Setting Up Tackle Box.

[USMCKoontz]

Don't own a tackle box, usually use a bucket to hold my catfishing stuff, and panfish stuff in a small box. So looking at getting a tackle box and setting it up for bass. What are some must have tools, equipment and baits? Also any tackle box recommendations?

[Violinguy]

There will be as many opinions as people but here is how I organize mine.

 

I use a small-ish tackle bag by Plano.  It holds four of the stow-away boxes (or whatever you call 'em).  The boxes have 1. terminal tackle, 2. crankbaits, 3. jigs, jig heads, trailers, etc., 4. panfish lures/baits (just in case).  In one side pocket I have a Mepps spinner kit.  I also have 5 or 6 bags of soft plastics, Senkos, tubes, Culprits, and whatever else I want to use.  There is one larger outside pocket for pliers, scale, and other tools/gear.

 

I like using the bag because I can substitute the stow-away boxes based on how I'm fishing or what I'm fishing for.  It's easier to carry around than a traditional tackle box.  I just sling it over my shoulder and I'm off with both hands free to carry rods.  Also, it's way more quiet than a hard tackle box, less likely to spook fish when I put it down (I fish from shore mostly).

 

As for baits/lures, again you'll have differing opinion but...

 

Must haves: soft plastics, a few crankbaits, jigs, and spinnerbaits.  You don't need to break the bank or buy the entire BPS catalog, but a couple of each will do.  Also, some decent terminal tackle.  Good hooks for plastics are a must.

 

Here's a quick snapshot of what I use.  Obviously it's not everything I own (not even close) but it's what I take on any particular trip.

 

[PondHopper96]

I use a backpack I use and keep everything in! The big compartment holds my 3 hard boxes, smaller pockets hold various crap, and there's a large pocket on the bottom I keep all my plastics in! Works like a charm and you don't have to drop a bunch of cash on it, and it's comfortable to carry!

[David D.]

I much prefer my current tackle bag with 3700 boxes to any previous tackle box. Don't think that I'll ever go back to using a tackle box.