Maxcatch Waterproof Fly Box Double Clear Lid Slit Foam, 4.1 x 3 x 1.3 in Review (2026)

What this box is designed for

This Maxcatch fly box measures 4.1 by 3 by 1.3 inches, putting it at the smallest end of Maxcatch's own fly box lineup, which also includes larger sizes for anglers who need more room. The double clear lid design means both faces of the box are see through, so an angler can flip through fly patterns and pick one without popping the latch open, which matters when hands are wet or cold streamside. This size is best suited to an angler who wants a light, pocketable backup box or a dedicated box for one category of pattern, such as small dries or midges, rather than a single all in one box for a full day's fly selection.

Materials and waterproofing

The lids are made from clarified ABS plastic, which Maxcatch describes as tough while staying lightweight, and rubber gaskets seal both sides of the box to keep water out even if it ends up in the river. High density slit foam lines both interior faces, holding flies in place by their hooks so they do not shift and tangle when the box is jostled in a pocket or pack. The clasps that hold the box shut are designed to stay secure during normal handling while still opening easily with one hand, which is a small but useful detail for anglers switching flies often through a session.

Everyday carry and limits

At just over 4 inches in its longest dimension, this box slips easily into a shirt pocket, small chest pack pocket, or vest, and its low profile does not add noticeable bulk. The tradeoff for that compact size is capacity, since the slit foam area on a box this small holds meaningfully fewer flies than Maxcatch's larger sizes, and it fills up faster if you carry a wide variety of patterns rather than a focused selection. Anglers targeting one species or fishing one type of water where fly selection stays narrow will find this size sufficient, while anglers who like carrying a broad range of patterns may prefer stepping up to Maxcatch's next size.

How it compares in the site's fly box guide

In the site's roundup of waterproof fly boxes, this box ranks fourth of eight, just behind the Aventik small two pack and just ahead of the Kingfisher XL and Maxcatch's own larger 4.9 by 3.9 by 1.7 inch box, all scored closely together. The C&F Design CF3500 and Dr. Slick large box sit ahead of the group as larger capacity options from established fly box makers. Within that closely scored middle group, the choice mostly comes down to preferred size and lid style rather than one box being clearly better built than another.

Bottom line

This box is a good pick for an angler who wants a small, clear lidded, waterproof box for a focused fly selection, whether as a primary box for light travel or a secondary box carried alongside a larger one. The double clear lid and slit foam construction match what pricier fly box brands offer, just at a smaller scale and lower cost. Anglers who need to carry a wide range of patterns in one box should look at Maxcatch's larger 4.9 by 3.9 by 1.7 inch version or the other large capacity boxes ranked ahead of this one in the site's guide.

Frequently asked questions