Whether you’re trekking up a mountain or wandering along a riverside, blending your love for hiking and fishing can create unforgettable memories.
Finding the perfect fishing kit that’s both lightweight and easy to carry is essential for outdoor adventurers who want to keep their hands free for hiking.
This collection showcases 12 incredible hiking fishing kits that you can seamlessly fit into your backpack without sacrificing your hiking essentials. Get ready to be amazed by how much functionality these compact kits pack!
Contents
- 1. Travel Fishing Rod Kit
- 2. Mini Tackle Box
- 3. Compact Fishing Net
- 4. Pocket Fishing Gear
- 5. Survival Fishing Kit
- 6. Multi-tool with Fishing Components
- 7. Fillet Knife
1. Travel Fishing Rod Kit

This ultra-light travel fishing rod kit is designed for the adventurous spirit. Made of durable carbon fiber, it collapses to fit snugly in your backpack, making it a perfect companion for your hiking trips.
With a length of just 18 inches when collapsed, this rod expands to 6.5 feet when you’re ready to cast. The kit typically includes a rod, a compact reel, and a selection of lures—everything you need for a spontaneous fishing adventure. For an excellent option, check out the Sougayilang Fishing Rod Reel Combo with Telescopic Fishing Pole. It even comes with a carrier bag for easy transport, which adds extra protection to your gear.
To enhance your fishing experience, consider pairing the rod with lightweight fishing line like the Zebco Outcast Monofilament Fishing Line. This line has low memory and stretch, ensuring high tensile strength to tackle various fishing conditions.
Additionally, having a compact tackle storage solution is essential. The small tackle box is a great choice—it’s mini, portable, and double-sided, making it perfect for organizing your lures and tackle while saving space in your pack.
This rod not only fits well in your bag, but it also ensures you’re ready to catch your dinner wherever your hike takes you.
2. Mini Tackle Box

Who says you need a big tackle box to reel in the big ones? The mini tackle box is a game changer for hikers. Despite its small size, it can hold a variety of hooks, lures, and weights.
Consider the Plano 3440-22 tackle box, which offers a compact design without sacrificing storage space. It’s made of lightweight plastic, making it easy to carry without weighing you down. A well-organized tackle box means you won’t waste precious time fishing for the right lure when you could be focused on reeling in your catch.
Alternatively, the Flambeau Outdoors 4007 tackle box comes with 12 dividers and 24 compartments, allowing you to customize your storage to fit your specific needs. This feature helps keep your gear organized, ensuring you can quickly access what you need on the water.
For those looking for a more versatile option, the Wild River by CLC WT3704 tackle box is a lightweight fishing backpack that provides ample storage for all your fishing gear and equipment. This is especially beneficial for hikers who want to keep their hands free while navigating the trails.
A mini tackle box, whether you choose the Plano, Flambeau, or Wild River option, can maximize your efficiency while enjoying the thrill of the catch. Plus, some models even float, giving you peace of mind if they accidentally slip from your grip.
3. Compact Fishing Net

A compact fishing net can be a crucial tool when you’ve finally hooked that big catch. Look for nets that fold down, making them easy to pack and carry on your hike. For instance, the PLUSINNO fishing net features a foldable design and a collapsible telescopic pole handle, ensuring you can transport it without taking up much space in your backpack. Its durable nylon material is safe for catching or releasing fish, providing an excellent solution for your fishing needs.
A good fishing net will often come with a rubberized coating, minimizing fish injuries and ensuring a better release back into the water. The rubber fishing net is an excellent choice, with a collapsible aluminum pole handle and a deep net designed for both freshwater and saltwater fishing. It extends up to 67 inches, making it versatile for various fishing conditions while being easy to carry.
These nets can also be quite lightweight; many weigh less than a pound! The KastKing Brutus folding landing net is a great example, known for its lightweight and strong build. It features a multi-functional built-in boat hook and an extendable design, which provides added reach without bulk.
Suggestions:
– Opt for nets with telescoping handles for added reach without bulk.
– Choose a mesh size that suits the types of fish you’re targeting.
With a compact fishing net, you’ll be well-equipped to handle your catch, making your outdoor escapades even more enjoyable.
4. Pocket Fishing Gear

Pocket fishing gear is the epitome of convenience for hiking anglers. These kits often include everything from mini fishing rods to small reels and tackle in a tiny pouch. For instance, the ProFISHiency Micro Series Pocket Combo is a tangle-free telescopic fishing rod and spincast reel that is light and compact, making it ideal for quick trips or casual fishing.
Perfect for clipping to your belt or packing inside a backpack pocket, pocket gear is usually equipped with high-quality materials to ensure durability, even in a compact form. Additionally, the PLUSINNO Large 4-Layer Tackle Box comes with 547 pieces of tackle, including fishing lures, hooks, and accessories, making it a fantastic portable option for any angler on the go.
Some pocket kits even provide included instruction manuals for beginners, such as the SPG Archery Bowfishing Bow Kit, which offers guidance for adult bow fishing beginners. These kits also make a great gift for young anglers looking to dip their toes into the world of fishing.
With pocket fishing gear, you can always be ready for an unexpected fishing opportunity during your outdoor adventures.
5. Survival Fishing Kit

Combining fishing with survival gear, a survival fishing kit can save the day when you find yourself in an unexpected situation. These kits often include everything you need for fishing, along with survival essentials like fire starters and whistles.
Consider the Deluxe Survival Fishing Kit, which seamlessly blends fishing gear with necessary survival tools. Its compact size ensures that it easily fits into your backpack while providing peace of mind. Typically, these kits use durable materials to withstand tough outdoor conditions.
When looking for a survival fishing kit, ensure it has a variety of fishing lines and hooks for different fishing scenarios. Also, look for kits that come with emergency fishing methods that don’t require traditional gear. For instance, a multi-tool like the Gerber Gear Suspension-NXT 15-in-1 EDC Multi tool can be invaluable. It includes essentials like needle nose pliers, which are perfect for handling fish, along with other handy tools that enhance your outdoor experience.
Additionally, fire starters are crucial for survival situations. The bayite portable fire starter kit provides a reliable way to make fire, ensuring you can stay warm and cook food after a day of fishing.
Having a survival fishing kit allows you to blend your outdoor skills, making every hike a chance for adventure.
6. Multi-tool with Fishing Components

A multi-tool that includes fishing components is a versatile addition to any hiker’s kit. These handy tools typically include pliers, line cutters, and even small knives, all in one compact unit.
When looking for a lightweight model, consider the Pohaku multitool knife. This 13-in-1 pocket multitool features a 3″ large blade and a safety locking design, ensuring safety and ease of use in the great outdoors. It comes with a durable nylon sheath, making it a practical choice for camping, fishing, and hiking without adding excess weight to your backpack.
For a more robust option, check out the durable stainless steel multi-tool. This 17-in-1 tool includes self-locking pliers and a pocket knife, ideal for various tasks during your outdoor adventures. Its stainless steel construction ensures durability, so you can count on it to withstand the elements.
If you’re specifically looking for fishing features, the Berkley fishing tools provide a compact option that includes a scaler, making it easier to prepare your catch right on the spot. With these multi-tools, you’re equipped not just for fishing but for any challenge you might face on the trail.
Ultimately, the key is to find a multi-tool that balances functionality and weight, ensuring you can tackle a variety of situations without being weighed down.
7. Fillet Knife

When you successfully catch fish on your hike, a portable fillet knife becomes essential. Slim and lightweight, these knives are designed for easy packing while maintaining sharpness. A great option is the KastKing folding fillet/fishing/camping/hunting knife, featuring a razor-sharp G4116 German stainless-steel blade, non-slip handles, and a compact size of only 7 ½ inches when folded. This means you can easily store it in your pack without sacrificing cutting performance.
Often made with corrosion-resistant materials, a good fillet knife allows for clean cuts and easy fish preparation. The KastKing EZ fillet fish fillet mat is another useful addition, with its anti-slip texture, integrated ruler, and easy-to-clean material, providing a portable surface for all your fish cutting needs.
Many models come with protective sheaths to keep them safe in your pack. The Cutluxe fillet knife for fish & meat features a high carbon German steel blade and an ergonomic handle design, ensuring comfort during extended use.
Suggestions:
– Choose a knife with an ergonomic handle for comfort during extended use.
– A folding design, like that of the KastKing knife, can save space and reduce the risk of cuts.
With a portable fillet knife, you can enjoy fresh fish cooked right at your campsite.
Conclusion

Finding the right lightweight hiking fishing kit can elevate your outdoor experience.
These kits showcase the perfect blend of compactness and functionality, ensuring you never miss a chance to fish while hiking.
No matter which options resonate with you, embracing these lightweight tools will undoubtedly enhance your adventures in the great outdoors.
Note: We aim to provide accurate product links, but some may occasionally expire or become unavailable. If this happens, please search directly on Amazon for the product or a suitable alternative.
This post contains Amazon affiliate links, meaning I may earn a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you.