Fly fishing vest
Fly fishermen need to carry many items with them on their fishing trips, including fly boxes, spools of line, leaders and other practical tools.
For decades, fly fishermen have been using fishing vests, which are very practical for storing all that gear. In fact, fly fishermen carry real tackle stores with them! Some carry 4 to 6 fly boxes. Others carry extra line spools, etc...
The vest can hold a lot of things for the angler who wants to have everything!
Over the years, models have become more and more compact, shorter to fit in the water, and designed with lighter fabrics.
Advantages :
- Stores several fly boxes and numerous tools and accessories
- Numerous pockets.
- Have a back pocket.
Disadvantages :
- Can be a bit heavy when well filled.
- Keep warm in summer.
- Are cumbersome depending on their format and if they are overloaded.
Is the chest pack just a fad?
Over the last ten years, anglers have been using more and more modern chest packs to store their equipment and fly boxes.
It's a fashion statement from the U.S., but also because it has certain advantages over the vest.
There are compact and larger models to suit everyone's needs.
Some models even offer the option of adding a small backpack (often removable) to carry a rain jacket, sandwich or anything else.
Advantages :
- Lightweight.
- Compact.
- Practical.
- Airy and cool for summer fishing or hiking.
- Possibility of adding a backpack (modular or not).
Disadvantages :
- Less storage than a vest, although some models can hold everything you need for fishing.
- Often have a single large pocket with compartment.
Mini chest pack or pouch
They're very practical, but can't carry all the gear you'd be able to store in a conventional vest or chest pack.
Their use is for light fishing and carrying only the bare essentials.
They are ideal for use in summer, when you don't want to be overcrowded and hot, or for the angler who knows how to take the essentials and not be embarrassed by unnecessary items.
Take your pick!
Everyone will have their own preferences and will make their choice according to their habits, but above all according to the amount of gear they want to carry. Today's chest packs can store almost as much gear as a vest, so it's more a question of taste, look and desire.
You can also use both options depending on the fishing technique or season. Indeed, in summer or for specific, well-targeted fishing, these mini chest packs are an interesting alternative.
