Ive recently refreshed a lot of my gear after a 15-year break from fishing, so I thought I would review a few of the bits I have bought over the last few months, as independent reviews were lacking. After numerous trips to local tackle shops looking at boxes, it kicked off with the Matrix S36 and from there it seems like I bought the rest of their catalogue!
Matrix S36 Seat Box Orange Edition The first thing that struck me about this box was its sheer size, its a giant and carries a weight to match. The box is very sturdy, Im 15 stone, and it easily holds my weight even with all legs extended. Ive sat on the box for 7 hours straight and its very comfortable. I purchased the side drawer and deep base option. The side drawer is deep and comes complete with organiser, perfect for all the terminal tackle that you need close by. The deep base is perfect for keeping catapults, feeders and other small accessories. I purchased an additional tray unit for a few winders. One down side are the clips that secure the trays, these stick on a regular basis. Although the box is very heavy, this is easily overcome by using a trolley. I paid £450 for the box but have seen it for as low as £350/£400, its a bargain and I would highly recommend it.
Matrix Extendable Side TrayThey tray is Using the Matrix 3D connections, this box will fit onto a variety of leg sizes and shapes. The tray is very big and extends from the back of my box to the end of the footplate legs, perfect for all your bait and accessories. The legs are 25MM and have threaded tops for accessories. It will fit into the Matrix net and accessory bag but it does stick out at the top, I generally just lay it flat on the trolley.
Matrix Superbox 2 Wheel TransporterIve only had the trolley out once but Im fairly happy with it. Its not as sturdy as a standalone trolley platform but I love the way it just folds up into a bag and packs away. Ive taken it for about a 5/10-minute trip on a forest path and on a grassy bank, it was fairly smooth and if loaded correctly, quite well balanced. If you do need a platform too then it might be worth looking at a third-party trolley platform combo
Matrix 3D Adjustable feeder armThis is the only Matrix product I will I hadnt bought. Although it does its job and holds your rod, its not very solid and the rod can bounce around.
Matrix Ethos Pro 2 Rod Still HoldallThe outer material is very good quality and feels like it will last, there is plenty of space inside for 2 rods and reels. It comes with two distance measuring sticks for accurate distance measuring. The butt of the rod could do with a Velcro patch to keep it in place.
Matrix Ethos Pro Net and Accessory bagAgain, the outer material is of very good quality and there is plenty of space in the various compartments. The compartments allow you to securely store various bits of tackle without it all bashing around like in normal carryalls.
Matrix RS Hydro 20K Bid & Brace/ JacketThe material is of very good quality and although I havent tried it out in the rain definitely is breathable in warm weather. The waterproof rating is very high, even higher than the expensive outdoor I bought from mountain warehouse. I would recommend trying them on before purchase as I had to send them back and get the next size up.
Overall, Im really happy with the Matrix gear I have bought although I now look like a bit of a full kit ****er!
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