best fishing backpack

A weekend fishing trip is the best way to finish up a long hard work week. However, it can become quite frustrating if you forget the fishing gear at home.

Having a fishing backpack allows you to carry all of fishing tackle such as line, bait, bobbers, swivels, hooks, digital scale, and everything else you’d need on the trip. Along with making it more organized, these bags also help make the whole experience easier.

Best Overall
Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
Custom Leathercraft Wild River WT3606 Multi-Tackle Large Backpack with Two 3600 Style Trays, One Size, Green
Best Budget
Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag with Rod & Gear Holder, Lightweight Sling Tackle Storage Bag, Outdoor Fishing Shoulder Pack for Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Black
Shimano Inc. SHM BLACKMOON Backpack TP
Best Multifunction
Kingdom Fishing Tackle Backpack with 2 Fishing Rod Holders, Large Storage, Upgraded Version of Detachable Dual-Purpose Waterproof Fishing Tackle Bag, Trout Fishing Gear Bag
Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
Custom Leathercraft Wild River WT3606 Multi-Tackle Large Backpack with Two 3600 Style Trays, One Size, Green
Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag with Rod & Gear Holder, Lightweight Sling Tackle Storage Bag, Outdoor Fishing Shoulder Pack for Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Black
Shimano Inc. SHM BLACKMOON Backpack TP
Kingdom Fishing Tackle Backpack with 2 Fishing Rod Holders, Large Storage, Upgraded Version of Detachable Dual-Purpose Waterproof Fishing Tackle Bag, Trout Fishing Gear Bag
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
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-
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$179.75
$137.75
$23.99
Price not available
Price not available
Best Overall
Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
Amazon Prime
$179.75
Custom Leathercraft Wild River WT3606 Multi-Tackle Large Backpack with Two 3600 Style Trays, One Size, Green
Custom Leathercraft Wild River WT3606 Multi-Tackle Large Backpack with Two 3600 Style Trays, One Size, Green
Amazon Prime
$137.75
Best Budget
Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag with Rod & Gear Holder, Lightweight Sling Tackle Storage Bag, Outdoor Fishing Shoulder Pack for Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Black
Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag with Rod & Gear Holder, Lightweight Sling Tackle Storage Bag, Outdoor Fishing Shoulder Pack for Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Black
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$23.99
Shimano Inc. SHM BLACKMOON Backpack TP
Shimano Inc. SHM BLACKMOON Backpack TP
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Price not available
Best Multifunction
Kingdom Fishing Tackle Backpack with 2 Fishing Rod Holders, Large Storage, Upgraded Version of Detachable Dual-Purpose Waterproof Fishing Tackle Bag, Trout Fishing Gear Bag
Kingdom Fishing Tackle Backpack with 2 Fishing Rod Holders, Large Storage, Upgraded Version of Detachable Dual-Purpose Waterproof Fishing Tackle Bag, Trout Fishing Gear Bag
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Price not available

Our tried and tested list above will introduce you to some of the best fishing backpacks. Whether you’re going on a Sunday adventure with the buddies or taking your kids to their first fishing trip, you definitely need a reliable fishing backpack.

Our 5 Best Fishing Backpacks

1. Wild River by Custom Leathercraft – WT3604

Wild River fishing backpack

Wild River, a leading name in the backpack business, has done a awesome job on this fishing backpack by combining durability and utility

My favorite feature is an integrated LED light system, which lets you fish even during the darker evening or night times.

If you wear fishing sunglasses or even prescription glasses, you can keep them safe in the eye glasses holder on the top of the backpack.

It’s one of the best fishing backpacks if you don’t mind spending the money on it.

Thanks to the removable plier holder, you can switch the pliers from backpack to belt and vice versa to keep them in close reach.

In addition, the water resistant rain cover keeps the fishing gear safe no matter how harsh the weather.

The front pocket opens up to provide a small surface for any handy work required during the trip.

  • An integrated LED light system so you can fish any time of day.
  • An integrated, molded sunglass holder to help keep your glasses safe.
  • A removable plier holder so your pliers go from bag to belt and are easy to find.
  • A protective rain cover that can be quickly deployed to keep your tackle backpack contents safe.
  • The front pocket cover on this fishing tackle backpack folds down to provide a handy work surface.

At the bottom, you’ll find the lower compartment with capacity for four 3500-series trays.

The interior has been smartly divided into compartments for extra spinning or baitcasting reels, trays, and personal accessories, so you can find everything quickly.

The easily accessible mesh pockets store just about everything from your phone’s power bank to your navigation compass.

Most importantly, the backpack has pads for keeping fishing supplies safe from physical damage and moisture in the wilderness. 

Key Features

  • Holds four 3500-series and six 3600-series trays
  • 7.8 pounds
  • 18.5 x 17 x 8.5 inches

Pros

  • ✅ Integrated LED lighting for nighttime fishing
  • ✅ Removable plier holder
  • ✅ Interior and exterior mesh pockets
  • ✅ Sunglasses holder
  • ✅ Comes with a rain cover 

Cons

  • ⭕ Too heavy
  • ⭕ Lacks a drink holder
  • ⭕ Edges fray easily
Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
  • FISH AT ALL HOURS: This lighted fishing tackle backpack features an integrated LED light system so you can fish any time of day.
  • PROTECT YOUR GLASSES: This fishing tackle backpack has a mounted molded sunglass holder to help keep your glasses safe.
  • REMOVABLE PLIER HOLDER: This fishing tackle backpack has a removable plier holder so your pliers go from bag to belt and are easy to find.
  • PROTECTION FROM THE ELEMENTS: This fishing backpack features a protective rain cover that can be quickly deployed to keep your tackle backpack contents safe.
  • CONVENIENT WORK SURFACE: The front pocket cover on this fishing tackle backpack folds down to provide a handy work surface.

2. Wild River by Custom Leathercraft – WT3606

If the Wild River fishing backpack mentioned above is too big or bulky for your tastes, the WT3606 is a smaller option with pretty much the same features.

Despite being smaller, the Wild River WT3606 backpack has ample storage in the upper and lower compartments. Depending on how you plan to use the compartments, you can adjust the removable divider for storing items of different sizes.

With padded straps, you won’t have trouble carrying the backpack for an extended period of time. The sternum straps hold on to your shoulder snugly, also helping to keep you comfortable.

Wild River WT3606 fishing backpack
  • Large upper storage area with removable divider, converts tackle backpack for storage of larger items
  • Large adjustable padded shoulder straps with added sternum strap are featured on this Wild River fishing tackle backpack for better comfort and fit
  • Front pocket cover folds down to provide a handy work surface on this Wild River tackle backpack.
  • Clear internal pocket in tackle backpack keeps your valuables dry.
  • Lower tray compartment for storage of up to four #3600 style trays

The zippers are sturdy and easy to work with, giving easy access to the fishing supplies.

The waterproof internal pocket can store your electronics for protection against rain. You never know when it might start raining, so this specialized pocket is suitable for electronic compass, GPS, smartphone, and bite alarms.

The lower compartment holds up to four 3600 trays, with two trays included in the package. Even though it lacks integrated LED lights and a sunglasses holder, like it’s larger brother, this backpack will almost certainly meet your basic tackle storage needs. 

Key Features

  • 3600-series trays
  • 4.9 pounds
  • 15.2 x 9.5 x 17.5 inches
  • Sternum shoulder straps 

Pros

  • ✅ Shoulder straps provide a snug fit
  • ✅ Waterproof internal pocket
  • ✅ Adjustable interior divider
  • ✅Built-in work surface 

Cons

  • ⭕ Poor stitching on the shoulder straps
  • ⭕ No base pads
  • ⭕ No glasses holder 
Custom Leathercraft Wild River WT3606 Multi-Tackle Large Backpack with Two 3600 Style Trays, One Size, Green
  • PLENY OF STORAGE: Large upper storage area with removable divider, converts tackle backpack for storage of larger items
  • COMFORTABLE: Large adjustable padded shoulder straps with added sternum strap are featured on this Wild River fishing tackle backpack for better comfort and fit
  • BUILT IN WORK SURFACE: Front pocket cover folds down to provide a handy work surface on this Wild River tackle backpack.
  • WATERPROOF POCKET: Clear internal pocket in tackle backpack keeps your valuables dry.
  • TACKLE BACKPACK FITS FOUR TRAYS: Lower tray compartment for storage of up to four #3600 style trays

3. Piscifun Fishing Shoulder Backpack

The Piscifun Shoulder backpack is a budget-friendly option that ticks all the boxes.

Made of high-quality nylon material, the bag can endure significant wear and tear without coming apart. Also, the zippers are abrasion-resistant, which means that they can take the toil of tracking through the wilderness and brush. It is easily one of the best fishing backpacks.

This Piscifun backpack is also water-resistant, allowing you to fish in just any weather while keeping your tackle safe and dry.

The detachable and adjustable shoulder straps let you wear the bag as you want.

If you’re not comfortable wearing it as a backpack, turn it into a sling bag, shoulder bag, chest bag, and handbag by simply adjusting the strap.

When it comes to storage, this backpack provides a lot of room for pliers, lure boxes, lines, and electronics.

The ergonomic design allows the backpack to sit comfortably on your back, while not causing any fatigue in the shoulder or neck areas.

Piscifun Fishing Shoulder Backpack
  • Water-resistant 1000D high density nylon fabrics and abrasion resistant and indestructible KAM buckle and SBS zippers.
  • Two left/right exchangeable, adjustable, and detachable shoulder straps that can be extended up to 51.2”, while the associate strap can be extended to 36.2”.
  • Two rod belts to hold your rods.
  • Main compartment size is 11.8*8.3*3.9in. Big enough that you to store the lures, pliers, line, fishing lure boxes, wallet, phone, ipad, camera, books, keys and other accessories you need in for your excursion.
  • Reflective sticker helps you be safe by reflecting the lights at dusk and at night.
  • Three sections in the main pocket for organizing your stuff and three external zippered pockets for storing your daily necessaries.

Unlike several other products, this bag has a pocket for storing your water bottle with a string to keep it in place.

Don’t be fooled by the outside looks of this bag–it has a lot of compartments on the inside. This bag has space for everything you need. While the pliers and fish grippers go in the two bottom pockets, the fishing rod stays secure in the rod belt. 

Key Features

  • 1000D nylon fibers
  • SBS zippers
  • 51.2 strap extension
  • 1.65 pounds
  • 8.3 x 4 x 11.8 inches

Pros

  • ✅ Adjustable main and associate straps
  • ✅ Water bottle pocket
  • ✅ Two extra rod belts
  • ✅ Padded hand strap for a comfortable grip

Cons

  • ⭕ Shoulder straps are a bit small for bigger individuals
  • ⭕ Non-padded straps
  • ⭕ Side pockets are hard to reach 
Sale
Piscifun Fishing Tackle Bag with Rod & Gear Holder, Lightweight Sling Tackle Storage Bag, Outdoor Fishing Shoulder Pack for Fishing, Hiking, Hunting, Black
  • Water-Resistant & Durable: Piscifun fishing tackle bag made with high-end equipment, our 1000D high density nylon fabrics are water-resistant and abrasion-resistant. Our KAM buckle and SBS zippers are indestructible and more durable than our competitors'
  • Adjustable & Detachable Strap: Two left/right exchangeable, adjustable, and detachable shoulder straps make it easy to use this bag as a sling shoulder bag, backpack, handbag, chest bag, fishing tackle bag, or traveling bag. With two rod belts to hold your rods, the main strap length can be extended up to 51.2'', while the associate strap can be extended to 36.2''
  • Multifunctional Tackle Bag: Dimension of main compartment: 11.8"*8.3"*4.0", our tackle bag is perfect for storing lures, pliers, line, fishing lure boxes and other accessories you need in your fish life
  • Unique Innovative Design: Our humanized reflective sticker helps you stay safe by reflecting lights in dark situations. The ergonomic overall design, including the widened shoulder strap and rear breathable mesh design, makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods
  • Multiple Storage Compartment & Exterior Pockets: Our main pocket has three components for clarifying your stuff, while three external zippered pockets store your daily necessities. The left pocket is for water cups/bottles, and the right pocket is for tools such as pliers. Fashionable and durable, our bag is perfect for outdoor life

4. SHIMANO BLACKMOON

Equipped with all the features you need for a well organized fishing trip, this Shimano Blackmoon fishing backpack is ideal for people who fish local lakes, ponds or streams.

It has cushy thick shoulder straps with extra padding, which keeps you comfortable during wear, especially when the bag is full to the brim.

Made with textured, heavy-duty fabric, it can handle the harsh terrain and weather.

If you have experienced narrow main pockets, you will love the zippered front opening. Instead of looking down from the top into a pile of supplies, you open the bag in the front and take out whatever you want.

Additionally, it has zippered side pockets for keeping valuable items that need to be easily accessed.

Shimano Blackmoon fishing backpack
  • Durable textured fabric construction
  • 2-way zippered front opening for easy access
  • Thick Padded Shoulder Straps for comfort
  • Custom Shimano zipper pulls
  • Multiple pockets for accessories and gear storage

These pockets can hold many items, including gloves, sunglasses, gaiters, and even a rain suit.

However, you might not be satisfied with the initial configuration of the inner compartments. If that’s the case, just use the adjustable divider to separate the storage space into compartment sizes that better fit your needs.

The backpack comes with four 3650-series utility boxes that fit easily.

Instead of being secured with zippers, the boxes are attached through Velcro strips, making it quicker to access them and keeping them from jostling around too much.

When not wearing on your back, you can turn it into a travel bag by transferring the boxes to the main compartment.

However, beware of the rain, and wet lakeside ground as the bag does not have any waterproof lining on the bottom.

Overall, it’s a durable, spacious, and reasonably-priced fishing backpack that will fit everything for your next fishing adventure. 

Key Features

  • 16” X 17” X 8.5” (Medium)
  • 15” X 10.5” X 9” (Compact)
  • 4 pounds 

Pros

  • ✅ Ample space in the side pockets
  • ✅ Front opening for quicker access
  • ✅ Thick comfortable padded shoulder straps
  • ✅ Heavy-duty, durable construction 

Cons

  • ⭕ Does not have a waterproof lining
  • ⭕ No water bottle holder
  • ⭕ Can be tricky to pull out trays 
Shimano Inc. SHM BLACKMOON Backpack TP
  • SHM BLACKMOON BACKPACK TP
  • SHM BLACKMOON BACKPACK TP
  • SHM BLACKMOON BACKPACK TP
  • SHM BLACKMOON BACKPACK TP
  • SHM BLACKMOON BACKPACK TP

5. Kingdom Fishing Backpack

Lastly but definitely not least, we have the Kingdom fishing backpack on our list. This backpack can be used for fishing, camping, and every other activity in the wild.

With a nylon fabric construction and high-quality stitching, this bag is designed to last for years. The zippers slide open smoothly, keeping your items safe.

Whether you want the bag to sit on your lower back or one shoulder, pull on the strap to adjust accordingly. You can convert it into a handbag as well.

Kingdom fishing backpack

If you value aesthetics as much as functionality, this bag will suit your needs. It is available in khaki and green colors with a pattern of bait fish or lures.

  • Made of strong 1000D waterproof nylon fabric and exquisite overall craftsmanship with cleanly finished seams.
  • Can be adjusted to accommodate a larger or smaller stature with easy and quick adjustments to whatever length you need
  • Multiple compartments and small pockets allow you to organize everything.
  • Can be used as a shoulder travel bag. You can buy this sport athletic gear for your friends and family. It also doubles for daily errands and outdoor activities like walking, running, biking, hiking, traveling, festivals, fairs, concerts and farmers markets etc.

It has two main pockets that can fit larger items such as lure boxes and fishing lines. Other than these, there are multiple small pockets in the front and on the sides for smaller items.

Instead of throwing everything in the bigger compartment, organize your supplies so that you can find them easily.

Also, there’s a convenient drink holder on the side of the bag for storing water or an energy drink. 

Along with being sturdy and roomy, the bag is also waterproof, making it suitable for outdoor activities. Your tackle and equipment will be safe from the rain in the internal and external pockets.

Available at a reasonable price, this backpack meets fishing needs and definitely takes the style game up a notch. 

Key Features

  • 16.9*9.4*20.9 inch
  • 3.2 pounds
  • 1000D waterproof nylon fabric
  • Two-color options 

Pros

  • ✅ Has a drink holder
  • ✅ Can be converted into a handbag or shoulder bag
  • ✅ Scratch-resistant bottom lining 

Cons

  • ⭕ Tight chest strap
  • ⭕ No pole straps

Fishing Backpack Buyer’s Guide

When looking through the best fishing backpacks, you have to keep a few things in mind. Although most backpacks meet the basic needs, you should look to find the best one for your particular needs when out there fishing.

How to Choose the Best Fishing Backpack?

Know your requirements before you purchase a backpack. Level of comfort, how frequently you fish, and the weather in your region are a few factors to consider.

Storage

You need to determine how much storage you need. If you only take a few fishing supplies along or go on one-day trips, a smaller bag will be more suitable. However, fishermen who spend many days outdoors will need bigger bags.

Preferably, go for a bag that can carry at least four to six lure trays. Besides, if you take your camera or tablet on fishing trips for nature photography, you’ll need more space.

I think a drink holder or glasses pocket in the bag is important too. Make sure the bag is big enough for fishing gear and has extra pockets for smaller items.

To determine how much space you will need, lay out all your fishing tackel and equipment on the floor. This will give you a rough estimate of the capacity you’re looking to be able to pack.

Water Proofing

Depending on where you live, waterproofing may or may not be a necessity. If your region gets a lot of rain or the weather is unpredictable, it’s better to choose a bag with sufficient waterproofing.

Even if you’re not worried about the rain, the bag should at least have some degree of water-resistance as you will be around water and from my experience some how always get wet. Water-proof pockets will keep the bait dry and protect your electronics from damage.

Some backpacks come with an additional rain cover that provide extra protection. However, this isn’t an absolute necessity as you can always buy a rain cover later on if you need.

Extra Storage

Not every fishing backpack has extra storage for all your items, such as a snacks, sunglasses, or extra batteries.

If you need additional storage, look for backpacks with the following features:

  • Bait or lure boxes
  • Storage pouches
  • Drink holder
  • Phone and wallet pocket
  • Fishing rod holder

Weight

Keep in mind that you’ll be wearing your backpack for hours, so it must be lightweight and comfortable. If a backpack is already four pounds when empty, you can expect it to be unbearably heavy with items. Here’s the tricky part: heavier backpacks have a sturdier frame, making them more suitable for carrying the load. Thus, you’d have to compromise on sturdiness to carry it around comfortably.

Comfort

This factor is important as the weight can influence the level of comfort you experience while wearing a backpack.

Another important feature that affects comfort is shoulder padding. Make sure that the shoulder straps have sufficient padding, as this will prevent them from cutting into your shoulders during wear especially if you have to walk long distance to get to your favorite fishing hole.


What Should You Carry in a Fishing Backpak?

The biggest bummer on a fishing trip is to realize that you’ve forgotten your favorite reel or lure at home. Often, people fill up their fishing backpacks with things they don’t even need and leave the important things at home.

Here is a quick list of things that you must keep in your fishing backpack: For a more detailed list of tackle make sure to check out our article The Ultimate Tackle Box Checklist

  • Reels: Having one or two extra reels will allow you to try out different fishing methods or have a spare if one breaks.
  • Gadgets: Fishing bags these days have waterproof pockets for your phone, camera, GPS, compass, fish finder, digital scale, and other devices.
  • Rods: Storing extra spinning rods in the backpack facilitates in catching more fish as they increase your chances of laying bait.
  • Sunglasses: If you’re fishing out in the Sun, you need to keep your eyes protected.
  • Drinks/Snacks: Make sure to take an energy drink or a few snacks in your bag to get an energy boost whenever you feel hungry.
  • Documents: Don’t forget to take your ID, a map, and a fishing license.

What are the Advantages of a Fishing Backpack?

Fishing backpacks have many advantages over regular clunky tackle boxes, which is why they are so popular among fishermen today.

  • They have sufficient room for fishing gear and personal devices.
  • Since they’re worn on the back, your hands have freedom of movement. You can even fish with them on your back.
  • They let you carry important documents, food, and drinks easily. 
  • Some of them have integrated lights, allowing you to fish in the dark or at least reconfigure your jigs. 

What Are the Disadvantages of a Fishing Backpack?

Despite being a popular choice, there are some negatives in which backpacks just don’t compare to tackle boxes. The best fishing backpacks don’t suffer any of these traits.

  • Not all fishing backpacks are waterproof.
  • They’re more susceptible to wear and tear than a tackle box because of the material verses a sturdy plastic or light weight meatal.
  • Backpacks with sturdier frames are heavier. 
  • Backpacks can be harder to wash clean.

How to Make Your Fishing Backpack Last Longer?

Although fishing backpacks are made for the outdoors, there’s a limit to the abuse they can bear. If you want your backpack to last longer, make sure you only store as much as it can carry. Don’t stuff the backpack to beyond its capacity because this will damage the zippers over time.

Your backpack might be waterproof, but this doesn’t mean it should always be sitting in the water. Buy a rain cover if your area experiences a lot of rainfall.

Washing machines might be harsh on some backpacks and rip the seams or damage their color. Before tossing it in the washing machine, check if the bag is machine-washable.  By taking some simple steps, you can make your fishing backpack last a decade or more.


Conclusion on the Best Fishing Backpacks

The chances to find all of your desired features in a single backpack are slim. However, manufacturers are constantly improving and you can buy a backpack that has most, if not all, of your desired features.

After all of our research, the Wild River WT3604 is our clear and favorite fishing backup. It met all of our requirements and for us, was the most comfortable to use.

Custom Leathercraft Wild River by CLC WT3604 Tackle Tek Nomad Lighted Backpack & Four PT3600 Trays, Orange, Sand
  • FISH AT ALL HOURS: This lighted fishing tackle backpack features an integrated LED light system so you can fish any time of day.
  • PROTECT YOUR GLASSES: This fishing tackle backpack has a mounted molded sunglass holder to help keep your glasses safe.
  • REMOVABLE PLIER HOLDER: This fishing tackle backpack has a removable plier holder so your pliers go from bag to belt and are easy to find.
  • PROTECTION FROM THE ELEMENTS: This fishing backpack features a protective rain cover that can be quickly deployed to keep your tackle backpack contents safe.
  • CONVENIENT WORK SURFACE: The front pocket cover on this fishing tackle backpack folds down to provide a handy work surface.
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