
Wade fishing with a tackle box is impractical. A chest pack or waist pack with four to six pre-chosen lures eliminates the problem. Load the pack the night before with the lures most likely to be productive based on conditions. Leave the box in the car. Browse our fishing accessories range.
