An EDGE for Enthusiast Frog Anglers - Plano's Frog Box
(continued)
Additionally, EDGE boxes are infused with Rustrictor technology, which provides
360 degree protection against rust by incorporating a Vapor Corrosion Inhibitor
(VCI) into the box’s components. Over the season, I didn’t encounter any rust
issues with my frog hooks, even while fishing in the brackish waters of the
California Delta. The combination of moisture and rust protection, along with
the vertical storage system, effectively keeps frogs dry and in top condition.
A O-ring helps seal out the
elements when the box is closed
Identifying and retrieving specific frogs was quick and easy, thanks to the
clear polycarbonate lid and one-handed latch design. While some anglers find the
latch on EDGE boxes prone to popping open, I’ve become accustomed to it and
appreciate how easy it is to operate, even in low-light conditions during early
morning, dusk, or night fishing.
I've found the one handed latch
design to be easy and secure once you get used to the operation
Price and Applications: While there’s a lot to like about this latest
EDGE box, there are a few considerations anglers should keep in mind when
deciding whether the Frog Box - or any EDGE box - is the right fit. The most
obvious drawback is the price. EDGE boxes tend to be more expensive than
traditional tackle boxes, including Plano’s own standard offerings. As the
premium line in their tackle box range, the Frog Box retails for $54.99, making
it significantly pricier than most other options. However, for anglers who are
passionate about frog fishing, have a solid collection of hollow-bodied baits,
and are looking for a durable, long-lasting storage solution, this box is a
worthwhile investment.
You can label the box on the
outside but it is easy to remember what this box holds as it has a very
different form factor than other EDGE boxes
Another consideration is the weight and size. EDGE boxes are more robust than
standard tackle boxes, and that comes with a weight penalty. The thicker walls,
steel hardware, and polycarbonate lid contribute to the box’s sturdiness, but
also its heft. Initially, I found these boxes heavy when transporting multiple
to and from the boat, but over time, the weight became less noticeable as I
adjusted to them.
I found the same posts also good
for holding small swimbaits like Megabass Gills
The Frog Box’s taller and larger dimensions may also pose a challenge in terms
of fitting into your existing tackle bag or storage system. Its size is a result
of the application-specific design, which prioritizes vertical storage. However,
I found the box more versatile than expected. The same hanger system that keeps
frog skirts straight and dry also works exceptionally well for small swimbaits,
such as the Megabass Dark Sleeper and Sleeper Gill.
Ratings: (We've re-calibrated our ratings standard for 2008 and have included a key at the bottom of the following matrix as a guide)
Plano Edge
Series Boxes
Ratings
(?/10) |
Construction/Quality |
Like other EDGE boxes the Frog
Box is built well and is the benchmark for a premium tackle storage box |
9.5 |
Performance |
Extremely well designed, and
optimized for frog fishing. This box hold more frogs safely than any other
box we have seen and frogs not only dried quicker but stayed in better shape
with no pressure put on the bodies or skirts |
9 |
Price |
More than twice as expensive
as other boxes but there really isn't anything quite like this particular
box when it comes to features, capacity, and efficient storage of
hollow-bodied frogs. The good news is this is probably the last frog box you
will ever buy as they are built to last |
7.5 |
Features |
This box is designed for a particular class of
bait/technique and it does this very well with an easy to use flip
up/removable system that provides quick access to all your frogs. It also
stores them in a way that they are protected from head to skirt tail. |
9 |
Design
(Ergonomics) |
I like the one latch design
and find the box easy to operate. The same optimization towards frogs is
also a weakness when it comes to the overall size and weight of this box. It
really is too big for bank anglers and more of a on the boat solution. Like
other EDGE boxes it is heavier than your average box due to the robust
build. |
8 |
Application |
While some of the Plano EDGE
boxes are highly configurable this box really is designed for a very
specific bait/application. We found it able to hold some smaller swimbaits
but in general this box is designed for those that love to sling frogs |
6.5 |
Total Score |
8.25 |
Ratings Key: 1 = terrible : 2 = poor : 3 = lacking : 4 = sub par : 5 = mediocre : 6 = fair : 7 = good : 8 = great : 9 = excellent : 10 = unbelievable!
For More
Details
of the
updated
rating
system
visit
our
explanation
here |
Pluses and Minuses:
Plus |
Minus |
+
Just as well built as other Plano EDGE boxes. The standard for high-end
tackle boxes |
-
More expensive than conventional plastic tackle boxes but worth the price when you
consider the additional features and enhanced build quality |
+
Optimized for storing frogs, baits dry quickly and skirts do not get
tangled/mangled |
-
Heavier than traditional storage boxes |
+
Offers excellent space utilization and high capacity (50 frogs) |
-
Really optimized for frogs, proprietary form factor is tall and may not work
with existing storage bags/lockers |
+
Rust protection built right in |
|
+
Hinges and latches are built to last |
|
+
Clear polycarbonate lid makes identifying baits easy and O-Ring provides a
waterproof seal |
|
+
An enthusiast storage solution for frog fans |
|
This box is designed more for the
hard-core frog angler that has a complete arsenal versus the angler that just
dabbles in the technique
Conclusion: Overall,
the new EDGE Frog Box is a well-designed, easy-to-use, and highly effective
storage solution from Plano. While it's a serious investment compared to most
tackle boxes, the EDGE Frog Box excels in protecting, organizing, and storing
frogs. Traditional storage boxes can hold a few frogs, but there’s nothing on
the market that rivals the features, build quality, and thoughtful design of
this box. The Flambeau Zerust Max Crank Bank is an alternative that isolates
frogs in individual cups, but it’s primarily designed for hardbaits and doesn't
protect frog skirts in the same way.
The Plano Frog Box is another
great EDGE tackle box and is truly optimized for frog baits and applications
Unlike some of Plano’s other EDGE boxes, which can be adapted for different
types of tackle, the Frog Box is purpose-built for one specific type of bait.
This isn’t a box for the casual frog angler, but for topwater enthusiasts who
prioritize frog fishing or have a large collection of hollow-bodied frogs, it’s
an excellent choice. Whether you need quick access during the topwater season or
safe storage during the off-season, this box delivers. If you're serious about
frogging, there’s no better off the shelf option for organizing and stowing hollow-body frogs
than this EDGE box.
Looking for the Plano EDGE Frog Boxes?
Try
Tackle Warehouse
|