Choosing a Fly Fishing Pack

This video is a beginners guide to choosing the type of fly fishing pack that is best for you. In this video we give our thoughts on the pros and cons between a vest, chest pack, sling pack, and waist pack. We hope that this information will be of some use and will aid in helping you to begin a lifelong hobby - fly fishing!
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[@DavidML777]

I was surprised at how helpful and informative this video is, thank you for spending the time and money to put it together

[@BackyardBassin]

Thanks for the kind words! I'm really glad that you found the video helpful. Thank you for watching, and best of luck on the water!

[@qwertyhjbvcdfyhjk]

Could you send me links to those bags?

[@mikemagwiresr9500]

Very helpful! Well done, unbiased, thought provoking. Thank you for providing this great example of well done info video.

[@seanearnest]

Thanks for the informative breakdown! I have been using my old Filson medium field bag for a long while now, designed to be worn over the shoulder with the bag at your side, and it has started to weigh down on me lately, especially since getting more into high-stick nymphing and developing "nympher's shoulder" hehe. I am on the lookout for a solution that will allow me to transport ample equipment without so much fatigue and ideally will stay high on my body to avoid a soaking when wading deeper. I had counted out chest packs because I'm not typically a fan of having stuff in front of me while I'm casting, but I guess i need to give it another look. I admit I have been considering a few sling packs, but am discouraged from them after watching your video. Thanks again & looking forward to more great content. Seán

[@FishingFinAddict]

Really great review, guys! Thorough yet concise. 👍👍 Wish we had seen this before we got a pack.

[@BackyardBassin]

Thanks for the kind words! As great as this pack is, unfortunately they no longer sell it since the company went out of business. Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment! Tight lines!

[@ronuhlenhopp9368]

The reviews are much appreciated. Thank you! Ron.

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad you like them! It is our pleasure. Thank you for watching!

[@carlstatham594]

I agree. I'm well behind the times with a Hardy bag. This actually gives you lots of 'oh ... of course moments'. Many thanks.

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad you enjoyed the video! Thanks for watching and thanks for the comment!

[@charlieboutin3341]

Great video! Wore vest for 30 years, mostly saltwater. Started flyfishing 3 years ago, been through 2 more different vests, a waist pack ( I like it best but I deep wade a lot) a small chest pack and now been using sling pack for months, like it but agree that shoulder and neck suffer after hours on the water. Just received a new lightweight vest, basically pouches on straps, will be testing it this week and think I’m going to enjoy it. I’m a minimalist, now I mostly bass fish in Texas heat so have to have a water bottle or 2, a fly box, 2 extra leaders, 2 sizes of tippet, forceps tool with cutter/hook sharpener and sometimes a net. Thanks for your reviews, I pretty much agree on 100% of what you said. 👍👍 Best wishes for big fishes! 🐟+🎣 = 🙂

[@BackyardBassin]

Thanks for sharing! Sounds like you jave plenty of experience with multiple different types of packs. That new vest of yours sounds nice. The straps as opposed to a fully covered vest probably help in the heat a lot. Tight lines to you!

[@pastortlc1]

Thank you. Very informative! Well done!

[@MikeScofieldComposer]

Great video. Well done and it gave me just the info I was looking for. Thanks

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad it helped! Thanks for watching

[@fredanderson7952]

Nicely done. You have helped me make an informed decision.

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad we were able to help. Thanks for watching!

[@evanwindom3265]

One other thing to think about. I know that no one who watches these videos would EVER end up falling into deeper water, ever. But if someone did, they'd probably want to know they could get out of that gear in hurry. I fish some pretty strong water sometimes, and tend to also wear an inflatable floatation device, so my gear choices have to take that into account. So far, I haven't found anything that does everything I want it to do, so I keep trying different mixes of things.

[@Piedscooter1]

As a Central Pennsylvania fisherman, I will stick with the vest / chestbox combo. I have a magnificent made in Idaho "Flies On Water" aluminum green anodized three tray chestbox with four internal tippet dispensers, and a coil zip tube that I attach a tippet nipper. Unfortunately, they are out of business. I did use a Supr-Takl-Pak vest, but I decided to "lighten the load" (somewhat), and went to a Filson Strap Vest that only has the lower section of a regular vest in front, but has the traditional back big pouch. This longish upper strap vest allows for un-obstructed access to the chestbox. I also carry three additional flyboxes in the vest. I like "technical" fishing. But like John Gierach, I got rid of stuff I did not use.

[@BackyardBassin]

Sounds like a pretty good system! That box sounds pretty nice especially! The traditional vest and chest box is a proven system over the years. Some of the best fly fisherman that I know use the same system. Arguably the best fly fisherman in the present time, Joe Humphreys, uses vest/chest box so no one can deny it's effectiveness! Thanks for watching!

[@duck_rifle5879]

Sounds great. I’d love to know where I can get one.

[@jdoza5184]

Excellent observation on the sling pack. I haven’t purchased one yet because I believe the strap should be designed to go over the left shoulder not the right for the right handed casters.

[@BackyardBassin]

+J Doza I couldn't agree more! That is the biggest knock I have on them! Thanks for watching and sharing your opinion!

[@smctrout4423]

@@BackyardBassin Vedavoo makes sling packs for either shoulder. You specify when you order.

[@primebeef3938]

Orvis sling packs are designed for the non casting shoulder.

[@ronuhlenhopp9368]

Very informative. I use vintage Wood River deluxe trout bags with waist belt and shoulder strap...one of the best bags to date in my view. Many more features than any of the options you displayed. Great storage and a place to put your rain jacket. I use Solvkroken folding telescopic trout nets that are extremely light and have a large aluminum clip and the net folds into itself. The only thing I add is a small cooler for water. The Wood river can be velcro-adjusted so the pack raises from waist level to chest level for wading. Manufacturers should study and incorporate this bag's design and features for the avid trout stream fly fisher who appreciates quality and functionality at its best. Ron.

[@BackyardBassin]

Sounds like a great bag! We'll have to check it out!

[@MrSurfangler]

Very informative, thank-you for spending the time to make our time on the water more enjoyable. How would you rate a sling pack that sits on the left shoulder? I saw the new Orvis guide slingpack 2021 and was interested in it but I am not sure how it would feel after a long day of fishing ,I am a centrepin fisherman and fish the great lakes for Salmon and steelhead. Carring a big net such as a Nomad guide new or a mid length boat net is an import aspect of me making a decision .

[@anvilhead59]

I have to disagree with what you consider the best choice for a pack. I started with a vest, but it got heavy and hot in the midst of summer. My back would ache and that was when I did not load it up. I fish freestone rivers in Montana usually 30 to 40 days per year with a bit of walking involved to get to areas away from the access sites. A chest pack is the worst method as it blocks clear vision of the ground in front of you (for fast flowing freestones, not the Madison, Missouri, Bighorn, or Yellowstone, etc). I opted for a combination hip/over-the-shoulder pack as the go to pack for everyday fishing. I wanted light and efficient and I know I made the right choice. I am right-handed and I sling it over my right shoulder. I keep the pack behind my left hip as it gets in the way if it's to my side or in front when I'm stripping line. I've had the Fishpond Blue River pack for quite some time now. It is NOT large, but carries almost everything. It has a loop in the shoulder strap for a net. The pack has a storage for the hip belt. I've yet to cut the hip straps off (they take up some volume in the pack). I use a lanyard around my neck for tippet spools, floatant, scissors/pliers, nippers, etc. I do throw my day fly box in a shirt or wader pocket for easy access. That is the box with the flies that I am certain I will most use that day.

[@streetpunk99]

Knew as soon as I heard you speak you were a Pennsylvanian like me 😄

[@jorisbonson1990]

Just what i needed to decide

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad the video was helpful!

[@jhubert22]

very helpful ... thank you

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thank you for watching!

[@pfpublius]

Beginner here, also short. Seems like the chest pack is my best option since water gets deeper quicker for me. Any insight from similarly challenged anglers?

[@theoutdoorangler1173]

I rock the Waist/Hip pack. I’m considering a sling pack, what’s your go to?

[@BackyardBassin]

My go to is a chest pack! I like the convenience of having everything right in front of me for any quick adjustment to my rig that I need to make. Also keeping my gear up and out of the water is a plus so my things are safe in almost any wading situation. Umpqua makes a really nice chest pack that is worth checking out if you are interested. There are so many packs out there so it's not an easy decision lol thanks for watching and commenting!

[@CarlosGarcia-507]

Backyard Angling How did you attach your go pro mount to the front strap on the sling pack?

[@BeetleBuns]

Would also like to see the answer to this

[@markmacintyre3422]

I abandoned my vest ages ago....switched to a low-profile hydration pack and small fly box and tippet pack (with zingers for floatant/nippers) that clips on a shoulder strap D-ring. I find having the water “at my fingertips” makes it much more likely that I’ll stay properly hydrated. I often become a flyfishing zombie, especially when head-hunting, and don’t drink near enough during the day. The pack I use (Think: Platypus/Camelback) can handle a bunch of gear without getting too bulky. Usually carry a light windshell, larger flyboxes/streamers, a mini first aid kit, sunscreen and a couple of power bars. The wide mouth bladder can accommodate mostly ice cubes in the hot summer months, making it a mini air conditioner for my back! Thanks for a thoughtful and informative video!

[@BackyardBassin]

That sounds like a good system that you have going there! I especially like the air conditioning for your back idea! I might have to try that one of these days. Thanks for sharing!

[@markmacintyre3422]

Here’s what I’m talking about... i5.walmartimages.com/asr/ff890cbf-8c86-477a-8837-73eccc560ec8_1.64dce30d8ab4a04604b748001cabf4d2.jpeg?odnHeight=450&odnWidth=450&odnBg=FFFFFF

[@BackyardBassin]

Nice! Thanks for passing along the link!

[@charlesmackay1301]

backpack hands down period

[@BackyardBassin]

Why do you think a backpack? Curious to get your thoughts, pros and cons, etc. Thanks for your input!

[@charlesmackay1301]

Backyard Angling It more that i do not like any of the alternatives . A backpack allows me to carry rain gear, lunch, an extra rod or two. If yiu get a fly fishing specific backpack there is plenty of room for hemos, floatant on the front straps and you can keep a lathe flu box with assorted flies in yiur wader/ jacket pocket. It is also best option for comfort while hiking to w spot

[@evanhammond7305]

I preferred the chest pack only because i can combine it with my backpack when im on longer days.

[@BackyardBassin]

Sounds like a good method to carry a lot of gear and have the essentials right in front of you at the same time. Thanks for the tip!

[@kingsgirl1182]

Chest pack it is, Thank you!

[@BackyardBassin]

Glad this was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@humbugvideos]

What brand of hip pack is that? Looks really nice

[@BackyardBassin]

It's a William Joseph. Unfortunately they are no longer in business though. Thanks for watching!

[@billemshoff9335]

I found a William Joseph Confluence pack, but it has zippers instead of magnetics. Do you think that will be an issue?

[@BackyardBassin]

I really like the magnets vs the zipper. The magnets is arguably my favorite thing about the pack. It is all personal preference though. They layout of the packs should be almost identical though.

[@raywalteroutdoors]

I narrowed my choice down easily. I wanted fly submersible there aren't many options. I chose Simms Dry Creek Z. I wade deep water and got tired of emptying my bag to dry it out.

[@qwertyhjbvcdfyhjk]

Where can I buy a chest box online?

[@russellkastner400]

For a beginner save your money and buy a $20-30 regular day pack, works just as good and you won't go broke.

[@BackyardBassin]

Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching!

[@RainCity3rd]

I just used a common hiking backpack for years of gear fishing and same for fly fishing until eventually getting a hipbag on sale. Best is what ever gets you out there fishing. I did find that the backpack i tended to leave on the riverside and would have to go back and grab. Hip pack so comfortable. sits lower so for deep water which is rare i just temporary sling over my shoulder for a crossing.

[@nbe386]

I found that the chest pack was too close to my face, even fully estended. Your thoughts please

[@BackyardBassin]

That's a valid reason to not like a chest pack. I personally like having it higher on my chest as opposed to lower around my hips or midsection like a hip pack or sling pack would be. I would just recommend going with whatever feels the best for you. Thanks for watching!

[@johnb5514]

I'm not a fan of sling packs at all. Glad I'm not the only one!

[@BackyardBassin]

I have no idea why they are so popular! Definitely my least favorite pack by far haha

[@JackSchweitzer]

Well, at nearly 70, 62 years on trout streams in my home state of PA and the last 25 years in my new home in the Rockies, never been fatigued after wearing my Richardson Fly Box and a traditional vest. As to access to flies in windy conditions, none compare. That said, pricing for Richardson is ridiculous. The plastic knock-offs work just as well at a fraction of the cost. Not a criticism, just an observation. Blondes or brunettes? Just a matter of personal choice.

[@BackyardBassin]

I think there are even alternatives to the Richardson that still have the beautiful craftsmanship now. I like trying different systems and would go back to it in a second of it didn't require reorganization of all my boxes. But then again, that's the the winters are for! Thanks for watching and sharing your thoughts! Always good to hear the opinions of fellow fishermen with roots in PA!

[@JackSchweitzer]

Winter....the lying season!

[@alexargyros7186]

@@BackyardBassin Could you tell me what the alternatives to the Richardson fly box are? Also, what is the little black thing that you have glued to your Downs box? Finally, is this comment saying that as of today you would prefer a Richardson-type box and vest over a chest pack? Btw, thanks for the very informative video.

[@glenndotter5065]

like you, at 70 and having a flyrod put in my hand at 7 in NE PA, and living in CO the past 40 years. I have been a vest guy and will remain one.

[@JackSchweitzer]

@@glenndotter5065 I use ‘‘em all depending on where I’m fishing. I live 5 mins from the Rio Cimarron and go minimalist there. Hiking in to more remote water vest & Richardson. Where in PA Glenn?

[@shawnvance5717]

What brand is the chest pack?

[@BackyardBassin]

The pack in the video is a William Joseph Confluence. Unfortunately, William Joseph is no longer in business. I would say that the most comparable pack that is available today is the Fishpond Crosscurrents chest pack.

[@bonesjones1658]

After all the work you put into this video, you don't even include some links to products??????

[@BackyardBassin]

They don't sell any of these products anymore.

[@KarlMySuitcase]

I must use sling or maybe hip. Having a bunch of shit in front all the time drives me INSANE with rage.

[@BackyardBassin]

good point! Its amazing how nice today's chest packs are though and the good visibility that they still provide. Plus it's really nice having everything right in front of you for efficiency purposes. I'm guessing that is why all the competition fishermen use chest packs. Thanks for the comment!

[@mrprice8636]

Chest bowx

[@TopSecretVid]

Sadly WJ no longer is around..

[@BackyardBassin]

It is a shame. What a great pack they were! We just did a video review on a similar pack from Fishpond that might interest you. Check it out if you are interested - kzbin.info/www/bejne/qKjNmaJuapuegsU

[@ericoakley4388]

Just choose a vest.

[@bobthebuilder2922]

I can only hear intro music but no speaking. Am i the only one? Edit: never mind the audio is one sided for headphones

[@cultofpeasants7398]

Lol

[@bobthebuilder2922]

@@cultofpeasants7398 yeah i know😂

[@adventureswithfrodo2721]

Just a rambling ad.

[@shanemccoy8107]

See, nymphs just create unnecessary weight and bulk, leave em' out. Stop flaunting that stupid chest pack that no one can get. Never a huge fan of the sling packs and hip packs are obsolete.

[@BackyardBassin]

I would have to disagree, but we are each entitled to our own opinion. Thanks for watching

[@shanemccoy8107]

Disagree in what aspects? I'm just funning you man, I want that William Joeseph! Nice vid.