This is a good question. There is no single or simple solution.  I used to use an inexpensive backpack and it worked OK.  In the last 3 years I bought a Duluth fishing pack made of waxed canvas and like it a lot. It is pricey - but I figure it would last the rest of my life and I could hand it down.  I also more recently purchased a Duluth Rambler and Frost River Summit Expedition daypack.  The Rambler is larger and can carry my fishing gear plus some camp gear and emergency gear in the canoe. It has 2 side compartments for nalgenes or other stuff. The FR is similar but a bit smaller.  I plan to use it more locally for fishing northern Wisconsin lakes and streams from my canoe.  What I like about day packs is that you can consolidate all your gear in one place. As someone said earlier, you may want to bring your fish finder and some other odds and ends. This avoids having a lot of loose gear in the canoe.  As I said, there are many options but I think some kind of daypack that concentrates your gear is the way to go.