Okay, I’ve figured out the makers of utility boxes are never going to produce something especially useful, unless they can also sell it as a sewing kit or tool box.
We’re always going to have those 8 1/2 by 14 inchers where the trays only go lengthwise, with concessions that flimsy dividers might give us a few square inches of change.
But I sure think they could do better with the nylon satchels. Sure, stuffed with four 3700 (14 x 8 3/4″) or 3600 (11 x 7 1/4″) they’ll actually stand up on a flat surface. But give ‘em six months or more of service (or if you are silly enough to wash one–even less) what you end up with is not a satchel, it’s a pillow case (see the one above).
The process is exacerbated by each utility box maker using just slightly different dimensions–mostly just a bit deeper– turning each into rectangular-shaped shoe horn-like, stretching tools. The result? A faster degrading of whatever “shape” the bags may have had originally.
There’s a bit of a cure, but the makers of these satchels just don’t want to add utility to a bare bones bag. The saltwater versions (right) of the the tackle systems all have a more rigid base supposedly waterproofing the bag. But in fact, everything gets wet on a long range trip.
All I want is a bag that still stands up when its only carrying three out of four utility boxes.
Sure, there is a lot of personal preference in your gear. But I don’t want a heavier, rigid box. I don’t want tilted trays, canteen carrier, VCR, or line winder. A couple of side compartments will be plenty–and don’t stitch them into the lid–putting stuff in them just makes the whole satchel top heavy (see right).
Something roughly 9 x 15 by 9 inches is plenty when I’m on the water with somebody else. The rest of my stuff I can put in the garage.
2 Responses to “Tackle system failures: my satchels”
Tackle companies don’t do much sewing.Tackle bag manufacturing is most likely contracted out.Hands on development and quality control are therefore at risk.Fishing is viewed as a passive recreational activity and the storage systems seem to be designed with durability for occasional use. Plumbers, carpenters and other craftsmen that depend on heavy bags to carry tools on a daily basis, won’t tolerate that kind of compromise. Take your measurements to the tool department of your favorite home center. A budget solution might include the assortment of luggage bags that can be found at almost any second hand charity benefit store. Two to three dollars can often get a heavy gym bag or carry on bag that will hold a stack of Plano organizers.My Tackle tip for theses systems is to spray the zipper with silicone.
Kramer,
The 80s are over . . . drop the “man bag” habit. Do like the rest of us, invest $50,000 in a 19-foot, gelcoat tacklebox. Plus, you get cupholders no extra charge!!