It's a tarp with poles, pegs and straps nothing revolutionary going on here. You could put together your own kit for less, but this one just looks cooler. Also if your fishing some place you you do not want to draw attention to, it blends in much better than a day glow blue tarp. I have used it as an cover/porch on my 150 size bivvy, and it makes a great dry cooking/social area. Pull the cords tight and peg them , and it really does a great job shedding the rain. I have also used it as a cover for my camping hammock. Comes with two well made long storm poles.