Joshua Babicz
Fishing is one of those activities that can be enjoyed on your own. It also requires a bit of skill and patience. Furthermore, to make the best use of your time, you need several fishing tools and accessories. If you have a proper fishing backpack, you will be able to carry all the required fishing gear along with you and come home with a bundle of prizes to show off. Best Fishing backpacks come in different materials, qualities, and functions. It might be daunting to choose, given the vast number of options available in the market. Therefore, we have prepared a brief guide here that will make the task of selecting a fishing backpack much easier for you.
8 Best Fishing Backpacks to Buy in 2022
1. Rodeel Fishing Tackle Backpack
Design
The tackle backpack has been designed using 600D polyester material. The material is coated with a hydrophobic PVC layer that ensures that the backpack is not damaged by constant water exposure. It features sturdy buckles and zippers, which makes the backpack ideal for use under unfavorable weather conditions.
Storage
There is ample space in the backpack to carry four large backpack tackle boxes. You can fold down the front cover of the backpack to provide a flat working space for the angler and other functional uses.
This fishing backpack comes with a front-loading tackle box, along with adjustable dividers on the side. It includes a zippered entrance, which lets you easily store large items. Also provided are two large storage areas on the upper side of the bag.
There are several mounting points on the outside of this fishing bag that can be used to store small fishing tools. By using them, you can keep your essential tools within reach for easy access. The fishing bag has a retractable bottle pocket that lets you store water bottles and other similar containers. There is a moveable clapboard inside the main bag, as well.
Miscellaneous Features
The padding on the back and shoulder straps of the backpack helps make the backpack highly comfortable. The ergonomic design of the bag makes it convenient for you to wear it all day long without straining your back. The ventilated padding on the back assists in reducing sweat while you carry the backpack.
On one side of the bag, two rod-fixed ropes are present. They help simplify the setup and offer better stability and convenience by allowing your hands to be free. The base of the backpack comes with durable pads that support your bag. They make sure that the bottom does not fall off even if the boxes are taken out.
Pros
- Ventilated padding on the back and shoulder straps.
- Adjustable dividers and mounting points.
- 600D polyester material and hydrophobic PVC layer.
Cons
- Reports of missing tackle boxes.
- Quality of workmanship can improve.
2. Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack
Design
The bag comes with thick padding on the back, which, when combined with the ergonomic and breathable design, makes wearing the backpack a comfortable experience. The shoulder straps on the backpack are also padded with breathable material and can be adjusted for a customized fit. Reflective strips have been provided that can be of immense benefit if you are traveling at night. They help reflect light and make the vehicles on the road aware of your presence so that you are not accidentally run down by them.
Storage
The backpack has been separated into 11 different compartments with the help of the SBS zippers. The bag’s unique design lets you have 18 separate divisions in total for better organization and storage. You will be able to easily separate your fishing gear based on the multiple categories and retrieve them quickly when required.
The main bag includes a removable clapboard. The clapboard is collapsible, thus allowing you space for a super large tackle. The dimensions of this storage space are 12.6” by 7.9” by 17.7”. You can keep the clapboard if you want two separate spaces for convenience. A retractable bottle pocket has been included in which you can carry your water bottles.
Miscellaneous Features
The backpack also features a protective rain cover, which can come in handy if you expect some heavy showers while fishing. Another benefit of this backpack is the addition of a hard molded sunglass case. The feet of the backpack are made using rubber, which offers protection against water, mud, and dirt.
Pros:
- Unique organizational features through the use of 11 to 18 compartments and divisions.
- Reflective layers on the straps offer better security while traveling at night.
- Rubber feet protect the backpack from dirt and moisture.
Cons:
- The boxes may not be able to hold bait properly.
- Stitching quality can improve.
3. Ghosthorn Fishing Tackle Backpack Storage Bag
Design
The bag comes with a two-way zipper, making it easier for you to have access to your belongings without opening the zipper all the way. The zipper pulls have an ergonomic curved design and are abrasion-resistant. For better durability, the backpack has tightly stitched seams that can withstand long durations of rough usage. It offers a mesh-covered foam panel with waffle fabric that allows air to circulate freely, thus preventing the development of sweat. It helps you comfortably use the backpack even in warm weather.
Storage
You can free your hands for other purposes, such as holding hooks, pliers, or clippers, thanks to the molle bets on the front. These bets can easily hold on to your knife or flashlight. A clip buckle has been provided in the middle of the bag, which can be used to hold a jacket, a shirt, or a hat if you anticipate rough weather conditions. To store your rods, you can make use of the two-rod bets on the side and the patched belt on the bottom.
Miscellaneous Features
The backpack has been designed using durable, high-density nylon fabrics with firm and reinforced stitches. The material is water-resistant, which makes it ideal for use under wet conditions for long periods. The abrasion-resistance capability of these materials provides you with peace of mind when you carry the bag to saltwater or freshwater fishing adventures.
Pros
- Includes molle belts that can store small essentials, thereby freeing up your hands.
- Made using high-quality, water-resistant, and abrasion-resistant nylon fabrics.
- Clip buckle in the middle for storing jackets and hats.
Cons
- Reports of zippers rusting and breaking.
- The size may be too small for your purposes.
4. YVLEEN Fishing Tackle Backpack
The dimensions of the main compartment of this fishing bag are 14.17” x 10.24” x 4.72”. The storage space of the main compartment is good enough to fit two 3700 tray tackle boxes. You can store a single small tackle box and other fishing tools in the front pocket, whose dimensions are 11” x 10” x 2”. Three external zippered pockets have been included for storing other necessary items. The pockets allow you to store and retrieve your small belongings quickly.
Design
The backpack has been manufactured using superior-quality 1000D nylon fabric, which is not only durable but also water-resistant. Other features worth mentioning are the rust-resistant, SBS two-way zippers, triangle elastic fasteners, and sturdy KAM buckle. The backpack includes a mesh cushion fabric that has sweat-proofing capabilities for additional comfort.
Storage
This fishing backpack utilizes a user-friendly design, keeping in mind your comfort and ease of use. One of its best features is the vast number of divisions and compartments within the backpack. They help you categorize your items and organize them for better access. You can store all your fishing gear such as pliers, lure boxes, line, tackle boxes while also having space for your phone, camera, wallets, tablets, and so on.
Miscellaneous Features
You get a specialized fish lip gripper provided on the right side of the bag to which you can attach the fish you have caught. You can use the fishing rod holder to keep your hands free while you are baiting the hook, thereby making the process more quick and easy. A specially designed bottle holder is included along with an elastic cord so that your bottle remains securely attached to the backpack. The bag comes with two buckles on the left side, which can be used for other fishing tools.
You can customize the bag to better fit your needs through the detachable and adjustable straps. The high-quality buckles can be used with the configurable straps to convert the bag into a crossbody bag, shoulder bag, chest bag, handbag, or sling bag. You can adjust the straps to get a tighter or lighter fit based on your bodily specifications.
Pros
- Adjustable and detachable straps for better customization.
- Made using high-quality 1000D nylon fabric.
- Can fit two 3700 tackle boxes.
Cons
- Reports of missing tackle boxes.
- Problem with size.
5. Huntvp Fishing Tackle Backpack Storage Bag
Design
This tackle box backpack has been designed using top-quality, water-resistant 600D nylon fabric with reinforced stitches that can withstand rigorous usage. Additional durability has been provided through the sturdy and abrasion-resistant buckles and full-length double zippers. The dimensions of the main storage area are 13.39” by 9.06” by 4.33”. The backpack is big enough for you to store all your fishing tools, lure boxes, lines, pliers, phones, keys, wallets, and other essential accessories.
Storage
The backpack has a storage pocket at the bottom. A fish lip grabber at the bottom lets you immediately store the fish you have caught. The pocket on the back of the backpack can be used to store quick-access items for easy retrieval. A pocket on the side of the bag has been provided for storing water bottles. It has retractable strings that ensure that the bottle remains well attached to the bag.
Miscellaneous Features
Wearing the backpack is quite comfortable, thanks to the thick padding on the back and the breathable padding on the shoulder straps. They ensure that your back is not strained while the breathable material prevents sweat production. You will be able to easily carry the bag all day long.
The backpack includes a front molle system, which frees up your hands for other purposes. The molle can be used to hold your clipper, pliers, and hooks while you are busy with other tasks. A clip buckle has been provided so that you can carry a shirt, hat, or jacket. You can use the two-rod bets on the side and the patched belt on the bottom to store your rods so that you can bait them more easily.
Pros
- Front molle system for holding your fishing tools.
- Breathable and comfortable padding on the back and shoulder straps.
- Durable buckles and abrasion-resistant zippers.
Cons
- Problems with storage space.
6. Prospo 40L Shoulder Backpack
Design
The tackle backpack has a molle webbing system on the front and sides, allowing several attachments to be used with it. It has two-way zippers and comfortable padding on the back, along with mesh padding on the shoulder straps. The chest strap and the waist belt are adjustable to make the backpack convenient to carry.
Storage
The backpack comes with multiple compartments and zipper pockets, making it easier for you to organize your fishing tools. The Y-shaped buckle on the backpack helps in distributing the pressure across the bag. It also allows you to have quick access to your belongings inside the main compartment.
Miscellaneous Features
The two-way cord zippers secure all your belongings safely within the bag and allow you to open it from multiple directions. The weather-resistant coating on the inside and outside of the fishing backpack makes it ideal for use under a lot of rough and wet weather conditions. A strong top handle has been provided with the backpack. It can be used to carry or move the bag and is durable enough to withstand heavy usage.
The front of the backpack has magic sticker straps to which you can attach a flag patch. The backpack comes with hydration support through the 3L bladder. Elastic bands are provided with straps that can be used as holders for the bladder hose.
Pros:
- The weather-resistant coating on the inside and outside of the backpack.
- Thick padding on the back and mesh padding on shoulder straps.
- Molle web design for storing items and attachments.
Cons:
- Reports of strap breaking after short usage.
- The size of the backpack may not be enough.
7. KastKing Pond Hopper Fishing Sling Tackle Storage Bag
Design
The tackle backpack has been developed using superior-quality 420D rip-stop nylon material that promotes long-term reliability and performance. A hydrophobic layer has been applied on the outside that protects the bag from moisture. A PVC layer has been used on the inside of the bag, thus adding extra security to your belongings. You can safely use the bag under rough weather conditions, too.
Storage
Organizing your tackle gets better with this backpack. You can easily store and transport your fishing tackle in this bag, thereby making fishing a stress-free experience for you. You can use the internal pockets for storing terminal tackle. In the main compartment, you will be able to carry all your other gears and essential items such as lures, lines, rain gear, or your lunch. The internal pockets are ideal for your wallets and keys. Front-mounted molle straps have been provided, which can be used to attach line clippers, pliers, a leader line, and other similar items.
The backpack comes with two hideaway zipper pockets that let you store a combo, a rod, a water bottle, or a soda can. They help keep your hands free while they are engaged in other work. The pocket on the right side can be unzipped to use the double elastic chamber inside it. You can place the butt of your rod or the second section of a two-piece rod inside the pocket. The rod can then be further secured to the top of the backpack using the in-built adjustable bungee loop. A hideaway zippered pocket has been provided on the left of the backpack, which can be used to hold a bottle of water.
Miscellaneous Features
The double-loop zipper pulls on the backpack enable you to effortlessly unpack your bag with one quick finger movement. The zippers are self-healing, which means you won’t have to worry about your zippers accidentally breaking apart.
For optimal comfort, the backpack has padded back and shoulder straps that reduce the strain on your body and let you carry the bag for long hours. For a better fit, you can change the strap length or lower the mounting point to the left or right, based on your requirements.
Pros:
- Double-loop zipper pulls and self-healing zippers.
- Internal pockets and mounted molle straps.
- Hydrophobic layer on the exterior and PVC layer on the interior.
Cons:
- It needs better work on the seams.
8. PLUSINNO Fishing Tackle Backpack
Design
The backpack has been designed to maximize your comfort and convenience. The backpack is lightweight and can be converted into different kinds of bags using the left and right shoulder straps and the waist strap. You can extend the shoulder strap length up to 48 inches. You can use the bag as a handbag, a sling shoulder bag, an overnight bag, a traveling bag, or a chest bag.
The dimensions of the main compartment are 14.6” by 8.7” by 5.5. The bag is large enough for you to store your fishing gear like lines, lures, pliers, and so on. It is also good enough for carrying your personal belongings, such as phones, tablets, and wallets. The backpack keeps all your gear safe and secure.
Storage
The main storage compartment includes two small spaces for organizing your belongings. The three external zippered pockets can be used to store small quick-access items. A left pocket has been provided for storing a bottle or cup, while the right pocket can be used for small tools like a knife, pliers, or a screwdriver.
The bottle pocket includes two retractable strings that help you secure the bottle to your backpack properly. For storing your rods, you can use the two rod belts on the side and the patched belt on the bottom. The tackle bag includes clip buckles that can be used to store your raincoat, jackets, and shirts, in case you are expecting a change in weather.
Miscellaneous Features
The fishing tackle backpack has been designed using a high-density and water-resistant 600D nylon fabric with firm stitching on the seams. The material is strong enough to withstand all kinds of rough usage. The abrasion-resistant buckle and full-length double zippers add to the overall durability of the backpack. For better water resistance, the bag has internal waterproof padding.
Thick padding had been provided on the back, which, along with the breathable design, makes for a comfortable backpack. The shoulder straps, too, have padding on them and can be adjusted to get the perfect fit for yourself. The mesh-covered foam panel provides ample breathing space for air to circulate and makes the sweat evaporate, thereby keeping you cool all the time.
Pros
- It includes several small compartments and zippered pockets.
- Thick padding on back and shoulder straps.
- High-density fabric and abrasion-resistant zippers.
Cons
- The size of the bag might be too small for your preferences.
What are the Benefits of Carrying a Fishing Backpack?
Having a well-stocked fishing backpack will ensure that you have all the right tools at your disposal while fishing. This will help make the process of fishing much quicker and more convenient. Fishing backpacks often include straps and pockets for holding the fishing rod, which can help you free up your hands for other work.
Another major benefit of fishing backpacks over regular backpacks is that they come with a lot of padding on the back and the shoulders. Since you will usually be carrying a lot of weight, the padding will make the bag feel comfortable on your body and put less strain on your shoulders. Adjustable waist straps and shoulder straps help you have a pleasant experience while carrying the backpack, even for long hours.
Types of Fishing Backpacks
Fishing backpacks can be categorized into three types based on their functionality, purpose, and how they are carried on the body:
Traditional Fishing Backpacks
Backpacks belonging to this category are carried on the front or back and are secured using padded shoulder straps. Traditional backpacks are generally larger than other fishing backpacks. They are well suited for the seasoned veteran who is fully aware of how to use the different tools and gears for fishing. The larger carrying capacity lets you pack in many items so that you are well prepared for your long fishing trips. These backpacks usually come with padded straps, which help in evenly distributing the weight across your body. This kind of backpack is the most popular because of its versatility and storage capacity.
Sling Packs
These backpacks are ideal for short fishing trips since they are smaller in size and have a lesser storage capacity. They are worn usually on the chest and sometimes on the back. They help you manage the bare fishing essentials while keeping the backpack lightweight.
Waist and Chest Packs
These are the smallest bags among the three. They only allow you to carry tiny fishing tools. They are perfect if you plan to fish at a pond or lake very close to your home or your car.
Things to Consider While Buying a Fishing Backpack
1. Storage Size and Capacity
Storage capacity should be your primary concern while buying a backpack. The ideal backpack should be able to accommodate all your fishing tools, including the tackle boxes. Furthermore, there should be some additional space for your essentials, such as food, drinking water, wallets, phones, keys, licenses, and so on. If you have an idea of the size of your catch, you should go for a smaller or bigger fishing backpack accordingly.
The size of your bag will also depend on the length of your trip. If you often go for long fishing trips, you will benefit from a big fishing bag as the smaller ones are well suited for shorter trips. You must also keep in mind that a bigger backpack means more weight, so you should be fit enough to carry the additional load.
Traditional fishing backpacks generally have many compartments, pockets, dividers, and pouches for better organization and sorting of your items. You will be able to quickly retrieve your gear as and when required since they will remain well separated. These backpacks also have many external flaps, pockets, and straps for attaching your fishing rods and catch.
2. Construction and Design
A fishing backpack that has been designed using high-quality, durable material such as polyester or nylon will last longer. While you are busy on your fishing adventures, you would not want to be inconvenienced by a low-quality backpack that would fall apart from the weight of its contents. Besides the high-quality material, you should also look for a bag that has reinforced stitches. They help in solidifying the material and make the backpack ready to withstand rough usage. A backpack whose seam has been put together well will not come apart even while carrying sharp and pointy objects in it.
Depending on your preferences, you might like a backpack that has more or fewer pockets and compartments. You can get a lot of variations in terms of these flaps, pockets, and dividers. The kind of organizational features you should go for depends on your specific usage and the things you intend to carry in the backpack.
3. Comfort and Convenience
A backpack that is uncomfortable to carry will greatly reduce the chances of you enjoying the trip. Depending on your body size and strength, you should go for a bigger or smaller size backpack. A bigger backpack may seem attractive, but you must be well equipped to carry the weight on your shoulders.
Most backpacks come with some form of padding on the back or shoulders to equally distribute the weight and reduce the stress your shoulder experiences. Often mesh layers are provided to allow proper ventilation which in turn prevents the accumulation of sweat. A mesh padding is great for using the backpack in warm climates.
Fishing backpacks often come with molle straps for holding the fishing rods or clip buckles for storing a shirt, jacket, or raincoat. Other features such as LED lights, lay flat designs, and folding trays are also provided for added convenience. Small additions like these can make a lot of difference and might even be a deal-breaker for you.
4. Waterproofing and Weather Resistance
Many backpacks come with waterproof materials that can come in handy since you would be spending a lot of time near the water and your bag will be prone to splashing. PVC layers, which are often included on the outside and inside of backpacks, protect the material from rough elements and improve its durability. It is always a good idea to spend a few extra bucks and go for a backpack that has strong weatherproofing capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a regular backpack and a fishing backpack?
A fishing backpack requires multiple compartments to store the various tools needed for fishing. The small pockets in the fishing backpack can be used to store pliers and baits. For fishing, you will be using many tools that are small in size, and in that case, the pockets and comparts will come in handy. The backpack also has ample space for carrying tackle trays, for which regular backpacks may be too small or not of proper size.
Fishing exposes your backpack to water, and thus you will require a waterproof backpack. Regular backpacks are generally not designed to be waterproof, but for fishing backpacks, this is a staple feature. Fishing backpacks also tend to be more sturdy and abrasion-resistant than regular backpacks.
What should you be carrying in a beginner fishing backpack?
The first thing that your bag should contain is a loaded tackle box with all the fishing essentials such as bait, sinker, and hook. Besides that, you must have a fisher’s license, in case you are fishing in a water body that has restricted access. Your backpack must have a line, a reel, and a rod. You must also carry swivels that will help in stopping your line from twisting.
What is the best size for a fishing backpack?
The best backpack size for you will depend on factors like your physical features, the intended usage, and the amount of stuff you will be carrying. You will naturally require a larger backpack if you’re a professional angler who goes on long fishing trips. You can work with sling backpacks or chest packs if you don’t like carrying a lot of gear and want to travel light.
Conclusion
While selecting the best fishing backpack, the aforementioned factors will help you narrow down your choices. The storage capacity and comfort level of your backpack should be your top priority, closely followed by the design and durability of the bag. Large fishing backpacks are best for longer fishing excursions, as they enable you to carry all your essential gear and personal-use items.
A backpack should have proper shoulder and waist straps that can be adjusted well to fit your body. Paddings are provided to make the task of carrying the bag on your shoulders a lot more comfortable. Compartments and pockets are provided in the backpacks to help easily organize your fishing gear and save you a lot of time while on the field. That’s about all. We hope this guide will help you in choosing the best fishing tackle backpack.
