9 Best Budget Bivvies & Shelters of 2025: A Total Fishing Tackle Review
- By Andy Grenfell
- |
- 25 March 2021
Keeping warm and dry on the bank will undoubtedly help you catch more fish. There is nothing worse than being cold and wet when fishing! Fishing bivvies and shelters don’t need to break the bank, though. Some fantastic products are available for those looking to save a few quid but not sacrifice quality or comfort.
Check out our recommendations below;
1. SONIK – AXS BIVVY
FANTASTIC FEATURES AT A GREAT PRICE
While not the cheapest shelter out there, the Sonik AXS Bivvy has plenty of thoughtful product design. It’s hard to find a bad review about it.
The frame design features steep sides and a flat back to maximise the internal space. The upgraded 10,000mm HH Cloudbase fabric is light, totally waterproof, and tough.
The integrated peak design with a rain drip guard doubles the protection alongside the fabric and heavy-duty clip groundsheet. Also included are storm poles, four vent spacer bars and robust T-pegs.
PROS
- Ultra-quick and stable setup – The AXS central hub is super strong and made from lightweight aluminum designed for a speedy and solid setup
- Suitable for all seasons – Front and rear mozzy vents and mozzy side windows in the front panel let in refreshing airflow
- Lightweight – The AXS Bivvy weighs in at only 9.2kg
CONS
- Accessories - The add on accessories compared to other brands are limited
2. AVID - ASCENT 2 MAN BIVVY
BEST FOR THOSE WHO WANT LOADS OF ROOM AND LOADS OF FEATURES!
Avid may not be the first name you think of when choosing a new shelter but the Avid Ascent 2 Man Bivvy is a fantastic choice for long sessions abroad or simply for those who like a lot more room.
The Ascent bivvy is made using a lightweight 10,000mm waterproof material which offers fantastic protection from the elements. Featuring a three-rib design with a built-in peak system, the shelter can be erected and packed away quickly, making it an ideal option for any length of session, regardless of whether you are fishing an overnighter or a longer session on the Continent.
The front panel can be rolled back to create an open fronted shelter, whilst the front door features dual zips for letterbox style opening and a Mozzi mesh panel behind the waterproof outer fabric. Available in one-man and two-man versions, with overwraps sold separately, the Ascent bivvy comes supplied with clip-in groundsheet, tension bars, rod retention bars, heavy duty pegs and a clear window, the Ascent bivvy will keep you on comfortable on the bank all year round.
PROS
- Loads of Room! – Perfect for those week long trips or for the anglers who like to live in comfort when on the bank!
- Airflow – Multiple, large mozzy mesh vents provide excellent airflow on muggy, damp days and those red hot nights
- Front Peak Protection - Even when the rain is hammering down, stay nice and dry!
CONS
- Large Footprint — Although great for long sessions, the shelter is not ideal for small swims and some anglers may struggle to put it up on their own.
3. SOLAR TACKLE – UNDERCOVER CAMO BROLLY SYSTEM
BEST VERSATILE AND SPACIOUS BROLLY SYSTEM IDEAL FOR TIGHT SWIMS
Following their hugely popular SP Pro Shelter, the Solar Tackle Undercover Camo Brolly System offers a low-profile hub design that maximises usability inside space.
Although a brolly rather than a bivvy, this shelter offers complete protection. A front rain gutter directs water away to the sides, and robust 10,000mm HH waterproof fabric protects you from the elements.
The groundsheet is a rugged rip-stop material capable of holding up in the roughest terrain.
PROS
- Fully waterproof – The Solar Undercover Camo Brolly uses tough, waterproof HH camo fabric with a front rain gutter and storm poles
- Spacious and roomy – The low-profile, seven-spoke hub system enables maximum floor space with a small footprint
- Versatile and flexible – Multiple door options with fabric and mesh choices or a removable front infill panel, great for rolling back in the summer and locking down in the winter!
CONS
- Not the biggest of shelters – Although there is a surprising amount of room for a small brolly, those anglers that like to take the kitchen sink will have to leave it at home!
4. SKILLS - RELAX BIVVY DOME
BEST FOR VALUE AND QUICK SETUP
Lightweight and compact, the Skills Relax Bivvy Dome is easy to carry and quick to set up with a zip-in groundsheet. It will have you fishing in no time at all. Two storm poles with magnetic closure allow speedy disassembly at the end of the session.
The inner vapour shield provides superb protection and helps to prevent condensation. The twin skin design will also retain warmth in the winter.
The front panel is removable. There are three choices of openings plus the side panels that you can roll back for increased flexibility.
PROS
- Waterproof – The zip-in groundsheet will keep water, bugs and nasties at bay!
- Quick setup and disassembly – The quick setup and pack down are perfect for those who like to travel light
- Insect protection – There are two mozzy mesh screens on each side panel so that you can let in the air and keep out the pests
CONS
- Heavier than other shelters – Although not the heaviest by any means, the shelter is weightier than some of its competitors in the same price range
5. FOX - EOS TT PRO BIVVY 2 MAN
BEST FOR THOSE WHO WANT TWO MAN FEATURES AT A GREAT PRICE!
The Fox EOS TT Pro 2 Man Bivvy is exclusive to us here at Total Fishing Tackle.
Our fishing experts worked with Fox’s product development team to produce a two man bivvy that was packed with features, yet wouldn't break the bank.
Designed to offer unrivaled value for money, the EOS TT Pro is the perfect shelter for newcomers or anglers on tight budgets. It will fit two standard sized bedchairs with room to spare for all your luggage and kit. The 8000mm hydrostatic head fabric, and the two-rib, pram-hood design featuring a generous peak for extra protection, will keep you dry at all times!
The two-way letter box style door with integrated mesh insert plus PVC and solid panel options give you a variety of door options and the front can be rolled back to create an open fronted shelter if required.
PROS
- Spacious – the clever design really maximises the internal space
- Fantastic Features – Loaded with great features but at an affordable price, there is even an overwrap included for when the weather takes a nasty turn!
- Enjoy comfort and view whatever the conditions – Multiple door options let you adjust to suit the location and weather
CONS
- Condensation – Without the overwrap, the bivvy can suffer with condensation.
6. NASH – TITAN HIDE PRO
BEST FOR ADVANCED FEATURES AND OVERNIGHT FISHING TRIPS
The Nash Titan Hide Pro offers the ultimate protection and stability. You have likely seen the images of anglers actually standing on top of these shelters! This is not recommended — we suggest anglers stay inside their shelters!
The setup is super speedy. At less than a minute, it’s one of the fastest out there. The lightweight frame and quick construction belie the strength and integrity of the Nash Titan Hide.
Weather protection is supreme, with curved front ribs to deflect wind and driving rain. This hide is rich with features that optimise comfort and equipment management.
PROS
- Optimal condensation management and airflow – An internal removable vapour shield reduces condensation drip while the four mozzy mesh panels promote airflow
- Lots of handy kit features – Twin internal mesh pockets take care of small items and valuables, and a convenient internal hanging hook is perfect for receivers or lights
- The ultimate waterproofing features – Enjoy extreme weather protection with the storm gutter, angled rain peak, and extended front bar
CONS
- Cost – All of these features don’t come cheap.
7. WYCHWOOD – TACTICAL COMPACT BIVVY
BEST VERSATILE BIVVY FOR MOBILE FISHING AND TALL ANGLERS
Wychwood is not known for its shelters, but that might be about to change!
This lightweight, two-rib shelter offers year-round comfort and protection in any environment. It packs down to 4kg in weight and 120cm in length, making it ideal for the mobile angler.
It ticks all the boxes in stealth and camouflage, but Wychwood has been clever in not overdoing the look, stylishly mixing it with solid green sides and rear.
PROS
- Spacious and easy to erect – The squared-off design offers plenty of space
- Protective from the elements – Despite its lightweight frame, the Tactical Compact Bivvy is highly effective with complete weather protection
- Super stylish – The clever mix of plain green and camouflage stands out on the bank
CONS
- Adds on and extras not included – The Bivvy Overwrap and door choices are not part of the package
8. SONIK – AXS CAMO BIVVY
BEST FOR ANGLERS WHO WANT STYLE AS WELL AS FEATURES
The renowned AXS Bivvy is now available in a Camo Cloudbase fabric for anglers looking to blend in with the outdoors.
The ultra-strong central hub on this design is lightweight aluminium, so it is easy to transport and quick to construct. Despite being lightweight, this bivvy is stable and tough.
The Cloudbase Camo fabric is light and waterproof, fitted over a frame with steep sides and a flat back. The design offers maximum internal space.
PROS
- Supreme waterproofing – The 10000 HH fabric, integral peak, and rain drip guard ensure a snug and dry environment
- Perfect on warm, damp days – The removable front panel, mozzy side windows, and front and rear mozzy vents are excellent when the temperature starts to rise
- Stylish design – The Camo Cloudbase fabric is highly popular
CONS
- Lack of accessories – compared to competitors, there are few accessories available
9. FOX - FRONTIER LITE SHELTER
THE BEST FOR SHORT SESSIONS AND THOSE WHO LIKE TO TRAVEL LIGHT!
The Fox Frontier Lite has been born from the Frontier Range that has become extremely popular with carp anglers such as Tom Maker, Ali Hamidi and Mark Pitchers.
A stripped back "brolly style” version of the Frontier for the mobile angler looking for a lightweight shelter offering maximum protection and bivvy space in the most compact footprint. Solid front panel, storm poles and groundsheet available separately at extra cost.
Even a wide style bed will still get plenty of space thanks to the clever frame design and the Fox Frontier Lite goes up in a matter of minutes thanks to the patented mechanism of the shelter itself. This has fast become a favourite of the staff here at Total Fishing Tackle and as we come into the warmer months, we wholeheartedly recommend the Frontier Lite to anyone needing a new shelter this year.
PROS
- Super Light – The bivvy will appeal to those who like to travel light.
- Mozi panels – Rear vents provide great airflow in the summer.
CONS
- Extra protection comes at a cost – The groundsheet, solid front and storm poles are not included and cost extra.
Conclusion
A bivvy or shelter is an essential part of any angler’s fishing kit, whether you’re going on a fishing day trip or a week-long excursion. Consider the weather, season, purpose, and type of fishing to find the bivvy that best suits your needs.
For more bivvies and shelters, shop Total Fishing Tackle!
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