Packs for fly fishing come in all shapes and sizes, from minimalist waist packs to full-blown backpacks. Which one you choose depends on the kind of fishing you do, how much gear you need to bring, and your own personal preferences.
To set up a fly fishing pack, you'll need to do a bit of planning. You'll need to decide how long you'll be fishing and pack the appropriate gear like:
- Hemostats
- Nippers
- Floatant
- Fly box
- Rod, fly patch, leaders, tippet
- Insect repellent, water bottle, snacks; and a first-aid kit.
You may want to pack multiples of most of your fishing gear if conditions change. You might bring a net if you're fishing for trout in a stream or a rain jacket if you're fishing in wet weather. In this article, we'll explore how to set up your fly fishing pack and which packs are suitable in specific conditions.
What To Include In Your Fly FIshing Pack
Here are a few tips on how to set up a fly fishing pack:
1. Decide what gear you need.
Before you can start packing, you need to figure out what gear you need for your trip. This will vary depending on the type of fishing you're doing, but generally, you'll need at least a fly rod, reel, line, tippet, and flies. You may also want to bring along other items like waders, boots, and a net.
2. Choose the right pack.
Not all packs are created equal, and not every pack is suitable for fly fishing. When choosing a pack, you'll need to consider the size of the pack, the type of suspension system, and the amount of storage space.
3. Pack your gear correctly.
Once you've gathered your gear, it's important to pack it correctly in your pack. This will help ensure that you have easy access to everything you need while fishing. Start by placing heavier items like boots and waders at the bottom of large packs, then place lighter items on top. Make sure to put fly rods and reels in a secure spot where they won't move around too much.
4. Adjust your suspension system.
Not all packs come with a suspension system, but if yours does, it's essential to adjust it correctly. The suspension system is what holds the pack against your back and shoulders, so it's important to make sure it's snug but not too tight. You should also adjust the shoulder straps and hip belt to fit your body size and shape.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fly Fishing Backpacks
Backpacks are a great way to carry all of your fly fishing gear with you on your travels. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, so you can find the perfect one for your needs. However, not all backpacks are created equal. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using a fly fishing backpack:
The Advantages
- Convenience – Backpacks allow you to have all of your gear with you without having to carry it in individual pieces. This is especially helpful when traveling long distances or wading through deep water.
- Organization – Backpacks come with multiple compartments and pockets, which allow you to organize your gear in a way that makes sense for you. This makes it easy to find what you need when you need it.
- Comfort – Backpacks are often padded and adjustable, which makes them more comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
The Disadvantages
- Weight – The more gear you pack into your backpack, the heavier it will be. This can be a problem if you are carrying a lot of weight, especially over long distances.
- Bulky – Backpacks typically have a lot of extra space, which can be a problem when the back becomes bulky and hard to carry.
- Poor ventilation – Backpacks can get very hot and sweaty when worn in warm weather conditions. This can be uncomfortable and can also lead to the growth of bacteria and mold.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fly Fishing Hip Packs
Fly fishing hip packs are a relatively new invention that has been designed to address the problems that backpackers face when fishing. They are lightweight, have a lot of extra space, and provide good ventilation. Hip packs offer a number of advantages and disadvantages when compared to backpacks.
The Advantages
- Lightweight – Hip packs are typically much lighter than backpacks, which makes them ideal for carrying light loads.
- Comfortable – Hip packs are often more comfortable than backpacks, especially when worn for extended periods of time.
- Increased Mobility – Hip packs allow you to move more freely and easily, which can be helpful when fishing in tight spots.
- Easier Access – With a hip pack, you can easily access your gear without having to take off the pack. This can be helpful when you need to change flies quickly or make adjustments to your tackle.
The Disadvantages
- Limited Space – Hip packs typically have less space than backpacks, which can be a problem if you need to carry a lot of gear.
- Poor Support – Hip packs are not as good at supporting heavy loads as backpacks are, so they are not ideal for carrying heavy gear.
- Poor ventilation – Hip packs can often get hot and sweaty when worn for extended periods of time, which can be uncomfortable.
- Uncomfortable When Wet – If it rains or you get wet while wearing a hip pack, the pack will become uncomfortable and may even cause chafing.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fly Fishing Chest Packs
Chest packs are a great option for fly fishermen because they offer a lot of advantages over hip packs. Here are some of the main advantages of using a chest pack:
The Advantages
- More Space – Chest packs typically have more space than hip packs, which can be a big advantage if you need to carry a lot of gear.
- Better Support – Chest packs are better at supporting heavy loads than hip packs, making them ideal for carrying heavy gear.
- Better Ventilation – Chest packs allow air to flow around your body, which helps keep you cool and comfortable when worn for extended periods of time.
- Comfortable When Wet – If it rains or you get wet while wearing a chest pack, the pack will not become uncomfortable and may even help keep your clothes dry.
The Disadvantages
- Less Accessible – Because chest packs are worn high on the body, they can be difficult to access when you need something from the pack.
- More Difficult to Get On and Off – Chest packs are typically more difficult to get on and off than hip packs, especially if you have a lot of gear in the pack.
- Can Be Uncomfortable – If the pack is not properly fitted, it can be uncomfortable to wear a chest pack for extended periods of time.
- Bulky and Heavy – Chest packs are bulky and heavy, which can be a disadvantage if you need to carry the pack for long distances.
The Advantages and Disadvantages of Fly Fishing Sling Packs
Sling packs are a relatively new type of fly fishing pack that has gained in popularity in recent years. They offer a number of advantages over traditional hip packs and chest packs, including:
The Advantages
- Increased Comfort – Sling packs are worn high on the body, which makes them more comfortable than hip packs and chest packs.
- Easy Access to Gear – Because they are worn on the shoulder, sling packs are easy to access when you need something from the pack.
- More Versatile – Sling packs can be used for both hip and chest packing, making them more versatile than traditional hip or chest packs.
- Lightweight – Sling packs are typically much lighter than hip packs and chest packs, which can be a disadvantage if you need to carry a lot of gear.
The Disadvantages
- Limited Capacity – Sling packs typically have less capacity than hip packs and chest packs. This can be a disadvantage if you need to carry a lot of gear.
- Less Stability – When worn on the hip, sling packs can be less stable than hip packs.
- Poor Weight Distribution – When worn on the shoulder, sling packs can cause poor weight distribution, which can be uncomfortable and lead to fatigue.
- Can Be Difficult to Access Gear – If the pack is worn on the shoulder, it can be difficult to access gear in the pack when you need it.
Which Type of Bag is Best for Fly Fishing?
While each type of bag represents some advantages and key disadvantages, the best type of bag for fly fishing ultimately depends on the individual angler’s needs and preferences. If you are looking for a bag that offers a lot of capacity and easy access to gear, a hip pack may be the best option.
However, if you are looking for a more stable and comfortable option, a chest pack or sling pack may be better suited for you. Ultimately, it is important to consider your specific needs and preferences when choosing the best type of fly fishing bag for you.
Backpacks are the most popular option when it comes to fly fishing packs. They offer a lot of storage space, which is great for long trips, and they distribute the weight evenly so that you can carry a lot of gear without feeling weighed down.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making your fly fishing pack, the type of gear included, and which packs are more useful.
What Should I Put In my Fly Fishing Pack?
Packing your fly fishing pack is all about personal preference. However, there are a few items that are essential for every angler.
In your fly fishing pack, you should include fly boxes, tippets, leaders, indicators, and a selection of flies. It is also essential to pack extra gear like sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and snacks.
Are Sling Packs Good for Fly Fishing?
Sling packs are one of the more comfortable options when it comes to carrying your gear. They are perfect for short trips, and they make it easy to access all of your gear while you are on the water.
Overall, sling packs are a great option for fly fishing, especially if you are looking for increased comfort and easy access to your gear. However, they do have some disadvantages, including limited storage capacity and weight.
Are Sling Bags Worth It?
Sling bags do have some disadvantages, including limited storage capacity and weight. Ultimately, whether or not a sling bag is worth it depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Sling bags are a great option for those who are looking for a comfortable way to carry their gear. They are perfect for short trips, and they make it easy to access all of your gear while you are on the water.
How Do You Carry a Net With a Hip Pack?
Carrying a net with a hip pack can be a bit tricky, but it is definitely doable. The key is to make sure that the net is attached to the pack in such a way that it will not bounce around while you are walking.
One way to do this is to use a strap that goes around your waist and attaches to the net. This will help keep the net in place while you are walking.
Bags are essential pieces of gear for fly fishing trips. There are a variety of different bags to choose from, and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the type of bag that is best for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. So, consider your needs carefully before making a purchase.
When it comes to fly fishing, there are many different things to consider – including the type of bag you bring with you on your trip and what you pack in it.
