Last updated on April 18th, 2024.
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A rod case is the one stop shop for staying organized.
The Patagonia Black Hole Rod Case is worth a look if you’re searching for a slightly bigger (for example than the Fishpond Dakota) that offers a lot of versatility on the inside thanks to its fully customisable interior. We’ve taken a closer look at this rod case and telly you what we think of it.
First Impression
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The facts:
Colors: Black and Blue
Weight: 5 lbs 13 oz (2,637g)
Capacity: Can hold 4 rods of 11′ (if 4 piece rods)
Dimensions (internal): 36″
Price: $239
Craftsmanship and Durability
The Black Hole rod case is made from 100% recycled fabric with a TPU lamination that gives it solid protection from the elements. Please be aware though that this fly rod case can withstand some rain but it’s not waterproof. At more than 5 lbs I was surprised how heavy this bag is. On the other, when you open it up, you understand why that is: because the Black Hole can hold a lot of gear.
Design and Functionality
The design of the Patagonia is very though through. What you’ll realise right away is the plethora of pockets. On the outside and on the inside it features multiple zippered pockets. I’ve found these to be very helpful in organising your stuff. These slimmer pockets can hold a fishing license for example that I tend to store in the outside zippered pockets for quick access.
Versatility on the Inside
Where the Black Hole rod case really shines is its rod and reel compartment. The removable velcro patches give you the option to customise your rod case. The long section holds 4 (or even 5 during our testing) fly rods of up to 11′ (4 piece rods). This means that the Patagonia is a good choice if you like to fish longer rods for example for nymph fishing. The other compartments can hold the rest of your gear such as fly reels, fly boxes, tippet spools, pliers, nippers, you name it. You get the idea: what’s great about a fly rod case is the fact that you can throw everything inside and have peace of mind that you won’t forget anything when getting to the water.
Protection and Peace of Mind
With everything on the inside safely stored, the Patagonia also offers solid protection from each side. Hard-sided top and bottom give your gear protection against impacts, making sure your gear remains in pristine condition. On the outside, severals attachment options give you even more flexibility.
PROS:
- Excellent versatility in terms of creating your custom setup on the inside
- Multiple zippered pockets keep stuff organized and allow quick access to essentials such as a license, car keys or a wallet
- Additional attachment options on the outside
CONS:
- Weight: the Patagonia Black Hole Rod Case is rather heavy due to its sturdy build
- It’s also rather big which is an advantage on the one hand but means it can feel a little bulky when you carry it around
Final Thoughts
As usual, Patagonia offers top notch product quality in the Black Hole rod case. The organisation is spot on and the inside customisation is something I really like. What you should keep in mind is the size and weight of this rod case. If you’re looking for a slightly smaller one, make sure to also check out our review of the Fishpond Dakota.
FAQs: Patagonia Black Hole Rod Case
Can the Patagonia Black Hole Rod Case fit multiple rods?
Yes, the padded and configurable interior allows for the accommodation of multiple rods, catering to anglers with different setups.
Is the case suitable for air travel?
Absolutely, the compact design and padded, removable shoulder strap make it travel-friendly, ideal for air travel or any angling adventure.
How does the DWR finish enhance water resistance?
The Durable Water Repellent (DWR) finish on the exterior ensures that the case repels water, keeping your gear dry in light rain or mist.
Is there additional space for reels and accessories?
Yes, the Patagonia Rod Case can hold multiple rods and reels and has additional space for extra gear.
