The 15 Best Fishing Coolers of 2024 (Buying Guide)

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Fishing enthusiasts know that keeping your catch fresh during a long day on the water is of much importance. That’s where the Best Fishing Coolers come into play.

Our Top Picks

Here’s a list of the best fishing coolers in 2024:

• Best Overall: YETI Tundra 45
• Best Small Size: Reliable Fishing Products Kill Bag
• Best Large Size: YETI Tundra 65
• Best with Wheels: YETI Tundra Haul Hard Cooler
• Best Budget: Igloo BMX Ice Chest
• Best with Rod Holders: Engel UC30
• Best Disposable: Igloo Recool
• Best for Camping: DEWALT 65 Qt Roto Molded Cooler
• Best Soft: YETI Hopper Flip 18
• Best Hard: Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler
• Best Easy Access: Otterbox Trooper Cooler
• Best USA Made: Orca Cooler
• Best for Boats: Coleman 316 Series
• Best for Kayak: Reliable Fishing Insulated Kayak Bag
• Best Light Weight: Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a casual fisherman, having a reliable cooler can make all the difference in preserving the quality of your fish and ensuring a successful fishing trip.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into the world of fishing coolers, exploring their features, benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs. We have also listed 15 best fishing coolers to buy in 2024 that are highly rated and personal favourites.

Check out our guide on How to Fish for Beginners

Best Fishing Coolers: Reviews & Recommendations

1. Best Overall: YETI Tundra 45

The Yeti Tundra kicked off a trend of better-quality coolers. With a tough body made of moulded plastic and three inches of top-notch insulation, the Tundra 45 keeps ice better than any other.

Its seal, formed by a gasket and lid that overlap like a puzzle, locks in the cold and keeps out the hot.

Small touches make the Tundra special. On a rocking boat, rubbery foot pads and slots to tie it down keep the cooler steady. It has built-in handles for lifting heavy loads and rope handles for carrying.

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2. Best Small Size: Reliable Fishing Products Kill Bag

If you’re out on a small boat and struggling with limited space for a full-size fish box, the Reliable Fishing Products Kill Bag offers the perfect solution. Additionally, it comes in handy when you reel in a fish that’s larger than your available storage.

This versatile bag features vinyl-coated polyester construction, creating a soft-sided cooler that can easily accommodate your catch.

Its high-quality, leak-proof zippers ensure that both the cold and fish slime stay securely contained.

The bag is designed with practicality in mind, with pleats and gussets that allow it to fold flat for storage or stand upright when in use.

What sets it apart, though, is the inclusion of a drain plug – an unexpected yet highly beneficial feature for a soft-sided cooler.

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3. Best Large Size: YETI Tundra 65

This cooler is the top choice for multi-day fishing expeditions. It boasts an impressive capacity, capable of holding a substantial amount of food and beverages while ensuring they remain chilled for extended periods.

Whether you’re storing your freshly caught fish or preserving your ice, the Tundra 65 has ample space to keep your catch in pristine condition.

Additionally, its convenient dry goods basket proves useful for storing bait containers or essentials like cheese and butter.

Beyond its primary function, this cooler serves as a versatile companion, doubling as an extra table, cutting board, or even seating for two – it truly excels in various roles.

The rope handles are ideal for sharing the load with others, while the deeply recessed handholds make solo transport a breeze.

In conclusion, the Tundra 65 cooler stands out as the preferred companion for extended fishing trips.

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Best with Wheels: YETI Tundra Haul Hard Cooler

Dimensions (W x D x H)	28.3 x 18.6 x 19.5 inches
Capacity	55 Quarts
Weight	37 Pounds

I’ve never been a fan of lugging stuff around on the beach; it’s probably because I’m always eager to get my fishing line in the water.

However, my impatience met its match with the Yeti Tundra Haul Hard Cooler. It has streamlined the transition from hauling to casting like no other wheeled cooler I’ve ever encountered.

Whenever I’m out fishing in the surf, I tend to embark on extended fishing adventures. This cooler, specifically designed for fishing, serves as the perfect centerpiece for my base camp.

The YETI Tundra Haul Hard Cooler‘s robust wheels and sturdy tow handle ensure I can effortlessly transport it to my desired location without worrying about any flimsy components.

Once it’s in position, I have complete confidence that the ice inside will outlast my fishing enthusiasm, keeping everything from cut bait to sandwiches and beverages perfectly chilled.

The cooler’s impressive capacity easily accommodates all the essentials for a full day of fishing for four people.

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Best Budget: Igloo BMX Ice Chest

Dimensions (L x W x H)	19.6 x 13.3 x 15.7 inches
Capacity	25 Quarts
Weight	10.3 pounds
Insulation Material	‎Stainless Steel
Special Feature	Compact

The Igloo BMX Ice Chest offers a practical means to save money without compromising on ice retention. One of its key features is the durable blown-molded base, reinforced for added strength.

This robust construction is designed to keep ice intact for an impressive duration of up to four days. The cooler achieves this through 20% thicker insulation and an insulated lid.

Moreover, the cleverly moulded base is elevated to ensure your ice and contents stay insulated from external heat.

Additionally, the cooler is built with UV-resistant materials, enhancing its ability to endure hours of exposure to the sun.

To further enhance its functionality, the Igloo BMX Ice Chest has rubberized T-grip latches that securely seal and protect all your contents.

This feature ensures that your supplies remain intact and safe during your outdoor adventures.

Plus, the cooler incorporates rust-resistant, stainless-steel hinges and hardware, contributing to its overall durability and performance.

Remarkably, the Igloo BMX Ice Chest Fishing Cooler is often available for purchase at a price point of less than $100, making it one of the top choices for those seeking a cost-effective yet high-quality cooling solution.

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Best with Rod Holders: Engel UC30

Dimensions (L x W x H)	19.5 x 12.5 x 14.5 inches
Capacity	30 Quarts
Weight	10.4 Pounds
Material	‎Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)

Anglers often find themselves burdened with a plethora of gear when embarking on their fishing adventures. In such situations, the value of multi-functional equipment becomes evident.

Engel has introduced a highly practical solution in the form of the UC 30-quart cooler, which incorporates four-rod holders. This compact and lightweight cooler, weighing a mere seven pounds, is incredibly versatile.

It seamlessly fits into the rear of a kayak or can be securely strapped to a paddleboard, making it an ideal companion for fishing in shallow mangroves.

Additionally, the cooler’s built-in gasket ensures a tight seal, keeping your provisions cold for extended periods.

However, there are a couple of drawbacks to consider before buying the Engel UC30. Firstly, the cooler’s insulation is somewhat thin, which can slightly compromise its ice retention capabilities.

Secondly, it’s worth noting that this cooler lacks a drain hole, which may be inconvenient for some users.

Nevertheless, given its affordability, the inclusion of rod holders as a standard feature makes the Engel UC 30-quart cooler an attractive option for budget-conscious anglers.

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Best Disposable: Igloo Recool

Dimensions (L x W x H)	15 x 11 x 11.38 inches
Capacity	16 Quarts
Weight	16 Ounces
Material	Recycled Paper
Special Feature	Eco-friendly

A disposable cooler often serves as a last-resort choice, yet there are situations where its use becomes almost inevitable.

This is especially true when you unexpectedly find yourself at a picnic or having a fortunate day out fishing.

In such moments, the Igloo Recool emerges as a standout performer. It matches the effectiveness of traditional polystyrene coolers, offers reusability for multiple occasions, and boasts a remarkable eco-friendly feature-it readily composts.

Crafted from wood pulp material bound together with a biodegradable wax known as alkyl ketene dimer, the Recool maintains its structural integrity even when soaked.

In summary, while a disposable cooler remains a fallback option, the Igloo Recool shines as an exceptional choice.

It mirrors the performance of conventional polystyrene coolers, offers reusability, and stands out as an eco-friendly solution through its compostable nature.

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Best for Camping: DEWALT 65 Qt Roto Molded Cooler

Dimensions (L x W x H)	32.05 x 18.56 x 17.8 inches
Capacity	65 Quarts
Weight	15.95 Pounds
Material	Plastic
Special Feature	Alcohol-Free

The 65 Quart Cooler is an essential companion for maintaining the chill in your food and beverages over an extended period. Its roto-moulded design ensures exceptional durability, capable of withstanding the harshest handling.

With its robust exterior construction, this cooler can handle the rigours of everyday use with ease.

The reinforced pressure-injected insulation not only offers top-notch ice retention but also guarantees optimal temperature preservation, even in scorching heat.

Thanks to the DEWALT 65 Quart Cooler, you can enjoy your drinks and food at refreshingly cold temperatures for an extended duration.

Its rugged construction and advanced insulation technology make it a reliable choice for keeping your essentials cool, no matter the conditions.

In summary, the DEWALT 65 Quart Cooler combines durability, strength, and exceptional temperature control to keep your beverages and food colder for longer, making it the ideal solution for your cooling needs.

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Best Soft Cooler: YETI Hopper Flip 18

Dimensions (L x W x H)	11.5 x 8 x 10.5 inches
Capacity	10 Quarts
Weight	4.14 Pounds
Material	Foam
Special Feature	Portable

The Hopper Flip 18 is a highly adaptable cooler, designed to excel whether you’re angling from the shoreline or a watercraft.

With an internal capacity of 18 quarts, it stands as the largest option in the Hopper Flip cooler series, accommodating up to 30 cans sans ice or 28 pounds of ice.

This generous capacity makes it an ideal companion for extended days spent on the water. It incorporates Yeti’s renowned ColdCell Insulation technology, ensuring your food and beverages stay refreshingly cold.

Moreover, its robust hydro-lock zipper seals in the chill while effectively keeping the heat at bay.

Despite its soft-sided design, the Hopper Flip 18 boasts a rugged exterior thanks to its DryHide shell and HitchPoint Grid.

This combination results in a heavy-duty and versatile cooler that can withstand the rigours of the outdoors, including encounters with rocks, sand, and dirt.

Plus, for added convenience, you can easily attach the shoulder strap to transport your day’s catch home after a satisfying day of fishing on the water.

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Best Hard Cooler: Coleman Xtreme Portable Cooler

Dimensions (L x W x H)	28.25 x 15.75 x 18.25 inches
Capacity	70 Quarts
Weight	12.3 Pounds
Material	Plastic
Special Feature	Insulated

The Coleman Xtreme 5 Cooler, priced at under $100, offers exceptional quality. One noteworthy departure from its competitors lies in its closure technology.

Unlike its counterparts, it lacks T-laces to secure the top lid, impacting its cooling capabilities. Nevertheless, it maintains the interior’s coolness for several days.

On the plus side, its slightly reduced insulation thickness translates into a spacious interior. The Coleman Xtreme 5 Cooler boasts the capacity to accommodate up to 100 cans (without ice).

Additionally, it features integrated cup holders on the top lid for added convenience. However, it’s essential to note that this cooler isn’t as rugged as the RTIC 45 QTHard Cooler or the YETI Tundra 45.

Therefore, rough handling and sitting on it are not recommended practices. Remarkably, it weighs a mere 12.3 pounds, making it easily manageable by a single person.

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Best Easy Access: Otterbox Trooper Cooler

Dimensions (L x W x H)	8 x 3 x 3 inches
Capacity	20 Quarts
Weight	6.49 Pounds
Material	Thermoplastic Polyurethane (TPU)
Special Feature	Water Resistant

If you prefer not to struggle with rubber T-latches and plastic clasps when trying to open your cooler, you’ll definitely appreciate the convenience that the Otterbox Trooper offers.

With a simple click of the latch, you’ll be greeted with a spacious wide-mouth opening that provides easy access to your ice, food, and drinks.

While OtterBox is primarily renowned for its phone cases, it’s worth noting the impressive capabilities of this compact cooler.

Sporting a generous 20-quart capacity, the Trooper also boasts exterior pockets designed to accommodate fishing gear, and it even comes equipped with a built-in bottle opener, which is sure to come in handy on numerous occasions.

For your upcoming weekend fishing excursion, the Trooper is more than up to the task, ensuring you return home with a cooler brimming with freshly caught fish.

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Best USA Made: Orca Cooler

Dimensions (L x W x H)	19 x 11.75 x 11 inches
Capacity	40 Quarts
Weight	28.6 Pounds
Material	Plastic
Special Feature	Portable

If you’re in the market for an American-made cooler, Orca has you covered. They proudly display the USA flag on every cooler they produce, emphasizing their commitment to domestic manufacturing.

This dedication resonates with anglers and those who value supporting local efforts. The 26-quart Orca cooler is an ideal companion for float trips or extended lake vacations.

Its robust roto-moulded exterior ensures durability, while the interior insulation keeps ice cold for up to 10 days.

Convenient extendable flex-grip handles facilitate easy transportation, and a handy cargo net attachment on the back is perfect for storing fly boxes or bait.

Pro Tip: This cooler creates such a tight seal that when you venture to higher elevations, the lid may airlock in place. Simply release the pressure by popping the drain for effortless opening.

This cooler from Orca is not only American-made but also features the iconic USA flag on each unit, underlining their commitment to keeping manufacturing within the country. This resonates with anglers and anyone looking to support local initiatives.

The 26-quart Orca cooler is the ideal choice for activities like float trips or extended lake getaways. Its sturdy roto-moulded exterior guarantees longevity, while the interior insulation maintains ice-cold temperatures for up to 10 days.

The extendable flex-grip handles simplify transportation, and there’s even a convenient cargo net attachment on the back for storing fly boxes or bait.

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Best for Boats: Coleman 316 Series

Dimensions (L x W x H)	22 x 16.6 x 21.3 inches
Capacity	65 Quarts
Weight	15 Pounds
Material	Plastic
Special Feature	Wheeled

The classic white Coleman 316 Marine Cooler has become a staple aboard fishing vessels worldwide. Its lightweight build, affordability, and adaptability make it the go-to choice for enduring the rigours of life on a boat or in the bed of a truck.

Offering a generous 150-quart capacity, this cooler can accommodate the largest catch of the day or a week’s worth of provisions and drinks.

Additionally, it boasts a UV-resistant coating, ensuring that the plastic remains robust and free from deterioration, warping, or fading under the harsh sun.

Impressively, the cooler’s lid doubles as an extra seat, supporting up to 250 pounds. On the inside, an antimicrobial coating effectively wards off mould and stains.

Priced just above $100, the Coleman 316 Marine Cooler combines expansive storage, straightforward functionality, and dependable ice retention, making it an excellent choice for a spacious and affordable fish box.

In summary, the Coleman 316 Marine Cooler’s reputation as a reliable companion for fishing adventures worldwide is well-earned.

Its lightweight construction, affordability, and versatility make it an ideal choice for enduring the demanding conditions of life at sea or on the road.

With its capacious 150-quart interior, UV-resistant exterior, and antimicrobial interior, it offers the perfect blend of practicality and affordability for those seeking an ample and dependable fish box.

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Best for Kayak: Reliable Fishing Insulated Kayak Bag

Dimensions (L x W x H)	26 x 13 x 13 inches
Closure Type	Zipper
Material	Polyester
Style	Soft sided cooler

Coolers for kayak anglers pose a unique challenge due to the limited options available for fish preservation. However, there’s an exception in the form of this insulated kayak bag.

With its impressive 36-inch length and a generous 70-quart capacity, it’s tailored to accommodate larger fish until you return to shore.

What sets this cooler apart is its construction by Reliable Fishing Products, utilizing non-corrosive components that can withstand the harsh conditions of saltwater.

Furthermore, the inclusion of high-quality YKK zippers ensures effortless access, even in those awkward reaches behind your seat.

One drawback to consider is the relatively high price tag associated with this cooler. Additionally, some Amazon reviews highlight its ice retention performance as needing improvement, suggesting that you might need to pack a substantial amount of ice to maintain your catch’s freshness.

Nonetheless, it’s essential to recognize that this kayak fishing cooler is a specialized tool meticulously designed with fishing and storing your catch as its primary objectives.

In summary, coolers tailored for kayak anglers present a unique set of challenges, but this insulated kayak bag stands out with its ample size and durability, courtesy of Reliable Fishing Products’ design.

While it may come with a higher cost and some concerns about ice retention, it remains a specialized tool crafted specifically for fishing and safeguarding your catch during your adventures on the water.

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Best Light Weight: Igloo BMX 52 Quart Cooler

Dimensions (L x W x H)	26.19 x 16.42 x 16.1 inches
Capacity	51.74 Quarts
Weight	15.6 Pounds
Material	Plastic
Special Feature	Insulated

The Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler offers a budget-friendly alternative for those who prefer not to splurge on pricier coolers in the $200 to $300 range.

While it may not match the rugged durability of heavyweights like the YETI Tundra 45 or the RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler, it still incorporates several high-quality features, such as the dependable T-latches for a secure seal.

One impressive aspect of the Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler is its ability to keep the contents cool for up to five days. Additionally, its generously sized, anti-slip handles ensure comfortable transport, even when fully loaded.

An added bonus is the inclusion of a fish ruler on the lid. In terms of capacity, this cooler can accommodate a remarkable 83 12-oz cans, all while maintaining a lightweight design, tipping the scales at just 16.4 lbs.

Comparing the external dimensions of the Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler to counterparts like the RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler and the YETI Tundra 45 reveals a similar size profile.

However, where the Igloo cooler truly shines is on the inside, offering more spacious storage than both the RTIC and YETI options.

This discrepancy in interior space arises from the differing wall thickness and insulation levels present in the RTIC 45 QT Hard Cooler and the YETI Tundra 45.

In conclusion, the Igloo 52 Qt BMX Cooler stands out as an affordable choice for those seeking a reliable cooler without breaking the bank.

While it may not compete with the absolute ruggedness of top-tier models, it compensates with a host of impressive features, including extended cooling capabilities, comfortable handling, and ample interior space.

This cooler is a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking to strike a balance between quality and affordability.

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Things to Consider While Buying a Fishing Cooler

Size

The first thing you’ll want to ponder is the cooler’s size. Do you need a massive cooler to accommodate a big catch, or is portability your priority?

Consider how much space you have in your vehicle and how far you’ll be trekking to your fishing spot.

A larger cooler provides more storage, but it might be unwieldy to transport. On the other hand, a smaller, portable cooler is easy to carry but may not have enough room for all your needs.

Finding the right balance between capacity and portability is key.

Insulation

Insulation is the heart and soul of a fishing cooler. It determines how long your ice will last and how well your catch stays fresh.

Look for coolers with thick insulation, ideally made from materials like polyurethane, which provides excellent temperature retention.

Remember that different coolers have varying levels of insulation. High-end models can keep ice frozen for days, while others may only last a few hours.

Think about the duration of your fishing trips and choose accordingly.

Durability

A fishing cooler should be built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. Look for models made from rugged materials like rotomolded plastic or marine-grade stainless steel.

These materials are not only durable but also resistant to UV rays and saltwater corrosion.

Additionally, check the quality of the latches, hinges, and handles. These components should be sturdy and dependable, as they’ll see a lot of use.

Ice Retention

One of the biggest concerns when it comes to fishing coolers is ice retention. After all, you don’t want your ice to melt quickly, leaving you with a soggy mess.

Look for coolers with excellent seals and gaskets to prevent air from seeping in.

Also, consider investing in cooler accessories like ice packs and dividers, which can help extend ice life.

Some coolers even have built-in features like separate ice compartments to keep your catch dry while your drinks stay cold.

Weight

The weight of your fishing cooler is another critical factor. While a larger cooler may offer more storage, it can be heavy and cumbersome.

If you plan to carry it for extended periods or over rough terrain, a lightweight cooler might be a better choice.

Opt for materials like aluminum or lightweight plastics if weight is a concern. Remember, you don’t want your cooler to be a burden on your fishing trip.

Price

Fishing coolers come in a wide range of prices. It’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping.

High-end coolers offer top-tier performance and durability but can be quite expensive.

Consider your needs and how often you’ll be using the cooler. If you’re a casual angler, a mid-range cooler might suffice.

However, if you’re a dedicated fisherman, investing in a premium cooler could be a wise long-term choice.

Brand

In the world of fishing coolers, reputation matters. Stick with well-known brands that have a history of producing quality products.

Brands like Yeti, Orca, and Pelican are renowned for their fishing coolers’ performance and durability.

Reading customer reviews and seeking recommendations from fellow anglers can also help you gauge a brand’s trustworthiness.

Warranty

A good warranty is like an insurance policy for your cooler. It provides peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong, you’re covered. Some cooler brands offer warranties ranging from a few years to a lifetime.

Consider the length and terms of the warranty when making your decision. A longer warranty often reflects the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability.

Environmental Impact

As responsible anglers, we should also consider the environmental impact of our gear. Some cooler brands are committed to sustainability and use eco-friendly materials.

Choosing a cooler from one of these brands not only helps the planet but also aligns with the values of conservation-minded anglers.

Additional Features

While the basics are essential, some coolers come with extra features that can enhance your fishing experience.

Look for features like built-in bottle openers, fish rulers, and non-slip feet. These added conveniences can make your fishing trips even more enjoyable.

My Final Thoughts on the Best Fish Cooler

When it comes to fishing coolers, the ideal choice varies from person to person based on their priorities and preferences.

For some, a fishing cooler’s quality is defined by its reputable brand. Others prioritize the cooler’s features, whether it’s a mid-range or high-end model.

Key factors such as insulation quality, ease of transportation, and structural durability should be carefully considered.

Take another look at our list to get closer to finding the perfect fishing cooler for your needs. We hope this guide has helped you discover the best fishing coolers for your requirements.

If you have any suggestions or want to suggest a cooler we haven’t covered, please reach out using our contact form. Best of luck on your next fishing adventure!

Why Trust Us?

We at TM Fishing Charters are determined to provide our readers with honest, authentic and real-life fishing knowledge. Our expert team of anglers at TMFishingCharters.com is very much passionate about fishing and this love for fishing can be seen in our unbiased product reviews.

Our readers can count on us for the best review on fishing gears and products, whether it’s a fishing cooler or a fishing backpack, as we cover both the pros and the cons, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase!

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