I've always used a flat mat but new syndicate rules state a cradle/crib style mat, I don't particularly want to get the metal sides legs etc. Are the Trakker inflatable side mats any good? I like the way they pack up to not much space? Or any other recommendations? Thank you
In reply to Post #1
I've got the trakker and two a brilliant mat, really top quality but, if you are interested in the pack down size I'd say no. I leave mine up all the time and reverse it on the barrow as a rain cover.
Also as it has access o the actual inflatable pillow you can stuff your scales and a wychwood sling in there which for me is double handy!
I've got the trakker and two a brilliant mat, really top quality but, if you are interested in the pack down size I'd say no. I leave mine up all the time and reverse it on the barrow as a rain cover.
Also as it has access o the actual inflatable pillow you can stuff your scales and a wychwood sling in there which for me is double handy!
In reply to Post #1
ESP Roll up cradle matt. They do it in two sizes. I use the compact which I strap to the top of me rucksack. If you use the ESP rucksack it will clip underneath If your looking for llight and compact and a matt thatcan be used as a cradle as well as flat. I don't think they can be beaten..
ESP Roll up cradle matt. They do it in two sizes. I use the compact which I strap to the top of me rucksack. If you use the ESP rucksack it will clip underneath If your looking for llight and compact and a matt thatcan be used as a cradle as well as flat. I don't think they can be beaten..
In reply to Post #3
There's got to be rigid sides unfortunately
There's got to be rigid sides unfortunately
In reply to Post #4
Nash easy release monster cradle.
Nash easy release monster cradle.
In reply to Post #1
Personally don't know what the issue with metal framed cradles is - decent ones (eg Trakker Sanctuary) are well padded and can be set up high, making it easier to lift the fish when squatting / keep the fish closer to the mat for graffs. Its user error (dropping fish) that creates issues, that or leaving them in there too long without a cover and letting them trash about. Also if the mat is bigger than the stamp of fish then there's no issues . . .(eg XL for 20s-scraper 40s)
Anyway - other than the soft walled Graviers style mats (which are bulky and will eventually become heavy and smelly) have you considered a proper pump up inflatable? (Solar/Fox)
Personally don't know what the issue with metal framed cradles is - decent ones (eg Trakker Sanctuary) are well padded and can be set up high, making it easier to lift the fish when squatting / keep the fish closer to the mat for graffs. Its user error (dropping fish) that creates issues, that or leaving them in there too long without a cover and letting them trash about. Also if the mat is bigger than the stamp of fish then there's no issues . . .(eg XL for 20s-scraper 40s)
Anyway - other than the soft walled Graviers style mats (which are bulky and will eventually become heavy and smelly) have you considered a proper pump up inflatable? (Solar/Fox)
In reply to Post #4
All depends on what the fishery deems as rigid sides I suppose.
All depends on what the fishery deems as rigid sides I suppose.
I've supplied the Fox Carpmaster Deluxe at my place this year and they have proven excellent, they are however quite bulky to move around.
In reply to Post #8
Got one of those myself. Top quality if like you say a bit bulky.
Got one of those myself. Top quality if like you say a bit bulky.
The Cotswold flat pack, perhaps?
https://www.cotswoldaquarius.co.uk/product/flat-pack-cradle-mat-rigid-mk2/
https://www.cotswoldaquarius.co.uk/product/flat-pack-cradle-mat-rigid-mk2/