Wesley Littlefield 07.15.26
It used to be that we only had a few options for high quality fishing baskets. Now that is not the case. I have used several brands for bank and kayak fishing over the years. The newest is the Plano GoNow Fishing Crate. I have fished with it throughout the spring and summer to see if it really is that good. Keep reading my Plano Gonau Fishing Crate review to find out if it’s right for you.
take it quickly
The Plano Gonau Fishing Crate is built like a tank. I’ve stood/sat on it, used it to clean fish, and of course, put my fishing tackle in it and carry it in my kayak. It can hold enough tackle for a day of fishing, but it is heavy and bulky.
Plano Gonau Fishing Crate Specifications
- DUALHINGE™ Holds the hinge on either side or removes the lid completely
- Removable interior separator separates and organizes larger gears
- Removable tray with customizable dividers for small items
- QUICKLINK™ attachment point is compatible with GoNow™ accessories
- Rubberized, non-skid feet
- Secure tie-down slots and locking tabs for transit
- Stackable design saves space when storing multiple boxes
- GoNow™ Cutting Board is made of durable food-grade construction and dishwasher-safe
- GoNow™ Rod Holder (x2) Accommodates spinning and casting rods
- The Plano® Stowaway® 3700 (x4) keeps your bait and tackle organized and safe
- GoNow™ Box Small Dimensions: 20″LX 15.6″WX 12.2″H (50.8cmL X 39.6cmW X 31.1cmH) 8gal (30L)
- GoNow™ Box – Small
- GoNow™ Cutting Board
- (2) GoNow™ Rod Holder
- (4) Stowaway® 3700™
- Storage tray with 4 removable dividers
- internal separator
- (4) Easy-Label
- MSRP: $170
Testing methods and conditions
The Plano Gonau Fishing Crate has bounced in the back of my truck and been sitting on several of my kayaks all summer long. I’ve used it for quick trips to my pond and for all-day kayak fishing adventures.
Assembly, Rigging and Initial Setup
Plano Gonau 30L Freshwater Fish Kit Came almost completely pre-assembled. All I had to do was install the rod holders, which easily snap into place on the corners of the crate and on the dividers on the tray.
Rating: 9/10
On-the-water organization and storage performance
The Freshwater Kit comes with four Stowaway 3700 trays that will hold everything you need for several days on the water. There’s still room left in the box for some extra gear, and also in the tray, so I have no complaints about the storage and organization capabilities. When fishing in a kayak, I can easily access the gear I need, and it all stays organized when I’m driving down the road. This makes getting on and off the water very easy.
Rating: 9/10
Durability, materials and build quality
As I mentioned, the GoNow Box is built like a tank. It’s a little heavy, but I’m not concerned about durability. The latch works great, and the plastic feels like it should last several seasons of fishing. I don’t have to worry about standing or sitting on it. In fact, I’ve used it as a seat on one of my inflatable kayaks, and it worked great (except when I needed to take out my tackle).
Rating: 9/10
Who is it for / Who should leave it
The Plano GoNow 30L Freshwater Fish Kit is perfect for bank and kayak fishermen. Bank fishermen can keep it in the back of their vehicle or use it as a seat while waiting for a meal. However, I wouldn’t want to take it too far, so be sure to park nearby. Kayak fishermen will find that it fits most kayaks and will have everything you need.
Boat fishermen will find this box of little use unless you use it to store your gear from the boat.
Value and price-to-performance
At $170, the Plano GoNow Fishing Kit is expensive. However, I paid more than that for my YakAttack Blackpack Pro, and it didn’t come with as many accessories as the Plano Freshwater kit, and I had to assemble the Blackpack Pro. I have been very impressed with the performance and versatility of this crate. As a bank and kayak fisherman, I think keeping your gear organized and protected is a good investment.
Rating: 8/10
Pros and cons
professional:
- Comes pre-assembled
- trusted brand
- Comes with useful accessories
- durable
- easy access with one hand
- excellent organization
Shortcoming:
Verdict: Plano Gonau Fishing Crate Review
The Plano Gonau 30L Freshwater Fish Kit has earned a permanent spot in the back of my truck and kayak. It’s well built (and designed), durable, has everything I need, and protects my valuable fishing gear from the elements. It is heavy to carry over long distances, and weight can be a problem in a kayak with a low weight capacity. I strongly recommend this fishing crate to most fishermen who prioritize organization and durability. Whether you want to keep your gear organized in the garage or in your vehicle, the Plano Gonau 30L Fish Kit is worth every penny.
Overall Rating: 8.75/10
Wesley Littlefield
| Christian husband Father Outdoorsman | Freelance Outdoor Writer & Content Creator | @KayakKid on YouTube |
