Should I choose fly fishing vest or a chest pack to carry my fly fishing gear? This seems to be a common question that gets asked in many fly fishing forums and there are many opinions about this topic.
Both fly fishing vests and fly fishing chest packs have their pros and cons. It appears that everyone has their own specific reasons for choosing one style over the other and also a particular manufacturer.
There are several manufacturers like Simms, Colombia, Fishpond, Stearns and many others that offer good quality fishing vests and chest packs. Below is a list of things to take into consideration when making a decision between a vest and chest pack.
Fly Fishing Vests – Traditional or Mesh Vest?
Traditional vests are fine but can be too warm and uncomfortable to wear in hot weather. When fishing in warmer weather a mesh vest is a better choice because by design its breathable, will keep you cooler and more comfortable.
In the region were I fish, which has four seasons, I prefer a mesh over the traditional fly fishing vests because of its versatility. If you order a mesh vest one size up from the size you would normally wear you will be able to wear an extra layer of clothing underneath, like a wading jacket or rain gear. This will keep you more comfortable when fishing in colder or rainy weather conditions.
Other Basic Features to Consider When Looking For Fly Fishing Vest:
No matter what style fishing vest you decide on, an important feature to consider is does the vest have enough pockets to carry your flies, leaders, tippets, extra reels/spools, tools and other fly fishing tackle. Typically a vest should have at least 15-20 pockets and a variety of small, medium and large size pockets. Any more than that can add confusion in trying to figure out which pocket contains what you are looking for. Also the pockets should be designed so that they can easily be opened and closed with one hand.
Good quality fly fishing vests will also have things like D rings and rod loops are also great features to have. D rings are convenient for attaching a landing net, tools and other accessories, while rod loops will hold your fly rod and keep your hands free for tying line, releasing fish or rowing.
Fly Fishing Chest Packs
There are several different styles of chest packs available on the market today. Some chest packs have a single pouch in the front and there are others that have double pouches in the front.
Another style pack that is popular is the chest/back pack system. Some of these allow you to detach the vest part from the pack so you can use them separately if you choose to. This chest pack is great if you are planning a long day of fly fishing or even a weekend fishing trip. They have plenty of storage for all of your fly fishing gear, extra layers of clothing, water, food, and even a small stove.
Some things I have heard fly fishers complain about is that some fly fishing chest packs stick out too far in front of you and they prevent you from being able to see your feet or rocks when wading. Others like them because they claim that they are easy and more comfortable on their shoulders.
Summary: Consider this just a basic guide of things to consider that will best fit your needs when looking for a new fly fishing vest or fly fishing chest pack.
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