NEW 2023 Orvis PRO Waterproof Sling | AvidMax Gear Reviews

[@lucyrusso131]

I have the predecessor pack to this one (non-waterproof) and I am just adjusting to it. One thing that makes it convenient is when you swing it to your front, it provides a platform to rest your reel and rod on. So don't worry about having to secure the rod under your arm pit if you don't want to. Mine also has a small pocket on the sling strap where the fellow in the video puts his hemostat. Unfortunately, this is a bit far up the strap to access easily. Orvis may have moved it down on this newer version, but check that distance out when you have the pack on so you are not surprised on the water. I solved the problem by pinning a retractable Simms zinger-like device for frequently needed small tools. My pack is a bit smaller than the one in the video and I would like it to be smaller yet, so check out the size. I think either one of these will suffice for day trips up to the mountain lakes. Evan on the river or lake, I can put a rain jacket, sandwich, water bottle and multiple fly boxes, among smaller stuff, like leaders, etch.

[@PlayingWithHistory]

Great presentation.

[@AvidMax]

Thanks for watching

[@1995GKM]

Great review. Do you know how well the Orvis Hand Net fits in the ner slide? Trying to decide between the hand net and guide net. Thanks!

[@critStock]

Super helpful review. One kind of bummer thing is that anything you attach to the strap on the front becomes useless to you when you swing the pack around to the front, because it's now out of reach behind your back. I'm going to need to a workaround. They should take a page out of Fishpond's book and make the attachment panel slide freely up and down the shoulder strap, so that you can keep it in front when you slide the pack around.

[@critStock]

Actually, now that I look at the Fishpond site, they don't have the sliding tool panel on their slings, but they do on their lumbar packs. Fishpond and Orvis should both implement this on their slings somehow. That would be da bomb!

[@Alex-zs4vb2lt5c]

Since it is recessed, does the tippet holder hold some of the larger tippet spools, like 80mm Maxima tippet spools?

[@AvidMax]

Sorry to say it really only works well with standard size freshwater tippet. All brands as far as we know.

[@Alex-zs4vb2lt5c]

@@AvidMax Thanks for the reply! I had been thinking of using this for saltwater... winding the larger tippet onto old spools is an option though

[@kingofduck4899]

Does it have something to attach an extra rod tube to (like straps at the side of some sort)? Like the Simms / Fishpond waterproof sling packs?

[@AvidMax]

It does not

[@blackflycreations]

May be time to upgrade my Orvis guide sling to Waterproof 👍

[@AvidMax]

Lots of pros to a waterproof pack! Orvis did a great job with these.

[@FD-dh2fu]

Great info. Wish there were straps on the outside to hold the jacket when not in use. The water bottle holder seems a bit too fragile. I wonder if it was an after thought. Should have been longer to hold anything not just a water bottle. Maybe even a jacket etc…

[@FD-dh2fu]

How about the fishpond thunder head in comparison? Which one would be better? Thx

[@AvidMax]

There are a few connection points on the side of the bag...I don't think I would attach a jacket there though, it would get in the way for sure.

[@AvidMax]

I have and fish with the smaller Thunderhead Lumbar pack, I love it. The Thunderhead has over 8 attachment points around the bag...several loop style and several of the quad style for their straps. Are you local to Denver? You can swing by and we can show you both side by side.

[@FD-dh2fu]

@@AvidMax I wish. In NY. Thank you. I ordered the Orvis pack fingers crossed.

[@FD-dh2fu]

Just got the pack. Tough zipper does it get easier to use after it wears in? Very roomy feels comfortable.