If you’re looking to go fishing, a proper tackle box stocked full of fishing supplies is essential. At the same time, figuring out all the things you need can be a tricky process.
Some items offer a real improvement to your overall fishing experience and are definitely worth carrying around. You never know when you may need something and it’s always better to be prepared.
Here are 21 tackle box essentials you’ll want to bring along no matter where your fishing adventures take you!
1. Lures & Baits
To be honest, fishing lures are a staple in the classic fisherman’s tackle box. No matter the scenario, a wide array of lures or baits to choose from with the right starter kit for anyone looking to catch some fish.
2. Fishing Pliers
A proper pair of fishing pliers will make hook removal a whole lot easier. These carry-around pliers include a nylon sheath, coiled lanyard, and belt loop clasp to make the pliers convenient and easy to carry around. Not to mention, they’re spring-loaded to keep the jaws open.
3. Fishing Line
A spool of strong fishing line will always be useful to pack along in your tackle box. This line provides a strong knot strength, low memory, greater abrasion resistance, and zero stretches.
4. Digital Hanging Hook Scale
If you’re the type to measure your catch, then a hanging hook scale is the perfect addition to your collection! This fish scale can weigh both small and large catches ranging from 0.2 pounds, up to 110 lbs.
5. Neoprene Fishing Gloves
For those fishing in cooler weather, a solid pair of fishing gloves can keep your hands warm. These gloves also include a flip-up index finger and thumb for operating your rod or phone without needing to take them off.
6. Fillet Knife
When looking to catch and cook your fish, a strong fillet knife is necessary to prepare your catches. This one also comes with a leather sheath for safe carry and single-stage sharpener.
7. Hook-EZE Knot Tying Tool
Anyone who’s been fishing knows the struggle of tying line knots on fishing hooks. No matter how good you get, everyone gets poked from time to time. This nifty invention solves this problem—perfect for the beginner or advanced fisher who wants a little extra safety.
8. Foldable Fishing Net
When grabbing fish off the hook, or releasing them back into the water, a foldable fishing net can be quite useful. Of course, a small net allows you to catch fish as well. A sturdy multipurpose net will be a great addition to your toolkit.
9. Handheld Fish Finder
If you’d like to find fish, then a handheld fish finder could be great for you. The device uses sonar technology to give you an estimate on where fish location and water depth. Many people opt to use it on their kayak to know where good spots to catch fish.
10. Microfiber Towel
Handling fish with your bare hands can make it difficult to get a good grip. Not to mention, some fish have spines on their fins that could cut your hands. By using a solid microfiber towel, you can avoid these issues and have an easier time holding fish in your hands. Some people opt to use a t-shirt, although a solid microfiber towel will dry out much quicker.
11. Line Winder Spooling Station
This clever tool will allow you to reload your reel with whatever type of line you prefer. Less tangling, less time-consuming, and an easy time when spooling your reel with a new line.
12. Snap-On Floats
Reliable snap-on floats or as many refer to them as bobbers, make it easier to see when there’s tension on the line. A bulk pack of floats is a nice addition to any tackle box.
13. Fishing Rod Ties
When carrying around or putting away fishing rods, they can get caught together or tangled. Fishing rod ties allow you to keep your rods neat and organized for both carrying and storage.
14. Face Mask
Any additional UV protection is a must when out in the sun. A face mask allows you to rock a stylish design while fishing, and save your skin from the sunlight.
15. Bushcraft 101: Wilderness Survival
For extra knowledge on a variety of different survival skills, the bushcraft 101 book can be a useful tool to carry along for those with a larger tackle box or fishing backpack.
16. Line Cutter Ring
Cutting a line is never ideal, yet a common solution if your hook gets stuck on a lilypad, rock, or any other obstacle in the water. This line cutter ring is small and easy to use instead of breaking out your set of pliers.
17. UV Sun Protection Long Sleeve Shirt
For more UV protection, the right type of clothing helps for your fishing trips. While a shirt isn’t quite for your “tackle box”, it does help you to avoid getting burnt out on the water.
18. Polarized Sport Sunglasses
Many fishermen swear it’s necessary to use polarized sunglasses for anyone who’s serious about fishing. With these, you can see into the water with less glare reflecting back onto your eyes. Throw a pair in your tackle box.
19. Wide Brim Bucket Hat
Bucket hats aren’t for everyone, and they aren’t meant to be. Although if you want to protect yourself from the sun, a proper hat while fishing is a necessity. Any wide brim hat will only add to your UV protection.
20. Sunscreen
Any amount of clothing can help you avoid getting burnt, yet nothing is quite like sunscreen. An extra bottle in your tackle box can avoid you from walking home like a lobster after a long day of fishing.
21. Sinkers
Depending on your fishing conditions, a pack of sinkers can be a great help with needing to weigh down your line. These clip-on sinkers make it easy to add weight quickly when in the middle of fishing.
To Conclude
These tackle box essentials and must-have accessories for your fishing gear have been sourced from a variety of fishermen to create the ultimate compiled list. This way, you get a diversified viewpoint of what you may need for your tackle box.
Hope this list helps you with your fishing adventures and travels!