What to Put in a Fishing Tackle Box

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A fully equipped tackle box comes in handy when out in the wilds.

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Preparing for Your Next Fishing Trip

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Before you head out to the ol’ fishing hole, make sure you’ve checked your fishing tackle box.  Believe us, you want to be prepared with the right stuff once you’re out on the water.

Of course, the contents of your tackle box will vary, depending on the type of fish you plan to catch, but this is a typical tackle box for you (or a loved one) to get started.

Tackle-Box Checklist

  • Extra fishing line
  • Lures or flies
  • Bobbers (or, floaters) 
  • Swivels, to keep the fishing line from twisting
  • Leaders
  • Sinkers (or, weights)
  • Different sizes of hooks (for different types of fish)
  • Needle nose pliers to help remove hooks out of fish (and maybe you!)
  • Stringer, to hold all the fish you catch
  • Sharp knife (such as a Swiss Army knife)
  • Ruler/scale
  • A small flashlight
  • First-aid kit (with basics just in case a hook gets stuck in your thumb)
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen
tackle box checklist

Reader Suggestions

  • Unscented soap to wash your hands before handling bait. –suggested by Jerry Buerge
  • Plastic worms and a couple of lures to attract fish. –suggested by Andy Fox
  • Magnifying glasses for aging eyes.  –suggested by Will Dwyer
  • “I like to keep a few glow sticks in my tackle box. One large one is for marking your spot or your vehicle, and some small ones are for your rod, bait box, or ice chest. I think it helps to avoid using flashlights.” –suggested by Mike Tyler

Are we missing anything? What else would you put in a tackle box? Please post below!

Read more on our Best Fishing Days page.

About The Author

Catherine Boeckmann

Catherine Boeckmann loves nature, stargazing, and gardening so it’s not surprising that she and The Old Farmer’s Almanac found each other. She leads digital content for the Almanac website, and is also a certified master gardener in the state of Indiana. Read More from Catherine Boeckmann

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