Flexi-Stripper
David Wilson tries on a flexible stripping basket.
I have used many stripping baskets over the years and was curious when I first saw the Flexi-Stripper. Designed by Danish master cane rod builder Bjarne Fries, I wondered if the radical design with no sides could possibly work at all. Being compact compared to traditional baskets, it solved a common problem of having to wear it around the waist. The Flexi-Stripper can be comfortably worn lower to the side on the upper leg!
Other strippers typically restrict arm action on long strips. However, a leg- mounted Flexi-Stripper permits a natural full arm extension, rather than having to modify arm movement to drop line into a central basket or bucket. Also, there is no vision obstruction when walking/stepping over rocks, logs etc. Indeed a leg mounted Flexi-Stripper allows you to sit on a log without having to remove the stripper.
Did the Flexi-Stripper foul line when shooting? Not once!
Did line fall off the fully loaded Flexi-Stripper whilst walking? No, the line remained secured by the 7 cm long silicone fingers. Sides would only be a hindrance, as they are with most stripping baskets.
When wading deeper you can wear the Flexi-Stripper on the waist or even higher.
The Flexi-Stripper is light, easily transported and would be a boon to boat and saltwater anglers needing long strips and excellent line containment. What at first seemed a risky novelty turned out to be the best stripping platform I have ever used.
Priced at $69.00, the Flexi-Stripper is available direct from John Coles. ww.jcflyfishing.com.au