Are you planning to go on a fishing trip this weekend? Wondering where you’ll store your baits, knives, hook removers, poles, landing nets, and other fishing gear? Then you’ve come to the right place to find the best fishing backpack. Most are fitted with much more compartments than traditional backpacks to help keep your useful fishing gear in a safe space.
Using a fishing backpack helps you to organize your fishing experience easily and prepare all the essential things you need. There are several considerations that need to be weighed when selecting a fishing backpack to guarantee a smooth sailing fishing experience. But it can be very difficult to find out the one you will greatly profit from numerous brands and styles of fishing backpacks. This is why we created this guide on the best fishing backpacks for you. And if you need a more specific fishing backpack with a rod holder, then we got you as well.
In a Hurry? The test winners after 12 hrs of research
Wild River Nomad Fishing Backpack – Premium Pick
Why is it better?
- Built with thick material and strong stitching
- Plenty of storage space, being able to hold either 4 deep Plano 3630 boxes or 4 normal Plano 3620 boxes
- Thick plastic pads on the bottom to keep it a little elevated off the ground
- The LED light does a good job on lighting
Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack – Best Value
Why is it better?
- The bag itself is very roomy
- The main pocket is thicker as to provide some thermal protection
- You can sling this around to the front of your body and access your tackle while still wearing it
- Has a very comfy handle at the top
Best Fishing Backpacks – Overview
Fishing backpacks may look like the normal backpacks people frequently wear on the roads. But a fishing backpack is designed specifically to hold all the essential tools and gears needed for fishing. We took a look at a range of fishing backpacks and compared each of the features and prices and made this guide to help you make an informed decision for getting a fishing backpack.
Fishing Backpacks Reviews
1. Wild River Nomad Fishing Backpack – Premium Pick
The Wild River Nomad Fishing Backpack is a durable and flexible fishing bag for both active and casual fishermen. It has an integrated LED light system that allows you to see into the bag or your work area when natural light gets scarce. It also features a large upper storage area with a removable divider, which can convert this bag into a full-size backpack for holding larger items.
The Nomad has the capacity to hold up to six medium number 3600 and four number 3500 trays. It features a removable plier holder that easily goes from bag to belt. It has external and internal mesh pockets to easily view contents. It also has base pads to reduce wear and help keep the bag clean and dry when the fishing becomes wet.
Key Features:
- Integrated LED light system
- Removable plier holder
- Protective rain cover
- Lower tray compartment for storage of up to 4 medium #3600-style trays
Specifications:
- Brand: Custom Leathercraft
- Dimensions: 18.5″ H x 17″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 4.75 lbs
- Built with thick material and strong stitching
- Plenty of storage space, being able to hold either 4 deep Plano 3630 boxes or 4 normal Plano 3620 boxes
- Thick plastic pads on the bottom to keep it a little elevated off the ground
- The LED light does a good job on lighting
- It’s quite heavy, even with nothing in it
2. Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack
The Piscifun Fishing Tackle Backpack makes compact backpacking possible and promotes efficient mobility. It is made from superior high quality water-resistant 1200D high-density nylon fabrics, paired with durable KAM buckle and SBS zippers. The precise 86 sewing procedures offer 20% higher water resistance and toughness.
The whole fishing tackle backpack is divided into 11 independent rooms, the unique component design helps the rooms to be 18 relatively separated small areas in total. There is a removable clapboard in the main bag, reflective strips to keep you safe at night, and also a hard molded case for your fishing sunglasses. Very thick padding on the back and shoulder straps provide optimum comfort.
Key Features:
- Hard molded sunglasses case
- Indestructible KAM Buckle
- Protective rain cover
- Double SBS Zippers
- Movable clapboard in the main bag
Specifications:
- Brand: Piscifun
- Dimensions: 17.7″ H x 12.6″ W x 7.9″ D
- Weight: 3.53 lbs
- The pack is heavy duty and the zippers are of high quality
- The padding on the pack backing is aggressive but well cushioned and comfortable
- The sunglass compartment shell is reinforced
- The bottom pocket holds 4 hard tackle cases perfectly
- Sacrificed a bit of storage space for thicking shoulder and back padding
3. Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack – Best Value
You can’t go wrong with the lifetime guarantee the Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack offers. This fishing backpack is perfect for anglers who love to trek and search for new fishing spots and need convenience, comfort, and storage. The adjustable main compartment is divided into 3 separate inner compartments: Top compartment to store personal items, middle cooler compartment keeps a drink, food, and baits cold and the lower compartment holds utility boxes.
The backpack includes 3 medium utility boxes and also has an organizer compartment, side zippered pockets, a fishing tool holder, foam molded sunglass case and flat bottom so the pack can sit upright.
Key Features:
- Includes 3 medium utility boxes
- Fishing rod holder/carry system
- Foam molded sunglass case with soft lining
- 3 subdivided components
Specifications:
- Brand: Spiderwire
- Dimensions: 19.7″ H x 13.1″ W x 7.3″ D
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- The bag itself is very roomy
- The main pocket is thicker as to provide some thermal protection
- You can sling this around to the front of your body and access your tackle while still wearing it
- Has a very comfy handle at the top
- The zippers are kinda sticky and will take some breaking in but overall they are not bad
4. SHIMANO BLACKMOON Fishing Backpack
The SHIMANO BLACKMOON Fishing Backpack is built for anglers who walk to their local lake or river for a day of fishing. For over 80 years, Shimano has concentrated on precision engineering, one step at a time. Creating the most innovative products and processes you can hold in your hand today. Expect nothing less than the highest quality from this performance-minded product.
It is made from a textured fabric that is durable and heavy-duty, making it a candidate for a long life. This backpack is equipped with thick padded shoulder straps to minimize discomfort in wearers and also provide them with unparalleled support. Anglers also have easy access to all their storage items with the different zippers on the side and front of this great backpack.
Key Features:
- Thick padded shoulder straps
- Built with a front-loading tackle box storage with adjustable dividers
- Includes 4 Plano 3650 utility boxes
- Constructed with heavy-duty materials
Specifications:
- Brand: SHIMANO
- Dimensions: 16″ H x 17″ W x 8.5″ D
- Weight: 4 lbs
- The access flap for the boxes has a small strip of velcro to secure the boxes while fishing, rather than having to use the zippers
- For travel, the pack’s dividers & boxes transfer into the checked bag ‘converting’ the pack into a carry-on for essentials
- Stays rigid & doesn’t tip over while removing/replacing contents or while maneuvering the boat
- Plenty of storage inside
- Needs waterproofing on bottom that extends upwards at least 2″
5. Wild River 3606 Multi-Tackle Fishing Backpack
The Wild River 3606 Multi-Tackle Fishing Backpack is a well-thought-out and professionally made fishing gear. It’s aesthetically pleasing and comfortable enough to accommodate all of your fishing needs. The interior of this backpack can be converted into a larger storage area for your bigger equipment with the help of a removable divider.
The Wild River backpack’s shoulder straps are designed to be flexible and padded for perfect fit and optimal comfort. If you’re on a multi-day fishing trip, especially on the road, this backpack features a clear internal pocket where your passport, maps or other essentials can be stored. The front pocket cover of your bag can be folded during your fishing sessions to provide you with the perfect working surface.
Key Features:
- Large upper storage area with a removable divider
- Large adjustable padded shoulder straps with added sternum strap
- Built-in work surface
- Lower tray compartment for storage of up to four #3600 style trays
Specifications:
- Brand: Custom Leathercraft
- Dimensions: 17.5″ H x 15.2″ W x 9.5″ D
- Weight: 4.9 lbs
- Sturdy construction
- Fairly room for a back pack configuration
- Hardened raised corners on bottom to reduce wear
- Less expensive that other fishing bag options
- No hardened sunglass holder
- No light
6. Lixada Fishing Tackle Backpack
The Lixada Fishing Tackle Backpack has many compartments to keep your fishing lures and supplies well organized. Polyester construction makes it water-resistant and anti-scratch, and a great fishing bag for all fishermen. The lower tray compartment for storage of up to 4 fishing tackle boxes (not included in the purchase though). A removable divider integrates the upper and lower compartments as a larger one for the storage of bigger items or more tackle boxes.
Other features include clear zippered interior pocket under the lid to keep your licenses and other valuables visible and secure, front pocket folds down to provide a handy work surface, four zippered side pockets and two mesh pouches provide additional storage for small or dirty items. Lastly, Padded back panels and shoulder straps for better comfort and fit.
Key Features:
- Large storage area with a removable divider
- Adjustable padded shoulder straps
- Padded mesh back panels
- Rugged base pads protect the backpack from being scratched on rocky ground
Specifications:
- Brand: Lixada
- Dimensions: 15″ H x 12.6″ W x 6.3″ D
- Weight: 3.3 lbs
- Great quality lining on the inside and the color pops out
- Side pockets have the mesh on it which is like strong rubber material
- Lots of pockets to carry fishing gear, trays are great for storage
- Tough and rugged enough to throw your sinkers and hooks in them
- It’s on the smaller side
7. Calissa Offshore Tackle Recon Rolling Fishing Backpack
The Calissa Offshore Tackle Recon Rolling Fishing Backpack is a rolling fishing backpack that promotes versatility and general comfort wherever you go. It comes in an extra-large size and has a removable board between the top and bottom “trapdoor” for guys with “big tackle”. It’s made from light, durable, breathable polyester. The fabric and zipper are both saltwater corrosion resistant. Sturdy feet underneath keep the bottom of your bag dry on deck, sand or ice.
The fast-access trapdoor fits four (5) 3650 containers nice and snug and any 3600 series. And of course, you can fit smaller boxes. The Recon Tackle Backpack comes with 5x Calissa tackle boxes, so as soon as your backpack arrives, you can start organizing that long-overdue fishing trip. This bag also comes with a protective rain cover to protect it from rain and sea spray.
Key Features:
- Corrosion-resistant
- Fast access trapdoor can fit four (5) 3650 containers
- Protective rain cover
- Rolling fishing backpack
Specifications:
- Brand: Calissa Offshore Tackle
- Dimensions: 19″ H x 16″ W x 10″ D
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Includes 5 tackle trays
- Comes with a protective rain cover
- Has convenient rod holders
- Excellent water-resistant material
- Does not stand up very well when loaded with a lot of items
8. Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Fishing Backpack
Thanks to the Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Fishing Backpack, you can have all your fishing gear well-organized and quickly within reach! It holds all your gears at your disposal, thus reducing the need to hit your tackle box or pack at all times. This fishing vest helps to keep all of your things organized to quickly reach any of your equipment at any time.
It features an adjustable waist and shoulder strap with a breathable mesh back that facilitates free air circulation, keeping you dry and clean during your fishing expedition. Besides its high level of comfort and versatile construction, the Anglatech is made of premium materials which make it a lightweight vest for all lovers of fishing.
Key Features:
- Adjustable sizing
- Plenty of storage
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
Specifications:
- Brand: Anglatech
- Weight: 1.5 lbs
- Very comfy shoulder straps, padded well
- Useful water bottle holder and waterproof pockets
- Lightweight
- Roomy back compartment
- The Hemostat holder is useless
9. Calissa Offshore Tackle Blackstar Fishing Backpack
Calissa Offshore Tackle Blackstar Fishing Backpack is a comfortable backpack designed to help you stay organized during your fishing trips by carrying all your best fishing gear. This tackle backpack has been designed for the experienced fishermen with a rugged but breathable build which promises to help them stay ahead of all their changing fish needs and the mood swings of the environment.
This bag remains true to its purpose irrespective of the fishing circumstances in which it is used. Including ice fishing to saltwater fishing and even freshwater fishing, the Calissa is a bag made of ultra-lasting fabric that carries all your necessary fishing gear, including lures to bait, line weights to fishing lines and worms to bobbers. The Calissa tackle bag’s small and lightweight nature makes it easy to sit on even when casting or swapping a bait
Key Features:
- Large fishing gear storage
- Comes with 4x 3650 containers
- It has a removable section between the top and bottom compartment for guys with bigger tackle
- Adjustable comfortable straps
Specifications:
- Brand: Calissa Offshore Tackle
- Dimensions: 20″ H x 17″ W x 9″ D
- Weight: 4.6 lbs
- Weight is lighter than I expected. Easy to carry around
- Shoulder straps are comfortable.
- Fabric quality is thick and durable
- Tons of pockets for organization
- The tackle box latches are poor
10. Kingdom Multifunctional Fishing Backpack
The Kingdom Multifunctional Fishing Backpack is a fishing tackle bag that combines fishing storage with the essential room for everyday items, making it the best of its kind on the market. With knowledge of the value of a fishing bag for fishermen, Kingdom has built a backpack with ample storage space and easy access to help you find everything you need without any hassle.
The backpack has two main pockets that can fit you lure boxes, fishing lines or accessories etc and some large items. In the second bag, you can use it as a handbag or single shoulder bag once you put the strap on which include in the bag. You can put two fishing reels and one small lure box in it. One the side of the bag, there is a place to put your water bottle and another pocket for you to put extra stuff.
Key Features:
- Multi-story compartments
- Consists of a shoulder bag, handbag, and mobile phone bag,
- 3D decompression ventilation
- 1000D water-resistant nylon fabrics
Specifications:
- Brand: Kingdom
- Dimensions: 20.9″ H x 16.9″ W x 9.4″ D
- Weight: 3.53 lbs
- Enough storage space
- Waterproof thermal insulation
- Extremely comfortable due to the 3D decompression ventilation
- Can be converted to a handbag, shoulder bag or a mobile phone bag
- Not waterproof inside
Buying Guide
Weight
When it comes to outdoor activities such as fishing, weight should always be something you consider. A lot of weight will be added to all the tackle and poles you have and you want to make sure you don’t bear extra weight from your backpack. Ideally, you want a lightweight fishing backpack without sacrificing too much durability.
Storage
A fishing backpack is just as great as its storage space. If you don’t have enough room, you might as well hold your gear loose or in some unseemly, heavy crate as well. Nevertheless, it is critical that the backpack storage space is also well organized.
Weather Proofing and Weather Resistance
Depending on the manufacturer, nylon and polyester materials can be made water-resistant. If you invest in a weather-resistant and waterproof fishing backpack, you can better protect your fishing tackle and catch, including your food during the trip. Search for a fishing backpack that offers both external and internal protection with an outstanding waterproofing feature.
Comfort
Having a good backpack with the right amount of cushioning and padding and on the back and shoulders can have a positive effect on your overall fishing experience. To stop straining your neck shoulder, and back, make sure that the bag is made with an ergonomic design. Your fishing backpack is going to hold a lot of hard-to-handle gear, and it can add up in weight.
Price
We feel our list should cater to all audiences and budgets; thus, we have curated this list in providing quality bags that are affordable to everyone, regardless of their budget.
Frequently Ask Questions
Who needs a fishing backpack?
A fairly recent addition to the tackle storage is fishing backpacks. They were clearly introduced with bank fishing in mind, whether its ponds, streams or rivers. There are some very unique advantages in tackling backpacks vs tackle boxes or tackle bags due to that. Bank anglers can get the most out of a fishing backpack. Serious anglers would enjoy a fishing backpack as they make canoes and kayak trips into the backcountry.
Do I really need a fishing backpack?
There’s no question that a productive and enjoyable fishing trip needs efficient tackle storage and organizing system. Fishing calls for plenty of equipment and materials. You can’t hold all the things you would need with your hands for a fishing expedition. A fishing backpack provides a compact and efficient way to store your tackle and even fishing rod and hold it easily. It has ample storage space to hold all of your fishing equipment and other items you need for a fun fishing excursion such as snacks and drinks. If you are just looking for storage for tackles, then check out our guide on the best fishing tackle bags.
Do I need polarized sunglasses for fishing?
Polarized fishing sunglasses can help better protect your eyes. Polarized fishing sunglasses will block the ultraviolet or UV rays of the sun, to prevent damage to your eyes. UV rays can affect several parts of the eye including the cornea of your eyes. It also lets you see fish that have been rendered invisible by glare through the water.
What should I pack in a fishing backpack?
You don’t want to pack extra weight but it’s hard to guess what stuff you’re going to need when you’re fishing. Make sure you’re packing the correct supplies you’ll need to catch the type of fish you’re going after such as hooks, sinkers, lures, poles, pliers, line weights, worms, fishing rods, and reels. Don’t forget to pack other items like snacks, water, maps, compasses, fishing licenses, fishing caps, sunglasses, extra clothes, and supplies of first aid.
Conclusion
We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best fishing backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a fishing backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.