Outdoor enthusiasts‘ guide to fishboxes319

For the passionate outdoor enthusiast angling is a fun and rewarding pastime, however, the success of your fishing voyage can often hinge on the equipment you take with you, and one of the most important items is a good quality fishbox. Choosing the best fishbox for your needs can be a minefield, as there are many different sizes, materials and features. In this article we will go through some of the most popular types to help you make the right purchase and provide some top tips on maximising your catch.

Types of fishboxes

Cooler Boxes: A popular option for day trips, they are lightweight and compact, but don’t normally boast built in aerators. These are best suited to short fishing trips where the catch will be kept on ice.

Livewell Boxes: Designed to keep fish alive on longer trips. They feature a built in pump and are often divided into compartments to separate species. They are heavier and more expensive than cooler boxes, so consider if they are necessary for your typical fishing trip.

Stringer Boxes: Designed to keep your catch fresh, but not alive. They are tubes with holes drilled in them, usually with some method of securing them in the water. They are relatively inexpensive and low maintenance, but are not suitable for transporting live fish over long distances.

Canvas Fishboxes: Traditionally used by commercial fishermen, these are usually collapsible and lightweight, making them easy to transport. They are durable and inexpensive, but do not provide insulation or aeration.

Electric Fishboxes: Provide the maximum level of fish care with automated aeration systems and temperature control. They are however the most expensive and heaviest option.

Choosing the right fishbox

When looking at what fishbox to buy there are a few key questions to ask yourself.
What species of fish do you target? Some fish, like trout, are more sensitive to water quality than others, like carp. If you mostly target hardy species a basic cooler box should suffice. However, if you are planning on fishing for more delicate species, a livewell box will be necessary.

How long will you be away for? If you are only fishing for a few hours you should be fine with a cooler box to store the catch on ice. However, for longer trips the fish will need access to fresh oxygenated water. A livewell box will pump fresh water around the box, keeping the fish alive.

How much do you want to spend? Fishboxes range from inexpensive canvas models to highly advanced electric versions. Set a budget before you start shopping to narrow down the options.

How far do you have to travel? Consider the weight of the fishbox and how far you will need to carry it. If you have a long walk back to the car, a lightweight model might be a better option.

If you are still struggling to decide what type of fishbox is best for your needs, ask at your local tackle shop. They will be able to advise you on the best models for your typical fishing trips.

Top tips for using your fishbox

Here are some top tips to help you get the best from your fishbox and maximise the survival rate of your catch.
Pre-chill your fishbox: Before you head out on your trip, fill your fishbox with cold water and ice. This will help to keep the water temperature stable when you add your catch.

Add aeration: If you are using a cooler box, add an aeration stone to the water. This will help to circulate the water and provide oxygen for your fish.

Keep the water clean: Change the water in your fishbox regularly, especially if you are keeping fish alive for extended periods. This will help to remove waste and prevent the build-up of bacteria.

Don’t overcrowd the box: Avoid putting too many fish in your box. This can lead to stress and suffocation.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your catch alive and healthy until you are ready to release them or take them home to eat.

2025-01-04

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