10 Best Kayak Crates To buy In 2024
Which Kayak Fishing Crate Is Best?
Fishing is a sport that is enjoyable when all your gear are organized and in position. Without these conditions being met, your time out on the water would be for fun – no fish to show for your effort.
Kayak anglers have struggled with having enough space to accommodate their gears. Modern kayaks have attempted to solve this problem by increasing the space on kayaks most especially sit-on kayaks.
Instead of being the solution kayak anglers have been waiting for, it simply led to more problems. You might be wondering how? These available spaces are not organized and lead to clutter on deck.
Kayak anglers spend more time trying to reach the tool they need instead of spending time reeling in fish. This has led to other attempts to solve the problem of unorganized space for kayak anglers.
In this article, the perfect solution would be revealed. Amazingly this solution not only makes kayak fishing effective and enjoyable, but it also makes it easy.
What is this solution? The solution is the kayak crate. Kayak crates provide ample space for storage and organization of your gear without cluttering your kayak.
Kayak crates were born out of the use of milk crates. Kayak crates have been modified to remove the limitations associated with milk crates and give you more organized room for your fishing gear.
This makes access to your tools faster and more convenient. The use of kayak crates is not limited to anglers alone and can be used by recreational kayakers as well.
Today, there are a couple of kayak crates on the market. Purchasing a cheaply made kayak crate is never a pleasant experience. That is why we are here. In this article, we would be revealing the best 10 kayak crates and their features.
Now the question is what makes them stand out? Which would be best for you? You should pick your kayak crate based on your need, kayak size, and budget.
At the end of this article, we hope that you get the best kayak crate for your fishing needs. Let’s check them out.
1. CLEVERMADE COLLAPSIBLE MILK CRATE
The CleverMade collapsible milk crate weighs 2 pounds when empty and can hold a weight of up to 50 pounds! Amazing right? This crate is lightweight but mighty.
It is a lot stronger than it looks and is made of durable plastic. Another distinct feature is that the CleverMade crate is easily collapsible. When not in use it can be collapsed into a portable size and stacked up.
Yes! It is stackable as well. This makes it not only an amazing kayak crate but an outstanding crate to store and organize things in your home, car, or office. When not in use, it leaves your room organized as it can be stocked up so there is no clutter.
As a kayak crate, the design is such that the holes allow for the attachment of many other fishing accessories you may need. It doesn’t come with a rod holder or extra storage space but can be customized to have all of that and more.
It comes in a pack of 3 and is easy to clean off after a kayak trip – all you need is to hose it off or clean it with a damp cloth. The ergonomic side-grip handle makes lifting even when filled up easy. You don’t have to be afraid of it coming apart when transporting as the secure lock tabs ensure maximum stability.
The CleverMade collapsible milk crate fits into the tank well of most kayaks and is very customizable and versatile. It comes in multiple color options. For a kayak crate that is lightweight, versatile, and durable the CleverMade collapsible milk crate is a clever choice.
Specifications
- Dimensions
- Open dimensions: 12 x 13.12 x 11 inches (L x W x H)
- Inner dimensions: 12 x 12 x 10.68 inches (L x W x H)
- Height when collapsed:5 inches
- Weight: 1 pounds (0.95 kg)
- Material: Polypropylene
- Capacity
- Volume: 25 L
- Weight: 50 pounds
2. WILDERNESS SYSTEMS KAYAK CRATE
The Wilderness Systems is a kayak crate with superior functionality and aesthetic appearance. It is a hard-shell kayak crate that comes mostly assembled out of the box.
All you need to do is attach the rod holders and you are ready for business. It has a top lid storage compartment that is great for small items that you may need to grab more readily.
One amazing feature of the Wilderness Systems kayak crate is the rod holder extenders. The rod holder extenders allow the kayaker to lift the rod holders so that the base of the crate can fit kayaks with narrower tank wells.
The Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate features all you can ever need. It comes with 4 rod holders and 6 anchor points which allows you to secure the crate to your kayak from various angles.
This characteristic of the Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate allows kayakers to place the crate in the orientation that best works for them. Both the lid compartment and main compartment can be opened with one hand.
This allows you multi-task and improves your fishing experience. The Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate also provides exceptional durability.
The crate’s body is made of blow-molded plastic making it strong and environmentally friendly. For easy transport, the crate comes with 2 molded handles on opposite sides that are comfortable and won’t give your hands blisters.
The crate is also resistant to water when latched close to keep your gear from getting wet. The Wilderness Systems kayak crate is on the pricey side but it is worth every cent.
Despite its many attributes, this crate isn’t the best option for paddlers who want to reduce the weight of their kayak on the water because it is also very heavy.
To enjoy a superior fishing and kayaking experience, the Wilderness System kayak crate is the way to go!
Specifications
- Dimensions: 25 x 12.25 x 18 inches (Height x Width x Depth)
- Weight: 9 pounds (4.9 kg)
- Material: Molded plastic
- Capacity: 29 L
3. PLANO SOFT BAG KAYAK CRATE
The Plano Kayak Soft Crate can be used with and without a milk crate. It was created to supplement the kayak fishermen’s existing storage alternatives. Its form enables it to fit inside a milk crate (bought separately) or to rest directly on the kayak’s deck.
Multiple compartments in the paneled design are sized to accommodate stowaway utility boxes or provide bulk storage. You can adjust the bag to suit your needs because all portions are readily detachable.
With a variety of strong buckles and straps, all of the components are detachable so you may construct the bag to suit the unique requirements of your kayak fishing.
The Soft Crate is perfect for novice anglers starting to assemble their arsenal of gear or experienced fishermen looking for customization choices for a soft crate.
Made of material that is strong, light, and water-resistant, the Plano Kayak Soft Crate Tackle System provides you with a durable soft bag tackle system.
The revolutionary paneled design of this Plano soft tackle box has a broad base with two sections that match stowaway utility boxes. Two of the side panels even double as carrying handles, making the 4-panel design incredibly adaptable and flexible.
To keep necessities close at hand, the lid has storage choices as well as several D-rings and tool holders. Most kayak types are compatible with the Plano Kayak Soft Crate Tackle System.
This kayak soft crate doesn’t come with rod holders but DIY rod holders can be easily attached to it if you so desire. The Plano Soft Kayak Crate is extremely lightweight and can be customized as desired.
The panels can be removed and the attachment points used to attach preferred accessories. Additionally, the soft crate comes with (2) 3600 stowaway utility boxes and can fit a total of (9) 3600 stowaway utility boxes.
For easy storage, the side bags can be detached for compactness. The Plano Kayak Soft Crate’s innovative and flexible design is no surprise as Plano is a top manufacturer in the fishing industry.
Little wonder the Plano Kayak Soft Crate is one of the top kayak crates for anglers to maximally enjoy their fishing expeditions.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 12 x 17.5 x 12.5 inches (L x W x H)
- Weight: 7 pounds (0.77 kg)
- Capacity: (9) 3600 stowaway boxes
4. PELICAN EXOCRATE
The Pelican Exocrate bag is a soft shell bag that can be used with a 13 x 13 standard milk crate to provide structure or can be used alone with the support panels included to provide structure.
So if you have a standard milk crate you will like to enhance, the Pelican Exocrate is an amazing option. It is made of durable 1200 denier polyester fabric making the bag tough, water-resistant, and resistant to ultra-violet radiations.
The Pelican Exocrate is an innovative soft bag fishing crate with 2 fishing rod holders that have drain holes to prevent the accumulation of water. With the Pelican Exocrate, you don’t have to keep your bag zipped always if you don’t want to.
The lid can be rolled back and tied to keep it out of the way giving an open kayak crate effect. Attached to the sides of this kayak crate are the 2 rod holders on one side, a see-through mesh pocket on the adjacent side, a front quick-access pocket on another side, and on the fourth side are multiple pockets for your tools.
This feature maximizes storage space and allows you to keep your handy tools close for easier access. The main storage compartment is spacious with a heavy-duty zipper connecting it to the lid.
The Pelican Exocrate comes with 4 loops to help secure the crate to your kayak. Other features include reflective logos (for improved visibility), a detachable adjustable padded shoulder strap, and 2 side hand straps for multiple carry options.
It can be carried in your hand or on your shoulders if you need to free up your hands for other accessories. This soft shell kayak crate by Pelican is lightweight and easily affordable.
The Pelican Exocrate gives you the liberty to carry the essentials you need. The Exocrate is not affected by weather elements and retains its quality over a long period.
It can be used for kayaking in both freshwater and saltwater as it is not only waterproof, but it is also resistant to degradation as a result of exposure to saltwater.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 25 x 14 x 12.5 (L x W x H)
- Weight: 6 pounds (1.63 kg)
- Material: Polyester
5. YAK ATTACK BLACKPAK PRO
The YakAttack BlackPak Pro kayak crate has similar dimensions to the original YakAttack BlackPak kayak crate. It is 25% more lightweight than the original kayak crate.
Another improvement of the YakAttack BlackPak Pro to the original is the addition of a hinge system to the lid. The hinge can be tightened or loosened to get your desired tension.
It also features rubber bumpers that absorb sound, enabling a silent lid closure, and the innovative CatchLatch retention mechanism locks the lid in a straightforward but surprisingly effective way.
The lock system on the lid ensures that the contents of your kayak crate are secured even if the boat flips over. Technology has advanced since the original YakAttack BlackPak kayak crate was created and the Pro version takes into account a lot of these advancements.
The YakAttack BlackPak Pro comes in 3 various sizes. The 16 x 16, 13 x 13, and 13 x 16 inches kayak crate. The YakAttack BlackPak Pro maximizes storage for various tackle boxes including but not limited to the Plano edge, Flambeau, Bass Mafia Bait Coffin, Plano 3600, and Plano 3700 tackle boxes.
The 13 x 16 inches box can accommodate the 3600 boxes vertically for maximum use of available storage space. The 13 x 13 BlackPak Pro is optimized for 3600 tackle boxes and can accommodate conveniently 8 of the 3600 Plano tackle boxes.
The 13 x 16 and 16 x 16 are optimized for 3700 tackle boxes. The 13 x 16 can fit (5) 3700 boxes while the 16 x 16 can fit 7 with space on top for more.
Aesthetically, the BlacPak Pro has a sleek black finishing with multiple holes for attachment of other accessories designed specifically for the BlackPak.
The 13 x 16 inches kayak crate comes with 4 TetherTube rod holders while the 16 x 16 inches crate comes with 6 TetherTube rod holders. Each rod holder comes with a tether that can be easily removed if you don’t want to use it. The rubber feet allow for firm noiseless operation when placed on your sit-on kayak.
This new product by YakAttack gives many other kayak crates a run for their money because the BlackPak Pro is creativity at its peak! The BlackPak Pro, which was injection-molded from UV-stabilized plastics, will endure for many years even in extreme aquatic conditions.
The ultra-stiff panels’ interlocking joints and rib structure, which provide outstanding rigidity with little weight, ensure an easy, hassle-free assembly process.
Specifications
|
Internal Dimensions (L x W x H) |
External Dimensions (L x W x H) |
Weight without tether tubes |
Number of tether tubes |
Weight with tether tubes |
Capacity |
|
|
16 x 16 inches |
14.9 x 14.9 x 11.75 inches |
15.94 x 15.94 x 13.3 inches |
9.1 pounds |
6 |
11.5 pounds |
(7) 3700 boxes |
|
13 x 16 inches |
11.9 x 14.9 x 11.75 inches |
12.94 x 15.94 x 13.3 inches |
7.6 pounds |
4 |
9.2 pounds |
(5) 3700 boxes |
|
13 x 13 inches |
11.9 x 11.9 x 11.75 inches |
12.94 x 12.94 x 13.3 inches |
6.9 pounds |
3 |
8.2 pounds |
(8) 3600 boxes |
6. YAKGEAR BLACK ANGLER CRATE
The YAKGEAR Black Angler Crate is comparable to conventional milk crates in size and may be used for dry storage or to convert your crate into a live well. You will need to add a bubbler to your crate to turn it into a live well to keep baits (which would be bought separately).
It is a simple conversion because all you have to do is unpack and fit it into your crate. This will keep your fishing equipment dry and allow you to relax and enjoy your fishing trip.
With this crate, you get organized storage space on the deck of your kayak, paddleboard, or canoe.
You can conveniently enjoy the sport of kayaking with enough storage space for your gear. This YakGear crate is designed to enable customization with all crate rigging accessories from the manufacturer.
This product comes with 1 YakGear black milk crate with the YakGear logo, 1 YakGear accessory pouch, and 2 YakGear build a crate single rod holders. The accessory pouch not only provides organized storage but also provides protection for your gears.
The added bonus is that the YakGear accessory pouch is easy to install. The rod holders serve as rod or anchor holders as well as provide extra storage space on the mounting brackets for lures, pliers, knives, and other similar gears.
With this feature, the YakGear is a step more efficient in providing maximum storage space for kayakers.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 13 x 13 x 15 inches (L x W x H)
- Weight: 13 pounds (5.9 kg)
- Color: Black
7. FLAMBEAU OUTDOORS TUFF KRATE
The Flambeau Tuff Krate is designed for serious paddlers. The design is cool, unique, and functional. It has 2 compartments for more storage space It can withstand everything you throw at it since it is exceedingly strong and resilient.
Flambeau is a top plastic company with its origin as far back as the 1940s. So when it comes to the manufacturing of plastic products, they are top-notch. The Tuff Krate though plastic is designed for the kayaker, not the milkman.
This crate designed by Flambeau outdoors goes beyond the norm to provide freedom when kayaking. Its double-compartment system takes away the limitations of a regular milk crate.
The upper shallow compartment is useful for storing small items that you want easier access getting to. The big lower compartment can hold (8) Flambeau 4000 Series or (5) 5000 Series Tuff Tainers (can be purchased separately).
The lid can function as a work surface or staging area. The Tuff Crate comes with 2 rod holders that can be attached at either of the sides depending on a kayaker’s preferred option.
You can add 2 additional rod holders (bought separately) if you want more rod holders on your crate. It has a total of 10 mounting screws to help with your rod holder configuration.
The Flambeau Tuff Krate is flexible in terms of usage. The crate has a wide range of potential and can be customized to fit individual desires. The design is vented to allow for a wide range of universal accessories.
Made of rugged HDPE construction, the Tuff Crate is strong enough to withstand many unfavorable conditions. It features 2 carry handles, universal crate-to-kayak tie-down ports, built-in safety flag rings, and snap latches to keep content protected in case of a flip.
It comes unassembled. Assembling it is uncomplicated and takes only a few minutes to assemble. If you want a stylish functional crate for secure tackle storage, then the Flambeau Tuff Krate is an excellent choice.
It can also be used as a multi-storage option for recreational kayaking, pier fishing, as an additional boat tackle storage, and more.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 16.75 x 12.8 x 15.26 inches (L x W x H)
- Weight: 8 pounds (3.6 kg)
- Capacity: (8) Flambeau 4000 series or (5) Flambeau 5000 series
- Color: Light grey
8. PERCEPTION SPLASH KAYAK CRATE
The Perception Splash Crate is a unique soft-sided crate that is easily customizable and protects your gear from getting wet due to water splashes. It is packaged in a compact flat box. To assemble, the sides of the Perception Splash Kayak crate are lifted into position.
This shows the first major advantage of the Perception Splash. There is no need for assembling and dissembling. Simply lift up the sides into position and fold down when not in use.
You might wonder how this feature affects the structure and rigidity of the crate when in use. No need to worry about the Perception Splash losing its structure when in use. The rigid side panels provide structure and secure the Velcro edges.
The Perception Splash has a cover that is held in place by 2 plastic clips at the back and a bungee loop in front. The bungee loop allows for a one-handed operation making it easy to access your supplies while out on the water.
The crate is also customizable allowing for modifications that suit individual needs and want. With the use of the Perception Splash rod holders and Perception Splash pocket organizer which can be gotten separately, the storage capacity of the crate can be significantly increased.
The rod holder and pocket organizer are extremely easy to attach and can be attached to all four sides of the Perception Splash. The lid is not exempted from being modified as it comes with webbing loops as well. For even additional gears or to secure the Perception Splash to your kayak, the D-rings are made available.
The Perception Splash keeps a dry interior and can fit 7 of the 3700 series Plano boxes or 12 of the 3600 Plano boxes. At the bottom of the crate are plastic feet that protect the bottom of the crate from wetness and dirt, while providing extra durability.
These plastic feet raise the crate just enough to prevent water from entering the kayak from soaking the bottom. The Perception Splash is affordable, lightweight, and made of durable waterproof materials.
It is spacious and has a wide mouth for easy access to your gears. It can be used for general kayaking and is suitable for anglers as well. The ergonomic handles make carrying and transporting easy.
Additionally, the Perception Splash is manufactured by Perception Kayaks which is one of the leading manufacturers of kayaks globally.
This assures you of quality, durability, and innovative ergonomic design. The Perception Splash is designed to fit on most sit-on kayaks and is reasonably priced.
Specifications
- Dimensions (L x W x H)
- Outer dimension: 17 x 13 x 12.5 inches
- Inner dimension: 16 x 12.25 x 11 inches
- Weight: 25 pounds (2.4 kg)
- Capacity: (7) 3700 boxes or (13) 3600 boxes
9. Plano PLAM80700 Kayak V-Crate Tackle Box and Bait Storage
The Plano Kayak V-Crate’s multiple storage options make it one of the most practical kayak crates on the market.
Its design is one of a kind having 2 side-angle opening that comes with 2 of Plano’s 3750 stowaway boxes each (total of 4 3750 boxes), a main compartment, and an enclosed waterproof base.
The waterproof base can be used to store the valuables you want to protect from getting wet. The V-shaped design is unique and provides easy access even while paddling.
For easy storage, the Plano Kayak V-Crate is detachable from its waterproof base. When out paddling, the waterproof base can be fastened to the tank well of your sit-on kayak to ensure it doesn’t fall off even if you capsize.
For even more storage capacity and to modify your crate, the Plano V-crate features a side rail system for the attachment of rod holders and other accessories that can be bought separately.
The V-Crate hinges backward. It is compact and compatible with most sit-on kayak models. With the Plano V-Crate, access to your gear is made available in real time. This reduces frustration when kayaking.
Specifications
- Dimensions (L x W x H)
- Outer dimension (at widest point): 25 x 16 x 18 inches
- Base dimension: 5 x 11 x 6 inches
- Weight: 6 pounds (2.5 kg)
10. HOBIE H-CRATE
Hobie is a company that has been enabling people to enjoy spending time on the water by creating quality, durable, and reliable water vessels. Always in the business of making water sports enjoyable and comfortable.
Hobie designed the Hobie H-crate as a way of creating storage space for kayaks, paddleboards, and others without creating a cluster on deck.
Always putting the needs of water lovers first, Hobie also designed a smaller version of the Hobie H-crate called the Hobie H-crate Jr.
Hobie H-crate is the answer to inadequate storage space on your kayak. It provides organized storage space, recessed mounting points at each side (4 sides), H-rail carry handles to enable mounting of H-Rail accessories, and rod holders at every corner.
Despite the many features of Hobie’s H-crate, it is straightforward to assemble and dissemble. The use of the Hobie H-crate is not limited to Hobie accessories only but is also compatible with a wide range of other accessories by other manufacturers.
The H-crate also has a sleek appearance so you don’t have to be concerned about affecting the aesthetics of your kayak. It is also very customizable so it can be modified to suit individual needs. You can add other accessories like a tackle bin depending on your needs.
This kayak crate is lightweight and durable with skid pads to reduce noise while providing more friction. This means that unwanted noise is prevented and the crate has a good grip on the kayak preventing sliding around.
This feature is particularly beneficial to anglers who want to have a productive fishing trip. With this storage option, you have enough space for your gear without spooking the fish. Every aspect of the design of this crate is done with intentionality.
The molded hole pattern found on the grid walls is to provide attachment points for additional gears like rod holders. The Hobie H-crate is one of the most expensive crates on the market.
The reason for this is not far-fetched – the quality and features. You receive value for your money with the Hobie H-Crate. All you need for installation is provided.
The heavy-duty straps make installation simple and secure. When not in use, the Hobie H-crate can simply be dissembled for easy storage.
Specifications
- Dimensions (L x W x H)
- Outer dimension:45 x 14.14 x 13 inches
- Inner dimension: 75 x 11.4 x 13 inches
- Weight: 8 pounds (2.63 kg)
How to Attach Milk Crate to Your Kayak?
One of the most common ways of attaching a milk crate to your kayak is the use of a bungee cord.
To prevent your milk crate from falling off if your kayak flips attach the bungee rope to the 4 corners of your crate and tie it down. Don’t simply pass the bungee cord over your milk crate.
This will prevent your milk crate from falling off if your boat flips over but won’t keep the contents in your milk crate secure unless the crate has a firmly locked lid.
