First Impressions of Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box promises a solution to one of every angler’s persistent problems: jig and fly organization, and, perhaps more importantly, keeping them dry and retrievable if disaster strikes. As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist with a decade of experience, I’ve seen countless tackle boxes claiming waterproofness, but few actually deliver. My initial assessment will focus on Kenders Outdoors’s claims of being both water-tight and buoyant, a compelling combination for any serious fisherman.
My primary motivation for seeking this type of box stemmed from repeated frustrations with flimsy, easily-broken boxes that left my expensive jigs rusting after a sudden downpour. Countless times, a gust of wind sent an open tackle box tumbling into the drink, resulting in lost gear. The promise of a large capacity, double-sided storage, and floating capability made the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box an intriguing option.
Upon receiving the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box, my initial impression was that of sturdy, if somewhat basic, construction. The clear plastic allows for easy identification of contents, and the rubber o-ring suggested a decent attempt at water resistance. Compared to cheaper single-sided boxes with simple latch closures, the double-sided design and seemingly robust latching mechanism felt like a definite upgrade.
I have previously used Plano tackle boxes and Flambeau Outdoors fly boxes, but those lacked the dual promise of both waterproofing and guaranteed floatation. I chose the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box in hope that it would solve my problems and prevent future gear loss during my fly fishing trips. My first impression leaned towards cautious optimism, hoping the box’s performance would match its claims.
Real-World Testing: Putting Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test occurred during a weekend fly-fishing trip in the Ozark mountains. The initial challenge was organizing my assortment of jigs and flies within the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box. The double-sided design proved immediately useful, allowing me to separate jig types and sizes for quick access on the water.
Conditions were fairly mild at first, but a sudden afternoon thunderstorm provided an unexpected baptism for the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box. While standing in knee-deep water, I purposely dropped the box to assess its floating capabilities. True to its claim, the box floated well, even when fully loaded with jigs and flies.
I needed no time to familiarize myself with the box. The latches were easy to operate, even with wet hands, but the absence of individual compartments within the box sides meant some smaller jigs tended to shift around. After retrieving the box, I found minimal water intrusion.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box has become a staple in my fishing gear. It has withstood multiple trips, enduring various weather conditions, and has proven itself reasonably durable. The plastic shows minor scratches, but there is no sign of cracking or significant wear.
The rubber o-ring seal has held up well, maintaining a good level of water resistance, but it is important to ensure the seal is clean of sand and debris before closing. Cleaning the box is simple: rinsing with fresh water and allowing it to air dry is all that’s needed. Comparing it to previous experiences with less reliable boxes, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box is a clear winner in terms of durability and peace of mind.
Breaking Down the Features of Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box
Specifications
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box features a water-tight rubber o-ring designed to keep moisture out. It is also designed to float and can store over 200 jigs or flies. The box’s Manufacturer is Kenders Outdoors.
The box is clear in color and features the additional feature of holding over 200 jigs and flies. Dimensionally, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box measures approximately 6 inches in height and 4 inches in width. These specifications directly impact user experience by ensuring gear stays dry, organized, and accessible on the water.
Performance & Functionality
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box performs its primary job admirably: keeping jigs and flies organized and dry. The floating capability provides significant peace of mind, especially when fishing from a boat or in areas with swift currents. The main strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, but the lack of individual compartments is a minor drawback.
While the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box mostly meets expectations, the lack of dividers or foam inserts would improve organization. A system for securing jigs in place would greatly reduce tangling. For its intended purpose, it does meet expectations, but there’s room for improvement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box boasts a simple, functional design. The clear plastic allows for easy visibility of contents. While lightweight, the plastic feels sturdy enough to withstand regular use.
The box is user-friendly, requiring no learning curve. The latches are easy to operate, even with wet or gloved hands. Overall, the design is practical, but not particularly refined.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on several months of use, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box appears reasonably durable. The plastic shows minor wear, but the hinges and latches remain functional. The o-ring seal is the most crucial component, and its continued integrity will determine the box’s long-term effectiveness.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with fresh water and ensuring the o-ring remains free of debris. With proper care, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box should provide several seasons of reliable use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box does not come with any specific accessories. Customization options are limited, but anglers could potentially add foam inserts or dividers to create individual compartments. Given the simplicity of the design, compatibility with other brands’ accessories is not a major factor.
Pros and Cons of Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box
Pros
- Effective waterproof seal keeps jigs and flies dry.
- Floats reliably, preventing gear loss in case of accidental drops.
- Double-sided design maximizes storage capacity.
- Simple, user-friendly design requires no learning curve.
- Durable construction withstands regular use.
Cons
- Lacks individual compartments or foam inserts for securing jigs, leading to potential tangling.
- The clear plastic is prone to scratching over time.
Who Should Buy Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box?
The Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box is perfect for anglers of all skill levels who value organization and protecting their gear from water damage. It’s particularly beneficial for fly fishermen, ice fishermen, and anyone who fishes from a boat or kayak, where accidental submersion is a risk. Anglers who prefer meticulously organized tackle boxes with individual compartments may want to skip this product.
Anglers could consider adding foam inserts or dividers to customize the box. A small desiccant packet could be placed inside to further reduce the risk of moisture damage.
Conclusion on Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box
Overall, the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box offers a compelling value proposition. For $11.99, it provides reliable waterproof storage and the peace of mind of floatation. While it lacks some of the organizational features found in higher-end tackle boxes, its simplicity and effectiveness make it a worthwhile investment.
I would personally recommend the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box to any angler seeking a simple, reliable, and affordable solution for keeping their jigs and flies safe and dry. Don’t let another downpour or accidental drop ruin your fishing trip – invest in the Kenders Outdoors Large Double-Sided Floating Water-Proof Jig Box today!