The Budget Fisherman Series (Tackle Bag Episode)

[vadang]

I have found that this site is packed with all sorts of information and I have definitely learned a lot my short time here, so I thought I would start posting some of my budget/thrifty ideas for some of those you out there like me that can't afford all the good stuff.

Some of you saw my post in the the Spool Cover thread, where the idea of coozies was introduced. Continuing that line of thought, I have been looking for a good alternative for the expensive tackle systems (SKB, WFO, Open water, etc). Here are few ideas that I came up with...I hope someone can build on some of these ideas and make them better and that people get some use.

Objective:
Find cheap durable alternative for carrying tackle around on trips.

Inventory:
Saragosa 18K x 2
Saltist 6500H
Torsa 20
Jigs
Poppers
Terminal Tackle
Gloves
Tools
Room to grow

What I started with:
Old okeechobee fats tackle bag, some plano-type boxes, reel bag from FTU (currently on clearance for 12.99)

Initial Candidates:
[1] Jeep 25" Wide Travel Duffel
[2] Office Depot Mobile File Cart

(old okeechobee fats bag on the left and the blue jeep bag was not as spacious so I removed it from the running)

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Pros/Cons of Each:

[1] Jeep 25" Wide Travel Duffel (On sale at Walmart for $33, down from $44)
Dimensions: 25" x 14.5" x 11"

PROS:
-cheap
-seems to be pretty water resistant (poured a cup of water on top and let it sit for 15-20 minutes, with no penetration into the inside of the bag)
-Burnt orange (hook'em horns)
-Fits everything inside of the bag, including the reel bag
-qty-4 exterior pockets
-Handle for carrying like a normal duffel bag
-Wide enough to fit the large plano-boxes horizontally
-Room to grow. Can probably pack one or 2 more plano boxes on top. Or take reel bag out and hold a bunch more tackle.
-Pockets for gloves, tools, line, etc

CONS:
-No rod holders

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CONCLUSION: My winner as of right now. It fits everything and doesn't feel weak loaded down and it will keep everything dry for the most part.


[2] Office Depot Mobile Roller File Cart (Normal Price $20)
Dimensons: 16" x 18" x 15"

PROS:
-cheap
-customizable (can add rod holders)
-claims to be good up to 77 lbs of capacity

CONS:
-Flimsy
-Not sure how durable it will be in saltwater
-no pockets for tools

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CONCLUSION: Good idea, but it would need some reinforcement of the sides. However, I could add rod holders and it doesn't feel too too flimsy loaded down. I might keep it and use it as an ongoing project.

In the end one could use any cheap duffel bag on wheels, but this jeep bag seemed to be a good mix of water resistance, acceptable build quality, functionality, and price. Maybe not as fishing specific than the SKBs and WFO's, but good enough for me. Hope this helps someone.

Tight lines

Mike

[Squished]

I'm liking the Jeep bag idea! What would be even nicer is something with the wheels/arm as well as backpack straps. I'm not a fan of wheeling over docks, especially some of the onces I walk over where it feels like a balancing act, having backpack straps would free up a hand.

[mad marlin]

Hi mike you've got it nailed . I also went the duffle bag thought not the jeep brand but I've found a more useful one ( more side
pockets ) At Academy on sale now @ $29 I thinks is called all coast or something like that. I also have the same reel bag & I loved as I can place all my reels in it for $19 it's an awesome reel bag ( wayerprof ). conclusion I think it's the best way to carry all your tackle for long range trips. The idea was given to me when I saw Dewayne H2o offshore tackle bag.
I don't consider it budget but I very very good start . Now let's put it to use
Well Done

[vadang]

Hmmm looks like I need to go to Academy then!

Thanks for the heads up MM

[Astronut]

So what part of this thread is the "budget" part?......Nice lil set up u got there brotha...got room for 2 Stella's?..lol

astro...

[justin080799]

Thanks

[vadang]

Took Mad Marlin's advice and went down to Academy. There were a few roller duffel, but this one had the most outer pockets. It was $39.99.

I like it...toss up b/w this one and Jeep. This one has more pockets, but the Jeep is a bit wider and has just a tad bit more interior space. Decisions decisions.

Correction: After further inspection, the PAcific Coast bag is bigger, but the smaller main compartment opening or door makes it seem smaller and makes it a little bit harder to get stuff in and out. The Jeep also stands up better.

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[vadang]

yeah send them my way and I'll gladly make a home for them in my bag.

Originally Posted by Astronut

So what part of this thread is the "budget" part?......Nice lil set up u got there brotha...got room for 2 Stella's?..lol

astro...

[mad marlin]

Mike I kinda had the same issue with the larger Plano tackle box where u have ur poppers in . Switched to a roller lure mesh bag for poppers and it saved me a lot of space , I now carry just 2 Plano small boxes for s
all stuff. You can find great rollers mesh bags on eBay. If you carry quite a few spool of FC or mono for your leaders get a spool dispenser ( on sale now at tackle direct for $9 ) the lesser boxes the more room you'll have

here its another item that i like i lot to carry my rods , instead of the bulky heavy bazooka. very inexpensive $29 and you can carry at least 6 rods including popping rods. It has a very large external pocket for your popping blanks.

Dblue Fishing Rod Bag - eBay (item 380185838287 end time Mar-07-10 08:58:50 PST)

for you jigs if you dont want a jig bag.
LURE BAGS TWO 6 POCKET BUTTERFLY JIG BAGS - eBay (item 370247366070 end time Feb-14-10 16:53:17 PST)

[Astronut]

Very good overview on this topic. I am kinda in the same situation and just shopping around for a compatible and feasible way to carry all of my new toys I aquired during my "cabin fever" moments. Good stuff Mike, keep shopping and keep us informed..

astro..