Finding the best fishing backpacks probably isn’t one of your priorities right now. But as you spend time choosing the perfect reel, rod, lures, and other fishing gear, consider as well where you’ll be storing all of them.
Not having proper storage for your gear and just carrying them outdoors will put them at risk of getting damaged.
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Best Backpack for Fishing
Check out which bags can enhance your experience of your upcoming fishing expeditions!
1. KastKing Pond Hopper Storage Bag
The first on our list is a great option as it’s lightweight and a water-resistant tackle bag. It’s a sling bag that can hold most (if not all) of your fishing gear without you getting weighed down.
It’s both saltwater and freshwater safe. Its water resistance is from its durable nylon material construction, as well as from the brand’s hydrophobic coating which is specifically for repelling water. The interior of the bag has a waterproof PVC layer to ensure not a single drop of water seeps into your bag. If you want all your belongings to be safe, then this is definitely the one for you.
The front pocket has a tackle box. You’ll find the internal pockets of the sling bag perfect for your terminal tackle. It’s also worth noting that KastKing Pond Hopper has molle straps that are for your lines, tools, and/or for stashing smaller size gear.
The rod holder is a plus, together with a separate bottle holder. You may think it’s not sufficient for what you need as a storage bag or fishing bag, but don’t let its look fool you. This bag has the ability to meet your storage needs.
Its back and shoulder are both padded for the ultimate comfort. It won’t hurt you at all even when you wear the bag all day long. It’s lightweight and a fishing pack that’s a must-have for hobbyists and seasoned anglers.
2. CLC WT3604 Wild River Backpack
Next on our list of the best fishing backpacks is the bag that seems to have it all.
It doesn’t just hold a massive amount of space for storage of your gear, its compartments let you organize everything better.
Even its side pockets have divisions for further organization. You’ll definitely have easier access to your gear should you need them.
This is a backpack with a lighted system, which means you can see your bag’s contents at night even when you don’t have a flashlight or flasher. The waterproof rain cover is what gives the backpack protection regardless of the type of weather.
3. FishPond Summit Fishing Pack
One of the primary reasons why anglers use sling bags is due to the comfort they offer. Even if it’s on your back all day, you won’t feel hot during the summer months as it doesn’t cover your back – just a small part of it.
It’s designed with the user’s comfort in mind. It’s not too large that it feels heavy or bulky, but it provides a good amount of storage room for your fishing gear. The best part? You don’t need to break the bank to get it.
It’s made of durable recycled fishnets. Its material construction is what guarantees the product will last you several years even with rough, constant use.
The Summit Sling makes for a great fishing companion. It’s a well-crafted sling bag with the ability to last a long time. If, for some reason, this sling pack gives you issues, the brand offers a comprehensive warranty to their customers.
4. SpiderWire Sling Fishing Backpack
If you’re looking for one of the best fishing backpacks for kids, you’re in luck as you’ve found one! Its compact size means your child won’t have to lug around with a massive bag.
It’s a sling bag that already comes with a medium tackle box, great to get your kid started. If you think you’ll need two tackle boxes, this pack can hold both. Although it has a smaller size, it’s still pretty spacious.
There are two zipped pockets and a sunglasses holder. It’s well-padded, too, making it comfortable to carry to long distances.
5. CLC Wild River Nomad Backpack
We have to say it’s one of the top backpacks due to the USB charging system that comes with this bag! It’s a cool and useful feature to use to charge your fish finder for kayak, phone, or any small electronic gadget you may have.
The LED light is also great as you’ll be able to find tools inside the internal pockets easily even in low light settings.
The loops and hoops on the bag are aplenty which you can use in attaching tools to the bag’s exterior. The base of the bag is quite durable and it protects the bag elements. The only issue we had is it isn’t waterproof. Fortunately, it has a water-resistant rain cover.
6. Lixada Fishing Tackle Bag
This one has more than enough organized compartments and offers reliable storage. It’s safe to say that the brand paid close attention to the user’s comfort as it has thick padding.
The padded shoulder straps are adjustable and offer support. The dividers are removable so you have the option of using the bag as one big unit for storage.
The mesh pouches improve the breathability of the bag while you’re on a fishing trip while the backpack’s zippered side pockets offer additional storage spaces.
7. Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag
We can’t recommend this bag enough! The Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag in black with red accents is a crowd-favorite as it looks sleeker. It’s also great to use for other applications outside fishing, including trekking and camping.
There are a lot of pockets on this sling bag, including a side zippered pocket which can be very handy for storing items you need to access quickly.
The only issue we had with this is it doesn’t have a sunglasses holder for your polarized fishing sunglasses and a designated rod holder. Still, it’s a great option if you’re looking for a bag that can carry a couple of tackle trays. It’s also affordable!
8. Piscifun Cross Body Storage Bag
One of the best backpacks on the market, the Piscifun Cross Body will show you what an angler backpack should be.
You can wear this bag as a shoulder bag, backpack, handbag, or chest bag. This is because it has two detachable and adjustable straps. It’s also water-resistant as it’s made of high-density nylon fabric.
It’s multifunctional as it can store your necessities on or off the water. The ergonomic design offers users comfort and the reflective sticker lets you find your bag in the dark easily.
How to Choose the Best Fishing Backpacks
Here are crucial things to consider to make the best choice:
Storage
A fishing backpack is specifically for the storage of fishing gear. It’s, therefore, crucial to consider if your backpack can hold all your fishing gear and equipment. Figure out what you’re planning to carry prior to getting a specific backpack so you can be sure you have enough storage room.
While it’s vital that your backpack has enough room for your storage needs, remember that you also wouldn’t want too much space. Are you a minimalist in terms of the gear you use for fishing?
If so, then you won’t find yourself needing a giant backpack as you only need to bring with you a couple of pieces of gear. A bigger backpack with more room than you need will also be heavier to carry around. Go for a more compact option if you don’t see yourself needing bigger storage space in the future.
In line with backpack storage comes organization. The fishing backpack that’s huge enough to store all your fishing gear isn’t always the best choice for you. The best saltwater fishing backpack has several compartments, storage options, and zippered-off sections which can store your gear efficiently.
Organized backpacks can make it easier for you to find what it is you’re looking for in particular. This is important as it can affect your catch and overall fishing experience.
Comfort
Comfort is often forgotten when choosing the best fishing tackle backpack, but it’s a very important consideration. Do you have to hike to reach your favorite fishing packs?
If so, then you need a comfortable backpack as one that hurts your back while you’re wearing it can make your trek a painful and traumatic one.
Since your fishing gear has the tendency of being heavy and bulky, it’s important that you’re comfortable as you carry them around. The best backpack tackle box features padding or is designed ergonomically.
Waterproofing
Fishing is an undertaking that occurs near or on a body of water. Should your backpack get wet or fall off, you would want it and its contents to have water protection. Take note: it will be somewhat difficult to find fishing backs that are totally waterproof.
At the very least, your backpack should be resistant to water so your gear has sufficient protection from getting soaked. The materials of the bag play a crucial part in a backpack’s water resistance or how well they are able to hold themselves up against the water.
Have you found a backpack that you like that’s neither water-resistant or waterproof? If so, check if there are other features that can ensure your gear is water-safe.
There are those that have been added with waterproof pockets which will be enough in ensuring licenses, phones, and other smaller-sized gear are protected. Others also have rain covers which you can use on days that aren’t raining to ensure water is kept away from your important belongings and fishing gear.
Rod Holder
The fishing backpack that holds rods is a great option as a fishing rod is the most awkward gear that you’ll need to carry around on your fishing trips.
A fishing rod may not be heavy; however, there are those that are extra-long, and carrying them can be quite difficult.
You may also find yourself wanting to free up both of your hands instead of holding a rod as you travel to a particular fishing spot. The best backpack for fishing is equipped with a rod holder or two to ease your burden.
More often than not, a rod holder is on one side of a fishing backpack. This ensures there are no issues as you walk. The rod holder has to be safe and secure so you don’t end up losing an expensive and crucial piece of fishing gear. The backpacks we’ve reviewed are all with highly rated rod holders.
Tackle Box
The best fishing backpacks also come fitted with a tackle box. There are anglers who already have tackle trays of their own.
If you don’t, then this will definitely be a nice perk as you won’t have to purchase a separate tackle box. Getting a backpack fitted with a tackle box can ensure the box fits into the fishing backpack.
If you already have trays, make sure that they can fit on the backpack that you choose to purchase. Tackle boxes added on backpacks can also help ensure organization. This is vital as you’ll be handling sharp hooks and lures.
Cooler
A cooler placed on a fishing backpack can definitely weigh it down. But, there are bags with cooler sections where you can simply add ice packs so drinks, food, and bait are cold.
Is there a need for you to consolidate your needs into a single backpack? If so, then you definitely want a tackle bag that already has a cooler apart from other cool and crucial features.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did you choose the best fishing backpacks?
Apart from being highly recommended by existing users, we chose the top backpacks on these crucial factors:
- Quality: This is analyzed with regards to the materials used in making the backpacks, including the construction methods that are used. The bags we selected are all made of durable, high-quality materials which can ensure their longevity.
- Brand: If you try to do some research, you’ll see hundreds of manufacturers and brands selling backpacks. Our list of the best bags to use as storage for fishing gear has a combination of lesser-known and well-known reputable brands to provide you with several options.
- Durability: The list was also curated based on the strength or durability of backpacks. A product’s durability will save you time and money which are needed in repairing an existing bag or purchasing a new fishing backpack altogether.
- Price: We made sure our list of the best backpacks for fishing appeals to different budgets. One of our goals was to provide quality options that are within different price ranges.
What should I place inside the best tackle backpack?
Depending on your chosen backpack’s size, you should put whatever you think you will need on your fishing expedition.
Some of the most important things you should remember to put inside your bag are a selection of hooks and lures, pliers, and spare lines.
You might also want to pack in cleansing wipes, rain gear, a full set of clothes should you get wet, a dry towel, your lunch and some snacks, and bottles of water.
Is a fishing backpack with rod holder worth buying?
You’ll see different backpacks sold online which can carry several fishing rods. There are often pockets on the exterior of backpacks to hold different kinds of rods.
The bags with rod holders are great as they can ensure your rods don’t fall off from your bag as you travel. Those that don’t have rod holders don’t offer this security, but you can be creative in securing your rods.
One way of doing so is using the compression straps that are on the backpack or using the pouch intended as a water bottle holder as a rod holder.
Is a single-strap fishing backpack any good?
A one-strap fishing backpack is useful if you are not intending to bring heavy gear with you during fishing trips.
One thing that you need to remember with one-strap bags is they don’t have a two-strap’s strength. A one-strap bag also has a smaller capacity for storage.
It’s, however, best or ideal if you’ll be carrying smaller and lighter gear or if you’re heading out to do kayak fishing with outriggers. Its usefulness will depend on the amount of fishing gear you’re planning to carry. Most seasoned anglers don’t want this particular kind of bag as a primary fishing bag.
Can the best fishing bag pack my sleeping bag?
This will entirely depend on how compact the sleeping bag you will bring and the backpack’s storage capacity. A much larger fishing backpack is capable of holding a sleeping bag within the main compartment.
There are also backpacks that allow you to attach a sleeping bag to the bag’s exterior. Securing it will entail strapping the sleeping bag to the backpack using the built-in rings and/or attachment points.
Is it worth it to get a backpack intended specifically for fishing?
Because backpacks have dedicated space that’s for different kinds of fishing gear like tackle trays, they’re beneficial and will most certainly improve your overall fishing experience.
The best backpacks for fishing usually allow storage for all fishing essentials so you can haul your gear while both of your hands are free.
If you want a regular backpack and just use it as a fishing backpack, that’s possible. However, there may not be essential features that will make your fishing trip more convenient and enjoyable such as the organization that a fishing backpack comes with and the waterproofing.
Conclusion
Now that you’re equipped with everything you need to know about fishing backpacks, you should feel confident in making a purchase.
Don’t forget to consider a backpack’s size, the kind of fishing that you will do, and if you’ll be making a one-day or multi-day fishing trip with family and/or friends.
All these factors are going to have a significant impact on the kind of bag that you’ll need for your trips. But, if you prepare and plan in advance, you’ll find the best fishing backpack for you. What we suggest is giving the KastKing Pond Hopper a try as it’s tried and tested.
It’s better equipped to withstand or handle the elements. It’s water-resistant and has several protective layers so you can be absolutely certain your belongings are kept safe and moisture-free.
The compact sling bag also has the durability you would want from an outdoor bag and sufficient room for storage.
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