Ever since I got my first Tenkara rod, I have been searching for its quintessential companion: a fly box. There are many options out there with seemingly unlimited variations in size, price range, color and bells and whistles. I have gone through half a dozen different fly boxes myself; everything from Altoids tins to Orvis and L.L. Bean fly boxes. I was never really happy with any of them, until I discovered the Tacky Fly Box.
It’s obvious that a lot of R&D has gone into this fly box. The material that holds the flies is quite durable. I have had sheet foam fly boxes that deteriorated within a month, causing the flies to fall out if you held it upside down or it got jostled around in your pack. This is not the case with the Tacky Fly Box. After several months of rigorous use, I am very impressed with its tacky grip on even the smallest flies.
The top of the case is clear so you can easily pick out which fly you are going to use without having to open the case. The lid also features a continuous barrel style hinge and is secured by two strong magnets that make a nice “thunk” when closed.
The only complaint I initially had with the Tacky Fly Box was its large size. The Tacky Fly Box measures 3.5″ x 7″ x 3/4,″ with slots for 168 flies. However, Tacky Fly Fishing has recently released a smaller fly box, the “Day Pack,” which measures 3” x 5” x 3/4.”
For backpacking and Tenkara, the smaller Day Pack box is the perfect size. Others might think that the big fly box with 168 slots might not be enough, or that it would be better suited for a short day on the river. It just depends on personal preference. No matter which option you choose, you cannot argue with the durability, ease of use and simplicity a Tacky Fly Box provides.
Strangely, you will be hard-pressed to buy one of these cases from the Tacky Fly Fishing website, as their online store does not carry them. However, you can find them on Amazon as well as many other retailers online.
Bottom Line:
For my fishing style, this box is just too big. However, I love everything else about it and it has become my daily use case, leading me to retire my other fly boxes. Now that Tacky Fly Fishing has released a smaller fly box, they have the perfect line up. For the money, you cannot beat the Tacky Fly Box.
Tech Specs:
Size: 7” x 3 1/2” x 3/4”
Availability: Available now (through outside dealers)
Weight: 5.4 oz
Closure: Magnetic closure
Tacky Fly Box
$24.95
Pros
- Durable
- Holds on tight to the flies
- Magnetic closure
Cons
- None
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