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The
hybrid Plano FlipSider effectively blends both soft and hard tackle storage
systems together (continued)
 Storage: So just
what is “FlipSider” design? FlipSider tackle storage makes use of a series of
individual holsters for hardbaits and spinnerbaits and the design is sued not
only on this bag but also in some of Plano’s newer utility boxes (identified
with green latches.) These compartments provide easy flip up access and provide
all round better protection for individual lures, this is especially true in the
case of baits with multiple treble hooks.
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The compartments are ideal for
protecting expensive lures |
Anglers that
invest in premium baits like Lucky Craft and Megabass often find the lures
receive more damage from contact with other lures during transport than during
actual fishing. The FlipSider system is designed to provide more protection for
individual lures, while making it easier and quicker to locate the right lure in
the field.
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Flexibility is the name of the
game. The compartments were just as good for holding jigs and spinners |
In the
case of the FlipSider bag the “FlipSider” system has been integrated into the
bag itself, and the Duraview window makes it possible to view your lures from
the outside, making it faster than ever to make your selection. Once you open
the window the trays hinge outwards and you are free to draw your weapon of
choice. We found the system excellent for a wide range of hardbaits including
cranks, traps, jerkbaits, jigs, and even oversized spinnerbaits. When it comes
to ease of use Plano
hit a home run.
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The window is held with robust
multi-pressure point hinges |
The bag is designed to
accommodate a good amount of tackle in its configurable main compartment system
as well. As the Plano utility box family grows bags like the FlipSider further
expand their usability range in different applications. The bag comes with three
basic 3700 ProLatch utility boxes, which can be configured for just about any
bass lure. The compartment is sized so that any of the company’s more
application specific ProLatch boxes will also fit.
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The top of the bag features a
zip up main compartment |
When the main
compartment is fully loaded we still had some room on top in which we could stow
clothing items like an extra hat, or a windbreaker. The bag has three other
additional side and back pockets as well. These pockets are sleek and don’t
expand all that much when zipped up, but we were pleasantly surprised how much
we could actually cram into them.
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The main compartment holds
three 3700 utility boxes (included) |
The rear pocket is perfect
for two rows of plastics, and I was able to shove in 18 bags of Yamamoto Senkos,
Kreatures, and Hulas before I started having trouble sipping up the pocket. The
side pockets are good for tools and terminal tackle. Plano has cleverly added
extendable mesh in these pockets so that when you open the pockets they hinge
outwards allowing you to reach into the cavity, but none of your tackle will
accidentally come rolling out. As an added shield against the elements all of
the zippers are self sealing and waterproof. In our stress tests we blasted the
bag with simulated boat spray and while the surface of the bag absorbed water
the main compartments remained free of excess moisture.
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I love the ability to simply
use boxes I already use in my boat |
Overall
storage capacity of this bag is quite good, but it cannot hold as much as some
of Plano’s completely soft guide bags. This is the tradeoff for the integrated
FlipSider compartment.
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The wide opening makes it easy
to stow the boxes |
Ergonomics: When it
comes to ergonomics we look at two main things, how easy is it to use the bag’s
features, and secondly how comfortable is it to carry the bag. When it comes to
ease of use the FlipSider is a no-brainer. This bag is straightforward to use,
and is much faster than just about any bag or box out there when it comes to
drawing your desired bait. Other then a minor gripe about total capacity the bag
will suit the needs of freshwater anglers very well.
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The large rear pocket is ideal
for plastics |
When fully loaded with your
tackle this bag like all others will become rather heavy. I’ve often been amazed
how much I can cram into a 3700 box, and if you go crazy with terminal tackle
you can quickly load yourself to the point your weight training every time you
lug your bag. The FlipSider has an excellent adjustable padded shoulder strap
which makes it relatively comfortable to carry the bag at the right height
alongside your body for short distances. Because the bag has a rigid bottom it
doesn’t feel comfortable carrying this bag for extended distances, where a
backpack solution is preferable.
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Nice touch... every
compartment features high quality waterproof zippers |
Next Section: more Ergonomics, Durability, and
Ratings 
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