Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case Review

How the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case Surprised Me

As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments – from the biting cold of ice fishing expeditions to the controlled chaos of workshop benches – I’ve learned to appreciate well-designed utility. The Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case, a seemingly simple storage solution for ice fishing electronics, presented itself as a necessary upgrade for my aging ice fishing setup. My previous setup involved a cobbled-together system that often left essential components exposed or tangled. This new case promised a more integrated and protective approach, with features specifically catering to the demands of ice fishing. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid, functional construction. The molded ABS plastic felt robust, and the design clearly prioritized practicality over aesthetics. I had briefly considered a generic plastic tote, but the specialized features of this particular case swayed me. My first reaction was a pragmatic sense of relief; finally, a dedicated home for my vexilar unit.

Real-World Testing: Putting Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case to the Test

My testing grounds for the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case were primarily the frozen lakes and rivers of my local ice fishing circuit. I subjected it to the rigors of frequent setup and takedown, the inevitable bumps and jostles of transit, and exposure to frigid temperatures and occasional slush. The true test came during a week-long trip where temperatures dipped well below zero, pushing the material’s resilience. Ease of use was remarkably high; the integrated rod holder and tackle box storage meant I spent less time fumbling for gear and more time fishing. One unexpected quirk was the slight snugness of the battery compartment with my specific sealed lead-acid battery, requiring a bit of jiggling for insertion and removal.

After several months of consistent use throughout a full ice fishing season, the case has proven its mettle. It has endured being loaded and unloaded from my truck countless times, often tossed into the back alongside other gear, yet it shows no signs of cracking or structural compromise. The integrated rod holder has held up perfectly, and the tackle box compartment remains secure. Cleaning is straightforward – a quick rinse with water and a wipe down is usually sufficient, though trapped snow and ice can require a bit more attention. Compared to my previous makeshift solutions, this dedicated case offers vastly superior protection and organization. While perhaps not as refined as some high-end, custom-molded cases, its durability and functionality far outstrip cheaper alternatives.

Breaking Down the Features of Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case

Specifications

The Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is engineered with ice fishing in mind, and its specifications reflect this. Its compact round 10″ diameter base size is a standout feature, allowing it to nestle perfectly inside a standard 5-gallon plastic pail. This is invaluable for protecting the flasher unit during transport and for keeping everything contained when moving between ice holes. The case is constructed from durable, molded ABS plastic, which offers a commendable balance of toughness and relatively light weight.

It includes a thoughtfully designed cable storage area and grips to neatly manage excess transducer cable, preventing tangles that can be a major frustration on the ice. A significant addition is the integrated rod holder, allowing for convenient rod placement when not in use, and a dedicated slot for a Vexilar tackle box, ensuring essential lures and terminal tackle are always within reach. The transducer nest is another practical element, designed to securely hold various Ice-Ducer styles, preventing them from bouncing around. For added versatility, it incorporates an Ice-Ducer eye-bolt support, offering an alternative to the standard float for transducer positioning.

The battery compartment is sized to snugly accommodate standard sealed lead-acid and gel cell batteries, with their weight centered for stability. This secure fit prevents rattling and ensures the battery remains in place during transit. The case also features pre-drilled mounting holes, simplifying the permanent attachment of Vexilar electronics. Finally, it comes with a standard one-year warranty, providing a baseline of manufacturer support.

Performance & Functionality

In its primary role as a protective and organizational unit for ice fishing electronics, the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case performs admirably. The 10″ diameter base fitting within a 5-gallon pail is a game-changer for portability and protection from the elements. It significantly reduces the risk of damage to the flasher unit from impacts or water ingress, especially when navigating slushy or uneven ice. The integrated rod holder is surprisingly sturdy and convenient, offering a secure spot to rest your rod between bites. The tackle box integration means your most-used items are easily accessible without having to dig through multiple bags.

The transducer nest keeps the sensitive Ice-Ducer protected and organized, a welcome improvement over loose cables and sensors. While it doesn’t actively “do” anything to improve sonar performance, its ability to keep the transducer secure and ready for deployment is crucial for efficient fishing. The battery compartment’s snug fit is generally a positive, though as noted, it can be a tight squeeze for some battery models. Its main job is to house and protect, and in this regard, it excels, contributing directly to a smoother, more efficient ice fishing experience.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is fundamentally practical, prioritizing function over flair. The heavy-duty ABS plastic construction feels substantial and capable of withstanding the typical abuse of an ice fishing environment. The enlarged, super strong handle design is a significant improvement over older models, making it easier to carry even when fully loaded, and it crucially supports the gimbal bracket, allowing for easier upward rotation for vertical viewing.

Ergonomically, the case is designed for ease of access and use on the ice. The rod holder is positioned intuitively, and the tackle box slot is readily accessible. The storage slot right in front for the Ice-Ducer support eye-bolt is a clever touch, keeping this small but important accessory from getting lost. Access to the battery terminals is secure yet straightforward, allowing for easy connection and disconnection of power. While it’s not a sleek piece of gear, its utilitarian design is well-executed and serves its purpose effectively for the target user.

Durability & Maintenance

The Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is built for longevity in a demanding environment. The heavy-duty ABS plastic is inherently resistant to impacts, abrasions, and the extreme cold that can make lesser plastics brittle. I have yet to see any signs of stress cracking or significant wear after a full season of use, including being bumped against ice augers, sleds, and snowmobiles. The molded construction means there are fewer seams or weak points that could fail over time.

Maintenance is minimal. Beyond occasional wiping down to remove mud, snow, or ice, there isn’t much required. The durable, molded plastic construction means it’s resistant to corrosion and most common ice fishing contaminants. One potential point of care could be ensuring that water doesn’t freeze and expand within the battery compartment if stored wet for extended periods, though the robust plastic should mitigate most risks. Overall, this case appears designed to last for many ice fishing seasons.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is a self-contained unit, it integrates seamlessly with other Vexilar products. The key accessory included is the Vexilar tackle box, which fits snugly into its designated compartment, keeping essential lures and terminal tackle organized and readily available. The case is also designed with mounting holes to permanently affix Vexilar’s aftermarket accessories, allowing users to customize their setup for optimal functionality.

The rod holder is a built-in feature that acts as a highly useful accessory in itself, saving space and reducing the need for separate rod holders. The Ice-Ducer support eye-bolt provides an alternative mounting option for the transducer, offering flexibility based on fishing conditions. The case is engineered to hold all of Vexilar’s after-market accessories for direct mounting, which is a significant plus for users invested in the Vexilar ecosystem. This focus on integration means you can build out a highly personalized and efficient ice fishing command center.

Pros and Cons of Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case

Who Should Buy Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case?

This Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is an excellent investment for any ice angler who uses a Vexilar flasher unit and values organization, protection, and efficiency on the ice. It’s particularly ideal for those who have previously struggled with keeping their ice fishing electronics secure and their gear untangled. If you frequently move between fishing spots or often find yourself dealing with slush and snow, the compact round 10″ diameter base size‘s ability to fit inside a 5-gallon pail will be a significant advantage.

Beginners who are outfitting their first ice fishing setup will benefit greatly from the all-in-one organization this case provides. Seasoned anglers looking to upgrade their existing setup and streamline their gear will also find the integrated features, like the rod holder and tackle box storage, immensely useful.

Those who should probably skip this case are individuals who do not use Vexilar electronics, as it is designed around their specific units and accessories. Additionally, if you prioritize extremely lightweight, minimalist gear and have no need for integrated storage beyond the unit itself, a simpler protective cover might suffice.

For those who do buy this case, consider investing in a compatible Vexilar tackle box if you don’t already have one, as it truly completes the integrated storage solution. Ensuring your battery fits snugly within the battery compartment is also worth checking beforehand.

Conclusion on Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case

The Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case is a well-executed piece of gear that significantly enhances the ice fishing experience. It transforms the often-cumbersome setup of fish finders into a streamlined, protected, and organized system. The integration of features like the rod holder, tackle box slot, and efficient cable management demonstrates a clear understanding of what ice anglers need on a frozen lake.

At its price point, the value proposition is strong. It offers a level of protection and organization that goes far beyond a generic storage solution, making the investment worthwhile for any serious Vexilar user. The durable, molded ABS plastic construction promises longevity, and the practical design features make it a joy to use day in and day out.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Vexilar Pro II Portable Carrying Case to any ice angler using Vexilar electronics. It’s a robust, user-friendly upgrade that simplifies your setup and protects your valuable equipment, allowing you to focus more on fishing and less on wrestling with disorganized gear. It’s not just a carrying case; it’s a functional hub for your ice fishing electronics.