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8 Best Fly Fishing Backpacks in 2023

When it comes to carrying all your fly fishing essentials, no fly fishing pack does a better job than a fly fishing backpack. With a fly fishing backpack, you will have no trouble carrying your fly fishing gear and accessories, and still have space for some lunch and a camera.

Fishing backpacks are suited for both short fishing trips as well as long trips that might require camping. In this article, we have made a list of eight of the best fly fishing backpacks in 2023.

Our Top Picks

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Best Overall
Orvis Waterproof Backpack
Most Versatile
Allen Gunnison Switch Pack, Convertible Day Pack to Fishing Sling Pack, Olive/Gray
Most Submersible
YETI Panga 28 Airtight Waterproof Submersible Backpack
Feature 1
Made of TPU coated 500D nylon
Convertible from a backpack to a sling pack
Waterproof and fully submersible
Feature 2
Comes with waterproof zippers
Water-resistant interior pockets for sensitive items
Made of Thickskin Shell which is abrasion-resistant
Best Overall
Thumbnail
Orvis Waterproof Backpack
Feature 1
Made of TPU coated 500D nylon
Feature 2
Comes with waterproof zippers
Most Versatile
Thumbnail
Allen Gunnison Switch Pack, Convertible Day Pack to Fishing Sling Pack, Olive/Gray
Feature 1
Convertible from a backpack to a sling pack
Feature 2
Water-resistant interior pockets for sensitive items
Most Submersible
Thumbnail
YETI Panga 28 Airtight Waterproof Submersible Backpack
Feature 1
Waterproof and fully submersible
Feature 2
Made of Thickskin Shell which is abrasion-resistant

8 Best Fly Fishing Backpacks

1. Orvis Waterproof Backpack 

Best Overall Fly Fishing Backpack

Orvis Waterproof Backpack
  • Updated and improved backpack with a improved look and…
  • TPU coated 500D nylon protects from heavy rain and even an…
  • Main compartment features a waterproof YKK Flexseal zipper.

Key Features

  • Made of TPU-coated 500D nylon.
  • Comes with waterproof zippers.
  • Padded shoulder straps for comfort. 

The Orvis Waterproof Backpack is a popular choice among fly anglers and for all the right reasons. This backpack provides you with all the space, comfort, and adjustability that you need while being waterproof.

Made of TPU-coated 500D nylon, it is a sturdy bag that is suitable for carrying your fly boxes and other fishing gear conveniently. The material also provides waterproof protection in wet conditions.

For further protection, the main compartment comes with a waterproof YKK Flexseal zipper while the secondary pocket comes with a water-resistant Ries zipper. The padded bottom of the backpack provides protection for vulnerable gear such as your phones and camera.

For your comfort, this fishing backpack comes with adjustable padded straps for the best fit. Hip and waist straps are also made available for a good fit.

Apart from the main and secondary compartments, the backpack also comes with two-rod tube holders and two pockets for your water bottles. A D-ring is also available to carry your landing net.


2. Allen Gunnison Switch Pack 

Best Versatile Fly Fishing Backpack

Sale
Allen Gunnison Switch Pack, Convertible Day Pack to Fishing Sling Pack, Olive/Gray
  • Compatible with Allen Company Fly Fishing Chest Packs…
  • Full-length main compartment zipper opens from both sides
  • Multiple rod tube/water bottle pockets

Key Features

  • It can be converted from a backpack to a sling pack. 
  • Water-resistant interior pockets for sensitive items.
  • Adjustable straps for comfort. 

The Allen Gunnison Switch Pack scores full point when it comes to versatility. Not only can it be converted from a backpack to a sling pack, but it also comes with buckles for attaching a check pack. This is one fly fishing backpack that you can trust to carry all the gear that you need.

For easy access to your gear, the main compartment of the backpack opens from both sides.

The interior pockets are water resistant making them suitable for keeping sensitive items such as your phone, camera, and keys. Dual pockets are also provided for your water bottles and rod tubes. 


3. Yeti Panga Submersible Backpack

Best Submersible Fly Fishing Backpack

YETI Panga 28 Airtight Waterproof Submersible Backpack
  • The Panga Backpack is an airtight, waterproof fortress…
  • The ergonomic DryHaul Shoulder Straps offer extra carrying…
  • With our HYDROLOK ZIPPER the water stays out so your gear…

Key Features

  • Waterproof and fully submersible.
  • Made of Thickskin Shell which is abrasion-resistant.
  • Gear loops for holding fishing accessories. 

If you are looking for a reliable fly fishing backpack that is fully submersible, you should check out this Yeti Panga Waterproof Backpack. Its “thickskin shell” is made of a combination of high-density nylon and thick TPU lamination.

This strength of the material makes this bag very durable and sturdy. It is abrasion and puncture-resistant as well, so you do not have to worry about it getting poked by tree branches.

It also comes with DryHaul shoulder straps that are secure and comfortable. The removable waist belt and chest straps can be used to ensure a better fit. The hydrolock zippers are secure, keeping your gear bone dry.

The zippers have anti-corrosion qualities making the backpack suitable for saltwater fishing. The backpack comes with gear loops for holding fly fishing accessories such as nippers and forceps.


4. Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack

Best Budget Fly Fishing Backpack

Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack W/ 3 Medium Utility Boxes SPB006
  • Includes 3 Medium Utility Boxes
  • Fishing Rod Holder/Carry System
  • Advanced Organizer Compartment keeps your gear Sorted

Key Features

  • The backpack is divided into three compartments. 
  • Foam molded sunglasses case. 
  • It has a flat bottom to keep your gear upright.

The Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack is great for fishing exercises that require a short trip to the fishing spot. With this backpack, you can secure your fishing gear while you trek to the river.

One of the best features of the Spiderwire Fishing Tackle Backpack is the organization that it offers. The bag is divided into three compartments with designated uses.

The top compartment is best used for personal items, the second compartment for food, and the last compartment for gear. For stability, the bottom of the bag is flat allowing your gear to stand upright.


5. Simms Dry Creek Z

Best Mid-range Fly Fishing Backpack

Key Features

  • Made of TPU-coated 500D Nylon.
  • Comes with TIZIP tech waterproof zippers.
  • Has exterior features for fishing accessories.

The Simms Dry Creek Z is an amazing fly fishing backpack that is suitable for all fly anglers, whether beginners, intermediates, or veterans. This fly fishing backpack is not only waterproof but only fully submersible.

This means that you can be sure of keeping your gear bone dry, whenever you go on your fishing trip with this backpack.

Made of TPU-coated 500D nylon, you can be sure of the durability of this bag. For the protection of your gear and personal items, it comes with TIZIP tech waterproof zippers that keep water out.

Other features include rod straps, lash points, a velcro patch, and a D ring. 


6. Patagonia Storm Front Roll Top 

Best Waterproof Fly Fishing Backpack

Key Features

  • Inbuilt rod tube strap.
  • Adjustable shoulder strap.
  • Fully welded seams.

The Patagonia Storm Front Roll Top Fly Fishing Backpack is built for the comfort of fly anglers. The backpack is made of 800 denier nylon with DWR and TPU finish, and also comes with welded seams.

It comes with a big main compartment and external pockets to carry all your gear. Inside the main comfortable is a zippable mesh pocket for keeping delicate items like your phone and camera.

For comfort and fit, the backpack comes with an adjustable shoulder strap and a removable waist belt. It also comes with shoulder harnesses, with which you can pair the backpack with a Patagonia convertible vest if you have one.


7. Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack

Best High-End Fly Fishing Backpack

FishPond Thunderhead Submersible Fly Fishing Backpack New 2022
  • 900D TPU coated NewStream Fabric coated nylon Cyclepond…
  • 21” x 12” x 9” 28L (1,648 Cu. In.)
  • 3.05 LBS

Key Features

  • Made of TPU-coated 1680D nylon
  • Comes with a D Ring and daisy chain
  • Inbuilt modular buckles.

If you are looking to get good value for your money, then the Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack is one fly fishing backpack that you should check out.

The fully submersible backpack is made of TPU-coated 1680D nylon which is durable and long-lasting. The main compartment has a zippered pocket inside for keeping your delicate items.

It has a water-resistant exterior pocket which is suitable for a small fly box or other gear that you need easy access to.

It also comes with a d ring and daisy chain for holding fly accessories. The modular buckles can be used to attach waist packs or chest packs. 


8. Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Backpack

Best Fly Fishing Backpack Combo

M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack for Men and Women Adjustable Outdoor Fishing (Vest/Sling Pack/Backpack)
  • A Real Vest to Hold Everything with Easy Access – with 17…
  • Adjustable Shoulder Straps for comfortable control of the…
  • Two Main Molded Hard Drop Down Fly Benches with Replaceable…

Key Features

  • It can be used as a fly fishing vest or backpack.
  • It comes with D rings and loops for fly fishing accessories.
  • Made of water-resistant fabric.

The Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack is a versatile combo that can be used as a fly fishing vest or a backpack. For short trips, you can utilize it as a fly fishing vest, while on longer trips you can use it as a backpack.

It is designed effectively with two molded pockets in front, and three expandable zippered pockets at the back. D rings and loops are also in place for fishing accessories such as nets forceps, nippers, and even flies. 


best fly fishing backpack
Source: Canva Pro

Conclusion

Your pack might determine how well your fishing exercise goes. This is why you must choose a fly fishing backpack that not only carries your fishing gear properly but keeps it safe from damage.

Ensure to look out for space, durability, and waterproof features when choosing a fly fishing backpack. It is also important that you arrange your fishing gear properly in order to move freely when going on your fishing trip.

Also, keep your personal items safe and away from gear that can damage them. Overall, ensure to take along all the required gear in order to make the best out of your fishing trip. 

Daniel O’Neill
Fishing Expert
Daniel specializes in fly, predator, and saltwater angling. He has practiced angling from a young age, quickly developing his knowledge of fishing fundamentals. His angling journey began in Ireland, primarily targeting rainbow trout on a fly rod. His passion for angling grew extensively as he ventured into other forms of fishing. He primarily targets freshwater and saltwater destinations in Ireland and the UK. His favorite catch to date was a 7lb / 3.6KG thick-lipped mullet from the Northern Irish coast—a prized fish to target on a fly rod. He is now the owner of DON Angling, a business that intends to inform and educate anglers on the best techniques, methods, and etiquette available.
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Articles » Gear Reviews » 8 Best Fly Fishing Backpacks in 2023