Back packs are becoming more popular with anglers who are looking to travel that little bit further or who need to carry more tackle and the paraphernalia to cope with our ever unpredictable climate.
A specific type of backpack is the waterproof category. Adding to the ever growing selection of choice, JRC sent us a waterproof backpack to review. Jim takes a look...
Constructed from a laminated PVC fabric, the first noticeable attribute that will please many an angler is that it's green, when you're lost for ideas on colour... this is a great default. Secondly you notice the intergrated solar panel applied to the outer shell.
What possible purpose does this solar panel serve?
It's an energy source and nothing more, but call it a gimmick or simply practical... it actually does work. It's meant to be there for prolonged use of an MP3 player or to charge a mobile phone. Unfortunately I had to rummage through drawers to locate an old type mobile phone to test it as the connections were limited, and as for an MP3 player, who uses these nowadays?
Impractical holder... are mobile phones this shape anymore?... it didn't welcome my iPhone.
It certainly feels robust, it's quite heavy at just over 2kg empty but it's well put together. Weight aside, the broad shoulder straps and cushioning make for a comfortable fit.
The interior storage is plentiful with enough velcro dividers to satisfy most of your requirements. Rather than a stuff sack type its compartments lend themselves to a more neater consideration, cameras and lenses for instance. For quick handy access there's also a number of exterior zipped pockets to hold any smaller essentials you may need at a moments notice.
Solid, lockable zips and buckle fittings add security where needed.
And is it waterproof? Well, it has been zipped and sprayed with a pressure hose to simulate rain, not ideal but it needed exposure of some sort. The main storage compartment stayed totally dry but the side pockets did leak a bit. I've not had the opportunity to have it in place through one of our more natural and formidable downpours but am confident the contents would remain as dry as they were when first stored.
In summary, it's well made, has ample storage capability and is ideal for use if you don't have to carry it at all times. For me it was a bit too heavy to have on my back all day long whilst fishing. That said I look forward to its continued use and the opportunity to review its longevity.
Thanks to 'fishing tackle online' www.sportsdirect.com/fishing for sending it to us for review.