R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen Review

First Impressions of R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen promises a convenient and portable solution for keeping live bait fresh and accessible. Manufactured by R&R Tackle, this extra-small collapsible bait pen boasts a compact design for easy storage and transport, while still providing a secure enclosure for your valuable baitfish. Its claim of robust construction and ease of deployment immediately piqued my interest, promising a potential upgrade to my existing, less-than-ideal bait management system.

For years, I’ve wrestled with keeping bait alive during extended fishing trips. Standard buckets are bulky and lack proper water circulation, leading to frequent water changes and stressed, weakened bait. I’ve lost countless numbers of baitfish and watched promising fishing days turn sour because of poor bait quality. This R&R Tackle bait pen seemed like it could be the answer to my woes, offering a contained, breathable environment that could potentially extend the life of my bait and improve my overall fishing success.

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD arrived in a surprisingly compact package. Upon opening, I was immediately impressed by the neat, folded configuration of the pen. The material felt durable, and the stitching appeared robust. Compared to my old aerated bucket, this bait pen seemed like a serious upgrade in terms of portability and potentially, bait survivability.

I considered several similar products, including a larger, rigid-frame bait pen and a floating mesh net. I ultimately chose the R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD due to its collapsible design and manageable size. The rigid-frame model seemed too bulky for transport in my kayak, and the mesh net felt too vulnerable to snagging and tearing in rocky environments. The collapsible design offered a good balance of portability and protection.

My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism. The build quality appeared solid, and the design was clever, but the true test would be in the field. The price tag gave me pause, but if it delivered on its promise of keeping bait alive longer, it would be a worthwhile investment.

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Real-World Testing: Putting R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen to the Test

First Use Experience

I first deployed the R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD during a weekend kayak fishing trip on a local reservoir known for its striped bass. The conditions were typical for late summer: warm, sunny, and with a slight breeze creating small chop on the water. My plan was to keep about two dozen live shad in the pen to use as bait.

Setting up the pen was surprisingly easy. The collapsible frame popped into shape quickly, and the mesh walls felt taut and secure. I anchored the pen to a nearby submerged tree using a length of paracord. Introducing the shad was simple, and the pen immediately provided a much larger and more comfortable space for them than the cramped bucket I had previously used.

Initially, the shad seemed much less stressed compared to when they were confined to the bucket. The increased water circulation and space appeared to be beneficial. However, after a few hours, I noticed a few shad showing signs of distress, swimming erratically and gasping at the surface. I suspected the water inside the pen was becoming stagnant, despite the mesh walls.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the next few months, I used the R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD on several more fishing trips, both from my kayak and from the shore. I experimented with different locations, water conditions, and bait types, including shiners, minnows, and even small crabs. The results were mixed.

The pen consistently held up well in terms of durability. The mesh showed no signs of tearing or fraying, even after repeated exposure to rocks, barnacles, and the occasional accidental snag. The collapsible frame remained sturdy and retained its shape. Cleaning the pen was relatively easy; a simple rinse with fresh water was usually sufficient to remove any debris or algae.

However, the primary issue I encountered was maintaining adequate water quality inside the pen. In still or slow-moving water, the pen tended to become a stagnant pool, quickly depleting oxygen levels and stressing the bait. I found that I needed to frequently move the pen to areas with better water flow or manually aerate the water to keep the bait alive for extended periods. This necessity for constant intervention made it less of a “set it and forget it” solution than I had hoped. It did outperform the bucket, but not by as much as I needed to justify the high price.

Breaking Down the Features of R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen

Specifications

• Dimensions: 2′ x 2′ x 2′ (Extra Small Round)
• Construction: Collapsible frame with durable mesh walls. The mesh material appears to be a coated nylon or similar synthetic fiber, offering resistance to abrasion and water damage.
• Portability: Folds down for compact storage and transport. This collapsible design is a key advantage for anglers with limited storage space.
• Intended Use: Live bait containment in aquatic environments. It’s designed to keep baitfish alive and accessible while fishing.
• Price: $339.99

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD’s specifications are primarily focused on portability and durability. The collapsible design directly addresses the storage concerns of many anglers, while the robust mesh construction ensures the pen can withstand the rigors of frequent use in demanding environments. However, the lack of built-in aeration or water circulation features limits its effectiveness in certain conditions.

Performance & Functionality

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD performs its basic function of containing live bait adequately. The mesh walls prevent escape, and the collapsible frame provides a stable enclosure. However, its performance in maintaining bait health is inconsistent.

The primary weakness is the lack of water circulation. In still water, the pen quickly becomes stagnant, reducing oxygen levels and stressing the bait. The strength is the portability and durability which exceeded expectations. The price is difficult to justify given the aeration shortcomings.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is commendable. The mesh is durable and the stitching is reinforced at stress points. The weight is negligible.

The design is user-friendly in terms of setup and takedown. The collapsible frame pops into shape easily, and folding it back down is equally straightforward. The lack of built-in handles or attachment points for easy carrying is a minor oversight.

Durability & Maintenance

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD appears to be built to last. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, and the construction is solid. The pen should provide years of reliable service with proper care.

Maintenance is minimal. A simple rinse with fresh water after each use is usually sufficient to remove any debris or algae. Periodic inspection of the mesh and frame for any signs of damage is recommended.

Accessories and Customization Options

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD comes with no accessories other than a simple drawstring storage bag. There are no apparent customization options. The lack of integrated attachment points for aerators or other accessories is a significant limitation. Compatibility with aftermarket aerators depends on finding a suitable mounting solution.

Pros and Cons of R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen

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Who Should Buy R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen?

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD is perfect for anglers who prioritize portability and durability above all else. Kayak anglers, bank fishermen who move frequently, and anyone with limited storage space will appreciate its compact, collapsible design and robust construction. If you primarily fish in areas with strong currents or are willing to actively manage water quality, it can be a useful tool.

Anglers who primarily fish in still water or who are looking for a truly hands-off bait management solution should skip this product. The high price tag is difficult to justify for those who need to invest in additional aeration equipment to make it truly effective. A portable aerator is almost a must-have accessory.

Conclusion on R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen

The R&R Tackle CBP-XS-RD R&R Extra Small Collapsible Round 2’x2’x2′ Bait Pen is a well-built and portable bait containment solution, but its high price and limited functionality make it difficult to recommend wholeheartedly. While it excels in durability and ease of use, its lack of built-in water circulation features necessitates active management to maintain bait health.

The price is difficult to justify. The value proposition is questionable given the additional cost of an aerator or constant need for repositioning in moving water.

I would only recommend it to anglers who specifically need a highly portable and durable bait pen and are willing to invest in additional aeration equipment or actively manage water quality. For others, there are more affordable and effective bait management options available. Consider your needs and budget carefully before making a purchase.