In reply to Post #58
I believe ESP are working on a lightweight bedchair.

In reply to Post #54
How are you getting on with your new cotswold stuff mate? I see they have just released a new cool bag which, based on their tests, looks class leading and competively priced. How do the rucksacks fare in terms of standing upright when not empty ie: not collapsing in on themselves, which was a criticism of the pre Jag cotswold carryalls/rucksacks?

Im absoloutely loving the new rucksack and rod bag - Both have been great additions and make fishing much easier for me, my rod bag as an example used to house stuff i rarely used in the multiple pockets and I actually used some lightweight velcro straps to pull all the excess tightly (if that makes sense) thats all a thing of the past now with the new rod bag, I was originally concerned how snug the rods sit in but having used it plenty Ive had no issues and it makes sense for it to be snug so there is no movement in treansit

The rucksack is a beast and by far and away my favourite ever piece of luggage oh and looks the part also which we all know helps catch more carp I love the modular design so I now have a pocket for everything as opposed a bag inside a bag inside a bag

when I look at them side by side compared to the older luggage - the old rod bag feels cumbersome and I would imagine if you saw them side by side it would be hard to disagree

Regards the cool bag I have loads - ridge monkey, Titan, Igloo, Anker fridge and Ive used a pals yeti and having looked at the new cool bags in store and saw them in action (being tested) as per there instagram videos and you just cannot argue by the performance so I wlll be getimng one when they have more in stock

In my opinion the collaboration of Jag and Cotswold is a great match, pioneering british made products they are raising the game with products that were already great and much loved and taking it up a level by refining them and I for one am excited to see whats next

You can tell im a fan boy

I've just replaced my worn out ESP 40l rucksack with the new CA Purist bag. First impressions are it is clearly really well made. I'm not loaded but like to buy the best I can get especially if its supporting British brands, whether design or design and manufacturing.

I rarely carp fish, am primarily a barbel angler and walk as far as I need to get away from anyone 😀 so having a well made, comfortable rucksack is really important for me. I'm used to carrying loads from a previous life and the best rucksack I found to replicate a decent harness was actually the ESP.

Having loaded the bag and tried it on it feels good. Weight fairly high on the upper back. I still have an old CA Pathfinder Specialist rucksack and despite a good layout its probably a better bag for a barrow than carrying..the harness just didn't cut it sadly. The purist is very different though and sits and fits much better on the back. Well done CA for addressing this issue.

I do need to contact them tomorrow though, as I've received two bags from one order!! One from Jag at Luton and one from CA at Halesowen....you'll never make a profit like that guys!!

Have to give Rob the brand manager at CA his due. I've spoken with him today after he pm'd me. Maybe I'm old school but being thanked for being honest about receiving two bags instead of one was quite nice. As is the very kind offer he's made me for doing so.

As I discussed with Rob on the phone, its not just about the quality of the product but the aftercare and customer service that's provided. I'll be very happy to buy more from Cotswold Aquarius in future if I need anything.

Btw, hope this is allowed (?) but if anyone is looking for an original CA stalker bait bucket, I have one like new that's just sitting in the garage. PM me if that's allowed?

Mods please edit if its not 👍

Thanks for the positive feedback Thommo!!!


We’ve just released a new video on our socials talking about the changes we have made to the harness as we know that’s been our Achilles heel in the past

We’ve also got another video explaining how to use the rucksack some tips and tricks and a comprehensive guide of how to wear it (which we’ve felt although obvious we’ve felt was lacking with a lot of users)

We’re really pleased with the results and we’re sure users will be too

Head over to the Cotswold Aquarius fb or insta page for more details or to see it

We’ve just released a video on our socials showing how to wear the new rucksack
It’s bizarre how many people don’t get it right but it makes a massive difference in regards to the comfort levels

We had lots of negative feedback historically regards the comfort of rucksacks and we are convinced The combination of the new harness and wearing it correctly will eradicate that

This rucksack has been out a little while now those that have one what would you give out of 10 for comfort
And what is your opinion of it is it worth the money

In reply to Post #68
Apart from the prices the biggest problem for me with luggage is lack of weatherproofing, I try not to use a barrow when possible so when it rains the fancy luggage ends up sodden & requires days of drying out & if put down where there's a bit of mud it's hardly wipe clean, yes I know I can buy a separate rain cover & groundsheet for the rucksack but if they're needed to keep it reasonably dry & clean why are they extras?

I now use a Vass dry bag type rucksack, it's basic no fancy stuff or add ons but it does keep the contents dry & also wipes clean unfortunately not found a similar type of rod bag so far.

Seems like form over function to me.

In reply to Post #69
I just use a sheet of ripstop nylon to cover my luggage if it rains. It’s cheap and weighs virtually nothing.

LINKY POO™ https://www.profabrics.co.uk/?srsltid=AfmBOopbhZJKEsbQqBuJmV-XTz4vU8MIxpG1M2KS-9IZdO4icsUQ_PGx

In reply to Post #68
Having used loads of different rucksacks for various purposes I think a clamshell design with two large side pockets and modular capability, works best for fishing.

With just 3 zippers you can access everything instantly. Top loading rucksacks mean you have to empty everything out just to get to something at the bottom. Also loads of small pockets mean you’re restricted to what will fit in each pocket and you’re forever opening and closing zips.

I’m currently using the latest Nash Scope Ops Recon rucksack. They’ve absolutely nailed it with this design because you can clip everything and anything to it. Therefore it can be expanded or modified to accommodate any type of fishing or session.

In reply to Post #70
I've got a tarp but it seems luggage is more about looking good than being weatherproof imo.

In reply to Post #71
Does it keep the rain out which is my main gripe with all this stuff?

In reply to Post #71
The Korum Ruckbag was like that, I used one for years, only problem was it was bit small at about 35 litres for long sessions, but they did bring a bigger version out. They still do them, but they are a bit different now

Rod Hutchinson also brought out a "Rucksack" like that many years ago which I have, you lay it down and it had two flaps you just unzipped to get inside it, I replaced it with the "Ruckbag" but went back to my "Hutchy" one as it held more.

Plus, I used the NASH cube for years and still do, the large one, and once you opened it up, you just laid the 3 bags down and opened them up.

Dutch army day pack with additional pockets.

Never looked back.