Let’s Talk About Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray is designed to organize and protect your fishing lures and terminal tackle. Manufactured by Evolution Outdoor, this tackle tray boasts a clear lid and colorful compartments, aiming to provide both visibility and a unique aesthetic. As someone who has spent countless hours on the water, managing my tackle efficiently is crucial for a successful fishing trip.
My current tackle organization system is a chaotic mix of zippered bags and mismatched boxes. I was looking for a durable, easy-to-see solution that would keep my lures and hooks from becoming a tangled mess. This tray promised better organization and quick access to my gear, a welcome departure from my current setup.
Upon receiving the Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray, my first thought was that the marbled colors were indeed eye-catching. The plastic felt reasonably sturdy, although not exceptionally heavy-duty. Compared to Plano’s basic 3700 series, which I’ve used for years, this tray has a bit more visual appeal, but I was curious about its long-term durability.
Initially, I was excited by the prospect of a more organized and visually appealing tackle solution. My initial excitement was tempered by some concern about the overall strength of the plastic, but I remained hopeful that it would prove to be a reliable addition to my fishing gear.
Real-World Testing: Putting Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray during a weekend fishing trip to Lake Fork, known for its largemouth bass. I used it to organize my crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and various hooks and weights. The tray sat in the boat under the Texas sun for two days straight.
The tray performed reasonably well initially, allowing me to quickly locate and retrieve the lures I needed. The clear lid was helpful for identifying the contents of each compartment, even from a distance. I did notice that the plastic felt a bit more pliable in the heat, which was a bit concerning.
I didn’t need much time to get used to the layout; the compartment sizes were generally suitable for the lures I carry. I did notice some of the smaller dividers were a bit flimsy and tended to flex when trying to remove larger lures. This made me concerned about their potential for long-term use.
After the first day, I found that one of the latches was a little sticky, and I needed to apply extra pressure to close it securely. I hope this isn’t a sign of things to come.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray has held up adequately, although not without some minor issues. The plastic has not cracked or broken, which is a definite plus. However, the lid has developed a few surface scratches from being slid around in my boat’s storage compartment.
The tray has started to show some wear and tear, particularly around the edges and corners. The colorful compartments are still vibrant, but the clear lid is becoming less clear with each use. I’m starting to see some light discoloration to the clear plastic from the UV rays when fishing.
Cleaning the tray is fairly easy; I usually just rinse it with fresh water and wipe it down with a cloth. However, dried fish slime and sunscreen tend to cling to the textured surface of the plastic, requiring a bit more effort to remove. This isn’t a huge deal, but the texture isn’t helping to keep it clean.
Compared to my older Plano trays, the Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray offers a better visual aesthetic. But the Plano provides a more robust and durable build. While the Evolution Outdoor tray is adequate, I doubt it will last as long as my older, more basic tackle boxes.
Breaking Down the Features of Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray
Specifications
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray boasts the following specifications:
- Durable 3700 tackle tray: This refers to the standard size and shape, compatible with many tackle storage systems.
- Colorful compartments: The marbled color design offers a unique aesthetic.
- Clear lid for easy organization: Allows for quick identification of contents without opening the tray.
- Two latch closure: Secures the lid to prevent spills and keep tackle contained.
- Quantity: 1: The product includes a single tackle tray.
- Manufacturer: Evolution Outdoor.
- Color: Orange/Black.
These specifications are important because they dictate the tray’s capacity, organization, and durability. The 3700 size ensures compatibility with various storage systems, while the clear lid and colorful compartments enhance visibility and organization.
Performance & Functionality
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray performs its job adequately, providing a decent level of organization and protection for fishing tackle. Its clear lid and colorful compartments do make it easier to find specific lures and hooks. But its longevity is still in question.
The tray’s strengths lie in its visual appeal and organizational capabilities. Its weaknesses are its perceived durability and the somewhat flimsy dividers. Overall, it meets basic expectations for a tackle tray in its price range, but it doesn’t exceed them by any means.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable, but not exceptional. The plastic feels somewhat thin, and the lid has some flex to it. The tray is lightweight, which is convenient for carrying. However, this also contributes to the feeling that it might not be as durable as some other options on the market.
The tray is relatively user-friendly. The compartment sizes are generally well-suited for a variety of lures and terminal tackle.
Durability & Maintenance
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray is not likely to last for many years of hard use. Its plastic construction and relatively thin walls make it susceptible to cracking and breaking. With careful handling, it should provide a few seasons of use.
Maintaining the tray is straightforward; it can be easily cleaned with soap and water. However, replacing broken dividers or latches is not an option, as replacement parts are not readily available. So its lifespan is limited by its most fragile components.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray does not come with any specific accessories or customization options. It’s a basic tackle tray designed to be used as is. It is compatible with any standard 3700-size tackle storage system or bag.
Pros and Cons of Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray
Pros
- Affordable Price Point: At $7.88, this tray offers a budget-friendly tackle storage solution.
- Visually Appealing Design: The marbled colors make it stand out from traditional tackle trays.
- Clear Lid for Easy Identification: Quickly see what’s inside without opening the tray.
- Standard 3700 Size: Compatible with most tackle bags and storage systems.
- Lightweight Construction: Easy to carry and transport.
Cons
- Questionable Durability: The plastic feels somewhat thin and may not withstand heavy use.
- Flimsy Dividers: The smaller dividers can flex easily, potentially leading to tackle mixing.
Who Should Buy Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray?
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray is perfect for casual anglers. It is also good for those who prioritize aesthetics and organization on a budget. It is a great solution for beginners.
Those who require extremely durable or heavy-duty tackle storage should skip this product. Pro anglers or those who fish frequently in harsh conditions might find it lacking in robustness. If you are looking for a lifetime investment, this might not be it.
A must-have modification is to reinforce the smaller dividers with glue. Consider adding some padding to the bottom of the tray to prevent damage from impacts.
Conclusion on Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray
The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray offers a visually appealing and budget-friendly solution for organizing fishing tackle. It balances aesthetics and functionality. However, its durability may be a concern for serious anglers.
At $7.88, the price is definitely justified for its basic functionality and visual appeal. It’s a good value for casual use.
I would recommend it to beginner anglers or those looking for an inexpensive way to organize their tackle. The Evolution Outdoor 3700 Fishing Drift Series Colored Tackle Tray is a good starting point. Grab one today and experience a more organized fishing experience.