Every angler needs a high-performance fishing cooler to keep fish fresh and cool, as a lukewarm beer is always disappointing.
The Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler is our top pick for those seeking a high-quality cooler. Its durability, insulation, freezer-grade sealing, and sturdy handles set it apart.
But don’t worry if that’s too expensive. We also listed cheaper alternatives to our top and a budget-friendly option!
Our Top 10 Picks
- Arctic Zone Titan Deep Freeze Cooler
- Coleman Portable Rolling Cooler
- Coleman 316 Series Insulated Portable Cooler
- Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler
- Igloo Heavy-Duty 25 Qt BMX Ice Chest Cooler
- Cooler Backpack, 36 Cans Leakproof Cooler
- Frabill Magnum Bait Station 19 Quart
- Igloo Marine Ultra Coolers
- Igloo Polar 120 Qt. Cooler
- Plano Frost 21-Quart Hard Cooler
- Size: 9-Can ( Also Available:16-Can, 30-Can, 48-Can)
- Capacity: 6 Quarts
- Weight: 1.72 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 2 Days
- External Dimensions: 88″D x 9.75″W x 9.5″H
Pros
- Zipperless Hardbody Design
- Deep Freeze Performance
- Insulation Replaceable HardBody Liner with SmartShelf
Cons
- Small Pockets
Over the years, we’ve invested in three or four small coolers like this one; they all started off great but had one fatal flaw: the zipper. When the holidays were approaching, I searched for coolers without zippers and found the Arctic Zone cooler, which features a “flip open zipperless lid.”
I bought it and immediately tested the lid. The cooler seals well, and the main latch is secured with Velcro. One of its best features is the plastic liner inside, which fits tightly and prevents leaks.
The price is excellent for what you get. Its design includes a sturdy handle, outside pockets, and a nice color choice. It seems well-designed and should provide years of reliable cooling, making it a great value.
- Size: 84-Can
- Capacity: 50 Quarts
- Weight: 12.7 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 5 Day Ice
- External Dimensions: 22.6″D x 17.7″W x 17.6″H
Pros
- Xtreme Technology for Long-Lasting Ice
- Heavy-Duty Wheels for Easy Transport
- Have-A-Seat Lid for Convenient Seating
Cons
- Made of Plastic (May Not Be Durable)
The Coleman Rolling Cooler is a black plastic camping cooler. Insulated and wheeled, this cooler is perfect for outdoor trips.
Xtreme technology distinguishes the Coleman Cooler. This technology keeps ice longer with an insulated top and wall. It can store ice for five days at 90 °F.
Not just that. Heavy-duty wheels make transporting the Coleman Cooler’s 84 cans easy. It has a leak-resistant drain for water removal without turning the cooler over.
You may sit and rest on the cooler’s Have-A-Seat Lid, which supports up to 250 lbs. Its long, telescoping handle allows for easy hauling and convenient storage.
Cup holders with lid molds help keep drinks close together in the cooler. The EZ-Clean top is easier to clean because of its smoother surface.
The cooler also features Low CO2 insulation to decrease foam production carbon emissions. It’s the official cooler of the National Park Foundation and a trustworthy outdoor companion created in the USA!
- Size: 160-Can
- Capacity: 1.9 Pounds
- Weight: 20.37 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 5 Day Ice
- External Dimensions: 17.3″D x 36.9″W x 18″H
Pros
- Fully Insulated Cover
- Sturdy Wheels and Handles
- Large 160-Can Capacity
- CUP HOLDERS WITH DRAIN
Cons
- Lid Does Not Tight Close
The Coleman Cooler is in beautiful Rock Grey. The plastic in this lunch bag is strong. This totally sealed cooler on wheels is great for trips outside.
The Coleman Cooler is different because its cover and base are fully protected. With this protection, the ice stays frozen for five days in 90°F weather. The color of the more excellent logo may vary.
Not just that. Coleman Cooler is built to last. It has sturdy 6-inch wheels and tow and swing-up handles for travel. It has cup holders with a drain integrated into the lid to prevent spills. These cup holders suit 30-oz tumblers.
For convenience, the cooler has a Have-A-Seat Lid that accommodates 250 lbs. It also includes an easy-to-clean stain-resistant liner and leakproof channel drain stopper.
A recessed lip makes the cooler easy to open. The 160-can capacity is enormous.
- Size: 11 Can
- Capacity: 16 Quarts
- Weight: 3.6 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 1-2 days
- External Dimensions: 12″D x 15.75″W x 11.13″H
Pros
- TempLock Insulation
- Portable Design
- Compact Size
- QUICK-CLEAN TOP
Cons
- Small Capacity
Ocean-colored Coleman Cooler. This robust plastic cooler is excellent for camping. It’s a compact, insulated cooler for outdoor outings.
TempLock insulation distinguishes the Coleman Cooler. Perfect for hot summer days, this insulation keeps beverages icy chilled.
Not only that, the Coleman Cooler is portable. Its large bail handle makes it simple to carry with one hand, and its smoother top makes it easy to clean.
The cooler caters to everyone. It holds 11 cans with 8 lbs. of ice and can handle a small or large picnic.
The Coleman Cooler is a trusty outdoor companion and cooler. The best part? Made in the US!
- Size: 25 Quarts (Also Available: 52 Qurats, 72 Quarts)
- Capacity: 23 Liters
- Weight: 10.34 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 4-5 Day Ice
- External Dimensions: 13.25″D x 19.59″W x 15.7″H
Pros
- 4-5 Day Ice Retention (Claim)
- Durable Construction, Drain Hole
- Insulated Foam
Cons
- Ice Melted Overnight (No Gasket)
The Igloo BMX 25 Cooler is a durable, lightweight camping cooler. Heavy-duty blow-molded construction and a reinforced base make this Carb/Grey/Blue more excellent, solid, and long-lasting.
The Igloo Cooler’s 4-5-day ice retention is impressive. Its durability and small weight make it ideal for lengthy camping expeditions. UV inhibitors enhance the cooler’s lifespan.
Not just that. Performance is enhanced by rust-resistant stainless-steel hinge rods and hardware on the Igloo Cooler. It has rubberized T-grip latches to fasten the lid.
The Igloo Cooler’s 4-5-day ice retention is impressive. Its durability and small weight make it ideal for lengthy camping expeditions. UV inhibitors enhance the cooler’s lifespan.
The cooler has a MaxCold body with 20% thicker foam and an insulated lid. This offers superior cooling and 4-day ice retention. Its Cool Riser Technology molded base lifts the cooler from heated surfaces to increase cooling.
- Size: 36-Cans
- Capacity: 5 Pounds
- Weight: 1.7 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 16 Hours Cold
- External Dimensions: 7.1″D x 13.7″W x 19.3″H
Pros
- Large Capacity
- Well-Insulated
- Leak-Proof Design
Cons
- Spacious but not solid
The ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack is a white PEVA picnic cooler. This leak-proof, compact cooler is perfect for outdoor outings.
Large capacity distinguishes the ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack. The item measures 19.3″x13.7″x7.1″. Its spacious storage section can contain 36 cans and 5 pounds of ice. Four wine bottles fit in the side pockets, and an insulated compartment keeps fruit fresh.
Not just that. The ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack is well-insulated. Thickened PEVA and waterproof insulated foam keep it cold/hot/fresh for 16 hours. A cold beer with fresh food or fruits may be enjoyed with friends or family anytime, wherever.
Additionally, the ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack is lighter. Padded and ergonomic shoulder straps reduce shoulder aches and make the ride pleasurable.
The ZAKEEP Cooler Backpack is an excellent outdoor cooler and companion.
- Size: 19 Quart (Also Available: 13 Quart, 30 Quart)
- Capacity: 19-Quart Capacity
- Weight: 10 Pounds
- External Dimensions: 19.5” L x 11.5” W x 13.8” H
Pros
- Large 13-Quart Capacity
- Integrated Aerator
- Tangle-Free Netting
Cons
- Too Heavy To Carry
Frabill Live Bait Storage has been relied upon by anglers since 1938. This fishing bait storage is durable and practical.
The Frabill Bait Storage’s distinguishing feature is its 13-quart capacity and integrated aerator. The object measures 19.5 inches in length, 11.5 inches in width, and 13.8 inches in height. The set comprises a shoulder strap, a dual-speed aerator with a 12V power converter, and a lift-out net liner. The aerator operates on two D batteries (not included).
Bait storage needs to be fixed. We tested it below freezing, and it functioned great. It includes a non-slip bottom and a large carrying handle for heavy objects.
Overall, the Frabill Live Bait Storage is a reliable fishing friend.
- Size: 75 Quart (Also Available: 25-150 Quart)
- Capacity: 75 Quart
- Weight: 13.4 Pounds
- Ice Retention: 5 Day Ice Retention
- External Dimensions: 16.04″D x 16.59″W x 29.77″H
Pros
- Cool Riser Technology
- Hybrid Latch Design
- Eco-Friendly Insulation
Cons
- Large Size (May Be Bulky)
The Igloo Cooler is a plastic fishing cooler. This WHT.MNSCPE GRY.WHT.BLK cooler is insulated for outdoor trips.
Not just that. The Igloo Cooler has a “Hybrid” latch. The hinge is durable stainless steel, and the snap is plastic for longevity and security.
The huge cooler holds 70 quarts (66 liters or 102 cans), so it can handle a small or large picnic.
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Size: 120 Quart
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Capacity: 114 Liters
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Weight: 19.9 Pounds
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Ice Retention: 5 Day Ice Retention
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External Dimensions: 38.31″ L x 17.38″ W x 17.75″ D
Pros
- Ultratherm Insulation
- Reinforced Handles
- Large Capacity (188 Cans)
Cons
- Bulky Size (Large Dimensions)
The Igloo Cooler is a white, plastic camping cooler. This cooler is insulated for outdoor use.
The Igloo Cooler stands out with its ultratherm body and lid insulation. This insulator retains ice at 90 degrees Fahrenheit for five days, making it excellent for extended camping trips.
The giant cooler holds 188 cans. The top is 34.69 x 14.88 x 13.25 inches, and the bottom is 33 x 13.25 x 13.25 inches. The outside measurements are 38.31″ L x 17.38″ W x 17.75″ D.
In conclusion, the Igloo Cooler is a solid camping buddy.
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Size: 14 Quart (Also Available: 21 Quart, 32 Quart)
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Capacity: 14-Quart Capacity
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Weight: 7.7 Pounds
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Ice Retention: 5 Day Ice Retention
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External Dimensions: 11.5″D x 19″W x 13″H
Pros
- Industrial Robustness
- Airtight Seal
- Shock-Resistant Design
Cons
- Small Capacity (14 Quarts)
The Plano Frost Cooler is a black and white plastic camping cooler, engineered for superior outdoor performance. This cooler boasts exceptional insulation for all your outdoor adventures.
The Plano Frost Cooler stands out with its industrial-grade robustness, shock-resistant design, and dual-stage molded latches that ensure airtight seals. With nearly 70 years of expertise and rigorous testing, Frost coolers deliver results that only Plano can achieve.
Built to withstand shocks and drops, this cooler ensures safe transport. Its heavy-duty curved handle with tie-down holes makes it easy to carry. The exterior dimensions are 19.0″ x 11.5″ x 13.0″, while the interior measures 12.90″ x 6.91″ x 9.8″.
The Plano Frost Cooler is not just a good cooler; it is your ultimate camping ally.
Buying Guide
My obsession with coolers began a few years ago when I needed to replace the 120-quart fish box in my boat. For over a decade, I used many cheap marine coolers, but they often broke. The hinges would snap, latches would break, and the outer layer would crack, showing the yellow foam inside. After replacing my fish box several times, I finally decided to spend more money and bought a high-quality cooler, despite the $700 price tag.
While premium coolers can be heavier and hold less due to their thicker insulation, their benefits are worth it. They keep my catch and lunch cool for longer. Here’s what I learned about choosing the best fishing coolers so you can make a smart choice.
Construction
Modern fishing coolers are built to last. They have strong hinges made from corrosion-resistant materials and tough, secure latches that don’t easily break. The cooler’s body is made of nearly indestructible roto-molded plastic, which is also easy to repair.
I prefer low-profile hinges and latches that save space and don’t snag my clothes. Importantly, the best fishing coolers are easy to clean, as their smooth surfaces make it simple to remove fish blood and guts. Although premium coolers are heavier than old plastic ones, the extra weight is a tradeoff for better insulation and sturdier construction.
Size/Capacity
Fit: Make sure the cooler fits where you need it to. Check if it’s too wide for your car floor or too big for the front seat. We list the cooler’s dimensions to help you see if it will fit your space.
Target Fish: Your cooler should be long enough to hold the fish you catch without folding them. Remember to subtract a few inches from the external dimensions for the wall thickness.
Food and Drinks Capacity: Check the cooler’s capacity, usually given in beer cans, to see if it can hold enough food and drinks for your needs.
Ice Retention
A cooler’s main job is to keep things cold. While any cooler can keep ice for a day, the best fishing coolers can maintain the temperature for days with less ice. Top coolers can keep contents frozen for over five days, making them perfect for long trips. Even on shorter trips, these coolers need 30% less ice than older models. To keep ice longer, the best coolers have thick insulation and a lid with a gasket to seal out heat. High-quality latches also help by tightly sealing the cooler.
Cost
The high price of premium coolers can be off-putting. While a good budget cooler costs around $100, a top-tier one can be four times more expensive. However, investing in a premium cooler pays off because they last much longer. You won’t need to replace hinges, handles, or latches, and you’ll buy less ice, which lasts longer in a high-quality cooler.
Drain Plug
Drain plugs might seem like a small detail, and you might think they don’t matter much.
However, while not as crucial as other features, drain plugs make it much easier to clean and empty out melted water. This is especially helpful after long trips when all the ice you packed has melted.
FAQs
Still have any lingering questions? You might find the answer in this section.
Having a cooler for fishing is a smart idea. A cooler keeps your bait and catch cool, preserves your food and drinks, and can store your gear. Once you catch a fish you want to eat, put it on ice right away. This stops bacteria from growing and makes the meat firmer and easier to clean. Even if you release your fish, you’ll need a good cooler to keep your lunch and drinks cold.
Choosing the right size cooler for fishing depends on how you plan to use it. Coolers are sized by their capacity, so consider what you’ll need it for. A 10-quart cooler is great for bait or lunch, while a 150-quart cooler is typical for offshore fishing boats.
To pick the right size, measure the space where you’ll put the cooler to ensure it fits. Keep in mind that different brands might have different dimensions even if their capacity is the same. Also, make sure the inside of the cooler is spacious enough for your catch.
For storing fish, I prefer a cooler long enough to keep the fish flat without bending. For example, speckled trout and redfish are usually 20 to 25 inches long, so I choose a cooler that’s at least 30 inches long. If you mostly catch smaller fish like panfish, a 50-quart cooler will be enough.
On my 20-foot boat, I use a 120-quart cooler for fish and a 35-quart cooler for lunch. For bait, I use an 8-quart soft cooler with a frozen ice pack to keep squid, clams, and cut bait fresh. I place the small cooler inside the larger one to keep the bait frozen all day.
First, empty all the water from your cooler.
If there are no stubborn stains, use hot, soapy water to clean it.
For tough stains, scrub them with a mix of bleach and water. If they won’t come off, use a strong spray.
Finally, leave the lid open to let your cooler dry
Conclusion
Make your fishing trips even more enjoyable with a fishing cooler! They can be a bit on the pricey side, so let’s make sure you get the best bang for your buck.
Check out these 9 fishing coolers that offer fantastic value. If you’re not sure which one to pick, go for the Coleman Chiller 16qt Insulated Portable Cooler. It’s top-notch, with three-inch thick walls, a freezer-quality seal, and sturdy handles. It’s built to last!
We also have handy lists of the best fishing rods and reel combos if you’re in need of a rod or reel. They’re sorted by species and fishing type.
Happy fishing with your new cooler!