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Adding a kayak crate to your fishing kayak can increase storage and organize your kayak.
The addition of the best kayak crate will keep your fishing gear more secure and help you become a more efficient kayak angler.
If that sounds like a good deal to you, look no further than the Yak Attack BlackPak Pro.
However, if you’re on a budget and don’t want to spend $160 on kayak accessories, then the YakGear Anglers Crate will be perfect because it’s inexpensive, but you’ll still be organized.
Don’t worry if neither of these is the best fit for you; there are many others on our list of best kayak crates.
Keep scrolling to see the rest of the list!
Comparison Table – Best Kayak Crate
| Image | Features | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | YakAttack BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate
| 10 | View Details |
Best For Beginners  | YakGear Anglers Crate Starter Kit
| 8 | Bass ProCabela's |
Best Soft Crate  | Plano Kayak Soft Crate Tackle System
| 8 | Bass ProCabela's |
Best Kayak Box  |
| 9 | REI |
Best Splash-Proof  |
| 9 | REI |
Honorable Mention  | Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate
| 9 | View Details |
Honorable Mention  |
| 8 | View Details |
- Comparison Table – Best Kayak Crate
- Kayak Fishing Crate Reviews
- Yak Attack BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate
- YakGear Anglers Crate Starter Kit
- Plano Kayak Soft Crate Tackle System
- Hobie H-Crate
- Perception Splash Kayak Crate
- Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate
- Pelican Exocrate Fishing Bag
- Buying Guide: For a Kayak Storage Box
- You'll Also Need
- Final Thoughts
Kayak Fishing Crate Reviews
Yak Attack BlackPak Pro Kayak Fishing Crate
BEST KAYAK FISHING CRATE OVERALL
Specs
- Material: Injection molded plastic
- Dimensions: 16.7″ x 13.5″
- Rod holders: Yes
- Lid: Yes
Pros
- American Made
- Hinged lid
- Customizable
- Removable carry handles
Cons
- Expensive
- Not waterproof
Why We Chose It
Yak Attack offers American-made products at reasonable prices. They’re well designed and can handle the challenging situations kayak anglers encounter.
The BlackPak Pro was made for the dedicated kayak angler. The TetherTube rod holders can be placed all over the BlackPak Pro, and they have a built-in rod leash to secure your favorite fishing rods.
The hinged lid makes getting your tackle out quiet and easy, plus it secures with latches so your tackle boxes won’t fall out.
The carry handles are great for moving it to and from your vehicle, and they don’t get in the way while you’re fishing.
The plastic sheds water, but it is not watertight, so there is a chance of getting water inside the BlackPak Pro. The rubber feet raise it off of the kayak floor, which will also help keep your gear as dry as possible.
The Yak Attack BlackPak Pro is a top-of-the-line kayak crate with a top-of-the-line price tag.
If you’re not looking to spend quite that much, the Yak Attack BlackPak was the original version, so it’s simpler and less expensive.
It still has rod holders and a good lid to hold your gear in place; however, when comparing the two, it’s easy to see that the BlackPak Pro is worth the extra money if you’re a serious kayak angler.
YakGear Anglers Crate Starter Kit
BEST KAYAK CRATE FOR BEGINNERS
Specs
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 13″ x 13″
- Rod holders: Yes
- Lid: No
Pros
- It comes with everything you need to get started
- Inexpensive
- Customizable
Cons
- No lid
- It won’t keep your gear dry.
- You’ll need a bungee or strap to secure it to the kayak.
Why We Chose It
YakGear makes affordable kayaking accessories. Their products are well designed and durable.
The YakGear Anglers Crate Starter Kit is ideal for beginners because it’s inexpensive, but it immediately helps you get organized.
The crate is large enough to hold your daily tackle boxes and compact enough to fit in the tank well of most kayaks.
I really like that YakGear keeps it as a DIY kit; that way, you can customize it to your fishing style and needs.
Since it doesn’t have a lid, you’ll need a bungee or strap to hold your gear in place in case the kayak tips.
You’ll also need a rope or strap to keep the crate in place; otherwise, it will slide around in your kayak as you go over waves.
It also won’t keep your gear dry, which isn’t a big deal because it’s fishing stuff and should be able to get wet.
However, you will need to have separate dry storage to bring items that can’t get wet.
The YakGear Anglers Crate is an excellent kayak milk crate to start kayak fishing.
If you’re looking for something that looks less like a milk crate, then check out the Flambeau Outdoors 455TK Tuff Krate.
It doesn’t have a lid either, but it comes with a bungee to help keep your small tackle boxes in place.
You can add accessories like rod holders, and there’s another model with a lid with more storage space. Neither model is unreasonably priced, making them a good choice for beginners.
Plano Kayak Soft Crate Tackle System
BEST SOFT-SIDED KAYAK MILK CRATE ALTERNATIVE
Specs
- Material: Water-resistant fabric
- Dimensions: 12″ x 17-1/2″ x 12-1/2″
- Rod holders: No
- Lid: Yes
Pros
- Compact
- It holds lots of tackle
- Keeps tackle boxes secure
- Easy to carry
- Use with or without a milk crate
Cons
- Milkcrate isn’t included.
- It only comes with two 3650 boxes.
- It’s only water-resistant, not waterproof.
Why We Chose It
Plano is the leader in producing fishing tackle boxes and bags. They’ve been making tackle boxes for many decades and are constantly pioneering new ideas in the industry.
The Plano Kayak Soft Crate was designed for kayak anglers with limited space.
It’s a good step up from a milk crate because you can still use a box if you need the extra stability or use it as a stand-alone tackle bag.
The water-resistant material keeps your tackled boxes from getting wet from splashing. Still, if you have water sitting in the bottom of your kayak, then it will eventually soak through the material.
I like the zipper lids and pouches because they’re easy to access, and they keep your tackle boxes secure in the bag if your kayak tips.
There are several D-loops to tie your bag to your kayak or tie your pliers and other fishing gear to the bag.
Prepare to lose it if you don’t leash it!
The bag is easy to carry, so it’s great for taking in and out of your kayak or vehicle.
It will hold a lot of tackle, but it only comes with two boxes, so you will need to buy more as you add more tackle to your collection.
I recommend the Plano Kayak Soft Crate to beginner and intermediate kayak anglers because it’s not expensive, and it’s a good step up from just using a kayak crate.
However, it doesn’t have rod holders like the Propel Paddle Gear Ultimate Kayak Bag, so you might consider it if you need rod holders.
The Propel Paddle Gear Kayak Bag is also water-resistant, has pockets for tools and gear, and will hold a lot of tackle.
The handles make it easy to carry, but it is more expensive than the Plano Soft Kayak Crate.
Hobie H-Crate
BEST KAYAK BOX
Specs
- Material: Molded plastic
- Dimensions: 17.4″ x 14.1″
- Rod holders: Yes
- Lid: Yes* must purchase separately
Pros
- Hobie name
- Disassembles to store flat
- Customizable
- It comes with heavy-duty, adjustable straps for quick installation and removal.
Cons
- Expensive
- The zippered lid isn’t included
Why We Chose It
Hobie is known as the top kayak and watersports manufacturer. Their products are high-quality but also come at a steep price.
The Hobie H-Crate is great for Hobie and non-Hobie owners because it’s modeled off of the dimensions of a large milk crate so that it can fit in most kayaks.
One of my favorite features is its ability to fold flat when not in use. So you won’t be taking up unnecessary space when you’re not using it.
The heavy-duty carry handles are sturdy, and they double as an H-Rail, which is Hobie’s accessory mounting system.
The built-in rod holders also secure your rods using a bungee; I love this if you flip or hook a rod while casting (As I’ve done before… check it out below!).
The H-Crate has a lid that you can purchase separately, which I think is ridiculous. If you’re spending over $150, it should come with the cover.
The side panels are a grid system, so you can add other accessories onto them and truly make it yours.
The last thing I’ll mention is that it comes with adjustable straps so it and your gear won’t sink to the bottom if you flip. The straps are easy to remove when it’s time to transport the crate.
I understand the Hobie H-Crate is expensive, so check out a Multi-Purpose Milk Crate if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option.
Milk Crates don’t have any special features, but they are incredibly affordable, and you can customize them to fit your fishing style perfectly.
Perception Splash Kayak Crate
BEST SPLASH PROOF KAYAK STORAGE BOX
Specs
- Material: Plastic and waterproof material
- Dimensions: 17″ x 13″ x 12.5″ Tall
- Rod holders: Yes* Sold separately
- Lid: Yes
Pros
- Customizable
- Waterproof
- Easy to carry
- It fits in most kayaks
- It folds down for better storage
Cons
- Have to purchase the rod holders and pocket organizer separately
- Tackle boxes not included
- Expensive
Why We Chose It
Perception Kayaks makes quality kayaks for recreational and fishing purposes.
It only makes sense that they added a kayak crate to their line-up.
The Perception Splash Kayak Crate is made from waterproof materials and has plastic feet to raise it off the floor of your kayak when it gets wet. I’m glad someone finally thought of this!
The heavy-duty material is also snag-resistant, so you’ll be less likely to get tangled up in the fabric.
The handles on the side make it easy to move from your vehicle to your kayak and vice versa, even when it’s loaded with fishing gear. When storing it at home, it folds to take up less space.
The generic dimensions mean it will fit in most fishing kayaks.
You can add fishing rod holders and a pocket organizer, but you must purchase them separately. However, this means you can customize it to best fit your needs.
The Perception Splash Kayak Crate is an excellent addition to any kayak, especially if you tend to get a lot of water in your kayak.
The TCYC COLLECTION Kayak Fishing CratePak is a good option if the Splash Kayak Crate is too expensive.
The CratePak is a cover for a milk crate, which is not included, with a velcro lid, rod holders, and several mesh pockets.
It’s not waterproof or customizable, which is why it’s cheaper.
Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate
HONORABLE MENTION
Specs
- Material: Plastic
- Dimensions: 18″ x 13.5″ x 13.5″
- Rod holders: Yes
- Lid: Yes
Pros
- Large compartment
- Lid offers additional storage
- Water-resistant
- Customizable
Cons
- Expensive
Why We Chose It
Wilderness Systems designs and produces fishing kayaks and accessories that make kayak fishing even more enjoyable.
The Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate offers versatility and functionality that other crates don’t.
For starters, the rod holders are adjustable, so they can be adjusted to fit your kayak, even if you don’t own a Wilderness Systems kayak.
The crate lid functions as a small storage compartment and is the best place to store small items that will be hard to find in the bigger area.
The crate latches are rubber, like a Yeti cooler latch, so they’re silent when opening and closing the crate.
The built-in handles are solid, so you won’t have to worry about one breaking while carrying it. It also has four areas on the corners to strap it down.
The primary compartment is large enough for all the tackle you’ll need for a day of fishing, and it’ll stay dry as long as the lid is secured.
The downsides to the Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate are how expensive it is, and it doesn’t come with any tackle boxes.
The Plano Kayak V-Crate Tackle Box, on the other hand, comes with four 3750 boxes and has a waterproof compartment.
It does not have rod holders, but you can purchase them separately if you need some.
The V-Crate has a unique shape, which allows it to hold a lot of gear and not take up too much space.
Pelican Exocrate Fishing Bag
HONORABLE MENTION
Specs
- Material: Polyester
- Dimensions: 18.39″ x 14.76″
- Rod holders: Yes
- Lid: Yes
Pros
- Works with or without a milk crate
- Inexpensive
- Lots of storage options
- UV and saltwater resistant
Cons
- Not waterproof
Why We Chose It
Pelican makes an enormous amount of products, including kayaks and waterproof carrying cases.
Surprisingly the Exocrate is not waterproof, but it is saltwater and UV resistant to last you a long time.
I like that you can use it with or without a crate because it has rigid sides. If it were me, I would use it without one because that’s one less thing you have to buy and it’ll give you a little extra room.
However, it already has plenty of storage options. Several side pockets and the large compartment can hold several tray-style tackle boxes.
I’m not a fan of the rod holders because they’re not sturdy, but they get the job done.
The best part about the Pelican Exocrate is the price. It’s very affordable for any kayak angler.
If you’re looking for a waterproof tackle system, the KastKing Bait Boss Fishing Tackle Backpack with Rod Holders might be the solution.
Though it’s technically not a kayak crate, it is an excellent kayak milk crate alternative because you can bring it in your kayak and use it when fishing from the bank.
It has rod holders, a sunglasses pocket, soft plastics pocket, and many other pockets. The main compartment will hold four 3600 boxes.
If you’re an angler who does more than just fish from a kayak, the KastKing Tackle Backpack is a must.
Buying Guide: For a Kayak Storage Box
The following are a few considerations to keep in mind when purchasing a kayak fishing crate.
Waterproof
Even though I put it at the top, the waterproofness of the crate isn’t a significant factor, simply because the fishing gear was designed to be used in and around water.
However, keeping your gear as dry as possible helps prevent rust and prolongs the life of your equipment.
So having a waterproof or water-resistant crate will pay off in the long run.
Size
The size of your crate is crucial.
Measure the area you plan to keep the crate before purchasing so you know what size to buy.
Most milk crates will be 13″ x 13″ and vary in height.
This is because most fishing kayaks are designed with an area this size or larger to hold a kayak crate.
Typically it’s in the back of the kayak, but you can use it wherever it fits in your kayak.
Transportability
I simply mean, how easy is it to carry.
Some kayak crates are bulky and difficult to carry, and others don’t have handles.
I really like the Hobie H-Crate for this reason. It’s easy to carry with sturdy handles, and it packs flat when you don’t need it.
Weight will factor into this some, but most kayak crates are designed to be light, rarely weighing more than 10 pounds.
Durability
If you’re anything like me, you’re hard on gear.
That’s why I recommend purchasing products that will withstand the rough conditions of kayak fishing.
I don’t like spending money on gear for it to break in one or two trips out on the water; that’s why I tend to stick with American-made products.
All of these crates are made of plastic or fabric; however, there are different grades of each, so that some crates will be more durable than others.
I’ve found milk crates after sitting in the lake for years, and they were still usable, so durability shouldn’t be an issue for most.
Security
How well does the crate secure your tackle, and how easy is it to secure to the kayak?
A lid with latches or a zipper is best, but a bungee is better than nothing. That way, your gear will have a chance of getting caught on the bungee instead of bouncing or falling out.
Even if the crate has a lid, it won’t do much good if the entire container were to go overboard and sink to the bottom; that’s why strapping it to your kayak is critical.
Most crates have loopholes or attachment points for straps so you can secure them to your kayak.
You’ll Also Need
Before heading out to your local waterway, you need a few more items to make your fishing trip safe and successful.
Tackle Box
Even if the kayak crate you’ve chosen comes with tackle boxes, you’ll likely need more if you fish for multiple species or dive deeper into fishing.
The best kayak fishing tackle box is compact but holds everything you’ll need for the trip.
I’ve made the mistake of bringing a tackle box that was too large, and it made changing lures extremely difficult.
Kayak Fishing Rod
You can use any fishing rod from a kayak.
As a matter of fact, I use the same rods I use to fish from the bank or a boat.
However, there are a few companies that make kayak-specific rods.
They have a shorter handle which helps keep the rod from tangling in your PFD.
Paddle
Choosing the wrong paddle will make paddling more complicated than it needs to be; you’ll have to lean farther over the side to get a full stroke.
Leaning over too far could cause you to fall into the water. Let’s not do that; instead, buy the best kayak fishing paddle.
It’s for your safety and comfort.
Lifejacket
One item I refuse to leave the shore without is my PFD.
Any lifevest is better than no lifevest, but kayak fishing PFDs are going to make fishing from your kayak more enjoyable.
No matter which one you choose, it won’t do anything for you unless you wear it!
Final Thoughts
When purchasing a kayak crate, the two things that matter most are whether it fits in your kayak and whether it will hold all your gear. All other features are nice but not necessary.
That’s why I chose the Yak Attack BlackPak Pro as the best kayak crate overall. It fits in most kayaks, and it secures a lot of gear.
For beginners or those on a budget, the YakGear Anglers Crate Starter Kit will be the best option because it’s inexpensive, but it holds a lot of fishing equipment.
Tell me what your favorite kayak fishing crate is in the comment section!
