This review covers a year's experience with the Plano Guide Series Tackle Bag 3700 XL. We'll delve into its storage capacity, organizational features, durability, and overall practicality for anglers. This comprehensive assessment will explore the bag's strengths and weaknesses, offering valuable insights for anyone considering purchasing this popular tackle bag. From its included assortment of Plano boxes to the convenient placement of compartments, we'll examine how well the 3700 XL performs in real-world fishing scenarios.This in-depth review will analyze the bag's numerous features, including its robust zipper, magnetic drop zone, and external rod holders. We'll discuss the bag's weight and how the backpack straps impact portability. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a balanced perspective, highlighting the 3700 XL's effectiveness as a comprehensive tackle storage solution, while also addressing its limitations regarding size and suitability for various fishing styles.
Read more: 5 Best Small Fishing Tackle Boxes for Anglers
What's in the Box?
The Plano 3700 XL Tackle Bag arrives fully loaded with storage. It includes three 3600-size boxes, perfect for smaller lures and accessories, and seven 3700-size boxes for larger items. This eliminates the need to buy additional storage containers separately, saving you money and time.
The 3600 boxes are strategically placed in the front and on either side of the main compartment. The 3700 boxes fit perfectly into the main compartment. This convenient layout ensures everything is organized and easily accessible.
Main Compartment and Organization
The main compartment features a robust, large zipper that has shown excellent durability even after a year of use. The quality of the zipper is reassuring and speaks to the bag's overall construction.
My current setup uses only the included boxes, and I've added two smaller boxes designed for soft plastics. This provides ample space for a variety of lures and tackle. I'm able to store quite a bit of tackle in here, even with my preference for having lures organized individually.
Additional Features and Storage
The top of the main compartment features a handy 'drop zone' with magnets to hold lures temporarily. This is a smart addition for quick access to frequently used items.
The front compartment houses a 3600 box where I store terminal tackle - weights, hooks, and other small items. This ensures frequently-needed items are readily available. The side pockets provide deep storage space for larger items such as line spools, and big plastic baits.
Rod Holders and Carry Options
The bag includes two rod holders, useful for bank fishing or short trips where you want to keep an extra rod close by. I find these less practical for hiking or longer distances where carrying a rod on the outside of the bag might prove cumbersome.
Durability and Overall Impression
The Plano 3700 XL's robust construction, including a solid plastic bottom, ensures it can withstand regular use. The bag's weight is noteworthy, though the backpack straps help alleviate the burden on longer carries.
After a year of use, I'm highly satisfied with the Plano 3700 XL. Its ample storage, organization features, and durable construction make it a top choice for anglers who need a well-equipped tackle bag. The only drawback is its size, requiring dedicated storage space in a boat.
