As a fly angler, it is important to have a pack to carry your fly fishing gear and accessories. While there are different types of packs for fly fishing, including hip packs, backpacks, and waist packs, sling packs have emerged as a popular choice in recent times.
This is due to the portability and flexibility that they offer. In this article, we have highlighted five of the best fly fishing sling packs on the market, as well as things to consider when choosing a sling pack.
Our Top Picks
5 Best Fly Fishing Sling Packs
1. Orvis Guide Sling Pack
Best Overall Fly Fishing Sling Pack
Key Features
- 18 liters of space.
- Made of thick nylon material.
- Cushioned shoulder strap.
The Orvis Guide Sling Pack is a great sling pack that ticks all the boxes for comfort, space, and durability. Made of thick nylon material, you do not have to worry about your sling pack getting torn by branches.
It is divided into the main compartment and a large external pocket, that allows you to organize your fishing gear properly. With 18 liters of space, the sling pack will carry all your gear with room to spare.
Although it can only be worn over your right shoulder, an extra cushion is provided to increase comfort. The sling pack has extra features such as a tippet bar, net holder, and fly drying patch.
2. Fishpond Summit Sling Pack
Best Budget Fly Fishing Sling Pack
- 7 interior and exterior pockets provide organization...
- Includes Fishpond's patented and signature molded drop down...
- Hypalon tool attachments for retractors, floatant holders,...
Key Features
- 9 liters of space.
- Tool attachments for fishing accessories.
- 7 pockets for organization.
If you are on a budget, the Fishpond Summit Sling Pack is a great pack for you. With 9 liters of space, you have just enough to carry all your fishing gear.
It has one main compartment and extra pockets for easy organization of your gear. It also comes with tool attachments to hold forceps and retractors.
An exterior water bottle holder is also provided to give you easy access to water ensuring that you stay hydrated.
3. Umpqua Switch Sling Pack
Best Mid-Range Fly Fishing Sling Pack
Key Features
- 10 liters of space.
- Comes with a D ring for attaching nets.
- Multiple pockets for organization.
The Umpqua Switch Sling Pack is a unique fly fishing sling pack with amazing features. The pack features a slim design that ensures that it does not bulge when you have it on.
It allows for even distribution of the weight thereby improving your mobility. For easy organization, it comes with many internal pockets. The ambidextrous design means that you can wear it on both shoulders. The padded shoulder strap provides comfort for long fishing trips.
4. Teton Fly Fishing Pack
Best Entry-Level Fly Fishing Sling Pack
Key Features
- Three zippered pockets for easy organization.
- Foam fly patch for holding flies.
- Front pocket and.
The Teton Fly Fishing Pack is the blueprint for portability. It is a great pack for beginner anglers who need something light and inexpensive to hold their gear.
With 3 side zippered pockets, there is enough room to put your gear. The pack is made of water-resistant nylon which makes it suitable for wet days. It comes with a foam fly patch to carry your flies and sleeves to hold your nets and water bottle.
5. Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible
Best Waterproof Fly Fishing Sling Pack
- Zipper upgraded to self healing TRU Zip zipper
- Shale and Yucca colorways now made with recycled NewStream...
- Upgraded, removable interior pouch
Key Features
- Waterproof zipper.
- Lightweight foam shoulder strap.
- Made of 900D TPU coated NewStream Fabric.
If you are fond of wading deep into the water while fishing, then a waterproof sling pack like the Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible is a great pack for you. Made of 900D TPU-coated NewStream Fabric with a waterproof zipper, the pack is sturdy and durable.
It is suitable for fishing in wet conditions providing your gear with needed protection. Asides from being fully waterproof, the pack is also comfortable to wear with the padded shoulder strap and back panel.
Things to Consider When Buying Fly Fishing Sling Packs
There are certain factors to consider when buying a fly fishing sling pack. Considering these factors will help you to choose fly fishing sling packs that are suited to your fly fishing needs.
The factors are discussed below.
Shape
The shape of your sling pack determines how well your gear fit in. While oval-shaped sling packs are suited for bulky gear, rectangular ones are not as they are usually slimmer.
A bulkier pack can be a bit stressful to deal with, as they typically protrude. A smaller sling pack on the other hand allows you to move freely.
Adjustability & Comfort
Your comfort is paramount when it comes to choosing a fly fishing sling pack. In choosing a sling pack that offers the most comfort, you have to look out for the size and adjustability. Although large sling packs will carry a lot of gear, they are usually heavier, affecting your mobility.
As such, it is best to go for a medium-sized pack, as it enables you to move freely. It is essential that your sling pack has an adjustable shoulder strap. This will allow you to access gear with no trouble.
Space
The main purpose of a sling pack is to carry as much gear as possible. This makes space the most important feature to look out for in a sling pack.
Your sling pack should be able to carry your fly fishing essentials including your fly boxes, leaders, floatant, wright, and strike indicators.
A sling pack should not be too heavy, as it might weigh you down while fishing. Simply choose something that carries your gear conveniently with little room to spare.
Organization
One of the most overlooked features of fly fishing sling packs is organization. With an organized sling pack, you do not have to spend long minutes searching for the required gear.
Dividers and internal pockets will help you to keep your sling pack organized. You can even designate certain compartments for specific gear for easy access.
Waterproof
Fly fishing is an activity that is done on the water so it makes sense that your sling pack is waterproof. Not only does this feature keep your gear dry, when you wad deep into the river, but they are also reliable on a rainy day.
Due to the waterproof zippers, a waterproof pack is often slightly more expensive than regular sling packs.
Ambidextrous Design
Fly fishing sling packs with an ambidextrous design are typically more comfortable for left-handed casters. The versatility allows them to wear their sling pack correctly.
An ambidextrous sling pack also allows you to switch the shoulder strap, whenever your muscles feel sore.
Extra Features
You can look out for extra features pertaining to your needs when selecting a sling pack. Some of these great features include a fly drying patch, water bottle holder, net holder
Frequently Asked Questions
Fishing Sling Packs vs. Fishing Vests vs. Fly Fishing Backpacks: What’s the difference?
Fishing sling packs, fishing vests, fly fishing chest packs, and fly fishing backpacks are all reliable packs for carrying your fishing gear. However, fishing sling packs have great features that make them stand out from the rest.
Designed as a hybrid of a hip pack and a backpack, the strap of a fishing sling pack distributes the weight evenly thereby giving you comfort. Fishing sling packs are typically lightweight allowing you to move freely without hindrance. In addition, fishing sling packs are easily accessible.
With just a flip of your pack, you can get the fishing gear or accessory that you require.
Conclusion
The ease and comfort that fly fishing sling packs provide make them a no-brainer for fly anglers. They are lightweight and accessible, making your fishing exercise smooth and enjoyable.
Before choosing a sling pack, it is important that you consider the features that impact your fishing trip. Space, shape, organization, and waterproof features should all be considered. Other features like a water bottle holder make the sling pack even more reliable.
Overall, it is important to organize your sling pack properly in order to get the best out of it. This will allow you to focus all your energy on catching your favorite fish.
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