Flyfishing vests have specialized pockets designed to hold a variety of fly boxes, extra reels and spools, tippet materials and single fly’s. Some fly vests come in a “shorty” style that is shorter in length and designed for wading in deeper water.

Pro: Lots of storage space

Con: Fully loaded a vest can be overkill. You will carry stuff you don’t need just because you have space!

PFD Fishing Vests

Personal Floatation Device (PFD) Vests are a nice option for anglers that are fishing from a boat or wading difficult water.

Mustang Deluxe Inflatable Vest

They are much lighter and less bulky than a lifejacket. When an angler gets in trouble they activate the device by manually pulling a cord. Floatation is achieved and the angler can get himself out of a tricky situation.

Pro: Safety, duh!

Con: Bulkiness of a regular vest without the capacity

Chest Packs / Waste Packs

Chest packs are a nice alternative to traditional vests. They evenly distribute weight and can save your back over a long day of hiking and wading. Most feature a zip-down front pocket that creates a nice work surface and offers access to your flies or lures on the flow. 

Filson Chest Pack

  They typically have a number of additional zippered or mesh pockets for pliers, scissors and other accessories.

Pro: Even weight distribution, simplicity

Con: Lack of specialized storage space

Popular Manufacturers:

www.simmsfishing.com

www.filson.com

www.mustangsurvival.com