Orvis Safe Passage Sling Pack: My FAVORITE Vest

[@TimCammisa]

Favorite packs and bags here: www.tacticalflyfisher.com/packs-and-bags/?aff=2

[@anthonyurbano8605]

Tim, thanks for the review on the sling pack. I bought this last year when I started fishing again after a 25 year hiatus and I took up fly fishing. It didn't thrill me because I always used a traditional vest. I've bought a few chest packs and I like them ok. The clip on strap was a turnoff. You have convinced me to give the sling another shot! Also as far as my net I use a magnetic holder and it worked just fine. Thanks again, Anthony

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the comments, Anthony, and I'm glad the video helped! As I mentioned at the beginning, I'm still on a search for the "Holy Grail" of vests...if one exists! I went through some chest packs, but didn't like the bulk at the front. I've also seen others with waist packs, but have been hesitant to try. Have you give those any thoughts? Thanks again! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@anthonyurbano8605]

I don't think we ever stop searching for that "holy grail". I wear enough around my waist with the wader belt, wading stick and other gadgets. Oh and congratulations to you also!

[@jeffprice4611]

Net fix: I attached a magnetic release to below your tippet and to the hoop of the net. This allows the net to lay horizontal under the pack. When walking through brush where the net may hang, I simply release the magnet and let it hang as yours does now. Great honest review. Thanks

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the feedback, Jeff, and I appreciate the kind words. So do your move the net release to the lower tippet clip? I have looked at it and wonder if it's strong enough? I was on a tailwater this week and attached the net in a lower position while fishing, but when wading deep, the line was getting wrapped around the net. Basically, back to the drawing board for me! Tim www.troutandfeather.com/

[@jeffprice4611]

Tim Cammisa I may not explained well enough. Keep the retractor where you have now. Add half a second magnetic release to the lower tippet clip and Velcro the other half of the magnetic release to the hoop of the net near the top but to off to the side. When walking carry as usual. When fishing pull the net like your going to net a fish but only slightly down so the second magnetic release comes together. The end of the net will now be at your side but the handle will still be behind you and the keeper will be slightly extended. You still have to reach back but as far. The handle end has the retractor and half a magnet and the other half is hanging near the retractor. Let me know if I’ve confused you and I’ll try to email you a video.

[@VandrefalkTV]

I bought this to replace a backpack I've used for years and years for all kinds of things, including when I go tenkara fishing. Getting it in the mail in a couple of days, I can't WAIT! :D And thank you for the video and the info and ideas! :D

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, and I hope you like the sling. Once you've used it for awhile, let me know your thoughts, as I always love to hear what others are thinking, too. Email: [e-mail] Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@tmglvr]

You appear to be a pretty "down to earth" guy....your passion for fly fishing is apparent. Thanks for sharing. ( I did order one for the record based on your review).

[@TimCammisa]

Thank you for the kind words, and this is the pack I've continued to use the last couple weeks...fly fishing in the snow! ;-) Let me know your thoughts after you've used it a few times. Thanks again! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@johnshand6176]

Thanks for your honest appraisal. I purchased a Simms sling pack only to have to give it to a friend due to the magnets on the strap. On a fishing trip to British Columbia, I suffered Cardiac arrest and required 29 days in Kelowna Hospital. I was fitted with a pacemaker and defibrillator so are unable to wear anything with magnets on it due to the interference these place on the apparatus. Once you mentioned magnets on the hemostat cover flap I thought oh no I can't buy this one either. Just thought I would mention this fact as you probably advise older folk, some who may have similar apparatus. Kindest thoughts from down-under in NZ.

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the kind words, John, and I appreciate the feedback. I'm sorry to hear about your experience fishing, and glad you were able to receive the help needed. After receiving your comment, I spoke with a physician, who gave the advice that the individual should check with their cardiologist regarding the specific apparatus they are using and its sensitivity with magnets. Thanks for bringing this to everyone's attention and I look forward to hearing more from you on some of my other videos. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@seanp4038]

Great video Tim! I was thinking of switching to a sling from a vest? Just wondering if your shoulder and neck got sore from a long day of fishing?

[@rickmadsen2886]

Great review, as always. I've used that same pack for several years now, but still picked up a couple of tips from your review. Also, I've solved, at least to my own satisfaction, a couple of the issues/challenges you mentioned. For the tippet holder I use a small magnetic catch (much like the Stonfo Botton (Button) service that you listed) on the bottom part of the tippet holder so I can release it and pull it up to a horizontal position when selecting tippet. As for the net, it is a bit of an issue still, but I put a strong magnetic catch on the D ring on the shoulder strap and connect the net at the net end so the handle is hanging down. It sort of lays over the water bottle and that edge of the pack and stays in place quite well. I can easily reach back and pull it loose with my left hand when ready to land a fish. I'll be glad to send pictures if desired. Thanks again for the great review.

[@rickmadsen2886]

Oh sorry, I lied (didn't mean to). The net actually hangs over the upper corner of the front pocket, which does still tend to hold it in place and makes it easy to reach with the left hand. It ends up laying pretty much in line with zipper on the main compartments. The water bottle does help to keep it from falling completely down on that side. Sorry for the overall verbose comments.

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Rick, and I appreciate your thoughts on the sling pack, too. The suggestions you offer will be great for others to consider. The net is easily the one component that troubles others the most with this style of vest...but I still love mine and will have it on the water tomorrow (in the freezing cold!). Thanks again for taking a moment. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@mtbplumber8490]

I use the Velcro strip to attach a water proof pocket

[@TimCammisa]

Smart idea, and thanks for sharing! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@jgib01]

Yes, this is designed for attaching the Silver Sonic waterproof pouch. On the net issue, I actually use a magnetic netkeeper, and attach the magnet to the top of the basket. I lay it across the top of the bag with the handle tucked loosely into the water bottle elastic (stays put for the most part. That puts the net handle on my left side when the sling is behind me, and it is pretty easy to grab with my left hand. It result in the minor inconvenience of moving the net out of the way each time I have to go into the pouch.

[@anthonyurbano8605]

I have the pocket and will incorporate with the sling pack. But I'm not understanding what you mean with regards to the net. I have a magnetic net keeper. What basket are you referring to please?

[@jgib01]

@@anthonyurbano8605 a couple of pics of what I mean here: photos.app.goo.gl/dC1pyX5fwBs6ycbQ7 photos.app.goo.gl/EaDSbYoDufSXNjV68

[@cvantanajal]

Really helpful review. Functional setup i think I might have to adopt. New subscriber looking forward to this.

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, and thanks for taking a moment to share your thoughts. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@freddysflyz]

Looks great and I agree about the net deal! Great review - thanks Tim! 👍👍

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the kind words, Freddy, and I hope all is well! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@patrickparisienne1917]

Great practical review. Seems more practical and integrated than my Simms Headwater Sling. I now use a JMC Competition chest pack so everything is at hand, but balanced across front and rear. I can see this sling being a great saltwater setup.👍🏽

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for taking a moment to comment, Patrick, and glad you've found one that works for you! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@JosephCompton66]

So I tried that pack when I first started. It was really well made, but the right shoulder sling, killed it for me. Can’t have that weight on my shoulder and fish for 7 hours. I used the veedavoo sling for a while, but I ended up using the orvis ultralight vest. Love how it organizes my tools and net, I just switch out fly boxes depending on species. I have a waterproof backpack for longer days on the water, but I leave that on the bank when I fish.

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Joe, and thanks for the comments. The sling is definitely not for everyone and it sounds like you carry enough gear within it that causes a bit of weight! The vest you are talking about (amzn.to/2KnMw2k) is a great option, plus there are many more available to us on today's market. You mentioned a backpack, and that's the one I wish I felt more comfortable fishing in...maybe in the future! Thanks again, and here's to a great holiday season! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@JosephCompton66]

@@TimCammisa I meant to tell you that I love your videos by the way. You have really taught me a lot, hope to see you at a show or in a class when the world gets back to normal.

[@scottstubbs9913]

Great review! Thinking of transitioning from a vest to a sling pack.

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks, Scott, and this continues to be my favorite. If you can purchase from a local fly shop, great. If not, here's a link that will give me a small percent (Amazon): amzn.to/35ZSQUF Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@edherrmann182]

Over many years I have used a vest. It always seems that one more gadget or gizmo to make life on the stream went along with it. As I get older and my hotdog fingers , essential tremoring hands and increasingly poor eyesight, gadgets to help knot tying and eyesight are added on. As I think about how simple a sling pack could be, where on earth would I put all my accumulated junk? As I think about possibly exiting a stream to return to the car, search for whatever; an early departure looms as a possibility. For that one reason, I guess old habits die hard. I guess my vest keeps me on the water because no gadgets are to be found for old tired legs. 😎

[@coreystoner4129]

Great video there bud. Everyone is going to want a different vest or pack depending on their need. Personally I use a umpqua zero sweep 2.0 pack with the backpack feature and I love mine

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, Corey, and thanks for mentioning your pack! Many others have recommended that one, and I have a couple that feature a backpack...perfect for a lightweight raincoat, some snacks, and LOTS of flies! ;-) Thanks again and I hope all is well. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@coreystoner4129]

Tim I carry too many flies so I have a big bottle of water and leader material

[@rickeyvarga5432]

Hey Tim, great channel and social media platforms, love all the content. I know I'm late in the game to this video/topic but I'm seeking a little advice. I'm new to trout fly fishing but have saltwater fly fished for over 30 years. I would like to go to sling packs for both trout and flats fishing. Most manufacturers produce their packs in right shoulder slings, which to me being right handed, seems like it may be fatiguing at least and interfering/cumbersome at most. Have you found this to be true? I know Orvis now makes their slings in left shoulder sling. Have you tried a left shoulder sling? And if so, have you found any disadvantage to having to pull the sling around from the right side (rod hand) rather than the left side (free hand)? ...thanks for any advice!

[@mikeinhoodriver]

Great review, I'm gonna give one a try.

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the kind words, Mike, and let me know what you think after using it. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@joshuamiller5072]

Great video been looking at this pack I think I’ll give it a try

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks, Joshua, and here's a link to purchase if you don't have a local shop nearby: amzn.to/2TpSErQ Be sure to let me know what you think! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@joeschwar5111]

Where can I get the magnet you mentioned? Brand?

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Joe, here's a link for the magnet: www.magnet-ique.com/ Thanks for checking! Tim

[@monikgagnon]

great review,, I think I will get this sling,, thanks

[@TimCammisa]

Glad you liked it, Monik! Have you purchased yet? What are your thoughts? Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@johnleahy4604]

Great review and I can understand the problem with the net for right handed casting, but you forgot that many of us are left handed and should not have an issue reaching around with our right hand.

[@TimCammisa]

You got me there, John...so what's the solution for me?!? ;-) Ha ha, and I appreciate the gentle nudge. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@djTorchLive]

Did you try out other sling packs and if you did what made you choose this one over them?

[@TimCammisa]

Hi James, and yes, I did. I used around five different sling packs and settled on this one based on fit, size, and ease of use. There were another handful that I tried in fly shops and wore around my house for a couple weeks, but never liked enough to bring on the water. With that said, I know many others, including friends, who prefer different brands for a variety of reasons. If you need any additional specifics, feel free to send me an email: [e-mail] Thanks for checking. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@julianaf3477]

Hi Tim, where do you buy a magnet like that, is there an online store?

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Juliana, and here's a link: www.magnet-ique.com/products/magmini-double If you order one, be sure to tell them I sent you. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@duderoony]

Neat review Tim. Personally, I just go with a vest although I get it that, with a sling pack, your front is clearer from obstacles. Nice pack though. Thank you for another upload dude.

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, and trust me...I've worn MANY vests and slings over the years. I'm always up for learning about new ones and if you love yours, be sure to share it and your thoughts. Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@CarlosGarcia-507]

I’m right handed. Do you find that the strap being over your right shoulder prohibits casting in any way or does it weigh down on your shoulder throughout the day?

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Carlos and I'm right-handed, too. This is a pack that's comfortable all day long for me, so I don't notice any issues with my shoulder. Hope that helps, and if you do purchase this one, let me know your thoughts after using it for a bit: [e-mail] Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@carolinawoods-n-water4392]

I really want to get a sling pack, but I can’t decide between the Orvis Safe Passage or the Fishpond Summit-both are great quality bags from awesome companies. It might come down to a flip oft he coin! Great review, brother!

[@TimCammisa]

You have two great choices there, and be sure to try both on. Many slings I tried looked great online, then when I finally had them on, the discomfort was obvious! Between those two, a quick check of specs shows that the Fishpond is slightly heavier and has less cubic inches. On the other hand, it may be slightly more durable and seems like a good choice if you prefer lots of accessories outside of the pack. You know the one I chose, so maybe others will chime in with thoughts or recommendations. Like you said, both are quality from awesome companies...but no coin flips, try them on, then return the one that's not for you. Once you've made a decision and used it, be sure to shoot me an email and let me know your thoughts on it: [e-mail] Thanks again for the kind words. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@carolinawoods-n-water4392]

Tim Cammisa...most definitely! I have tried them both in the store multiple times. There are features that I like on both, but to be honest, I lean towards the Fishpond. The quality/durability of the Fishpond seems to be slightly better (I am notoriously hard on equipment) and I absolutely love the flip down fly bench. I have a fishpond hip pack and use the bench religiously. I find that it saves time from digging into different fly boxes. Anyway, keep up the great work & videos...I find them truly educational & entertaining!

[@sdnc99new38]

great review

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks, and if there is a pack you like, be sure to mention it, as well. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@Bearshooter]

What size water bottle is that? Capacity and diameter please.

[@TimCammisa]

Hi David, and this is the Yeti 18 oz. Rambler. All dimensions are listed here, and if you need anything else, let me know: amzn.to/32Bywbm Thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@RSR-fk8ti]

Tim, lovin that shirt! Brand?

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks, and it's one of my favorite ones out there! The brand is Stio, and here's a link: www.stio.com/products/mens-eddy-shirt-ls?variant=31312875192385 Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@RSR-fk8ti]

Thanks! Btw, just ordered the larger guide pack. Great review!

[@tomfisher3117]

Hi Tim, I have to ask, did Orvis pay you for this review? Did they give you the sling pack hoping for a favorable review? I have nothing against Orvis, it's a fine company with good products. I have nothing against you, your are a good man and a truly excellent resource. I do this only for open disclosure.

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Tom, and anytime I complete a review, everything is disclosed during the video, as I'm sure you've recognized in many of my others. The companies I've formed partnerships with are always clearly cited and I only choose to work with those I deem the best. In my position, I'm able to compare many products and have chosen to complete review videos specifically for those individual products that I recommend. Much better to be positive, in my mind; there are many products related to fly fishing and fly tying that my friends and others love...but are just not for me. In this case, Orvis did not pay or ask for the review. They are a great company and offer many quality products, especially this sling! ;-) Thanks for checking, Tom, and I hope all is well. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@MrNcturkey]

Is this a Safe Passage Guide Vest.

[@MrNcturkey]

Never mind I heard you meant the guide series

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks, Mike, and it's not the Guide version. The Guide is a larger one that I felt was a bit too big for me...or else I'd be carrying 20,000 flies instead of 10,000! ;-) Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@johnnylightning1491]

Thanks for the review Tim. I don't think a sling pack is my cup of tea, it doesn't have enough discrete compartments, but hey, that's what makes the world go 'round. Keep the good stuff coming.

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, Johnny, and I appreciate you taking a moment to comment. I'm curious, which vest do you recommend for others to try? Always looking for great ones out there...as evidenced by my "collection" of vests! Thanks again. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@johnnylightning1491]

@@TimCammisa I can't really recommend a particular vest. I can tell you to figure out which one you can afford then wait another month and buy one a step better. I bought mine about 30 years ago and I wish I had gone a little better. If I were to buy one today the two things I would absolutely look for are a knit collar and a rod holder. Mine has the latter but not the former and I can't tell you how many times I've regretted not having a knit collar for comfort. Yep, I'm a cheapskate and sometimes it costs me.

[@peconicgp]

Orvis (and other companies) sell a foam patch that fits over the velcro part of the sling bag. That way when the foam gets all chewed up you can swap it out for a new one. That is what the soft velcro patch is for. I change mine out each year. I have the guide version of this bag (To carry my camera) and my son has this one. Great bags. I ran into the same problem with the tippet as you did and i ended up just connecting the tippet to the top loop and not to both loops. This way i can fold it up over the bag to more easily to get my tippet out.

[@TimCammisa]

Thanks for the great comments, Gordon, and especially for clarifying the Velcro attachment. I'll continue the conversation and say that I prefer the magnet shown over a foam patch, as barbless flies still have a tendency to fall out with the latter. Some fly patches have a cover and magnets inside, thus I would recommend those ones if they're able to attach. Re: the tippet idea...LOVE IT! Thanks for sharing this with others, and I hope all is well. Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@peconicgp]

@@TimCammisa Yup I def feel that I have lost some flies, especially the barbless jig nymph ones. Got to try that magnet out, maybe it will work better for me as well. Love your videos and your content. If you ever find yourself wanting to fish the Farmington River in CT and have questions on different spots you can reach out. I am no guide but I have been fly fishing it for over a decade.

[@carlyoshizumi831]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐👍😎👍 Thanks for sharing.

[@TimCammisa]

You got it, Carl, and thanks! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@johnmelluso2993]

On Mine I have attached a waterproof bag to it because the pack is not waterproof

[@TimCammisa]

Smart idea, John, thanks for the suggestion! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@stevestory8483]

What zingers do you recommend? And what were the name of those magnetic clips? Great video

[@TimCammisa]

Hi Steve, and thanks for the kind words. Some recommendations include: Net Retractor - amzn.to/38pqQKF Zinger for inside this vest (I like the pin on) - amzn.to/3jRc6JJ Zinger on the outside of vests - amzn.to/2SMA8tk Magnet - Magnet-ique - www.magnet-ique.com/products/magmini-double Hope that helps! Tim www.troutandfeather.com

[@stevestory8483]

Tim Cammisa thanks for the info I appreciate it