7 Best Fly Fishing Chest Packs – Choose the BEST ONE for You

Are you in search of the best fly fishing chest packs for your next angling adventure? 

In this blog post, we’ll explore some top options to keep your gear organized and accessible while you’re out on the water. 

From capacity and comfort to durability and special features, we’ve got you covered with comprehensive reviews of each pack. 

So, let’s dive in and find the perfect chest pack to enhance your fly fishing experience!

1. Best Overall: Fishpond San Juan Vertical Chest Pack

Overall Score: 88/100

• Capacity and Storage: 89/100
• Comfort and Design: 85/100
• Special Features: 87/100
• Versatility: 90/100
• Durability: 91/100

Capacity and Storage: Despite its compact size, the main compartment and elastic pocket efficiently hold essentials like a fly box, tippet material, and additional small items.

Comfort and Design: While highly practical, the lack of padding on the neck strap may affect comfort during extended wear. A simple addition of padding could significantly enhance user experience.

Special Features: The pack’s drop-down fly bench and versatile attachment points for tools are notable. However, the potential for more internal organization and included accessories was missed.

Versatility: Can be worn as a chest pack, satchel, or attached to a belt, offering flexibility in how it’s carried. The pack suits various fishing scenarios, especially for those who prefer minimal gear.

Durability: Constructed with the quality expected from Fishpond, featuring durable materials that withstand the elements and the wear and tear of regular use.

Reason to Buy:

• Compact and Lightweight: Ideal for anglers who prioritize mobility and ease of access.
• Quality Construction: Ensures longevity and reliability in diverse fishing conditions.
• Versatile Wear Options: Offers flexibility in how it’s worn for maximum comfort and convenience.
• Effective Gear Organization: Though compact, it cleverly organizes essential gear for quick access.

Reason to Avoid:

• Limited Internal Organization: Missed opportunities for additional pockets for better gear segregation.
• Comfort Could Be Improved: The neck strap could benefit from added padding for enhanced comfort during long fishing sessions.

2. Best Budget: Simms Freestone Chest Pack

Overall Score: 89/100

• Capacity and Storage: 88/100
• Comfort and Design: 90/100
• Special Features: 87/100
• Versatility: 92/100
• Durability: 88/100

Capacity and Storage: With a 3-liter capacity and smart compartmentalization, it’s spacious enough for essential gear without feeling bulky.

Comfort and Design: Lightweight and structured, the pack maintains its shape even when not fully loaded, ensuring comfort and accessibility.

Special Features: Includes a molded workstation with a foam drying patch and Velcro for tippet and floatant, enhancing gear organization.

Versatility: Can be worn as a chest pack, sling pack, or attached directly to waders, offering multiple configurations for personalized comfort.

Durability: Constructed with 330 denier nylon ripstop and polyurethane backing, it’s built to resist weather and wear, ensuring longevity.

Reason to Buy:

• Adaptable Design: Offers three ways to wear for maximum comfort and utility.
• Weather-Resistant Fabric: Keeps your gear dry in inclement weather conditions.
• Efficient Organization: Multiple compartments and pockets for easy access to fishing essentials.
• Value for Money: Priced under $100, it’s an excellent investment for its features and quality.

Reason to Avoid:

• Strap Complexity: Comes with many straps without clear instructions, which can be confusing initially.
• Limited Space for Larger Gear: May not fit very large fly boxes or extra apparel for longer trips.

3. Best Durability: Thunderhead Chest Pack Eco Shale

Overall Score: 92/100

• Capacity and Storage: 85/100
• Comfort and Design: 95/100
• Special Features: 90/100
• Versatility: 94/100
• Durability: 91/100

Capacity and Storage: Compact yet surprisingly spacious, it allows you to carry what you need without the bulk. Perfect for those who prefer a minimalist approach.

Comfort and Design: Ergonomically crafted for comfort with an integrated back harness and net slot, ensuring your gear feels like an extension of you.

Special Features: Fully submersible with a TIZIP zipper for securing your essentials, and ample attachment points for tools and accessories.

Versatility: Easily integrates with backpacks or wader belts and adapts to various fishing environments, from deep canyons to remote flats.

Durability: Built to withstand the elements, this pack is a testament to durability with its submersible capability and robust construction.

Reason to Buy:

• Streamlined Design: Ideal for anglers who prefer to carry only what’s necessary.
• Comfortable Wear: Ergonomic harness and net slot for easy, comfortable carry.
• Versatile Use: Easily integrates with other gear for varied fishing adventures.
• Submersible: Waterproof zipper ensures gear stays dry in all conditions.
• Accessory Friendly: Numerous attachment points for tools and accessories.

Reason to Avoid:

• Limited Capacity: May not suit those needing to carry a wide array of tackle.
• Price Point: Higher cost compared to simpler storage solutions.

4. Best Special Features: Umpqua ZS2 Overlook 500 Chest Pack

Overall Score: 88/100

• Capacity and Storage: 87/100
• Comfort and Design: 90/100
• Special Features: 85/100
• Versatility: 92/100
• Durability: 86/100

Capacity and Storage: With ample room for essentials plus a bit more, it suits anglers who like to be prepared but not overburdened. Holds fly boxes, drinks, and more without feeling cramped.

Comfort and Design: Designed with the angler’s movements in mind; minimal snag points and a system that supports weight distribution, enhancing wearability during long sessions.

Special Features: Boasts a two-piece system with a net retainer and multiple attachment points, though it could benefit from more innovative gear management solutions.

Versatility: The two-piece design and adaptable storage options shine in various fishing scenarios, from bushwhacking to waiting, proving its mettle across conditions.

Durability: Built to endure the rigors of fly fishing, its resilience in the field is notable. However, the review lacks specific insights into long-term wear and tear.

Reason to Buy:

• Efficient Storage: Ideal for those seeking a balance between capacity and practicality.
• Comfort-Focused Design: Ergonomic and minimizes snagging, enhancing the fishing experience.
• Versatile Use: Easily adjusts to different fishing environments and strategies.
• Convenient Features: Quick clips for easy donning and mesh pockets for organization.

Reason to Avoid:

• Lack of Innovation: While functional, it misses out on groundbreaking features that could set it apart.
• Unclear Durability: Long-term durability specifics are not deeply covered, which could be a concern for intensive use.

5. Best Comfort and Design: Orvis Chest Pack 

Overall Score: 92/100

• Capacity and Storage: 91/100
• Comfort and Design: 94/100
• Special Features: 93/100
• Versatility: 90/100
• Durability: 92/100

Capacity and Storage: Good space for gear, including a winter setup, snacks, and a small camera. Ideal for anglers who pack thoughtfully.

Comfort and Design: The ergonomic harness ensures even weight distribution, promising comfort during prolonged fishing sessions.

Special Features: Features like a tippet station, fly patch, and sizable pull tabs enhance convenience and efficiency on the water.

Versatility: Adaptable for various fishing conditions and compatible with the Bug Out Backpack for expanded storage needs.

Durability: Constructed from recycled Cordura polyester, this pack is built to endure many seasons of fishing adventures.

Reason to Buy:

• Eco-Friendly Design: Made from recycled materials, it’s a choice that benefits the planet.
• Comprehensive Organization: With specialized compartments and attachment points, gear is easily accessible.
• Enhanced Comfort: The harness system offers unparalleled comfort for all-day wear.
• Versatile Compatibility: Integrates seamlessly with the Bug Out Backpack for additional storage.

Reason to Avoid:

• Limited Size for Larger Expeditions: May not suffice for anglers needing to carry a vast array of gear.
• Specialized Features Overkill: For those preferring simplicity, the detailed organization might be unnecessary.

6. Best Storage Capacity: Umpqua ZS2 Waterproof Wader Chest Pack 

Overall Score: 92/100

• Capacity and Storage: 94/100
• Comfort and Design: 93/100
• Special Features: 90/100
• Versatility: 91/100
• Durability: 92/100

Capacity and Storage: Good room for essential gear with specialized compartments for organized storage. It comfortably fits multiple fly boxes and essentials for a day on the river.

Comfort and Design: Designed with a high chest position and a comfortable harness, ensuring it remains comfortable and accessible throughout a day of fishing.

Special Features: Features like a molded workstation, foam drying patch, and customizable tool tabs enhance functionality but lacks included zingers for the price point.

Versatility: Configurable for competition and casual fishing with adaptable storage options and net placements, making it suitable for various fishing styles.

Durability: Crafted from weather-resistant materials with a sturdy construction, ensuring it stands up to the rigors of frequent use in diverse conditions.

Reason to Buy:

• Adaptable for All Seasons: Versatile enough to cater to winter and summer fishing needs with ample storage.
• Ease of Access: Strategically placed compartments and tool tabs for quick access to gear.
• Net Placement Flexibility: Offers innovative solutions for net storage, catering to competitive and casual fishing scenarios.
• High Comfort Level: Comfortably sits high on the chest, distributing weight evenly without hindering movement.

Reason to Avoid:

• Zingers Not Included: For its price, the exclusion of basic accessories like zingers is a notable drawback.
• Potential for Overloading: Its ample storage capacity might tempt anglers to pack more than necessary, which could impede mobility.

7. Best Versatility: Fishpond Cross Current Chest Pack

Overall Score: 94/100

• Capacity and Storage: 93/100
• Comfort and Design: 96/100
• Special Features: 92/100
• Versatility: 95/100
• Durability: 94/100

Capacity and Storage: Roomy enough for all essentials without entering the realm of overpacking. Accommodates multiple reels, lunch, and spare gear with ease.

Comfort and Design: Strategically designed for all-day wear without discomfort. The high seat keeps it dry, and the well-constructed pads prevent shoulder strain.

Special Features: Magnetic opening for easy access, backpack for additional storage, and a D-ring for net attachment enhance its functionality.

Versatility: Equally suited for long fishing trips or minimal gear days. Its ability to adapt to various fishing scenarios is a significant plus.

Durability: Withstood rigorous use without signs of wear and tear, indicating high-quality materials and construction.

Reason to Buy:

• Accessible Design: Keeps everything within reach without the need to shuffle gear around.
• Water Resistance: High placement prevents unwanted wetness, safeguarding your valuables.
• Ample Storage: Perfect for those who prefer being prepared without the bulk.
• Comfortable for Extended Use: Designed to prevent discomfort during long fishing sessions.

Reason to Avoid:

• Limited Water Bottle Space: Not ideal for anglers who prioritize having their hydration easily accessible.
• Preference-Specific: May not suit those who prefer hip or sling packs over chest packs.