Ugly Stik Tackle Bag Review: Durable & Versatile Fishing Companion

This review dives into the Ugly Stik tackle bag, a durable and versatile fishing companion that has proven its worth over time. More than just a functional piece of fishing equipment, this bag holds a special place in the reviewer's heart, gifted as a memento from a former foster family. This personal connection adds a unique layer to the review, highlighting not only the bag's practical features but also its sentimental value. Get ready to explore the features that make this tackle bag a favorite, from its robust construction and waterproof design to its clever organizational compartments and easy-to-use zippers.We'll uncover the bag's ample storage space, ideal for organizing a wide array of fishing gear, from lures and baits to essential tools and accessories. Discover how its thoughtful design, including a hard bottom, mesh back pocket, and multiple internal compartments, enhances convenience and usability. This review provides an in-depth look at the Ugly Stik tackle bag's strengths, covering everything from its durable exterior and practical features to its unexpectedly heartwarming backstory.

Read more: 5 Best Small Fishing Tackle Boxes for Anglers

First Impressions and Origin Story

I received this Ugly Stik tackle bag as a gift from a former foster child's family. They gave it to me as a memento before they returned home. It's been a year since I got it and this bag has stood up to regular use.

Close-up of Junie holding the Ugly Stik tackle bag.
Close-up of Junie holding the Ugly Stik tackle bag.

Right off the bat, the bag impressed me with its sturdy construction. The hard bottom is a significant plus, providing excellent support and protection for the contents.

Junie showing the bag's exterior.
Junie showing the bag's exterior.

The bag's history adds a sentimental value; the gift itself holds a special memory of fostering and the family’s continued friendship. It makes this tackle bag much more than just an accessory for fishing.

Features and Functionality

The Ugly Stik bag features a waterproof design, which is crucial for keeping your gear dry in various weather conditions. The addition of a mesh back pocket is also a great touch, allowing for easy air drying of wet lures or for storing things like towels and gloves.

View of the bag’s hard bottom.
View of the bag’s hard bottom.

It offers spacious side pockets, ideal for smaller items like jar baits or carabiners. I personally use mine to store essentials like hand sanitizer, sunscreen, bug spray, and first-aid items—a necessity for fishing trips, especially with kids in tow.

Showcase of the mesh back pocket.
Showcase of the mesh back pocket.

A smaller top pocket is perfect for keys, a smaller phone, or a bit of cash. Although not suitable for bulkier items like a wallet or sunglasses, it provides convenient storage for essential smaller items.

Shot showing the side pockets.
Shot showing the side pockets.

Storage Capacity and Organization

The bag includes four 3600-size tackle boxes, providing ample space to organize your lures and fishing gear. There's even room for a fifth box if needed, offering great flexibility.

Opening the main compartment to reveal the tackle boxes.
Opening the main compartment to reveal the tackle boxes.

I appreciate the versatility. I can easily organize everything from micro baits and jerk baits to crankbaits, frogs, jig heads, spinners, and all kinds of terminal tackle. It’s a truly multi-species bag.

Inside the tackle box showing various lures and tackle.
Inside the tackle box showing various lures and tackle.

The interior layout is well-thought-out. The pockets and compartments effectively organize different types of fishing gear, ensuring easy access to the necessary tools and tackle.

Shot of the top pockets for additional storage.
Shot of the top pockets for additional storage.

Additional Features and Overall Impression

The easy-grip zippers are a noteworthy feature, especially beneficial for those with dexterity issues or arthritis. This thoughtful design makes accessing the bag's contents effortless even in cold weather.

Close-up showcasing the easy-grip zippers.
Close-up showcasing the easy-grip zippers.

A front pocket offers additional storage space, ideal for holding extra plastics, tools, and other essentials. The deep front pocket is particularly useful for a wallet or other larger items.

Showing the front pocket and its contents.
Showing the front pocket and its contents.

The included plier holder, shoulder strap, and overall design enhance the practicality and convenience of the bag. It's perfect for various fishing styles and adventures.

Shot of the shoulder strap and the plier holder.
Shot of the shoulder strap and the plier holder.

Final Verdict

The Ugly Stik tackle bag is a high-quality, durable, and well-designed product. It's spacious enough to accommodate a wide variety of fishing gear while remaining highly organized and easy to carry. The thoughtful design features make it exceptionally user-friendly.

Junie holding the bag and looking directly at the camera.
Junie holding the bag and looking directly at the camera.

Beyond its practicality, the sentimental value makes this tackle bag irreplaceable. It serves as a constant reminder of a positive fostering experience and the lasting bond formed with a foster family. This is a bag built to last and filled with special memories.

Overall, I highly recommend this tackle bag. Its durability, organization features, and sentimental value make it an excellent investment for anglers of all levels. It’s a fantastic piece of equipment that gets used and appreciated year after year.