Kill Bags for Fishing: What They Are and Why You Need Them

If you are an avid angler who loves to catch and keep fish, you know how important it is to preserve the freshness and quality of your catch. Whether you are fishing for fun, for food, or for profit, you want to make sure that your fish stay cold, clean, and safe until you get home or to the market. That’s why you need a kill bag for fishing.

A kill bag is a type of insulated fish bag that is designed to store your fish after you catch them. Unlike a hard-sided cooler, a kill bag is soft, flexible, and easy to carry. It can fit in tight spaces on your boat, kayak, or car, and it can be folded or rolled up when not in use. A kill bag can also hold more fish than a cooler of the same size, since it can conform to the shape of your catch.

A kill bag has several advantages over a cooler when it comes to fish storage. Here are some of the benefits of using a kill bag for fishing:

• It keeps your fish cold for longer. A kill bag has thick foam insulation that prevents heat transfer and maintains a low temperature inside. Some kill bags also have reflective outer layers that reflect sunlight and reduce heat absorption. A kill bag can keep your fish cold for up to 24 hours or more, depending on the ambient temperature and the amount of ice you use.
• It prevents fish spoilage and bacteria growth. A kill bag is airtight and waterproof, which means that it seals in the freshness and flavor of your fish. It also prevents fish blood, slime, and odor from leaking out and attracting flies, insects, and predators. A kill bag also prevents bacteria and mold from growing on your fish, since it creates an anaerobic environment that inhibits microbial activity.
• It reduces fish waste and environmental impact. A kill bag allows you to use less ice and water to keep your fish cold, which saves you money and resources. It also reduces the amount of fish waste that you have to dispose of, since you can drain the excess liquid from the bag through a drain plug. A kill bag is also reusable and durable, which means that you can use it for many fishing trips without having to buy a new one.
• It makes fish transportation and cleaning easier. A kill bag is lightweight and portable, which makes it easy to carry and transport your fish from the boat to the dock, from the dock to the car, and from the car to your home or market. It also has sturdy handles and straps that allow you to lift and move the bag with ease. A kill bag is also easy to clean, since you can simply rinse it with water and soap and let it air dry.

How to Choose the Best Kill Bag for Fishing

There are many kill bags for fishing available on the market, but not all of them are created equal. Some kill bags are better than others in terms of quality, durability, and performance. To help you choose the best kill bag for fishing, here are some factors that you should consider:

• Size and capacity

  The size and capacity of the kill bag depend on the type and quantity of fish that you plan to catch and keep. You want a kill bag that is large enough to fit your fish, but not too large that it takes up too much space or uses too much ice. You also want a kill bag that has enough room for air circulation and ice distribution, which helps to keep your fish cold and fresh. A good rule of thumb is to choose a kill bag that is about 20% larger than your fish.
  
  

• Material and construction

  The material and construction of the kill bag determine its durability, insulation, and resistance to water, heat, and abrasion. You want a kill bag that is made of high-quality materials that can withstand the harsh conditions of fishing and storage. Some of the best materials for kill bags are PVC, TPU, and nylon, which are strong, flexible, and waterproof. You also want a kill bag that has sealed seams, reinforced stitching, and heavy-duty zippers, which prevent leaks, tears, and breaks.
  
  

• Features and accessories.

  The features and accessories of the kill bag enhance its functionality, convenience, and safety. You want a kill bag that has useful features and accessories that make your fishing experience easier and more enjoyable. Some of the features and accessories that you should look for are:
  
  

• Drain plug.

  A drain plug allows you to drain the excess liquid from the kill bag, which reduces the weight and mess of the bag. It also helps to prevent fish spoilage and bacteria growth, since it removes the blood and water that can promote microbial activity. A drain plug should be easy to open and close, and it should have a cap or a thread to prevent leaks.
  
  

• Handles and straps.

  Handles and straps allow you to carry and transport the kill bag with ease and comfort. They should be sturdy, comfortable, and ergonomic, and they should be attached securely to the bag. Some kill bags also have shoulder straps or backpack straps that allow you to carry the bag hands-free.
  
  

• Pockets and compartments.

  Pockets and compartments allow you to store and organize your fishing gear and accessories, such as knives, gloves, scales, tags, and more. They should be spacious, accessible, and secure, and they should have zippers or Velcro closures to prevent items from falling out.
  
  

• Reflective layer.

  A reflective layer reflects sunlight and reduces heat absorption, which helps to keep your fish cold and fresh. It also makes the kill bag more visible and safer, especially in low-light conditions or at night.

3 Best Kill Bags for Fishing

To help you find the best kill bag for fishing, we have compiled a list of 3 high-quality kill bags that you can choose from. These kill bags are based on customer reviews, ratings, and feedback, as well as our own personal experience and research. Here are the 3 best kill bags for fishing:

30" X 72" Insulated Kill Bag, Offshore Edition

Heading out with a group or chartering your own boat? Regardless of your choice, it's crucial to be well-prepared for offshore adventures. Our insulated offshore kill bag offers a lightweight solution designed to safeguard your catch from the intense sun, high temperatures, and extended days on the water.

These insulated fish bags boast UV and mildew resistance, ensuring the freshness and protection of your fish throughout a full day of fishing, regardless of the weather conditions. The closed-cell foam not only maintains your ice for an extended period but also keeps your catch cold, fresh, and secure, even in the sweltering heat. For convenient cleaning, rinsing, and drainage after use, a drain plug is located at the bottom corner.

Approximately equivalent to a 240-quart ice chest, this offshore fish bag comes with the following product features:

• 30” x 72” dimensions
• Approximately 240 quarts
• 4 handles
• Heavy-duty 18 oz. vinyl coated polyester
• UV- and mildew-resistant thread
• 0.5" dense, closed-cell foam
• Drain plug
• Non-corrosive YKK zipper
• 12" Gusseted bottom sits flat, expands for larger capacity

42" X 90" Insulated Kill Bag, Cow Tuna Edition

The Cow Tuna soft fish cooler bag is specifically designed for handling heavier grade tuna, offering enhanced deck flexibility without occupying additional space. Developed with input from our pro team, this bag aims to accommodate two 250 lb bluefin tuna simultaneously, providing ample ice to keep them consistently ice-cold for 24 hours. Standing taller than our other 90" series bags, it boasts a height of 42 inches, creating space for larger fish and an abundance of extra ice.

Our insulated fish bags, including this one, are equipped with UV and mildew resistance, ensuring the freshness and protection of your fish throughout a full day of fishing, regardless of the prevailing weather conditions. The closed-cell foam effectively retains ice for an extended duration, maintaining your catch cold, fresh, and secure even on the hottest days. Conveniently located at the bottom corner, the drain plug facilitates easy cleaning, rinsing, and drainage of your tuna after use.

“Wow I stacked a 180lb and a 300lb Bluefin in the new cow bag and started loading more and more ice, and still closed it with ease. After we didn’t get anymore fish that day I grabbed all the other ice from the other fish bag and kept on dumping it on top of the fish, adding around 160 more pounds of ice and it still closed with ease. I really couldn’t believe it. Definitely a game changer and gonna make life that much more easier.” - Richard Balta

Product features:

• 42” x 90” dimensions
• 4 handles
• 475 Quart Capacity
• Heavy-duty 18 oz. vinyl coated polyester
• UV- and mildew-resistant thread
• 0.5" dense, closed-cell foam
• Drain plug
• Non-corrosive YKK zipper
• 12" Gusseted bottom sits flat, expands for larger capacity

20" X 72" Insulated Kill Bag, King Mackerel

Mackerel bags are designed for big catches, ensuring a clean deck during extended fishing days. UV and mildew resistant, these insulated fish bags keep your catch fresh in any weather. Closed-cell foam maintains ice for lasting freshness, and a bottom corner drain plug allows easy cleaning. Approximately equivalent to a 140-quart ice chest, these bags are ideal for preserving your mackerel haul.

Product features:

• 20” x 72” dimensions
• Approximately 140 quarts
• Heavy-duty 18 oz. vinyl coated polyester
• UV- and mildew-resistant thread
• 0.5" dense, closed-cell foam
• Drain plug
• Non-corrosive YKK zipper
• 12" Gusseted bottom sits flat, expands for larger capacity