Should You Use a Fishing Backpack? The Pros and Cons Explained
I’ve never actually owned a fishing backpack, but I’ve seen plenty of anglers using them, and I get why. When you’re covering a bit of ground or want to keep your gear tidy and close, they can make life easier. That said, they’re not perfect for everyone.
The thing is, when you’re lure fishing, I suppose it depends on how many options you want to take with you. How long are you going to be fishing? If you plan on staying at a venue for a whole day (or even longer in some cases), then it would make sense to bring food and a drink to keep you going throughout the day or night. My standard lure bag just isn’t going to cut it for that long-haul fishing.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the good and bad when it comes to using a fishing backpack. If you’re thinking of getting one, this might help you decide if it’s worth it.
The One Occasion I Wish I’d Had a Fishing Backpack
One venue that we fish is a long drive down the coast from us. And not just that, it’s also a good 50-minute walk from the car park to one of the marks where we fish. So, unless you are planning on staying for a least a day, it seems hardly worth going for a quick hour of chucking a lure out there. Some would – I wouldn’t. With that said, we have turned up in the middle of the night only to be greeted with a sea of mud; early bath, I think?
Lesson Learnt: Get The Right Gear For The Job
One particular day, we were heading for this mark where you’d be standing on the man-made seawall, which consisted of huge boulders. To be honest, I wouldn’t recommend fishing these types of venues at night. The reason is simple: You are hopping from boulder to boulder and realistically, you want to keep your light off – we don’t want to scare those bass off, do we?
Now, because I only had a standard lure bag with me, I had hardly any room for my bottle of water. So I’d wedge it in with my lure box. The fishing wasn’t that great, to be honest, so we were moving around, changing lures, and I’d forgotten to do my lure bag up. Then, as I jumped from one boulder to another, I heard a bang, then a scraping sound, then a splash. Whoops: It was my lure box sliding down a boulder into the gap. Bye-bye, lure box. That little error probably cost me £150 in lost lures. Lesson learnt: get a decent fishing backpack, especially for those long outings and do your bag up. Simple.
✅ The Good Bits
Hands-Free Is a Game-Changer
One of the biggest wins is being able to keep your hands free. If you’ve got rods, a landing net, and a coffee in hand, which I usually do, you don’t want to be wrestling with a tackle box as well. A backpack lets you chuck everything on your back and off you go.
Much Easier on the Body
Instead of lugging all your gear in one heavy hand, a backpack spreads the weight across your back and shoulders. For longer walks, think rocky paths or beach strolls; this makes a big difference. Less aching, less moaning.
They’re Better Organised Than You’d Think
Good fishing backpacks come with loads of compartments. Most have trays for lures and tackle, side pouches, and loops for tools. Some even have rod holders. Everything’s got its place, which means you spend less time rummaging around and more time fishing.
Perfect for On-the-Go Anglers
If you’re the sort who moves around a lot – walking the coast, hopping rock marks, or exploring rivers and estuaries – a backpack is a no-brainer. You’re not tied to one spot, and you’re not leaving stuff lying about. It keeps you mobile.
Works for Boat Trips Too
It’s not just shore anglers who benefit. If you’re fishing from a small boat, a backpack can be ideal. It tucks away nicely, doesn’t roll about like a box, and you can grab what you need without tipping everything overboard.
Made to Handle the Elements
Decent fishing backpacks are made to take a bit of punishment. We’re talking strong zips, water-resistant material, and rugged bottoms that can take a soaking or a scrape on a rock. Some even have waterproof covers built in or padded sections for reels, cameras, or other pricey bits.
❌ The Not-So-Great Bits
Bit of a Faff to Get Into Sometimes
Unlike a tackle box that opens up nice and wide, backpacks usually mean taking it off, unzipping compartments, and hoping the thing you want isn’t buried right at the bottom. It can be a bit annoying if you’re in the middle of a session. This is even more apparent if you are wading out in the water. You don’t want to keep heading back to dry land to change a lure that’s in the back.
Easy to Overpack
This one’s on us, really — it’s just too tempting to shove everything in “just in case.” Before you know it, the thing weighs a ton and your back’s having second thoughts halfway to the mark. Best to pack light and only take what you actually need.
They Can Be Pricey
You can get budget options, sure. But the ones with decent build quality, proper compartments, and weatherproofing tend to cost a bit more. Worth it in the long run, maybe, but it’s still something to think about.
Not Great for Bulky Items
If you need to carry a bucket, big landing net, tripod, or something like that — a backpack won’t always cut it. You’ll probably still need to carry some stuff separately, which can kind of defeat the point.
You Still Need to Take It Off
Some anglers prefer chest bags or sling packs because you can swing them around and grab things quickly. With a backpack, there’s no easy access , it’s off the back and down on the ground every time.
👌 Who Should Think About Using One?
Backpacks are great for:
- Lure anglers covering distance
- Rock hoppers and shore walkers
- Boat anglers with limited space
- Anyone who likes to keep their gear tidy and within reach
They’re maybe not for:
- Anglers who fish statically with a seat box
- Those who like to carry everything but the kitchen sink
- People who need quick access to gear without stopping
🎒 Fishing Backpack FAQ – All Your Questions Answered
Are fishing backpacks really worth it?
If you like to move around when you fish, then yes — they’re well worth it. A good fishing backpack keeps your gear organised, easy to carry, and out of the way. You’ll spend less time faffing and more time fishing. Win-win.
What’s the difference between a regular backpack and a fishing backpack?
Fishing backpacks are built with anglers in mind. They’ve usually got special compartments for tackle trays, tool loops, waterproof sections, and even rod holders. A regular backpack might do in a pinch, but it won’t be half as practical.
Can I use a fishing backpack for both shore and boat fishing?
Definitely. In fact, they’re great for both. On the shore, they keep your hands free. On a boat, they stay upright and compact, without gear spilling everywhere like with some tackle boxes.
What size backpack do I need for fishing?
That depends on your style. For short sessions or light lure fishing, a small to medium backpack will do. If you’re out all day or like to carry food, waterproofs, and backup gear, go for a larger one — but don’t overdo it. A heavy backpack isn’t fun after a few miles.
Are fishing backpacks waterproof?
Some are, some aren’t. Many have water-resistant material, but that’s not the same as being fully waterproof. Look for one with a rain cover or sealed compartments if you’re fishing in dodgy weather or near the surf.
What can I fit in a fishing backpack?
Loads! Typical gear includes:
- Tackle trays with lures, weights, and hooks
- Leader spools and tools
- Spare reels or spools
- Snacks and drinks
- First aid kit
- Rain jacket or spare top
- Power bank or head torch
- Fishing license and wallet
Some even have cooler pockets for bait or a cheeky sandwich.
Is a backpack better than a tackle box?
It depends how you fish. If you like to stay in one spot, a tackle box might be easier — everything’s laid out and accessible. But if you’re always on the move, backpacks are way more comfortable and practical.
Do fishing backpacks come with tackle trays?
A lot of them do, especially the better ones. These are usually removable plastic boxes that slot neatly into the main compartment. Great for keeping lures and terminal tackle tidy.
Can I use a fishing backpack for hiking or other outdoor stuff?
Absolutely. Many are rugged enough for hiking, camping, or even day trips. If it’s got padded straps and decent weatherproofing, it can double as a multi-use outdoor bag easily.
How much should I spend on a fishing backpack?
Prices vary. You can get basic ones for around £20–£30. Mid-range with decent features tend to be £40–£60. Top-end ones with all the bells and whistles — waterproof zips, heavy-duty material, built-in trays — can go upwards of £80. Only spend what suits your fishing style.
Are there fishing backpacks with built-in seats?
Yep — some clever designs come with a fold-out stool or padded back panel you can sit on. They’re a bit bulkier but handy if you’re planning longer sessions and want a rest without sitting on a rock or soggy sand.
How do I keep my fishing backpack from smelling?
Good question. Always clear out bait wrappers, old squid, and damp clothes after a session. Give it a wipe down, and let it dry properly before storing. A few silica gel packs inside help stop mouldy smells too.
What’s the best fishing backpack for lure anglers?
Lure anglers usually want something compact, lightweight, and easy to organise. Look for:
- Quick access compartments
- Tool holders (for pliers, cutters)
- Tackle tray slots
- Side bottle holder
- Comfortable straps for long walks
Brands like Savage Gear, Shimano, and Spiderwire often pop up with decent options.
Can I carry rods in a backpack?
Some fishing backpacks have external straps or holders for rod tubes or telescopic rods. For longer rods, you might need a separate rod sling — but you can still use the backpack for everything else.
Do fishing backpacks come in different styles?
Yep — there are all sorts:
- Standard backpacks (like a school bag, but tougher)
- Sling packs (single strap, easy to swing around)
- Chest packs (sit on the front, great for wading)
- Combo systems (backpack + detachable tackle bag)
Each one suits a different type of angler. Try a few in-store if you can.