TOPIC:

hey all, random one here.

Whats the smallest cooler size u would buy for your salmon on the boat? I am trying to conserve space on my boat.

Would say a 75qt. Cooler work well? Or should I stay at that 115 size? I know its a random one and kinda preference.

120qt for us. The 150's are too big. But if ya got the room. Are's has been over full in the past. Not recent sad to say but some day soon.

I fish out of a zv18 multi species boat. I love it but its all about controlling space and being organized because of it being a smaller boat. The cooler always seems to be a problem!

I have a 120qt also. But it's mounted on the swim platform.

I bought a fish bag a couple years ago. Works great, Takes up less room then a cooler, very easy to carry versus a cooler, holds ice well and very easy to clean. After extensive research I purchased a "Micro Chiller Fish Bag" This is the small size and works great for Lake Michigan, I believe they make them up to 11 foot long.

Following from the vendors website
This Fish Chiller Bag is designed to store your fish catch in a hygienic environment ensuring fresher, long lasting fish.
This insulated bag can hold ice or ice slurry
Ideal for boats small or large or any hunting
Flared bottom ensures standing
Insulated with 1/2" dense foam
UV Resistant
Mildew Resistant
Does not absorb odours
Folding for easy storage
Highest Quality Guarantee

I have been using a Rubbermaid 80qt for about 10 years and it has been adequate. That being said I picked up a 94 quart Igloo marine model that is almost same exterior dimensions but adds 3" interior length. I do have insulated live well for overflow but thats only been a couple times.

I wish Rubbermaid still made the 80 qt. Really a great size and well made. Wore holes in mine and finally had to cremate it. (Sniff). I recently bought an Igloo 100 qt and is a very good size. Long enough for long silvers and will hold a fair number of them. But is not overly cumbersome. I don’t think it will hold ice for 5 days as is claimed but will hold it for at least 2. Price was only about 55 bucks from online Walmart.

You might consider two coolers. In the spring and up to say May or so, you'll do fine with a 30 or 48 quart model. 95% cohos. Will hold 20 or 25 easily. Then go up to a 100 quart. When you get where you need something bigger regularly, you'll be wanting a bigger boat or won't mind sacrificing the space. There are always options. When I was splashing around in a 16 footer (back when double digit catches of kings were common) i took out a pedestal seat and built a plywood box, lined it with styrofoam and made a fishbox/seat combo. Still have the box, but it 's filled with muskrat traps.