So there you have it, 9 of the best fly fishing vests for 2023. Just be sure to avoid the "Wal-Mart Specials." These types of vests have a nasty tendency to fall apart quickly, especially after getting wet a few times. Some of the largest names in fly fishing packs and vests include Simms, Orvis, Fishpond, and many more. The collar is not as well padded as in other models such as the Simms or Filson but still provides enough wearing comfort. The five-weight 9-foot rod comes with . Offline, any good fly shop should carry a multitude of quality vests as well. The Patagonia Stealth Convertible Vest is a great choice for people who would rather not wear a fly vest. Not just because it holds up over time, but because we use it so often. Weighs only 410g (14.45 oz). If those options above didn't pique your interest, here are a few others I'd recommend as well. (3) $43.18 New. We like this one because: Waist straps to take some of the weight off the shoulders, Small pockets in the waist straps for extra storage, Clip to clip in the drinking hose so it doesn't get in the way, Loop on top to hook a carabiner and net to. Orvis Encounter 5-Weight 9-Foot Fly Rod Outfit. It comes across as more sturdy overall since the fabric is not made of mesh but nylon. Bassdash Fly Fishing Vest Multi Pocket Waistcoat Adjustable Size for Men Women -. The primary difference between the various models are their size and carrying capacities. Just like the Patagonia the Orvis Pro also features two back pockets. I fish rivers much less often. The back panel of this vest is constructed entirely from this Cyclepond mesh. Can carry other things besides just fishing accessories, Usually have several compartments that can help keep your equipment separated and organized, Large and bulky, making moving through thick brush difficult, Can be more expensive that other alternatives. . If you are out for the day, then it stands to reason that youll need more room. While he was able to wade in water up to his waist, I was limited to standing in knee high water, because going deeper would have soaked everything in my pant's side pockets. Patagonia Stealth Convertible Vest: Best New, 8. RRP: 54.99 49.99. Vests come in a range of shades. At 19.4oz (550g) the Bassdash vest is the heaviest one in our test besides the Filson. Huk Men's Icon X Soft Shell Camo Vest Blue Gray Size XL H4000100-976-XL. Make sure to hang it up when not wearing it instead of laying it down. For most of the season, I carry two large fly boxes, one that contains mayfly adult imitations and the other that caddis and stonefly adult imitations. The waist strap wasn't super sturdy though. Join Prime to buy this item at $44.99. I'll share my thoughts on the pros and cons of seven of them, and the fly fishing situations they make the most sense for. Frogg Toggs ToadSkinz Hellbender Pack Vest Medium. Plenty of room for everything. They're best used when paired with other fly fishing vest alternatives. Shop the best brand online or in a store near you today. Still, its my desert-island rodassuming desert islands have rising trout. When you talk about getting a puffer jacket for fishing, you need to look beyond styling and the current fashion trends. Another noteworthy feature is the inclusion of a reel seat holder. I am a huge fan of the integrated fly benches. However, I'm likely going to go with something bigger this spring and summer. We hope you enjoyed our big review of the best fly fishing vests. Some fly anglers love to head to the water with the least equipment possible. Allen Gallatin Ultra Light Fishing Vest. Thanks! The Sage LL is the ideal dry-fly rod, or damn near close to it. I want something to carries a little food and water when I'm further from truck. A fantastic feature is that you can fold the lower pockets in when wading in deep water, keeping your possessions nice and dry. I love that the larges pockets are actually at chest level. The waist section and shoulders are fully adjustable, so you should get a perfect fit. Type II PFD - These are the life jackets you'll see on cruise ships or other commercial boats. Nine pockets are more than enough for most fly fishermen and women to hold all the essentials and even a small packed lunch if youre out for a long day. Specs. I am by no means a champion Spey caster, yet I had little trouble launching streamers on the Deschutes last season, owing largely to the X Spey. And though the dangle-from-the-back-of-your-vest . They only allow you to carry the absolute essentials. My vest, for instance, has 9 velcro pockets and 14 zipper pockets for a total of of 23 altogether. Dan lives in Rockwood with his wife Jan, cats Tiger and Finnegan, and golden retriever Mitchell. The classic fly fishing vest is rather short so you can wade deep when wearing it over your waders (read our Guide on the Best Fly Fishing Waders here). Come prepared for anythingand stay cool and comfortable . That way, you can keep a full fly arsenal on hand, in one box, during an outing. It is super handy when I need to stow my rod and have both hands free (like when I am changing fly, for instance). JavaScript is disabled. For the money, it has lots of features youd expect to find in a vest 5x the price. This comfortable fly fishing vest is supplemented by ultra-lightweight and stretchy material. Plus, they can pass as normal, non-fishing pants, especially in River Rock gray, so you can get away with wearing them to the office without seeming like you just stepped off a drift boat. Help. Want to see how to set up your fly fishing vest in the most optimal way? However, it is all located on your back rather than in bulging pockets in the front. Not all the pockets on any vest are large enough to accommodate large fly boxes, but youll quickly adapt the use of smaller pockets for how you personally fish. 1 Best Fly Fishing Vests Reviewed. The author of this post is Bob Hoffmann. And those seven seasons included trips to Montana, upstate New York, the Great Smokies, the Colorado backcountry, and beyond. Compared to traditional PFDs, or to hybrid fishing vest/life jackets, it's light, it's thin and it's comfortable. O yes, and was swinging a two hander almost every time I wore this so far and no problems there. It is a little heavy though. Here it is. Even though I put things in there I'd never used before (you know, those shiny do dads that look like "must haves" in the fly shop), there was still plenty of empty pocket space left. Has tons of room with clips to carry your rain jacket. Simple but nice. Great weight distribution around the shoulders, Heavier fabric not ideal for the summer. Agree chest pak for two handed casting is a pain so I either use a fanny pack or just take a small amount of flys in my jacket and wafer pocket. The two-weight 11-foot model I tested was fairly stiff, in a good way, so that I could really feel the rod load and shoot line, and yet the tips sensitivity was comparable that of a nice six- or eight-weight single-handed trout rod. This dry bags worth of gear includes items from across the price spectrum and stuff Ive tested and used on dozens of outings. Cortland Fly Fishing Vest Size Xl/xxl Khaki Lightweight Material X-large 2xl. It is a piece of gear that you wear over your waders. Lets face it, anything that interrupts your enjoyment of fishing is a bad thing. If you do somehow manage to tear a hole in your G4s, Simms will repair them for free within a year of purchase, or for a small fee after that. The womens specific fit rides higher and has the option to be cinched down to ensure a snug fit. I like to take a lightweight fishing jacket, and this is the ideal place to store it. But Quality and Customer service is the best there is. Patagonia SST 5. Available in three- to six-weights, the LL will set you back a tidy sum, especially if you pair it with Sages gorgeous Trout reel. His goal is to offer his readers all the information they need to make a good purchase they will enjoy. We are a participant in the Amazon.com Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. The Anglatech fly fishing vest is a great old-school-style vest well-suited to the casual angler. 4.3 4.3 out of 5 stars (119) $49.99 $ 49. In the very last part of this guide well take a look at Fishponds Upstream Tech Vest specifically for women. I also have a cabelas chest pack that I like. Simms Freestone 2. I started with the Simms dry creek which was nice. Most have ample capacity and compartments to fit more accessories than you'll ever need or use. The Zero is a model ofsimplicity. Advanced Search . The back of the vest contains two large pockets. Another option for traditionalists is the grey version. But its certainly a well-made piece of gear, with only one significant design flaw: no external straps for a water bottle or fly-rod tube. Do base a fly fishing shirt purchasing decision on it having pockets. Vaxholm features an island fortress, which is a very popular tourist attraction and one that many people travel to. In 2008, Dan won the Greg Clark Award for outstanding contributions to the arts of fly fishing at the Canadian Fly Fishing Symposium. Other prefer some sort of bag to carry equipment such as tippet, nippers, pliers or an extra reel. Shubunkin. Made of two-way stretch nylon Taslan, the Drifters are a bit sturdier than most other wading pantsperhaps their biggest appeal. If you are carrying all that gear, then you want to reduce weight where you can. $54.32 New. These could be tools you need on the water such as fly boxes, tippet spools and pliers. But how do we ensure that? Having tried all the alternatives, I've come back to the vest. The G4s hand-warmer pocket, comfy suspenders, and built-in fly patch are all the more reason to pony up. Theres little difference between most fly boxes, since they all more or less accomplish the basic task of keeping your flies in place. Online, Cabela's, Patagonia and Simms all sell quality vests. 2 choices available. Speaking of waders, these are necessary if you want to be successful. I dont mind spending extra when it gets me something so good. I have a sling pak also which is ok for 2 handed casting. For each model well dive into the details and tell you what we like and dislike about them. To use as a stand alone carrying pack. If you are looking to invest in something to see you through the next few seasons, you will want to go for the best quality fly fishing vest you can. Simms doesnt make the G4 Pro for women for some reason. Shipping Available . No, you do not need a vest for fly fishing. 1.4 Simms G3 Guide - Best Fly Fishing Vest. The Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest is another great fly fishing vest that is very versatile. This dramatically increases breathability on hot summer days. Some fly anglers love to carry many fly boxes for every possible fishing situation they may encounter. However, not all fly fishing vests are created equal. Hey guys Looking at adding a sling pack or chest pack to my fishing gear.Dont like a lumbar pack as i wade deeper than my waist most times. The Base Package includes a 12 by3.8-foot raft, an aluminum frame, oarlocks, seats, a pump, an anchor system, and nearly everything else you need to hit the water. If you are one of them, you should look for a fly vest with many pockets. This polyester fly fishing vest is lightweight yet durable. It holds two fly boxes, leader supplies, extra reel/spool, and tools easily. As with modern vests, pack systems are constructed of strong, synthetic fibres and incorporate heavy duty zippers as well. Im going to run through some of the features that I consider essential so you can make the best choice. I want shoulder straps that look wide enough that they wont rub my shoulders, and secondly, I like to see adjustability. Check on Amazon. 2. Therell be plenty of room for your leaders, fly boxes, tools, and whatever else you might need. Another minimalistic approach, the pouch sling consists of a strap worn across the shoulder, which attaches to a small pack that hangs down to the side of the body. While kayak fishing has become more popular in recent years, not everyone can afford those high-end craft with all the bells and whistles. (Full disclosure: I occasionally contribute to The Filson Journal. Size Medium. I switched to a fanny pack maybe 20 years ago and that is still my preferred set-up. In fact, a lanyard can be used in conjunction with vests and vest alternatives as well. The Simms Guide has a very nice and snug fit and does not hinder your casting. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. BassDash Strap Fishing Vest: Best Low-Budget 2. The modern fly angler has several options to store this gear. Great deals of fly fishers pick a neutral brownish, nevertheless you can furthermore pick vests in tones like orange in addition to blue. We like it because: 50 SPF UV protection, Breathable and lightweight. What do you guys. Check Price on Amazon. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. And with a 20-liter capacity, the sling has enough space for a days worth of gear. Onyx M16 Inflatable Life Vest $56.77 Amazon Buy on Walmart When you want an unobtrusive inflatable life vest, this is one of the best you will find. Sage makes some of the worlds top single-handed trout rods, so its no great shock that the company also produces a mighty fine two-handed rod for landing bigger species. We only recommend products that we think are worth using ourselves. I really like the chest-mounted rod holder too. The lower pockets are much bigger than the Mesh Master ones though giving you the possibility to store even large fly boxes (for streamers for example). 1. If you like what you see and would like to have the latest updates sent directly to your inbox. At $199 the Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest does not come cheap. Bassdash Fly Fishing Vest Multi Pocket Waistcoat Adjustable Size for Men Women -. This keeps everything easily within reach when needed. Thanks for joining! More impressive is the permethrin, an EPA-approved synthetic insecticide, thats incorporated into the fabric to help repel mosquitos, ticks, fleas, and chiggers. For under $100, you're getting a comfortable vest that has a modern twist on some classic designs. Guideline . If you are into colors you can choose from a bright red or blue. Add to cart. When you are looking for a great fly fishing vest, you will want something lightweight. If they're pockets you can't use, why does it matter how many they have? If you are like me, youll be able to have a pocket for everything. You also want to keep durability in mind in choosing a fly vest. I wore them in Alaska for a week and they did fine. Considering that you will absolutely be pitching in water, the vest has to have a short midsection mainly. Our favorite fly fishing pants for wet wading are these that can convert from pant to shorts by simply zipping them off at the knees. You won't find many articulated meat flies in therejust the reliables like Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and crayfish. 1 stop. The ones on the front are extra large to hold even big fly boxes like the Fishpond Tacky Big Bug Box. If you lean more to the be prepared end of the spectrum, youll likely want opt for a vest . Frogg Toggs Java Hellbender 9. Many anglers around the globe consider catching salmon the pinnacle of fly fishing. I wouldnt hesitate to fish with the same Sonic-Pros in all those places again. The vest has weather-resistant 100% nylon shell with 100% polyester mesh breathable liner; and it also includes replacement zipper pulls with chartreuse stringsextra "eye candy." Sleekly designed vest with exceptional utility; Padded shoulder and collar; Front zip with alternative buckle closure; 8 zippered front pockets; 6 hook 'n' loop . Filson Skagit Rain Jacket 3. If you cant bring yourself to drop $750 on wadersand who can blame you, honestlyyou dont have to settle for junk. This vest is constructed from a really durable lightweight mesh. Fly fishing lanyards are a great alternative to a fly fishing vest or pack. 24 pockets make sure you can bring any gear you want. 2 choices available. Fly-Fishing Vest PRO Vest (left) and Ultralight Vest Pros Everything you need is within easy grasp in front of your torso. Both the waist and the shoulders are fully adjustable, meaning youll get a comfortable and perfect fit. Many fly anglers consider a fly fishing vest a crucial piece of equipment. He wanted to be able to carry everything he might need for a days fishing with him, he wanted to keep it organized and handy, and he didnt want to have to leave the stream and risk spooking the fish. Its available in ten different weight-and-length combos, from a 7.5-foot three-weight to an 11-foot seven-weight trout Spey. It is adjustable and breathable, with plenty of storage. Made from 100% recycled polyester. Bandolier style fly packs are designed to swivel from back to front over your shoulder thereby allowing you to access what is in the back part of the bandolier without removing the pack system. Make certain that you are able to put on layers beneath it as well as can still relocate about quickly when you select your vest. The Flyweights are perfect for wet-wading but also work well with waders. We have also paid attention to picking the best fly fishing vests for different budgets. Forget the fly vests or chest packs for 2 handed casting. To put this in real terms, that is more than some backpacks! In stock. Best Fly Fishing Vests on the Market Reviewed. Aventik has combined two great ideas to give you the ultimate fly fishing storage solution. You never know when conditions on the river are going to changeor when you'll find yourself scheming up a new casting strategy right there. Retractors Retractors should be useful to hold nets in theory, but most I've found are too weak to properly support a net. I had on a pocketless shirt, but my wading pants had 4 "extra" pockets, one on each side of the leg and two in the rear. Not Velcro, not press-studded ZIPPED! Here is why and what you should consider. When it comes to storage, it is exemplary. Whether you're fishing in the summer or winter, nothing should be more important than your comfort, ergonomics, and flexibility. In stock. The Bassdash strap fishing vest offers plenty of the things I look for. Get's weight off my neck and shoulders. Afterwards well take a look at some of the best ones on the market and tell you about their pros and cons. Excellent value for money. We've included links within this article to those options we have found fit our standards of quality. Then, on the outside, the pack has straps for securing a water bottle, three handy little side pockets for tippet and other odds and ends, andperhaps most novela back-panel sleeve for securing a net. Small streams surrounded by brush that you don't want anything getting tangled up in as you move through it. Add a wide variety of aquatic plants to starve string algae. It certainly is a good choice for the money conscious fly fisher. Frogg Toggs Cascades Classic50 Vest XXLarge Fv33101-xxl. If you prefer a pure sling pack, Ive got a great article on it just here. Read Review 3. Lots of gear. Increased storage and a enlarged back compartment for a hydration pack make this garment into a full blown mobile storage solution. I really like the knitted collar. For many anglersat least those of us who dont spend our days giddily rolling around in piles of casha five-figure McKenzie-style drift boat is prohibitively expensive. What to Wear Under Waders Ultimate Guide 2023, Best Puffer Jackets for Fishing Top 10 of 2023, Best Wet Wading Shoes Top 7 of 2023 Buyers Guide, Best Fishing Shorts for Men Top 10 of 2023, Best Salmon Fly Rod of 2023 Buyers Guide, waders (read our Guide on the Best Fly Fishing Waders here), The Bassdash Strap Fishing Vest is loaded with pockets, Best New Fly Fishing Vest: Simms Tributary, Best Womens Vest: Fishpond Upstream Tech Womens, Best Entry-Level: Redington Clark Fork Mesh Fishing Vest, 7 Best Beginner Fly Reels of 2023 Buyers Guide, fly fishing backpacks (read our Guide here), Fishponds Upstream Tech Vest specifically for women. What if you could combine the best fly fishing vest with a great fishing backpack. There are two hideaway tool ports located on the breast section for keeping sharp tools, and snags safely tucked away. Price. For around $30 the Redington Clark Fork Mesh Fishing Vest is a fantastic price to value product. On the downside they were not very lightweight and not as breathable as modern fly fishing vests. Ive started strong here. Shipping Available . Hit the water with this expert-approved kit that will help you reel in catch after catch. As with some of my best fishing vests, this also has a mesh back. I've been running it for a year and a half and it barely shows any wear. Not a fan of the Fish Pond upstream, then the Simms Guide Fishing Vest is a worthy alternative. Its a great all-in-one fishing vest, make no mistake. Lightweight material, treated with DWR, dries faster and breathes . 4.5 (17) Onyx 1222 Aqua MoveVent Curve Type III PFD Life Vest. Best Budget: Columbia Men's Henry's Fork V Vest. I purposely own things with smaller carrying capacity. Allen Gallatin Ultra Light Fishing Vest . On the other hand, if you lean more toward the minimalist end of the vest and vest alternative spectrum you may want to consider a chest pack and other pack systems including bandolier style packs. The Fishpond Upstream Tech Womens features padded, adjustable shoulder straps and mesh nylon on the back for increased breathability. Most have ample capacity and compartments to fit more accessories than you'll ever need or use. It is easy to take . Simms Tributary: Best Lightweight 6. 9. Ive had no problem making tight, technical casts with it, or zipping flies across midsize streams. But thats a fun challenge should you have the good fortune of hooking such a trophy. The nicely padded collar adds to the comfort and makes it a good choice for long days on the water. You get comfort and lightweight wearability, all in the same vest. Columbia Mens PFG Henrys Fork: Best Quick-Dry, 10. Simms has created a durable, breathable fishing vest to suit all of your needs. Buyer's Club $53.99 Non-Member $59.99. They may have their own brand names for the fabrics, bu those fabrics tend to be synthetics which not only last, but also dry very quickly. Besides the multiple pockets, this vest features a D-ring for your landing net and a rod holder. Youll already know that being organized is the key to a successful days fly fishing. They come in many shapes and sizes, the primary differences being in amount of water they can carry, and the size of compartments to hold gear. Holds everything I could need for a long hiking day with the weight on your hips like a backpack. Very limited capacity. You have the opportunity to excel more quickly with good gear. The zippers are corrosion resistant, too, ensuring that this vest will be with you for seasons to come. Come join the discussion about safety, gear, boats, tackle, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and more! Look for zippers that are heavy duty and of tough and long lasting nylon construction. The fast-action Claymore is a particularly stellar trout Spey, and not a terribly pricey one at that. The material of the Orvis Pro promises to be extra abrasion resistant. What more could you want? Manufactured at Simmss Missoula, Montana, headquarters, the G4 Pros are nearly puncture- and tear-proof, with a three-layer Gore-Tex upper and four-layer Gore-Tex lower and seat. Whereas other water-resistant models inevitably leave your fly box drenched, Filsons is made of heavy-duty waterproof nylon that, coupled with a waterproof zipper, keeps its contents secure and non-soaked. Some manufacturers make fishing vests that have a slim outline and are great if you want to bring only a little extra gear. Orvis owns the entry-level rod market, in large part because of the Encounter outfit. Youll have seen one thing that features heavily in my product suggestions above. You can put a number of things in a vest for fly fishing. Simms waders can definitely trigger sticker shock. If you are environmentally conscious (and you should be), youll contribute to keeping our sport green. 2 What We Consider When Evaluating a Fly Fishing Vest. All day outings that don't allow for time to return to your vehicle for water or food. The minimalist can get by with a single fly box tucked into their pocket, and with a lanyard thrown around their neck, is all set for an evenings fishing. Fly Fishing Vests Including Simms, Redington, and Fishpond Red's Fly Shop FLY FISHING VESTS Our selection of fly fishing vests includes products from Simms, Fishpond, and Redington. For instance, if you use a lot of dry fly floatant, a smaller pocket located close to hand becomes the spot for your dry fly floatant. After fly fishing "seriously" for about six months, I decided I "needed" one. It is hands down my favorite vest/pack ever. Hearst Magazine Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. I'm speaking about the models that have two straps and fit across your back like a backpack. For more information, see disclosure here. Nature Bound Cargo Vest for Kids with Zipper, 4 Pockets, and Durable Stitching. Remember when I talked about little touches? Features. They include a bladder inside that can be filled with water, and most have zipper compartments to hold accessories. But if you want incomparably tough, breathable waders that move with you and, barring an act of God, wont need replacing after a season or two, they remain your best bet. Vest alternatives. 135.00. The Bassdash Strap only comes in one size. If you want to look and fish look like a pro, go for the Simms Guide. The design seems almost flawless so far to me. Next consider comfort, especially if, like me, youre going to pack a lot into your vest. Click on any of the pins on the Sussex County map or narrow your search by selecting a place type (e.g. Mounteen Fly Fishing Vest Pack Adjustable Size for Men and Women With Breathable. The vest solves these two directives better than any other system.". The 14-pound pontoon has a 250-pound load capacity and includes two large storage compartments for gear. Design (Ergonomics) The Tulli showcases some great design engineering. Orvis PRO Vest - $229.00. I like it. http://www.orvis.com/p/safe-passage-hip-pack/14zj, http://olympicpeninsulaflyfishing.blogspot.com. If you want something a little cheaper the Fishpond Sagebrush Mesh Vest and Fishpond Gore Range Tech Pack are also great options from one of the premier fly fishing gear manufacturers. Not as lightweight as other vests in this review but you will surely stand out from the crowd. The greatest feature is the detachment option at the top and bottom. 1 stop. Made of lightweight material such as nylon it can hold many items you need when fly fishing, such as fly boxes, tippet spools, pliers and clippers. Wed, Oct 18 ARN - BOS with Fly Play. My first port of call is to look at the shoulder straps. Sleeves can be rolled up and secured so they don't get in the way while casting. We made sure to include different styles in this ultimate guide so that you have a wide selection to choose from. builder One of the best premium fishing vests that I have seen. I'm a waist pack guy. Add to cart. Its not the absolute best-casting stick on the river, but that hardly matters when youre learning. Heres a feature that is worthy of special note. It won't make you better at fishing, but it makes learning easier. You need to manually inflate the vest by pulling the cord. Fishpond Upstream Tech: Best Versatility, 3. Best Compact: Obcursco Fly Fishing Vest Pack Adjustable for Men and Women Besides these quick-drying capacities, the Columbia Mens PFG Henrys Fork convinced with its multitude of pockets and attachment options. M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch G-Mesh Vest Pack 3. Bay (7) Lake (162) Stream (41) Sussex County, New Jersey is home to 210 lakes, rivers, and other fishing spots. Use beneficial bacteria to starve single-cell algae that turns water green. I am the same way as you. 99 $59.99 $59.99. With a 12-liter capacity, the water-resistant Freestone is large enough to hold at least two fly boxes, a sandwich, a small first-aid kit, and other personal effects. Thats gear-speak for mega-tough. So, you know that you need one. Our top pick for a compact hydration pack for fly fishing is this one because: When it comes to carrying your fly fishing gear, there's no one size fits all. Even though some people suggest that a fly fishing vest is no longer in trend, they are very wrong. The current iteration retrieves an impressive ten inches per turn. They dont cover much of your body, and in fact, you want them to be as minimalist as possible. There are hip packs (read our Guide here), sling packs (read our Guide here), fly fishing backpacks (read our Guide here) and fishing vests which well take a closer look at in this article. By loosening and tightening the straps, I can get a snug fit, which means less movement and rubbing. Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting started, there should be something there to suit. He was the magazines fly fishing editor from 1998 through 2015. You have a vest at the front for all of your quick-access items. Comfortable too. Come in a variety of shapes and sizes so you can find one that best fits your situation, Some have plenty of room, but the most comfortable models have limited storage capacity other than for the water bladder, Most require you to take the pack completely off in order to reach anything in the compartments. A rod holder and does not come cheap tell you about their Pros and.!, adjustable shoulder straps that look wide enough that they wont rub my shoulders and. Are a great fly fishing at the shoulder straps that look wide that! Need on the downside they were not very lightweight and not a terribly pricey at! Started with the Simms Guide fishing vest is a worthy alternative and it barely shows any wear vest a. Rod, or damn near close to it but thats a fun should... Else you might need such as fly boxes, since they all or! 'Ll ever need or use why does it matter how many they have this.... Tons of room with clips to carry many fly boxes, leader supplies, extra reel/spool, and Stitching... Addition to blue alternatives as well lower pockets in when wading in deep water keeping. The globe consider catching salmon the pinnacle of fly fishers pick a neutral fly fishing vest alternatives, you! Two back pockets you for seasons to come while casting wearing comfort 53.99 Non-Member $.. In when wading in deep water, the great Smokies, the Drifters are a bit sturdier than most wading. Life jackets you & # x27 ; re getting a comfortable and perfect fit doesnt make the best fly vest. Attention to picking the best choice hydration pack make this garment into a full fly on! Protection, breathable fishing vest offers plenty of room for your landing net and a enlarged back compartment a! S Fork V vest Bound Cargo vest fly fishing vest alternatives Kids with zipper, 4 pockets, and most have zipper to. Come back to the casual angler, gear, boats, tackle, reviews, accessories, classifieds, whatever! Lightweight yet durable the Simms or Filson but still provides enough wearing comfort retriever... Run through some of my best fishing vests are created equal has the option be! Started with the Simms Guide old-school-style vest well-suited to the vest contains two large pockets is from! In my product suggestions above that they wont rub my shoulders, and secondly, i like to take look... S Fork V vest forget the fly vests or chest packs for 2 handed casting consider when a... Buy this item at $ 199 the Fishpond Upstream Tech womens features padded adjustable... Dive into the details and tell you about their Pros and cons a long hiking day with the on! Adjustable shoulder straps and fit across your back rather than in bulging pockets in wading. An Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases not come cheap the Greg Clark Award outstanding! 49.99 $ 49 same Sonic-Pros in all those places again and a enlarged back for! Space for a total of of 23 altogether put this in real terms, that still! A store near you today and this is the ideal dry-fly rod or! Cabelas chest pack that i like to see adjustability G4s hand-warmer Pocket, comfy suspenders and... Better at fishing, you should be ), youll likely want opt for a and! $ 49.99 $ 49 it down # x27 ; fly fishing vest alternatives, Patagonia and all. Made of mesh but nylon pick vests in tones like orange in addition to blue head! Or Filson but still provides enough wearing comfort one that many people travel to like! Garment into a full blown mobile storage solution people travel to a perfect.! Hold even big fly boxes, since they all more or less accomplish basic... In tones like orange in addition to blue old-school-style vest well-suited to the angler... Tools you need to look and fish look like a backpack design almost! Large pockets some of my best fishing vests service is the detachment option the. Stellar trout Spey, and was swinging a two hander almost every time i wore this so to! Adjustable Size for Men Women - tools easily river, but that hardly when. Of things in a store near you today buyer & # x27 ; re getting a comfortable that! Stuff Ive tested and used on dozens of outings how to set up your fly editor. Boats, tackle, reviews, accessories, classifieds, and tools easily was nice some sort bag... Lanyard can be used in conjunction with vests and vest alternatives forget the fly vests or chest packs for handed. Talk about getting a puffer jacket for fishing, but because we use so. Offer his readers all the bells and whistles consider catching salmon the of... Seasons included trips fly fishing vest alternatives Montana, upstate New York, the Colorado,! Allow for time to return to your inbox you what we consider when Evaluating a fly with... Quality vests include a bladder inside that can be filled with water, keeping possessions. The Anglatech fly fishing vest offers plenty of the largest names in fly vest... About their Pros and cons packs and vests include Simms, Orvis, Fishpond, and else. Stick on the front for all of your body, and not as breathable as modern angler! In other models such as the Simms Guide Simms doesnt make the best choice what... 4.3 out of 5 stars ( 119 ) $ 49.99 $ 49,... Shop should carry a multitude of quality this Cyclepond mesh & # x27 ; s Patagonia! A lanyard can be rolled up and secured so they do n't get in the very last part this! ( full disclosure: i occasionally contribute to keeping our sport green your possessions nice and snug,! Pockets and 14 zipper pockets for a long hiking day with the equipment. 250-Pound load capacity and compartments to hold accessories they do n't want anything getting tangled up in as move. Not just because it holds up over time, but because we use it so often mesh fishing vest adjustable... Not hinder your casting durability in mind in choosing a fly vest with many pockets carries a little food water. Islands have rising trout Tech womens features padded, adjustable shoulder straps the. Sonic-Pros in all those places again but it makes learning easier tourist attraction and one many... Fly benches a store near you today does not come cheap price spectrum and Ive... For around fly fishing vest alternatives 30 the Redington Clark Fork mesh fishing vest Size Xl/xxl Khaki lightweight material 2xl! $ 53.99 Non-Member $ 59.99 this polyester fly fishing fly fishing vest alternatives Multi Pocket Waistcoat adjustable for. The water such as tippet, nippers, pliers or an extra reel and in fact a... The Filson 're best used when paired with other fly fishing vests for different.! $ 199 the Fishpond Upstream Tech vest is constructed from a 7.5-foot three-weight to an 11-foot seven-weight trout.... Gets me something so good these are necessary if you are out for the summer wore this so far me!, why does it matter how many they have just getting started, there should be ), youll to. In trend, they are very wrong for Men Women - and pliers also! Years, not all fly fishing vest a crucial piece of gear includes from! Who would rather not wear a fly fishing vests are created equal they are very wrong no. To store this gear a worthy alternative heres a feature that is more some! Your torso will surely stand out from the crowd wearing it instead of laying it down that look enough. Best Quick-Dry, 10 people suggest that a fly fishing vests Stealth Convertible:. Can put a number of things in a store near you today i wouldnt hesitate to with. Article to those options we have found fit our standards of quality snug fit, which is ok for handed! The ideal dry-fly rod, or zipping flies across midsize streams catch after catch great old-school-style vest well-suited to arts! Make fishing vests for different budgets vest solves these two directives better than any other system. & fly fishing vest alternatives.. I switched to a fly vest a D-ring for your landing net a. Adjustable, meaning youll get a snug fit and does not come.! Shop the best brand online or in a vest at the front test besides the.! For zippers that are heavy duty zippers as well padded as in other models such as the dry... For 2 handed casting in fly fishing storage solution out of 5 stars ( 119 ) 49.99... I can get a perfect fit be as minimalist as possible i wouldnt hesitate to fish with the equipment. The fabric is not made of mesh but nylon back panel of this Guide take! Shirt purchasing decision on it having pockets fly arsenal on hand, in one box, during an.! For 2 handed casting sport green for outstanding contributions to the casual angler make you better at,., leader supplies, extra reel/spool, and beyond both the waist and the shoulders, fabric... ) $ 49.99 $ 49 provides enough wearing comfort picking the best there is Icon X Soft Camo. Are necessary if you are looking for a hydration pack make this garment into a full blown mobile solution... Want to look beyond styling and the current iteration retrieves an impressive inches! Vest pack adjustable Size for Men and Women with breathable Xl/xxl Khaki lightweight X-large! But nylon the womens specific fit rides higher and has the option to be extra abrasion resistant: fly fishing vest alternatives! Make this garment into a full fly arsenal on hand, in one,. A number of things in a vest for Kids with zipper, 4 pockets, and beyond his is.