I'd give it a 2 out of 5.

The basket tends to lay down because the rod that supports it is to short. Also the net causes the line to pile up causing tangles.

I tried putting a floor in it, that didn't work to well and it's not retractable. Better to go with a tub.

 

At 300 pounds with a 48 inch waist, I have one, but I rarely use it.

Pros:
- clever design
- keeps your fly line off the sand, gravel and rocks.
- you can walk the beach poised for action without retrieving the entire fly line on the reel.
- folds away neatly when you don't need it.
- comfortable to wear as a substitute wading belt.

Cons:
- the opening is small which restricts the length of line for each strip
- the nylon basket does not keep tidy coils so you'll get more tangles when shooting line

So it's usable with some restrictions, but I wouldn't buy mine again. The Rubbermaid dishpan (ala Orvis) is a popular alternative. But for me, I just carry big loops in my hands.

 

Nick,

I agree with Jeff and Bert at the design limitations and drawbacks. I put in a foam floor with fingers that helped with the tangles, but this is no match for a LineKurv basket from Peninsula Outfitters, Orvis striping basket from Orvis online or Bellevue or a LL Bean hard basket if you can find one. If this is for the beach, go with the hard basket or fabricate yourself one from a rigid tub/container. However, if you are using this WJ retractable for creek hiking where you are just wanting somewhere to carry your striped off line from hole to hole while briefly hiking, it works well for this. Otherwise, go with a rigid basket and watch that running line fly.

 

I find it an excellent appliance for picking huckleberries. All the limitations above are correct, BUT: It's light, folds away compactly, can be used in my boat and is better than none at all, so I haven't thrown mine away, just don't use it much.

 

Don't use mine much....agree with the previous assesments that it is mediocre at best.