It’s not often that you find a bargain from a major tackle company that is to good to miss but the Shakespeare Mach XT cool bag is certainly one of those.
Obviously due to be replaced by a newer version these quality bags are available now for just £5, a saving of over £13 on the original price. Because of the price sensitivity of this item this is not one of our usual long term tests.
The bag is constructed from a black, water resistant fabric and lined with a foil style, washable, internal liner. It is fitted with two substantial handles which can locked together with a velcro fastening for carrying. The double entry zip opening on the top appears to be of decent quality but like all zips in the marine environment will need to be kept regularly washed to keep it salt free.
Measuring 44 x 29 x 23cm the bag can accommodate two 2 litre plastic ice cream tubs in width and height although if using the full four tubs the fit is better if the lids are left off the top two.
Although the insulation value of these bags will not match that of a cool box it is high enough to be able to maintain your bait at a low enough temperature for a full day’s fishing if a couple of ice packs are added.
All in all a well made piece of angling luggage at a price point which cannot be beat.
I purchased mine from Field and Trek but an online search shows them at various online outlets for the same low price.
