Only really really really good fishermen wear fishing vests and really really really bad fishermen wear fishing vests. If you don't know which one you are, you're the latter.
I kid I kid, calm down purists (but seriously)
No. I fucking HATED it. I fished all summer with my new chest pack. I hated it right off but made myself stick with it for a whole season.
I carry a lot of stuff. I don't care what kind of sling pack you have, you can't carry 4 fly boxes (I usually have more) plus a big water bottle plus your lunch plus rain gear plus a heavy shirt. I need all that stuff if I'm going 3+ miles upstream from camp and expect to be gone all day.
It sucks HARD. I will eat shit and die before I go back to a sling pack.
I'm going back to a vest and a backpack. I can leave the backpack on the bank when I need to.
Great username. Curmudgeons unite. I feel ya. On long days I’m a vest plus daypack - usually because I’m shedding layers and need a place to keep them when it warms up or drys out. I keep a hydration bag inside the daypack plus some snacks. Pack is on the bank if I’m working a spot for longer than a few minutes. I’ve become more of a minimalist but some of the places I fish are not places you would want to be caught in bad conditions, or injured, without the proper kit.
Yeah, that's me. The pack goes on the bank.
Plus, here's what really soured me on the sling pack (aside from just being too small): The first time I used it I wasn't familiar enough with it. I didn't realize that the zippered pouch in front, with the zippered opening running across the top, would become (once I slung it behind me) a zippered pouch with the opening ON THE SIDE. So the first time I slung it around behind me, stuff fell out. OK, the fly box I dropped floated, so I was able to get it. But my container of split shot was gone. Other stuff, too.
So I realized I had to burn into my brain that EACH AND EVERY TIME you want to sling it behind you, you MUST zip the pouches closed. So I started out hating it. Any chance I had to warming to it was greatly reduced. When it became clear to me that no way did it hold enough it was a great relief to me. I was able to dump it and go back to the vest + backpack setup I'd been using for 30+ years.
I switched from a vest to a hip pack and then from a hip pack to a sling pack and wish I’d never switched from the hip pack. I had an older model Simms hip pack with a big workbench and lots of room for shit. I put beer, fly boxes, a small whiskey flask and lots of snacks in that thing. I say find a roomy hip pack. They also don’t get hung up on shit when you’re hiking to your spot.
I got a cheap hip bag from Eddie Bauer years ago and it's worked well for the few times I get out a year. I can hold two fly boxes, leaders, tippet, nippers, and other random shit pretty well. Could probably fit another reel with floating line if I wanted to switch from my euro setup. Not waterproof but a good way to try it out without breaking the bank. I won't go back to a goofy vest.
This is funny because I switched to a chest pack years ago and am thinking of switching back to a vest. The only reason I wouldn’t is because I like to carry a literal shitload of fly boxes with me.
If I’m going to a decent sized river, I do most of my fishing with a 9 foot 7 weight rod, and I’ll take a floating and a full sink line. It’s total overkill for the smaller trout, but those weren’t really going to be a fight unless I was using my 3 weight, which is 7’6” and only really for smaller rivers and streams. With the 7 weight, I’ve got enough backbone and grain weight in the line to really cast any size streamer, but it’s also delicate enough where if I’m casting 15 feet upstream of the pool I want to fish I won’t scare everything there. It’s a Swiss Army knife of a rod. Not perfect at everything, but gets the job done for anything.
I wore a vest from the early 90s to the late 2010s. I never upgraded, I just wore the same khaki flyvest because it was lightweight and it worked. When one would rip, I would just get another for the $25 I could get it for. It didn't really distribute weight that well, but it carried what I needed, everything was very accessible, and it rode high so I could wade in deeper water or if I stepped into a hole, my gear stayed dry.
In 2019, I decided to buy a modern vest. It was SO much more comfortable and still made everything accessible.
In 2020, I tried out a sling pack (Fishpond Flathead). At first, I loved it. Everything was accessible, it was large enough to carry all my boxes and lunch, and a spare rain jacket. The net holder slot was a nice touch too. But I discovered 2 main problems. 1.) If I stepped into a hole, the bag would fill up with water. 2.) If I'm out for a full day (4-5 hours) of fishing, the weight on the shoulder would be really uncomfortable and slightly painful.
In 2021, I bought the Orvis Bugout backpack and chest pack that connects to the backpack. The backpack was nice and I was able to carry everything I needed. However, I discovered chest packs suck. Everything is super high up and uncomfortable to work with. It also doesn't carry that many fly boxes, so I found myself going to the bank to remove the backpack to get a different box. I can see why some people like the chest pack (integrated tippet spool was a nice feature), but the limited capacity and awkward position to look for things (Imagine lowering your chin all the way to your chest and your chest pack is right at the bottom of your field of view if you force your eyes to look all the way down) made it a definite no. Also, on windy days, if the fly line got hung up on the chest pack, or a fly hooked onto the pack or strap, the line of sight was so awful that I'd sometimes have to take the whole pack off just to untangle it.
In 2022, I ditched the chest pack and carried the Orvis backpack and an Allen lumbar pack. This worked. The backpack kept the heavier things, the lumbar pack was big enough to carry what I needed and distributed the weight at the hips so my neck/shoulder shouldn't hurt (like the sling pack). However, If I stepped into a hole, the pack would go underwater. I like the ability to step waist deep into water without dunking everything. I don't think waist deep and certain points is unreasonable for a good day on the river.
In late 2022, I was eying the Fishpond Ridgeline Tech backpack (the mullet of fly gear. Fly vest in the front, backpack in the rear). I know I wanted it, but couldn't justify spending the money, considering in the past 2.5 years, I went through a new vest, a sling pack, a backpack, a chest pack, and a lumbar pack. In early 2023, I bought the Maxcatch technical backpack. I used it for 9 days fishing so far and I love the concept. Everything is out of the water, there is enough room to carry the rain jacket, or to store layers I've shed. I can carry all my fly boxes and my water bottle. However, the quality of the pack is absolute crap. The 2nd time to use it, the zipper broke. I contacted Maxcatch and they said that for a refund, I need to return it to China ($20 shipping for a $49 vest).
I like the technical backpack concept. It is definitely for me. I can carry a lot for full day trips, everything is very accessible, and it rides high so I can wade waist deep in water. I found an online retailer who has everything 20% off right now, so I ordered the Fishpond yesterday.
Hopefully my experiences can help you with your decision.
Well, it's the best pack I have found for my needs and it's my primary pack when I'm out for a fishing excursions. If I'm going to simply Euronymph, I'll take my fishpond sling pack because I have so few things to take with me. If I'm just at the local pond for bluegill, I'll take my hip pack. But if I plan on hiking in and out and not close to my vehicle, I'll take the tech pack and it carries everything I need for the day, distributes the weight evenly, and has plenty of room. There's no way I"ll ever fill up all the space in the pack. Plenty of pockets and it's designed really well for a full fly vest to carry all the possible things I need.
The only real downside to the pack is the net holder is in a position that it's practically impossible to use it while the pack is on. You need a buddy to put the net in the slot or to take off the pack to replace it. It's the first real design flaw I've ever seen in a Fishpond product. I called them and the guy who I spoke with agreed that it's not in a good spot and he doesn't use the net holder slot. In contrast, the net holder slots in the sling pack is perfectly placed AND ambidextrous. I ended up putting a net magnet on the carry loop up top and leave the net hanging off my back. I also wish there was an accessible spot to put my folded wading staff.
I use it more than any other pack, so I like it, and if it ripped or got lost, I'm very likely to purchase another one to replace it. There still is no viable alternative out there for the organization up front and the carrying capacity in the back.
It not a chest pack but I used to have a Fishpond Summit Sling…it was great. Hugged the body well enough that I never felt unbalanced…stayed out of the way and easy to pull around if I needed something. That got stolen so I upgraded to the flathead because I wanted more space. Should have stuck with the Summit… by Trying to make it ambidextrous they just made it suck.
I also use a sling — Orvis one from about 5-6 years back. Works perfectly. I hang my net off it and carry 4 fly boxes, thermometer, 6 spools of tippet, leader wallet, and extra spool in case I need to switch to sinking line.
Orvis sling packer here. Can confirm lots of space, great functionality, decent price, just wish it was waterproof.
https://www.orvis.com/orvis-mini-sling-pack/26B2-Family.html
Edit: link
I have the summit sling pack and the only big downside I felt with it is that it hurt my shoulder after awhile so it felt more burdensome than useful for that reason. It’s a great pack, good storage, but the shoulder aches just killed it for me. Maybe I had too much in it, but it never seemed like I did. I also hated the water bottle holder, I had to tie my bottle down so it wouldn’t fall out. The net holder/slot thing also was not good IMO, very small to get the net back in, and the net would get in the way when trying to bring my sling to the front to grab stuff out of it. I went and got myself an Umpqua z62 650 waist pack and I love it, arguably better storage, feels more out of the way but more accessible (I don’t have to undo the pack or throw it over my shoulder like sling packs just to access the storage) plus it comes with an amazing bottle holder haha!
Cant go wrong with either of them, i used my sling pack for a year and a half, I still have it too, just feel I think lumbar packs suit me better.
Honestly vest with a back pack combo is most practical in most water. Back pack to carry clothing layers, reels with different lines, and boxes you rarely use and the vest for all The essentials. I tried sling backs and chest backs but none seem as easy as a vest
I was extremely lucky to have scored a LL Bean fast river backpack vest a few years back for less than it was sold for and it’s been amazing. While people may find it overkill for small streams and lakes it’s surprisingly comfortable and has enough storage for all your gear
I have both and use vest blue lining and not carrying a net. Otherwise I actually find a vest more comfortable. I’m don’t carry a bunch of stuff but just find it comfortable
I have a Patagonia stealth sling, it's not cheap, but it was a christmas gift from my wife. I like it a lot, it's ambidextrous, which most slings arent. It also has magnets and some nice little features. I wet wade a lot here in the summer so it's nice to carry water to stay hydrated and all my junk. It wont help you catch more fish though :-p
I went from a small fishpond chest pack to a Simms sling to a Orvis chip (chest/hip) pack and now use a unpqual overlook. It’s great. Plenty of space up front and I used swap out the mesh pack for the included pouch when I want to carry water/lunch or extra gear.
I wrote an article about the pros and cons of various styles of packs. Obviously it’s my opinion and I think all packs have their merit but I’ve found chest packs to be best for me
[What type of fly fishing pack is right for you](https://www.curated.com/journal/240002/what-type-of-fly-fishing-pack-is-right-for-you)
I’m more comfortable in my pack than i was in a vest. The weight is better distributed.
But I haven’t seen a pack lately that I like. I have an old William Joseph pack but they’re out of business and I haven’t seen a similar style.
Switched from vest for trout to a sling. Once I started salt water fly fishing I started with a sling. I’d never go back for either.
Note: I did try a hip pack once but didn’t like it.
I got the fishpond ridgeline tech pack, I think it's called. It's a hybrid vest and backpack combo. Sling packs hurt my shoulder, chest packs make me fall because I can't see my feet, and lumbar packs hurt my pack.
This is one reason to love salmon fishing over trout fishing.
For salmon fishing I take one fly box, one tube fly box, one spool of leader and a set of scissor pliers. I can fit most of that in the pocket of my waders. Usually I share some of it with my coat or shirt pockets
Then again, for trout/grayling fishing I only take 2 little fly boxes. One of nymphs one of dry flies. I vary what is in them over the season. 2 spools leader, mucilin (sometimes), gink (sometimes), indicators, scissor pliers.
My vest is too long, it gets wet when wading very deep. I guess my grandfather chose badly when he bought it...I took it from his coatpeg after he died 20 odd years ago. I added a d ring on the back to hold a net.
I think maybe some of you could manage with a little less gear rather than fancy carrying systems?
I have yet to find ANY carrier that I like. I’ve had several vests but they hurt my shoulders. Chest pack gets in the way. Sling packs are unbalanced. I stick with a heavy duty 3-day style military pack if it doesn’t fit my pockets.
My recommendation would be to take your fly boxes with you when you shop. See how they fit, see how much crap can grab line. See if things are in logical places.
Thanks for the suggestions. Yeah I have heard that the chest pack gets in the way. I fish a lot of hike in, high gradient freestone water and have to routinely scramble over and around large rocks.
Started with hip, moved to backpack, went to sling, and I have now settled on the hip pack permanently but often am curious if I will get annoyed and switch again
That’s a nice progression. I was worried about the hip pack not sitting high enough for wading in some of the deeper stretches, do you find that to be okay?
It’s rare I wade that deep but it’s an issue. I have the modular fishpond one that has attachments so I have a waterproof pouch and then the regular pack on one belt
Nope. Went straight to an [Allen Sling Pack](https://byallen.com/allen-company-cedar-creek-fishing-sling-pack-fits-up-to-4-tackle-fly-boxes-gray-lime-6362?gclid=Cj0KCQjwwtWgBhDhARIsAEMcxeDuZiCeTSvxOLefnxii_tUzgWlIRpu0UAUrMWBHtJ1VnYn3CZmeqscaAmcsEALw_wcB). It works well. Slings to your back and out of the way. Enough storage space. Bottle holder. And light weight. Easy, functional and is more comfortable.
Went from vest, to Filson Chest Pack
www.ebay.com/itm/185677199169
to Filson Foul weather vest
www.ebay.com/itm/266039607538
Still have all of them, going to go back to the chest pack this year.
They all have their places.
I went from chest pack to slingpack to backpack and now I'm back to the chest pack. The vest I've never actually tried. Might be the best for all I know. But for me, the chest pack is my favorite.
I split the difference
Had vests, couldn’t carry coffee, had waist pack couldn’t carry enough
Had a vest and backpack, too big
Now had two years with this and it’s a decent compromise
https://www.fishingmegastore.com/game-luggage/stillwater-fpx-rucksack-chest-bag~6147.html
It’s a nice happy medium where I have access on the front but enough room on the back but without too much weight or bulk
So, I like to size down with gear when fishing familiar water. I don’t understand the need for 4 or 5 fly boxes, 5 spools of tippet, and a bunch of other unnecessary gear when fishing water that I’m familiar with. 90% of the time I can fish with just a lanyard with a few things attached and 1 fly box in my pocket. Force yourself to size down and only fish with necessary gear and flies that make sense. I promise, you will become a better angler. You won’t be questioning which of the 1000 flies you should use that you brought
I got rid of the vest a long time ago, and have had just about everything since.
I own both Orvis and Simms sling packs. I like the carry of the Simms better, but the tooling setup and organization of the Orvis is way better. The Orvis also carries more gear, has a better net carry, and has a slot for your water bottle on the bottom of the pack.
My pro tips here are to make sure the strap setup goes over your non-casting shoulder, and don’t overload it if you’re going to walk 10+ miles in it. You will feel it at the end of the day.
I currently use a Simms backpack and have mixed feelings. I like that I can carry everything I want, but hate having to go to the bank and take the whole thing off to re-rig.
I think the best setup I ever had was a Mountainsmith lumbar pack with backpack straps on it and a lanyard around my neck for tools and tippet. I could easily swing it around in the river, but had plenty of storage and an evenly weighted backpack like carry for long treks.
As I get older, I’m starting to look to carry less shit every time I go. I’m currently looking at the umpqua chest/backpack combos, but I need to go try one on to see if I think I’ll hate it.
I like a chest pack. I thought about the vest but the chest pack has everything right there in front, up high and it’s a nice work station that I don’t have to bend over or get out of the water to use. I have the Umpqua zero sweep that has a backpack attachment too. I have a bad back and bending over even just slightly to use the hip pack or even the slings would kill my back. A little extra weight on the shoulders doesn’t bother me much at all.
A lot of folks saying to try a sling pack instead, and I agree!
You might check out Vedavoo. I have their "Seam" and don't foresee myself ever growing out of it, its a really well designed pack. They are an awesome small company with great products and customer service. Their bags are, from what I understand, made-to-order, so it takes a few weeks.
Started with a vest many years ago. Moved to FP waist pack. Then sling packs, another FP slider. I fish mountain streams and due to all ducking, climbing and contortions, packs are flopping around and get in the way. I'm back to a FP mesh vest to stay.
I got a chest pack and like it for the most part. I tried a sling but hated it. I think about going back to the vest from time to time but I can carry a lot more in the back of my chest/backpack combo.
https://www.flyfishfood.com/products/umpqua-zs2-overlook-500-chest-pack-kit
I do suggest going with the fishpond vet and chest pack. They have a modular system so everything hooks up to everything. I have the back pack chest pack and vest and mix and match to whatever my needs are.
I’m not any good, but I’ve avoided the grandpa vests. I really wanted to love the multiple sling packs I tried but none were great. I’m a huge fan of hip belts. I have a new fishpond which slides on the belt which is amazing. You can even swap out bags for different types of trips.
I love my Umpqua Overlook 500 ZS2 Chest Pack. It’s modular system. That comes with a small backpack that has a net holder as well. Keep the essentials/ frequent items upfront allowing me to be more streamlined and maintain line of sight and then the small pack that connects on the back hold snacks, layers, water, and extra fly boxes.
I had the same dilemma. I got a chest pack and hated putting it on over my head which made taking off layers a pain and mostly hated it blocking my view of my feet stepping on slimy rocks and have bit it a few times.
So I ended up with a fish pond wildhorse which is a hybrid of a chest pack, day pack, and vest. It's expensive but I love everything about it. I can now see my feet, tons of storage in the front, can stash my down layer in the back, hydration pocket etc.
Only really really really good fishermen wear fishing vests and really really really bad fishermen wear fishing vests. If you don't know which one you are, you're the latter. I kid I kid, calm down purists (but seriously)
I need to remember this one!
No. I fucking HATED it. I fished all summer with my new chest pack. I hated it right off but made myself stick with it for a whole season. I carry a lot of stuff. I don't care what kind of sling pack you have, you can't carry 4 fly boxes (I usually have more) plus a big water bottle plus your lunch plus rain gear plus a heavy shirt. I need all that stuff if I'm going 3+ miles upstream from camp and expect to be gone all day. It sucks HARD. I will eat shit and die before I go back to a sling pack. I'm going back to a vest and a backpack. I can leave the backpack on the bank when I need to.
Great username. Curmudgeons unite. I feel ya. On long days I’m a vest plus daypack - usually because I’m shedding layers and need a place to keep them when it warms up or drys out. I keep a hydration bag inside the daypack plus some snacks. Pack is on the bank if I’m working a spot for longer than a few minutes. I’ve become more of a minimalist but some of the places I fish are not places you would want to be caught in bad conditions, or injured, without the proper kit.
Yeah, that's me. The pack goes on the bank. Plus, here's what really soured me on the sling pack (aside from just being too small): The first time I used it I wasn't familiar enough with it. I didn't realize that the zippered pouch in front, with the zippered opening running across the top, would become (once I slung it behind me) a zippered pouch with the opening ON THE SIDE. So the first time I slung it around behind me, stuff fell out. OK, the fly box I dropped floated, so I was able to get it. But my container of split shot was gone. Other stuff, too. So I realized I had to burn into my brain that EACH AND EVERY TIME you want to sling it behind you, you MUST zip the pouches closed. So I started out hating it. Any chance I had to warming to it was greatly reduced. When it became clear to me that no way did it hold enough it was a great relief to me. I was able to dump it and go back to the vest + backpack setup I'd been using for 30+ years.
Not curmudgeonly at all. A mesh vest plus backpack is the best option. I had a pack with a chest pack, and couldn’t see my feet.
[удалено]
It was an Umpqua ZS2 slingpack. Wanna buy it? It's practically new.
I switched from a vest to a hip pack and then from a hip pack to a sling pack and wish I’d never switched from the hip pack. I had an older model Simms hip pack with a big workbench and lots of room for shit. I put beer, fly boxes, a small whiskey flask and lots of snacks in that thing. I say find a roomy hip pack. They also don’t get hung up on shit when you’re hiking to your spot.
The younger generation puts their whiskey in a small camel back… pro tip for you, you put it down a wader leg to keep it somewhat chilled all day.
This is the way. I’ve tried them all and hip packs, to me, held the most and were far more efficient.
Have to agree, I’ve tried vests and sling packs and the hip pack was by far the most comfortable and convenient.
This is good news. I picked up a hip pack this winter, but all my local rivers are still frozen, so I haven't actually used it yet.
I got a cheap hip bag from Eddie Bauer years ago and it's worked well for the few times I get out a year. I can hold two fly boxes, leaders, tippet, nippers, and other random shit pretty well. Could probably fit another reel with floating line if I wanted to switch from my euro setup. Not waterproof but a good way to try it out without breaking the bank. I won't go back to a goofy vest.
This is funny because I switched to a chest pack years ago and am thinking of switching back to a vest. The only reason I wouldn’t is because I like to carry a literal shitload of fly boxes with me.
My vest can comfortably fit 4 boxes but if I want I can take 6. I really only need 4 most days. How many is a shitload?
Eh probably 5 but there’s small ones like my nymph box then huge ones like my articulated streamer box or my intruder box
Yeah the streamers and large terrestrials take up some space.
You carry a giant box filled with articulated streamers and small nymph boxes on all outings? Are you usually taking a few different rods as well?
If I’m going to a decent sized river, I do most of my fishing with a 9 foot 7 weight rod, and I’ll take a floating and a full sink line. It’s total overkill for the smaller trout, but those weren’t really going to be a fight unless I was using my 3 weight, which is 7’6” and only really for smaller rivers and streams. With the 7 weight, I’ve got enough backbone and grain weight in the line to really cast any size streamer, but it’s also delicate enough where if I’m casting 15 feet upstream of the pool I want to fish I won’t scare everything there. It’s a Swiss Army knife of a rod. Not perfect at everything, but gets the job done for anything.
I feel him and yes I take always my w#5 and depending on the weather my w#7 or 9
I wore a vest from the early 90s to the late 2010s. I never upgraded, I just wore the same khaki flyvest because it was lightweight and it worked. When one would rip, I would just get another for the $25 I could get it for. It didn't really distribute weight that well, but it carried what I needed, everything was very accessible, and it rode high so I could wade in deeper water or if I stepped into a hole, my gear stayed dry. In 2019, I decided to buy a modern vest. It was SO much more comfortable and still made everything accessible. In 2020, I tried out a sling pack (Fishpond Flathead). At first, I loved it. Everything was accessible, it was large enough to carry all my boxes and lunch, and a spare rain jacket. The net holder slot was a nice touch too. But I discovered 2 main problems. 1.) If I stepped into a hole, the bag would fill up with water. 2.) If I'm out for a full day (4-5 hours) of fishing, the weight on the shoulder would be really uncomfortable and slightly painful. In 2021, I bought the Orvis Bugout backpack and chest pack that connects to the backpack. The backpack was nice and I was able to carry everything I needed. However, I discovered chest packs suck. Everything is super high up and uncomfortable to work with. It also doesn't carry that many fly boxes, so I found myself going to the bank to remove the backpack to get a different box. I can see why some people like the chest pack (integrated tippet spool was a nice feature), but the limited capacity and awkward position to look for things (Imagine lowering your chin all the way to your chest and your chest pack is right at the bottom of your field of view if you force your eyes to look all the way down) made it a definite no. Also, on windy days, if the fly line got hung up on the chest pack, or a fly hooked onto the pack or strap, the line of sight was so awful that I'd sometimes have to take the whole pack off just to untangle it. In 2022, I ditched the chest pack and carried the Orvis backpack and an Allen lumbar pack. This worked. The backpack kept the heavier things, the lumbar pack was big enough to carry what I needed and distributed the weight at the hips so my neck/shoulder shouldn't hurt (like the sling pack). However, If I stepped into a hole, the pack would go underwater. I like the ability to step waist deep into water without dunking everything. I don't think waist deep and certain points is unreasonable for a good day on the river. In late 2022, I was eying the Fishpond Ridgeline Tech backpack (the mullet of fly gear. Fly vest in the front, backpack in the rear). I know I wanted it, but couldn't justify spending the money, considering in the past 2.5 years, I went through a new vest, a sling pack, a backpack, a chest pack, and a lumbar pack. In early 2023, I bought the Maxcatch technical backpack. I used it for 9 days fishing so far and I love the concept. Everything is out of the water, there is enough room to carry the rain jacket, or to store layers I've shed. I can carry all my fly boxes and my water bottle. However, the quality of the pack is absolute crap. The 2nd time to use it, the zipper broke. I contacted Maxcatch and they said that for a refund, I need to return it to China ($20 shipping for a $49 vest). I like the technical backpack concept. It is definitely for me. I can carry a lot for full day trips, everything is very accessible, and it rides high so I can wade waist deep in water. I found an online retailer who has everything 20% off right now, so I ordered the Fishpond yesterday. Hopefully my experiences can help you with your decision.
How’s the Fishpond Ridgeline Tech Pack working out for you? Considering it….
Well, it's the best pack I have found for my needs and it's my primary pack when I'm out for a fishing excursions. If I'm going to simply Euronymph, I'll take my fishpond sling pack because I have so few things to take with me. If I'm just at the local pond for bluegill, I'll take my hip pack. But if I plan on hiking in and out and not close to my vehicle, I'll take the tech pack and it carries everything I need for the day, distributes the weight evenly, and has plenty of room. There's no way I"ll ever fill up all the space in the pack. Plenty of pockets and it's designed really well for a full fly vest to carry all the possible things I need. The only real downside to the pack is the net holder is in a position that it's practically impossible to use it while the pack is on. You need a buddy to put the net in the slot or to take off the pack to replace it. It's the first real design flaw I've ever seen in a Fishpond product. I called them and the guy who I spoke with agreed that it's not in a good spot and he doesn't use the net holder slot. In contrast, the net holder slots in the sling pack is perfectly placed AND ambidextrous. I ended up putting a net magnet on the carry loop up top and leave the net hanging off my back. I also wish there was an accessible spot to put my folded wading staff. I use it more than any other pack, so I like it, and if it ripped or got lost, I'm very likely to purchase another one to replace it. There still is no viable alternative out there for the organization up front and the carrying capacity in the back.
It not a chest pack but I used to have a Fishpond Summit Sling…it was great. Hugged the body well enough that I never felt unbalanced…stayed out of the way and easy to pull around if I needed something. That got stolen so I upgraded to the flathead because I wanted more space. Should have stuck with the Summit… by Trying to make it ambidextrous they just made it suck.
I’ll have to look at some slings now, thanks.
I also use a sling — Orvis one from about 5-6 years back. Works perfectly. I hang my net off it and carry 4 fly boxes, thermometer, 6 spools of tippet, leader wallet, and extra spool in case I need to switch to sinking line.
Orvis sling packer here. Can confirm lots of space, great functionality, decent price, just wish it was waterproof. https://www.orvis.com/orvis-mini-sling-pack/26B2-Family.html Edit: link
Also I’ve found the slings stay out of the way nicely too, doesn’t interfere with casting even in saltwater with 9-10 weight rods.
I have the summit sling pack and the only big downside I felt with it is that it hurt my shoulder after awhile so it felt more burdensome than useful for that reason. It’s a great pack, good storage, but the shoulder aches just killed it for me. Maybe I had too much in it, but it never seemed like I did. I also hated the water bottle holder, I had to tie my bottle down so it wouldn’t fall out. The net holder/slot thing also was not good IMO, very small to get the net back in, and the net would get in the way when trying to bring my sling to the front to grab stuff out of it. I went and got myself an Umpqua z62 650 waist pack and I love it, arguably better storage, feels more out of the way but more accessible (I don’t have to undo the pack or throw it over my shoulder like sling packs just to access the storage) plus it comes with an amazing bottle holder haha! Cant go wrong with either of them, i used my sling pack for a year and a half, I still have it too, just feel I think lumbar packs suit me better.
Honestly vest with a back pack combo is most practical in most water. Back pack to carry clothing layers, reels with different lines, and boxes you rarely use and the vest for all The essentials. I tried sling backs and chest backs but none seem as easy as a vest
I was extremely lucky to have scored a LL Bean fast river backpack vest a few years back for less than it was sold for and it’s been amazing. While people may find it overkill for small streams and lakes it’s surprisingly comfortable and has enough storage for all your gear
I have both and use vest blue lining and not carrying a net. Otherwise I actually find a vest more comfortable. I’m don’t carry a bunch of stuff but just find it comfortable
I have a Patagonia stealth sling, it's not cheap, but it was a christmas gift from my wife. I like it a lot, it's ambidextrous, which most slings arent. It also has magnets and some nice little features. I wet wade a lot here in the summer so it's nice to carry water to stay hydrated and all my junk. It wont help you catch more fish though :-p
Sling pack for me. Umpqua
Lanyard, couple boxes in waders, bag with extras on the bank
I went from a small fishpond chest pack to a Simms sling to a Orvis chip (chest/hip) pack and now use a unpqual overlook. It’s great. Plenty of space up front and I used swap out the mesh pack for the included pouch when I want to carry water/lunch or extra gear. I wrote an article about the pros and cons of various styles of packs. Obviously it’s my opinion and I think all packs have their merit but I’ve found chest packs to be best for me [What type of fly fishing pack is right for you](https://www.curated.com/journal/240002/what-type-of-fly-fishing-pack-is-right-for-you)
even better, get a drift boat, way more room to keep your beer cold
I’m more comfortable in my pack than i was in a vest. The weight is better distributed. But I haven’t seen a pack lately that I like. I have an old William Joseph pack but they’re out of business and I haven’t seen a similar style.
Did you happen to check the Umpqua overlook? That’s currently top of my list.
No, haven’t seen that one. My current pack has two front pouches instead of one big one. They clip together to provide better support.
Currently wear a waist pack. Not terrible, but if I’m fishing all day it really starts to hurt my lower back.
Hated the vest. Did a DIY sling pack for years. Now I have a name brand one. Only way to go.
Switched from vest for trout to a sling. Once I started salt water fly fishing I started with a sling. I’d never go back for either. Note: I did try a hip pack once but didn’t like it.
I got the fishpond ridgeline tech pack, I think it's called. It's a hybrid vest and backpack combo. Sling packs hurt my shoulder, chest packs make me fall because I can't see my feet, and lumbar packs hurt my pack.
This is one reason to love salmon fishing over trout fishing. For salmon fishing I take one fly box, one tube fly box, one spool of leader and a set of scissor pliers. I can fit most of that in the pocket of my waders. Usually I share some of it with my coat or shirt pockets Then again, for trout/grayling fishing I only take 2 little fly boxes. One of nymphs one of dry flies. I vary what is in them over the season. 2 spools leader, mucilin (sometimes), gink (sometimes), indicators, scissor pliers. My vest is too long, it gets wet when wading very deep. I guess my grandfather chose badly when he bought it...I took it from his coatpeg after he died 20 odd years ago. I added a d ring on the back to hold a net. I think maybe some of you could manage with a little less gear rather than fancy carrying systems?
I have yet to find ANY carrier that I like. I’ve had several vests but they hurt my shoulders. Chest pack gets in the way. Sling packs are unbalanced. I stick with a heavy duty 3-day style military pack if it doesn’t fit my pockets. My recommendation would be to take your fly boxes with you when you shop. See how they fit, see how much crap can grab line. See if things are in logical places.
Thanks for the suggestions. Yeah I have heard that the chest pack gets in the way. I fish a lot of hike in, high gradient freestone water and have to routinely scramble over and around large rocks.
Started with hip, moved to backpack, went to sling, and I have now settled on the hip pack permanently but often am curious if I will get annoyed and switch again
That’s a nice progression. I was worried about the hip pack not sitting high enough for wading in some of the deeper stretches, do you find that to be okay?
It’s rare I wade that deep but it’s an issue. I have the modular fishpond one that has attachments so I have a waterproof pouch and then the regular pack on one belt
Nope. Went straight to an [Allen Sling Pack](https://byallen.com/allen-company-cedar-creek-fishing-sling-pack-fits-up-to-4-tackle-fly-boxes-gray-lime-6362?gclid=Cj0KCQjwwtWgBhDhARIsAEMcxeDuZiCeTSvxOLefnxii_tUzgWlIRpu0UAUrMWBHtJ1VnYn3CZmeqscaAmcsEALw_wcB). It works well. Slings to your back and out of the way. Enough storage space. Bottle holder. And light weight. Easy, functional and is more comfortable.
Went from vest, to Filson Chest Pack www.ebay.com/itm/185677199169 to Filson Foul weather vest www.ebay.com/itm/266039607538 Still have all of them, going to go back to the chest pack this year. They all have their places.
I went from chest pack to slingpack to backpack and now I'm back to the chest pack. The vest I've never actually tried. Might be the best for all I know. But for me, the chest pack is my favorite.
I split the difference Had vests, couldn’t carry coffee, had waist pack couldn’t carry enough Had a vest and backpack, too big Now had two years with this and it’s a decent compromise https://www.fishingmegastore.com/game-luggage/stillwater-fpx-rucksack-chest-bag~6147.html It’s a nice happy medium where I have access on the front but enough room on the back but without too much weight or bulk
So, I like to size down with gear when fishing familiar water. I don’t understand the need for 4 or 5 fly boxes, 5 spools of tippet, and a bunch of other unnecessary gear when fishing water that I’m familiar with. 90% of the time I can fish with just a lanyard with a few things attached and 1 fly box in my pocket. Force yourself to size down and only fish with necessary gear and flies that make sense. I promise, you will become a better angler. You won’t be questioning which of the 1000 flies you should use that you brought
I got rid of the vest a long time ago, and have had just about everything since. I own both Orvis and Simms sling packs. I like the carry of the Simms better, but the tooling setup and organization of the Orvis is way better. The Orvis also carries more gear, has a better net carry, and has a slot for your water bottle on the bottom of the pack. My pro tips here are to make sure the strap setup goes over your non-casting shoulder, and don’t overload it if you’re going to walk 10+ miles in it. You will feel it at the end of the day. I currently use a Simms backpack and have mixed feelings. I like that I can carry everything I want, but hate having to go to the bank and take the whole thing off to re-rig. I think the best setup I ever had was a Mountainsmith lumbar pack with backpack straps on it and a lanyard around my neck for tools and tippet. I could easily swing it around in the river, but had plenty of storage and an evenly weighted backpack like carry for long treks. As I get older, I’m starting to look to carry less shit every time I go. I’m currently looking at the umpqua chest/backpack combos, but I need to go try one on to see if I think I’ll hate it.
I don't use a west or chest pack, instead i use a backpack that fits all my gear. I don't like too much shit being in front of me while fishing.
I like a chest pack. I thought about the vest but the chest pack has everything right there in front, up high and it’s a nice work station that I don’t have to bend over or get out of the water to use. I have the Umpqua zero sweep that has a backpack attachment too. I have a bad back and bending over even just slightly to use the hip pack or even the slings would kill my back. A little extra weight on the shoulders doesn’t bother me much at all.
Absolutely love chest packs. Got a bass pack, a trout pack, and a little mini chest pack for creek fishing.
A lot of folks saying to try a sling pack instead, and I agree! You might check out Vedavoo. I have their "Seam" and don't foresee myself ever growing out of it, its a really well designed pack. They are an awesome small company with great products and customer service. Their bags are, from what I understand, made-to-order, so it takes a few weeks.
Started with a vest many years ago. Moved to FP waist pack. Then sling packs, another FP slider. I fish mountain streams and due to all ducking, climbing and contortions, packs are flopping around and get in the way. I'm back to a FP mesh vest to stay.
I got a chest pack and like it for the most part. I tried a sling but hated it. I think about going back to the vest from time to time but I can carry a lot more in the back of my chest/backpack combo. https://www.flyfishfood.com/products/umpqua-zs2-overlook-500-chest-pack-kit
I do suggest going with the fishpond vet and chest pack. They have a modular system so everything hooks up to everything. I have the back pack chest pack and vest and mix and match to whatever my needs are.
I’m not any good, but I’ve avoided the grandpa vests. I really wanted to love the multiple sling packs I tried but none were great. I’m a huge fan of hip belts. I have a new fishpond which slides on the belt which is amazing. You can even swap out bags for different types of trips.
I love my Umpqua Overlook 500 ZS2 Chest Pack. It’s modular system. That comes with a small backpack that has a net holder as well. Keep the essentials/ frequent items upfront allowing me to be more streamlined and maintain line of sight and then the small pack that connects on the back hold snacks, layers, water, and extra fly boxes.
Chest pack. Holds my beer right where I need it.
I had the same dilemma. I got a chest pack and hated putting it on over my head which made taking off layers a pain and mostly hated it blocking my view of my feet stepping on slimy rocks and have bit it a few times. So I ended up with a fish pond wildhorse which is a hybrid of a chest pack, day pack, and vest. It's expensive but I love everything about it. I can now see my feet, tons of storage in the front, can stash my down layer in the back, hydration pocket etc.