Super versatile

Fox is on a mission. A few years ago, it was just another tackle maker. Now it’s a tackle powerhouse, churning out awesome product after truly biblically awesome product. And this month they have another such item: the Fox Explorer Barrow – a product which sees a new era in carp tackle transportation. Big claim, yes, but it’s well founded, as this one-wheeled beaut is the most versatile we’ve ever tested – and remember, we’ve tested a lot...

The big questions

What makes it so versatile then?
The whole concept behind the Explorer is that when you’re fishing short, day sessions, you can leave the majority of your kit on the barrow – ‘fishing-off-the-barrow’ if you will, so that packing up and moving swims can be done quickly and with minimal hassle and fuss. However, thanks to its clever design with the extendable front barrow bag rack, it can quickly be converted to create more space for carrying extra tackle such as a bedchair. And better still, this conversion also redistributes the weight when extra items are added to ensure the barrow remains balanced.

The all-new Fox Explorer: the most versatile barrow CARPology has ever pushed and used and it features the very simple but super effective side zips

That sounds great but can’t you do that with all barrows?
Of course, but the way the Explorer has been designed, and with the added accessories, it now gives ‘fishing-off-the-barrow’ a more organised meaning. For example, it comes supplied with a drop-in, central storage bag that is styled in the new Fox Camo pattern, which can then be loaded with tackle items, including the Camolite Storage Bags (see right-hand page) that are available separately. Along with this are two mesh storage pockets that sit either side of the wheel and are perfect for storing items such as a 5ltr water bottle and/or bait. And here’s the clever bit: all of these storage pockets feature zips on their sides, allowing for quick and easy access to them without having to take any items off the barrow. Awesome, eh?!

What a simple but ingenious idea! Tell me more about this front rack…
It’s at the front of the barrow and only really needs to be extended out when you’re in ‘session mode’ and will be taking a bedchair. It’s a dedicated area for you to sit your rucksack or ‘Camolite Barrow Bag’ – Fox’s specially designed carryall (again, see right). The net result is a sensationally well-balanced barrow.

But how compact is it?
Like mega compact! Thanks to all those extendable and adjustable bits, it means that once it’s packed down, the Explorer will fit into the smallest of car boots.

What’s the build quality like?
Bloody awesome. The frame itself is made from robust, hi-tensile steel; it features a quick-release wheel system with pneumatic tyre; there’s swivelling mud feet with spiked bases for extra stability; and the ergonomically-shaped removable handles aren’t just insanely strong but they’re angled for optimum comfort and ease when pushing.

What’s the damage then?
All in, and that includes the barrow, two mesh storage pockets, large central storage bag and two FX Universal Barrow Straps that fit to the barrow via looped attachments on the frame, you’re looking at £169.99. Not bad when you consider it’s cheaper and better than all the competition. foxint.com

Camolite luggage range

A small range of unique but perfectly thought out luggage items which will work hand-in-hand with the Explorer Barrow

1. Camolite Barrow Bag
The carryalls/rucksacks are a thrilling glimpse into a world of organisation and obsessiveness, and this new one from Fox not only fits perfectly on their new Explorer Barrow, but thanks to all the external and internal pockets it means you can be ultra organised. The Barrow Bag measures in a 57(L) x 31(W) x 35cm (H).
“GIMME”: £89.99

2. Camolite Storage Bag
Designed for storing items such as your stove, gas canisters and cookware and made to measure so it fits perfectly inside the central Under Barrow Bag on the Explorer Barrow. Side handles then make them easy to remove and 8mm heavy-duty double zips around 39(L) x 18(W) x 15cm (H) bag makes access a doodle.
“GIMME”: £16.99

3. Camolite Coolbag
Just like the Storage Bag, these have been designed to fit perfectly inside the main bag on the barrow, and once again feature side handles and 8mm heady-duty zips. The bags themselves, of which there are two – Standard: 39(L) x 18(W) x 15cm (H) and Large: 40(L) x 30(W) x 20cm (H) – feature a top quality thermal lining.
“GIMME”: £21.99 and £26.99

Rod protectors

And they all come in the new Fox Camo pattern

1. Camolite 3 Up 2 Down Holdall
Based on same award-winning design from Fox FX luggage range, this model takes five made-up rods – three in one direction and two in the other. It’s sculpted to accommodate big pit reels and rods with 50mm butt rings.
“GIMME”: £134.99

2. Camolite Tri-Sleeve
Two sizes available – 10 and 12ft – the Tri-Sleeve is designed to store three made-up rods and like the other two holdalls/jackets, these will accommodate big pits and 50mm butt rings, along with a mass of padding.
“GIMME”: £89.99 and £109.99

3. Camolite Single Rod Jackets
Designed to store one made-up rod, these Jackets are sold in 10, 12 and 13ft lengths and like the others, feature 10mm heavy-duty double zips, stiffened EVA grab handles and are made from a 500 denier polyester material.
“GIMME”: £32.99; £34.99; and £36.99

4. Caomlite Brolly Carryall
This Fox Camo patterned carryall will accommodate most brollies and brolly systems on the market and at the same time it can fit either the Camolite Tri Sleeve, 3 Up 2 Down or Single Jackets on its side. Heavy-duty fabric used throughout. “GIMME”: £44.99