WHAT TO LOOK FOR...

COVERAGE 1

Obviously the nature of the shelter that you choose will largely be dictated by how much gear you’re taking and, also, if somebody else is going with you. Getting your own and a pal’s guest chair and kit under cover will require a certain amount of room, but all the shelters on test here have plenty enough for day sessions. When it comes to overnighters, some offer more coverage and space than others.

2 WEIGHT

If you’re trying to cut down on the amount of gear you take for a short trip, then obviously the the weight of the shelter you pack is an issue. I think the days have gone where we carry our kit, though, and even when fishing for just a few hours in the evening I still tend to take my barrow and fish from it, so to speak. That said, I still want something lightweight and not too bulky.

3 EASE OF USE

This covers not only how easily and quickly a shelter can be erected, but also how easy it is to dismantle and transport. There can be few systems quicker to erect than a traditional brolly, but one or two more modern designs are catching up in this respect.

4 PROTECTION

Of course, while we’re not talking winter storms, the UK weather can still throw up some surprises in the spring and early summer. So, first and foremost, any shelter you use must perform its primary task of keeping you protected, be it against squally showers, flash storms or high winds.

5 COST

For many anglers, a lightweight shelter may be all they own, while for others it may provide a second option, a ‘better-weather’ alternative to taking the bivvy, if you like. With this in mind, and always with an eye on anglers’ budgets anyway, the price of these six shelters has to be taken into consideration.