Shimano Tribal Xtreme Luggage - 02/07/2009

The product I have used the most out of these two is the Three-Rod Capsule. This rod bag is well padded and houses three made-up rods, featuring padded internal dividers to ensure that each is kept separate and don’t become damaged. It also features three external lead pockets and a landing-net-pole sleeve along the spine of the holdall. A plastic, moulded base adds further to the security of the rods inside. I prefer this kind of rod holdall for this very reason – everything is stored securely inside the capsule. I’m not a fan of quivers because rod rings and reels can be damaged in transit. I don’t currently own any big-pit reels so have only used the capsule with my three Baitrunner 10000 reels attached to my rods. However, I did try someone else’s big pits and they fit inside perfectly. In fact, surprisingly, they were a better fit than my Baitrunners.

The 55-litre Backpack is a cracking piece of kit and suits me best while fishing day sessions when mobility is paramount. It is extremely comfortable to carry thanks to the twin, padded shoulder straps. The main compartment can be accessed at the top, but can also be opened through the clear-fast access panel on the front of the bag. There is also a 25-litre version available for those who take just the bare essentials on short session. The Tribal Xtreme range is constructed from a tough, 3000 denier material and features heavy-duty zips throughout. It’s clearly built to last and I am looking forward to continuing to use these two pieces for my own fishing.

+ Both items are extremely well made and offer great protection for your tackle. They also look great and, considering the build quality, are very reasonably priced.

- It might sound a little picky, but a net sleeve on the outside would finish the capsule off perfectly.