Fly Fishing Chest Packs

Fly Fishing Chest Packs

If you are going fly fishing, you have to have a chest pack. Here’s the scoop on fly fishing chest packs.

Fly Fishing Chest Packs

Fly fishing chest packs, also known as vests, are the equivalent of tool belts for construction workers. They hold your tools of the fly fishing trade. Without them, you will be endlessly hunting for flies, repellant and so on.


Fly fishing chest packs come in a variety of styles. Old school packs are the best in my opinion. They fit and look like regular clothing vests, but are made with mesh pockets and water proofing material. I find they are perfect for holding the necessary fly fishing gear and are exceedingly comfortable. Any fly fishing gear shop should have them.

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Being a consumer society, more than a few companies have come up with advancements in fly fishing chest packs. Typically, they come in the form of modular packs hanging over the shoulder. They look like travel fanny packs hanging off the front of each shoulder. Depending on the brand, they may have a rear or front fanny pack and even both. Some anglers love these new chest packs. I find them ungainly and annoying, but to each their own. I strongly suggest you fit yourself with one of these new systems before committing to buy them.


When considering fly fishing chest packs, you should give a good bit of thought to what you want it to hold. Personally, I want my vest to hold sunscreen for my bald head, insect repellent, clippers, forceps, a poncho for rain, my car keys, line and, of course, flies. I don’t like hauling my stuff up and down the shore, so I tend to load up like a Sherpa. You might prefer a less demanding approach. The point is to figure out what is best for you and then buy a pack that meets your needs.

Fly fishing chest packs come in a surprising number of styles and variations. Figure out what you want to put in yours and then make your selection.

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