How To Reorganize Your Tackle Boxes | Plano Edge Flexbox Review | Tom Rowland Podcast Ep. 399

Tom Rowland, professional fishing guide, tournament angler, and host of the Tom Rowland Podcast, demonstrates a complete tackle organization overhaul using the new Plano Edge Flexbox system in this How 2 Tuesday episode. If you've ever struggled with old-style tackle dividers that required cutting and left jagged edges, or found yourself squinting through cloudy box lids trying to identify lures, this episode reveals a storage solution that changes everything. Tom walks through the step-by-step process of transitioning from the old Hydroflow boxes to Plano's new Edge series, showing exactly how the customizable divider system works and why the clear lid, one-handed latch, and built-in water wick make this the tackle box upgrade you didn't know you needed.

Why the Old Tackle Box Dividers Had to Go

Tom starts this episode with a confession about the old Plano Hydroflow boxes he's been using. While the drainage holes were useful for wet lures, the divider system was frustrating. The old style came with dividers that required breaking, always leaving a small piece that had to be cut off with a fillet knife. You were locked into three fixed sections, and customization meant accepting those limitations. The 3,700 size deep box could be sectioned off, but you couldn't configure it beyond those three main dividers. Tom demonstrates exactly what anglers have dealt with for years—those stubborn little pieces, the opacity that makes it hard to see what's inside, and the lack of flexibility when your tackle needs change. The real problem? Your lure collection evolves, but your box configuration stays stuck. The full comparison of old versus new boxes starts at 2:03.

How the Plano Edge Flexbox Divider System Actually Works

The new Edge Flexbox arrives completely empty—no preset dividers at all. Tom reveals how this changes everything. You can run dividers all the way across, go the opposite direction, or create any configuration you need. The dividers come in multiple sizes, and they're heavy-duty, adding structural stability to the box. Tom walks through his process: he takes his wintertime Jack Cavell lures—spool techs, mirror lures, and Kuda lures—and tests different layouts before committing. The dividers slide into recessed grooves and go all the way to the bottom, so nothing sneaks underneath. No cutting, no breaking, no leftover pieces. You just place them where you need them. Tom demonstrates sectioning off his box for larger lures, showing how quickly you can customize spacing based on what you're actually storing. Watch Tom build his custom configuration starting at 4:32.

The Water Wick Technology That Prevents Rust

Tom points out a feature that separates the Edge Flexbox from everything else: the water wick desiccant. This isn't just thrown in the bottom of the box—it has a dedicated spot molded into the side. The water wick pulls moisture away from your tackle, keeping hooks sharp and preventing rust. Tom emphasizes that this really works, and he positions it exactly where it came in the box. Combined with the O-ring seal on the lid, the Edge Flexbox creates an environment that protects your investment in quality lures. For anglers who fish salt water or deal with humid storage conditions, this small detail makes a massive difference over time. The perfectly clear lid lets you see everything without opening the box and breaking that seal, which means your gear stays drier between trips. Tom explains the water wick placement at 3:56.

One-Handed Operation and Real-World Durability

Tom demonstrates the one-handed latch system that makes the Edge Flexbox practical when you're juggling gear on the boat. You just press down and it locks securely. He mentions that the box is strong enough to stand on, which isn't just marketing talk—the heavy-duty construction and reinforced dividers create a rigid structure. The clear lid remains perfectly transparent, not the cloudy opacity that develops on older boxes. There's even a designated spot to label the box with a Sharpie, so when it's stacked in your tackle bag, you can instantly identify contents. Tom writes "Kuda lures" on his and shows how easy it is to pull the right box without opening everything. This is the kind of practical design that comes from understanding how anglers actually fish, not just how they shop. The durability demonstration and labeling tips start at 8:10.

Final Thoughts from Tom

I've been using Plano boxes for years, but this Edge Flexbox line is a legitimate upgrade that solves real problems. The old dividers were always a hassle—you'd break them, try to cut off the little piece that was left over, and you were still locked into a fixed configuration. With these new boxes, I can set up my tackle exactly the way I need it for the type of fishing I'm doing. The wintertime fishing I'm preparing for requires specific lure sizes, and being able to customize every section makes a difference.

What really stands out to me is the clear lid. I can't tell you how many times I've had to open multiple boxes to find what I'm looking for because the lids get cloudy over time. This one stays clear, and that saves time when you're on the water. The water wick is another feature that might seem small but matters a lot if you're fishing salt. Keeping your hooks rust-free means your tackle lasts longer and performs better.

If you're reorganizing your tackle for the season or just tired of fighting with your current boxes, this episode walks you through exactly how these work. And if you've got questions about tackle storage or anything else, text me at (305) 930-7346. That's the best way to reach me, and I'll get right back to you. This episode is worth watching if you're considering upgrading your tackle organization system.