Maver Bait Bucket
The Maver Bait Bucket
Introduction
After a couple of seasons using a Fox Stalker bucket, I decided to purchase
another bucket by a different manufacturer. The reasoning behind this was
to allow me to have two if needed, and because I found the Fox version slightly
too small for my needs. I wanted a bucket that would allow me to carry dry
pellets,(loose if necessary), catapults, flask/1 litre drinks bottle, food,
weigh sling and scales, and the remaining small boxes in which I carry the
myriad of end tackle, weights etc. Overall, I tend not to carry too much now,
and normally will take just a seat, rod and net, banksticks, and bait bucket.
I carry my goretex waterproofs, and unhooking mat folded inside the chair
which I sling over my back. The rest is held in my hands, so finding the right
bucket was important. After looking at various models including the cavernous
Drennan specialist versions, in which I could put my car!, I settled on the
Maver DT(for Des Taylor) bucket. It is constructed of tough green nylon, and
consists of a round bucket, split into two main internal compartments by a
sewn in divider. Each compartment has its own waterproof insert, which simply
slots into the space. On the outside are two large pockets on either side
of the bag with lids that clip securely into place. Between these pockets
is another very useful attachment, which is simply a loop of fabric, in which
two catapults can be slotted. The lid is fixed along the centre of the bucket,
thereby only allowing access to one compartment at a time. Velcro fastenings
keep the lid held secure. The handles are of the same nylon and incorporate
a Velcro closure hand grip.
The Maver Bait Bucket - Showing Inside Compartment
Likes
1. The separate compartments with their removable liners are just right, and
allow me to keep my food separate from the bait. I hold loose mixed 3-6mm
pellets in the base of one, and place my pots of larger pellets, bags of boilies
etc on top. These have not yet got wet even during heavy rain.
2. I like the idea of the separate lids as this helps to keep my tackle clean
and dry when I go rummaging around!
3. The catapult holders. I carry two fox catapults, and the design of the
holder is such that rather than having the elastic and pouches dangling free
to catch on things they can be placed inside the bag due to the folding lid
design.
4. The size is just right, and the picture shows one compartment containing
a 1.5l flask, tube containing PVA stocking, and the other bits and bobs.
5. The side pouches don’t bulge out, and carry a moderate amount of bits and
bobs.
Dislikes
1. I wish someone would make these items of luggage with waterproof bases.
Like all nylon this lets water in if standing in rain, or on wet surfaces.
2. A shoulder strap would have been very handy.
3. The season has taken its toll on my bucket, and it is beginning to quite
literally fall apart at the seams, with the inner divider tearing at the joint
with the lid, and some of the outer stitching on the pouch lids coming apart.
Conclusion
Although I like the design of the Maver DT bucket, it shortcomings are in
the lack of waterproofness (is there such a word!!) at the base, no shoulder
strap, and its longevity. I will be on the look out for another bucket this
close season that has some of the excellent features of the Maver, but without
the flaws.
BFW rating 7/10
Paul Thompson (Tommo)
March 2004
