Universal Rod Holdall by Chub

Before I tried it I didn’t realise just how versatile and useful this Universal Rod Holdall from Chub really is. It’s a hybrid between a quiver holdall and a conventional one.

Rods can be carried in the outer pockets like a normal quiver, or inside as in a conventional holdall. In either case the rods are fully protected, for the outer rods are stored in fully padded rod sleeves supplied as standard.

The full description reads thus: fully enclosed main body for total protection. Spacious internal compartment for rods/bivvy/umbrella, etc. Accommodates up to four rod sleeves or rods externally. Two large external front pockets. Fully padded non-slip adjustable shoulder strap and carry handle. Supplied with two fully padded 13ft or 12ft rod sleeves.

It’s the little things that make such a big difference to some product and this holdall has one or two ‘little’ things going for it. The snap-on clips that keep the rod pockets secure for one thing, and the Velcro straps that that hold rods and landing net handles in the outer compartment for another. Then there is the toggles on the zips that help cold fingers get a good grip. Nothing earth-shattering but all nice little touches that add up and set the holdall apart from others that have been made with less thought.

Everything works so well, which may seem like an odd thing to say, but isn’t really odd when I think back to some of the rubbish I’ve used over the years. The zips zip without tearing apart, the buckles buckle with a firm snap, and the stitching stays stitched even when the holdall is filled to capacity with heavy gear and has to carry a big load.

I’m really impressed with the quality of this Chub gear. The design, material and workmanship are all first class and if they keep up this standard, and maintain the very fair price tag, then they won’t be long before they’re ranking alongside the major players and perhaps even surpassing them.

Good kit at a fair price. There isn’t much more you can ask for really.