The JRC Defender Peak Bivvy features a 5,000mm hydrostatic head and is available as a 1-man or 2-man. Designed to withstand the harshest weather, anglers can look forward to plenty of internal space for their gear.
A great entry-level shelter for carp fishermen who want maximum value for their tight budget.
Key selling points include three door options: solid green, clear PVC, and mozzy mesh, which keep pesky bugs out of your living space.
The front door offers a two-way zip, making it simple to open from either side. This is a great feature if you’re tucked up in your bedchair and your alarms go off!
A Velcro groundsheet (much easier to attach than clips!) and reinforced tension bars set this apart from other bivvies at this price point.
Join us as we take a further look at the JRC Defender on the bank…….

JRC Defender Dimensions

One Man Dimensions

Two Man Dimensions
Which Bivvy: Initial Thoughts
Looking for a reliable and spacious bivvy for your next carp fishing trip? Look no further than the JRC Defender Lightweight Waterproof 1-Man Bivvy.
This great value bivvy features a durable 5,000HH 210D PU-coated polyester material with taped seams, ensuring that you stay dry in any weather condition.
The two rigid, 5-section 16mm lightweight aluminium poles, with reinforced pegging points, provide a sturdy shelter that can withstand strong winds while fishing.

Impressive is the practical design which offers maximised internal space and a roll-back front option with buckle retainers, allowing you to customize your setup to your liking.
The 2-way letterbox style door system with 3 door window options (which can be rolled up and secured) provides ample ventilation and visibility no matter what time of the year you’re fishing!
A pair of rod retaining straps (ideal for changing rigs) and a tough Velcro groundsheet make setting up and packing up easy.
On The Bank
After using the JRC Defender Bivvy, I can confidently say that it’s a great investment for any angler.
The practical design offers maximized internal space and a roll-back front option with buckle retainers, making it easy to enjoy the scenery and fresh air while providing good coverage from the elements.

Internal Space
As an avid angler, I know how important it is to have a bivvy that provides ample internal space. That’s why I was impressed with the JRC Defender.
The one-man shelter has enough room to comfortably fit a bedchair, tackle, and other essentials without feeling cramped. If you want even more space, the two-man option is the way to go.
The bivvy’s design also allows for easy manoeuvrability inside, making it convenient to organise and access your gear as you need.
Overall, I was pleased with the JRC Defender bivvy’s internal space. It’s perfect for solo fishing trips or for those who prefer a bit more room.
Ease of Setup
Setting up the JRC Defender Bivvy was a breeze. The two rigid, lightweight aluminium poles were easy to assemble, and the reinforced pegging points kept the bivvy stable even in windy conditions.
The 2-way letterbox-style door system provided easy access and ventilation options, while the Velcro rod retaining straps and tough and lightweight Velcro-in groundsheet were also very practical.
I did come across some mixed reviews regarding the waterproofness of the bivvy, but I did not experience any issues with water leakage during my testing.
Overall, I found the JRC Defender Bivvy to be very user-friendly and efficient to set up, making it a great choice for anglers who want to spend more time fishing and less time fussing with their gear.
JRC Defender: Pros & Cons
Pros
- Good internal space
- Lightweight
- Great entry level bivvy
Cons
- Only 5,000mm HH rating
- Poor stitching
- Prone to condensation
Features & Specifications
- 5,000HH 210D PU Coated Polyester
- Taped seams
- Velcro rod retaining straps
- Reinforced pegging points
- Front elasticated pegging point tensioners
- Roll back front option with buckle retainers
- Multiple pegging positions
- Supplied with heavy duty T-pegs
- Complete with durable and easy access carry case
- Dimensions: 205cm length, 270cm width, 140cm height
- Weight: 5.8kg
- Dimensions: 275cm length, 300cm width, 150cm height
- Weight: 7kg
Video Analysis
JRC Defender Extras
You’ll be pleased to hear that you can buy an overwrap for both the one-man and two-man versions. These are particularly useful in cold and damp conditions and provide that extra layer of warmth that’s much needed in the winter.
Final Verdict: Should You Buy The JRC Defender Bivvy?
Anglers should consider buying the JRC Defender ‘Peak’ bivvy for several reasons.
First, it’s made with a durable but hard-wearing Oxford nylon fabric, so you’ll know it will last. Second, I feel that the inclusion of both front and rear mozzy panels helps aid with airflow and reduce the common ‘condensation’ build-up most bivvies (and tents!) seep when you wake up in the morning!
A good brand, great value and spacious floor space mean you should consider this fishing shelter!
Which Bivvy Rating: 6/10