Utility tray
Also called 3600, 3700, Plano box, tackle tray
A flat clear plastic box with adjustable dividers, sized 3600 or 3700, that slides into a bag, pack or rack.
The tray replaced the old hinged tackle box for almost everyone. Instead of one big container holding everything, you build a tray per technique: one for crankbaits, one for terminal tackle, one for soft plastics. Then you carry only the trays you need that day.
The numbers are a de facto industry standard rather than a brand. A 3600 is the common medium tray, roughly the size of a hardback book, and it is what most bags and backpacks are built around. A 3700 is longer and deeper, and holds bigger baits. Listings for packs quote how many of each size will fit.
Buy trays that match your bag before you buy the baits. A pack rated for four 3600s will not close on a 3700.
Standardise on 3600 trays unless you fish big swimbaits. Almost every bag, pack and boat rack is designed around that size.
Related terms
Where this comes up
The guides that use utility tray and show it on real gear.
Utility tray is one of 206 terms in the glossary.
Browse the full fishing glossary