#GearBags

Review: Breakwater Supply Explorer Waterproof Backpack

May 8

Review: Breakwater Supply Explorer Waterproof Backpack

The backpack: simple, bland, and basic...right? A typical backpack can serve as a handy means of transporting gear for us fly anglers, but its efficiency can also be limited by the conditions we encounter on the water. When wading aggressively, fishing in pounding rain, or in other more extreme scenarios, you must be confident that your belongings WILL be protected. This is where the Breakwater Supply Explorer Waterproof Backpack comes in. Dimensions: 20 x 13 x 6 inches E

Paul

Dec 5, 2021

New 2022 Products from Fishpond

Fishpond recently shared all of their new product releases with us for 2022. Ranging from fly boxes to backpacks, there's a variety of both totally brand-new products as well as updated ones. Here's a sampling of just some of what will be available! (words and images by Fishpond) Firehole Backpack Price: $179.95 Specs: - 420D nylon recycled Cyclepond fabric - 26L (1,500 Cu. In.) - 22“ x 12“ x 9.5“ - 2.7 lbs. Description: Some days your only shot at securing solitude is to put

Simms Flyweight Hip Hybrid System Review

Paul

Sep 27, 2021

Simms Flyweight Hip Hybrid System Review

Waist packs and slings are by far my favorite ways to tote gear while fishing on foot. I typically don't carry a ton of stuff with me, so these types of packs are perfect for those of us who prefer packing light and staying mobile. However, the issue with some packs is they can sometimes offer too little or even too much in the way of features. To put it bluntly, you're basically stuck with whatcha get. The new Simms Flyweight Hip Hybrid System aims to give anglers more optio

Paul

Aug 29, 2021

Simms Open Water Tactical Box Review

If you've followed Demystifly for any length of time, then you'll know that I love to pack on the light side. I always bring enough gear to be prepared for both the expected and unexpected, but seldom overdo it. Clutter kind of drives me crazy, and keeping things to a relative minimum allows me greater mobility, organization and efficiency. I also think it's a common courtesy when on someone else's boat to keep my gear tidy and out of the way. I know one fishing buddy in part

Paul

Aug 9, 2021

YETI Crossroads 29-inch Luggage Review

Hugely popular with hardcore outdoor enthusiasts and casual users alike, YETI has solidified a reputation of quality and ruggedness. Well known for their premium coolers and drinkware, YETI's product lineup has expanded in recent years to include other versatile offerings such as buckets, chairs, and bags. Well, now you can add luggage to that list. The new Crossroads Luggage includes a carry-on-friendly 22-inch bag along with a larger 29-inch model which is what we'll be loo

Backcountry x Simms Flyweight Z Sling Pack Review

Paul

Jun 14, 2021

Backcountry x Simms Flyweight Z Sling Pack Review

I do a lot of shore fishing, so a good pack or sling is a vital piece of equipment. I'm typically pretty minimalist in what I need it to carry—flies, leader material, a water bottle or two, some other little accessories—so these types of storage solutions are absolutely perfect for someone like me that loves packing light. All of the packs and slings I have tried over the years did their jobs pretty well, but some have been just a little more comfy and laid out better than ot

Paul

Apr 5, 2021

What's In Your Pack?

A while back, my post "Finding and Setting Up a Fishing Pack" focused on pack selection as well as a few handy exterior accessories. Choosing a comfortable and efficient way to transport your gear is important, but what goes in that pack can be downright vital. After all, forgetting a necessary item can put a damper on your day or even ruin it completely. To avoid such headaches or total disasters, it's essential to have a solid mental or written checklist of what exactly to

Paul

Mar 20, 2021

New Simms Flyweight and CX Collections

From Simms Fishing Products: Simms Fishing Products, the preeminent manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear, and technical apparel in fishing, release the all-new Flyweight and CX collections. Designed for the high-output angler, the Flyweight assortment consists of lightweight and durable pieces designed to offer unmatched mobility allowing anglers to go farther and fish harder. The CX line features a Jacket and Bib built for the core angler, made from proprietary stretc

Paul

Feb 13, 2020

Finding and Setting Up a Fishing Pack

Waist packs and sling packs are my two favorite ways to tote along tackle and accessories anytime I'm bank fishing. I love keeping things simple and lightweight whenever possible because that equals better comfort and mobility. The market is full of these types of fly fishing packs, but after trying a bunch of them over the years I've learned that finding one that just feels "right" from a comfort and functionality standpoint is tougher than it seems. Another thing I've learn

Paul

Nov 3, 2019

Umpqua Bandolier ZS2 Sling Pack Review

I love keeping things simple and packing as light as possible. Because of this, I'm a huge fan of waist packs, slings, and the like because they are so lightweight, portable, minimalist, and easy to move around with. As part of Umpqua's newest product lineup for this year, their Bandolier ZS2 Sling Pack looks like a perfect match for my basic needs. Packed with features and highly portable, let's go in-depth and see what this pack delivers. Weight: 12 ounces Dimensions: 18"L

Paul

Oct 22, 2019

IFTD 2019: Fishpond

(words and images courtesy of Fishpond) Thunderhead Rod & Reel Case MSRP: $199.95 (Small), $249.95 (Large) Release Date: November 15 Consider this your insurance policy against the leading cause of broken rods and smashed up reels — sub-par storage. The Thunderhead Rod & Reel Case features crush-proof rod tube inserts and a molded end cap to make sure your most valuable pieces of gear stay protected. Cyclepond recycled fabric, welded waterproof seams, and a water resistant zi

Paul

May 2, 2019

Fly Fishing Vest or Pack?

Vests have always been popular with fly anglers, especially in the freshwater trout scene. With all of the storage they offer for all kinds of doodads, it's easy to see why this is. Despite the undeniable handiness of vests, I've never been a huge fan of them—even when I trout fished much more in the past. In fact, I can't remember wearing a traditional-style vest outside of when I was just starting out in the sport! I currently own something from Orvis that's real similar to

YETI Panga Backpack 28 and Sidekick Dry Review

Paul

Oct 7, 2018

YETI Panga Backpack 28 and Sidekick Dry Review

Intro/Specs/Craftsmanship The new YETI Panga Backpack 28 brings a lot of what we love about the Panga 50 Duffel (reviewed here, by the way!) and delivers all that goodness in backpack form. Fly anglers bring any number of tools and accessories with them on a fishing day, but for storing more and larger items like snacks, extra clothing, a camera, or spare spools, a roomier storage solution like a backpack can come in handy. Coupled with YETI's legendary ruggedness, the Panga

Paul

Jun 11, 2018

Simms Dry Creek Dry Bag Review

I've never heard a fly angler say "There aren't enough bags or packs available on the market!" Whether you prefer an ultra-simplistic or overly-technical way to carry gear or belongings during a day on the water, there's no shortage of options out there. Edging more towards the simplistic side, Simms offers their Dry Creek bag collection to keep your stuff safe and dry. While the concept seems simple, this is a Simms product, so you know it's going to be made with a high leve

DEMYSTIFLY

Demystifying the Art of Fly Fishing