gear preference

[Streamer]

I've thought this one over several times and it seems that each has advantages and disadvantages. Do most of you guys use a standard fishing vest, granny-style pack, backpack, or chest pack for holding gear? I pretty much use either the standard vest or granny pack for holding my tackle. For me it typically depends on the type of fishing and time of year that determines which one I use. Which seems to work best for you? I've also looked into owning a chest pack. It looks like Fishpond makes a decent one. Anyone have any reviews for these?

[wannafish]

I'm a fan of the 'fanny pack'

I found a nice one on ebay for cheap.  The fishing models mostly seem underpriced and have low capacity.  I bought one designed for hunting.  It's camo, but that doesn't bother me and might help improve my fish-stocking abilities!  Losing the vest and taking the weight off my shoulders really helps reduce fatigue when standing out on the water for a long period of time. 

[Chum Man]

i like my filson chest pack, but it's a little pricey and interferes with my bait box if i'm fishing bait.  i can't seem to find a system i totally like, so i switch between my pack, vest or just carry a box of gear in my pockets depending on where i'm going and what i'm fishing for.

[LL]

Since I;ve been fishing with BMac all I need is a pocket for a float and jig Still need a fanny pack for a barley pop and cigars though

[Andrew]

Backpack, but only out of necessity. Nothing else holds adequate water/food/gear for a day's angling. Used to be really happy with a lightweight waist pack. May revert in the future for lightweight applications.

Incidentally, I gave up the boxes/wallets and now I keep all lures in heavy duty Ziploc-type bags (3" x 5" ? ones that come with rvrfshr lures), with a couple of bags pocketed up front (in jacket) for easy access, no unpacking required. Will undoubtedly find a "better" way before long...

Andrew

[Fishybiz]

Ive been running a cabelas guide vest for years now for everything- I just switch out gear as need depending where Im headed, works for me- just depends what ya like.

[Fast- eddy]

Always was a vest guy until about 2.5 years ago.Now I use a fanny pack for 99 percent of my fishing.If I am going to be gone for the whole day and do alot of hiking ,then a day backpack is the way to go.

The nice part about the fanny pack, is my back does not hurt near as much as when I used to wear a vest, and it makes me take just what I need for that day.As a matter of fact I just purchased a second fanny pack so that I can set each one up for different applications.

[wannafish]

Another thing I do is add my hydration pack to the combo.  I use the fanny pack for the fishing gear and the hydration pack for some snacks, extra tackle, and about 3L of water.  I've actually found that I have a lot less fatigue by late in the day if I really stay hydrated.  At least it helps balance out the 2 gallons of coffee I drink on the way to the river.  It is a pain having to take the waders off so often to pee though.....

[BC Steel]

I use a purse now. Had the vest for many years. Went to the waist pack and still have a couple kicking around but went with a womans purse for most stuff now. Its black and its not frilly but it still came from the purse section at walmart.

[Fast- eddy]

BC What do you like about the Purse?  Advantages disadvantages etc.....Do you have a picture of it?Seems different than the others and I was just curious.

[bugnuts]

I'd like to see a picture of BC with the purse...maybe in a strapless cocktail dress and some heels too.    Just kidding of course, Oliver. 

[Todd]

I use this one, and I love it...mine is in the "green/carbon" color scheme, rather than the "orange/carbon" that is pictured...



Three front pockets, two side pockets, two large backpack pockets in the back, and a hydration pack...runs around $180.00, give or take.

Fish on...

Todd

[BC Steel]

You use a chest pack?    I HATE mine. Exactly the same as the one shown. The back pack is nice though and I like mine.

The purse is easy access, lots of room, some smaller pockets inside to keep things seperated. Not too bulky though but still holds more than enough for a day on the water including a drink and a couple power bars.

Heres me with the double purse going. One for bait, one for gear.



Heres a couple of close ups.

[dardevle]

BC, nice purses!  Takes a real steelheader to call it a purse and not a satchel.  Noticed a new 'ism as well.

[rvrfshr]

I like the bandito style criss-cross dual purse river shot Oliver. Mike I was almost sidetracked by your "ism" reference, then I looked at the time you posted... sly dog !