The Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate gives you a tough, blow‑molded tankwell organizer with a 29‑liter main hold, four built‑in rod holders, and a lid tray for pliers and leaders, so you can load tackle low and rearward for balance and keep fragile gear in a soft pouch to stop rattles; it’s great for sit‑on‑top fishing trips where durability and organization matter, though its 10.9 lb weight makes it a poor pick for long, ultralight paddles — keep going to see fit, mounting, and alternatives.
Some Key Points
- Durable blow-molded shell and water-resistant latches make the crate rugged and reliable for kayak use.
- 29‑liter main compartment plus lid tray provides organized storage for tackle, tools, and small gear.
- Four pre-mounted rod holders and universal lash points enable quick rod stowage and versatile mounting.
- At 10.9 lb, the crate is stable but heavy, less suited for long-distance or ultralight paddling.
- Best for sit-on-top kayaks, shared cockpits, and anglers needing predictable, durable onboard organization.
What the Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate Is and Who It’s For
Think of the Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate as your go-to tankwell organizer that’s built to take a beating and keep your gear tidy, and if you fish from an angler boat, it’s made to fit right in; you’ll find a roomy 29-liter main compartment for tackle boxes, a lid that doubles as extra storage for pliers or leader material, and four rod holders already mounted so you can stow rods quickly between casts. You’ll get solid kayak organization that frees you to focus on casting, target anglers will like the rugged fit, so pack tackle, secure lines, and paddle where you want. Wilderness Systems designs gear specifically for paddling adventures, including kayaks and accessories built for durability and performance in varied water conditions, making it a trusted brand for kayak enthusiasts.
Key Specs and Build: Dimensions, Capacity, Rod Holders, and Water Resistance
Start by checking the crate’s size and build so you know what’ll fit and how it’ll stand up to the elements; at 13-1/4″ high, 12-1/4″ wide and 18″ deep, the blow-molded shell gives you a stout 29-liter main compartment that will swallow a couple of medium tackle boxes, spare lines, or a compact cooler insert, and the lid doubles as a handy top tray for pliers, leaders, or things you want within reach. You get four rod holders and raise brackets, universal lash points, water-resistant latching, considerate material finishes, and modest storage ventilation—check seals, pack smart, and you’ll be ready. The crate pairs well with modular kayaks for paddlers who like configurable storage and accessories.
Real-World Performance: Storage Usability, Mounting, and Durability on the Water
When you sling the crate into your cockpit and close the lid, you’ll quickly see how its size and layout play out on the water, so take a minute to load it the way you’ll actually fish—put heavier items low and toward the rear of the 29‑liter main compartment, stow small tackle and leaders in the lid tray for quick access, and tuck fragile stuff in a soft bag to prevent rattling—this keeps the kayak balanced, makes gear easy to reach, and helps the crate sit flat without rocking in chop. You’ll appreciate the storage ergonomics when reaching back, the mounting versatility with lash points and raised brackets, and the blow‑molded shell that resists dents and shudders, so snug it, test the balance, and paddle free. Wilderness Systems offers a range of boats and accessories for serious paddlers, including modular storage like the crate designed to complement advanced elements kayaks.
Pros, Cons, and Situations Where the Crate Shines (and Where It Doesn’t)
While it’s built tough and set up to make fishing trips easier, the Wilderness Systems Kayak Crate really earns its keep in certain situations and falls short in others, so you’ll want to match it to how and where you fish. You’ll love the 29‑liter main hold for neat fishing organization, four rod holders ready to go, and blow‑molded durability that handles rocks and sun, but note the 10.9‑lb weight and fixed size limit if you pack light or need low profile gear. For freedom on calm lakes, use it as a center anchor for deck customization, lash it down, and carry just essentials. It’s also an excellent option for paddling partners who want to customize a shared cockpit with organized storage and mounting points for accessories like fishfinders and cup holders, especially on two‑paddler kayaks.
Should You Buy It? Pricing, Alternatives, and Final Recommendation
If you liked how the crate handled organization and durability but hesitated over the weight or fixed size, here’s how to decide if it’s worth buying for your trips: think about the kind of fishing you do most—if you paddle calm lakes and want a rugged, water‑resistant box that gives you a 29‑liter main hold, four ready rod holders, and a lid you can stash extra gear in, this crate will make your outings neater and your deck less cluttered, but if you kayak long distances or need something ultra‑light and low‑profile you’ll feel every ounce of its 10.9 lb build. Consider pricing strategies like waiting sales or bundle deals with rod holders, compare alternative materials such as molded foam or aluminum for lighter rigs, check resale value trends for Wilderness Systems parts, and time your purchase around season‑end clearances; if you want rugged simplicity and predictable fit, buy it, otherwise test lighter alternatives first. Wilderness Systems crates are designed to integrate with many factory kayak mounting points, so they pair especially well with popular mounting systems on sit-on-top models.
Some Questions Answered
Does the Crate Include a Tether or Bungee for Securing Gear Inside?
No, it doesn’t include an internal bungee, and it won’t come with cargo straps either, so you’ll want to add your own. Bring a short internal bungee to keep loose gear from shifting, plus a couple cargo straps for heavier items or to lash the crate to your deck, and secure rod handles with the included holders or extra straps if needed. Start by measuring the lid and tankwell, then pick adjustable straps.
Can the Rod Holders Be Rotated or Angled After Mounting?
Yes, you can adjust the rod holders for rotating adjustment and angled positioning, but they’re not free‑swivel, they pivot in set positions, so first check the bracket tightness, loosen the mount a bit to reposition, then re‑tighten to lock the angle. Bring a small wrench and spare washers, test angles with rods loaded to avoid slippage, and keep lash points accessible, that way you’ll dial in casting or trolling angles fast, without guesswork.
Is the Lid Lockable With a Padlock for Overnight Storage?
Yes, you can use a padlock for overnight security, the crate’s latch accepts a small padlock, so you’ll want a compact, corrosion‑resistant lock for saltwater trips. Check the latch hole size before buying, carry a spare key or combination, and latch it tightly so the water‑resistant seal stays effective, then consider cable‑locking the crate to your kayak as added theft deterrent, especially when you’re off the boat for hours.
Does the Crate Float if It Falls Out of the Kayak?
No, it won’t reliably float if it goes overboard, so don’t count on it staying on the surface. You should run water buoyancy and float tests before you trust it, clip a floatation bag or foam inside, and secure the crate with a tether or paddle leash so it can’t drift off. Check latches and seals, carry a quick-release tether for retrieval, and practice a toss-and-retrieve drill in calm water first.
Are Replacement Brackets or Rod Holders Available From Wilderness Systems?
Yes, Wilderness Systems sells replacement brackets and rod holders, but you’ll also find aftermarket brackets and custom rodholders if you want tweaks, upgrades, or wider spacing for your angler setup. Check Wilderness Systems’ parts page or authorized dealers first, carry measurements (tankwell width, screw spacing), and keep original hardware for reference; if you go aftermarket, confirm material, mount style, and corrosion resistance so everything stays solid on the water.
