Finding the right soft side tackle bag can improve how you tackle a day on the water. This guide highlights five reliable options designed to organize lures, trays, tools, and accessories while withstanding rugged fishing environments. Each bag offers sturdy construction, water resistance, and convenient storage pockets to help you stay efficient whether you’re saltwater or freshwater fishing.
The following table summarizes the chosen products and their standout features to help you compare quickly:
| Product | Brand | Key Benefit | Approximate Capacity |
|---|---|---|---|
| KastKing Karryall Large Khaki Tackle Bag | KastKing | Holds up to 8x 3600 tackle trays; water resistant 600D | 8x 3600 trays |
| KastKing Karryall Medium Khaki Tackle Bag | KastKing | Compact, high organization with 13 pockets | Up to 6x 3600 trays |
| Calamus Fishing Tackle Bag – Orange | Calamus | Saltwater-ready, rip-stop PE with multiple pockets | 4x 3600 + 1x 3500 trays |
| KastKing Hoss Tackle Bag – Medium | KastKing | 12 pockets; 420D rip-stop with water resistance | 7x 3600 trays |
| Plano Guide Series 3500 Soft Tackle Bag | Plano | Hard-backed soft bag with included 3500 Stowaways | Includes 5x 3500 Stowaways |
KastKing Karryall Large Khaki Tackle Bag
The KastKing Karryall Large Khaki tackle bag is designed for serious gear storage with a capacity to hold up to eight 3600 tackle trays. Built from tough 600D Oxford material, the bag is water-resistant and features a hydrophobic outer coating with a PVC inner layer to protect tackle from the elements. A padded shoulder strap and handle improve carrying comfort, while integrated pliers holders and MOLLE straps offer versatile gear attachment. Expanded dimensions measure 17″ x 10.6″ x 14.17″, and the bag includes a rubber non-slip base for stability on various surfaces.
Organization is a highlight, with multiple pockets and compartments. The main section accommodates up to eight 3600 trays, and a back pocket plus dual-zippered front pockets help separate big tools from smaller lures. An external mesh pocket provides quick access to miscellaneous items such as pliers or scales. The design emphasizes durability and practical access, suitable for both saltwater and freshwater setups.
KastKing Karryall 4-3600 Trays Tackle Bag
This Karryall model includes four 3600 tackle trays and focuses on rapid access with a wide-mouth design and a double-loop zipper for quick opening. The 600D Oxford material delivers rugged durability, and the integrated pliers holder plus MOLLE straps add external organization options. The bag’s dimensions, fully expanded, measure 13″ x 11″ x 11″, making it a compact but capable choice for anglers needing reliable tray storage and quick access on the water.
Key strengths include the water-resistant shell, reinforced bottom, and non-slip feet that help the bag stay put on wet decks or boat floors. Internal pockets and external pouches can store lines, lures, and tools, while the padded strap improves comfort during long carries. This bag is well-suited to both saltwater and freshwater environments thanks to its durable construction and water-shedding design.
Calamus Fishing Tackle Bags – Orange
The Calamus tackle bag emphasizes saltwater compatibility with rip-stop 600D PE material and a protective inner PVC layer. It expands to accommodate up to four 3600 trays and one 3500 tray across seven pockets, both internal and external. The padded shoulder strap and handle offer comfortable transport, while a moisture-repelling bottom and anti-slip feet help prevent sliding on wet decks. The bag’s exterior features multiple zip pockets and slip pockets to separate small tools, bait, and accessories.
Organization is a central theme, with a main compartment designed for multiple trays and a front pocket suitable for a 3500 tray. Five external zippered pockets plus slip pockets provide space for smaller items such as terminal tackle, tools, and rain gear. Overall, Calamus emphasizes durability and practical storage in a bright orange design for easy visibility on the water.
KastKing Hoss Tackle Bag – Medium
The KastKing Hoss tackle bag uses 420D rip-stop nylon for long-term durability, with a hydrophobic outer coating to shed moisture. The interior supports up to seven 3600 trays and includes 12 pockets for organized storage of tools, lures, and terminal tackle. A NEOGRIP anti-slip shoulder strap adds comfort, and a waterproof bottom helps resist standing water on wet decks. Non-rust, self-healing zippers improve reliability in harsh environments.
In addition to the main storage, the bag provides external pockets and mesh organizers for quick access to items like pliers, line, or rain gear. The design prioritizes ruggedness and reliable performance in both saltwater and freshwater settings, making it a versatile option for anglers who want robust capacity without sacrificing mobility.
Plano Guide Series 3500 Soft Tackle Bag
The Plano Guide Series 3500 soft tackle bag pairs rugged 1680 Denier fabric with a hard-backed construction for stability and protection of contents. Included with the bag are five 3500 Stowaway organizers, providing immediate tackle organization. The design features oversized molded zippers for durability and easy use, plus side pockets that double as carry handles. Dimensions measure 14.5” L x 9” W x 8” H, offering a balance of capacity and compactness for frequent travelers or boat setups.
The Plano design emphasizes a balance between protection and accessibility, with dedicated compartments for Stowaways and a waterproof cell phone holder and license holder for convenient on-water use. The overall goal is to deliver reliable organization with durable materials in a weather-resistant package for day-and-night fishing sessions.
Buying Guide: Soft Side Tackle Bags
Key purchase considerations help select a bag that fits your fishing style and gear needs. Here are the main perspectives to weigh:
- Capacity and layout: Consider how many tackle trays you use and how you prefer to organize lures, tools, and terminal tackle. Look for bags with configurable compartments, external pockets, and dedicated plier or tool holders.
- Material and build: Durable 600D or 420D rip-stop fabrics with water resistance are common. A hydrophobic outer coating and PVC inner layer add moisture protection, while a non-slip bottom helps prevent sliding on slick surfaces.
- Portability and comfort: Padded shoulder straps, ergonomic handles, and MOLLE attachment points improve carrying comfort and customization. Weigh your typical trip length to choose the right strap configuration.
- Durability: Check zippers (self-healing or weatherproof), bottom protection, and reinforced stitching for long-term use in varied conditions.
- Accessories compatibility: Some bags include removable tackle trays or BaitSpace binders. Ensure compatibility with the trays you own or plan to buy.
- Maintenance: Water-repellent fabrics and easy-to-clean interiors help after splashes or rain. Look for gussets or sealed seams for better protection.
When choosing among the options above, align the bag’s tray capacity with your usual kit. If you carry multiple 3600 trays, consider larger models with more pockets. For lighter trips with essential tools, a mid-size bag with a sturdy build and ample external pockets can be more practical. Finally, color and visibility can help in dim boat cabins or early morning sessions, as seen in the orange Calamus and Khaki KastKing options.