Fly fishing vests are an all-important part of your fly fishing arsenal. With the different styles of fishing such as dry fly and wet fly, carrying the equipment for each style required can become quite a load. In order to keep everything organized and within reach a good quality fly fishing vest will make the fishing experience far more enjoyable.
For example a days outing on a backwoods river requires that you carry a certain amount of equipment. The fishing may differ, from fishing swift flowing water where you are fishing perhaps with a heavy nymph, or to slow deep pools using a sinking line and wet fly. You may also come across areas that you could use a dry fly or tiny nymphs such as back washes and incoming creeks. All of these conditions require varying lines and fishing flies. Its tough to be caught out by finding the trout suddenly coming on to a dry fly and all you have no floating lines with you.
Dependent on the amount of time you have you may also want to something to sustain you. If I spend a day on the river I would usually take lunch, a small billy and gas cooker if the area to be fished was in a fire restricted area. Also foul weather gear and spare clothing in the way of light weight but warm polypropelene shirt, socks and leggings. All of this gear requires a serious, good quality fly fishing vest.
Not only is the fly fishing vest a great way to keep organized, but also ensures that you have everything you need. Keeping your vest in order and stocked will ensure you have all you need next time you go fishing. Get used to having the same things in each pocket so you can instinctively find whatever it is you need. All vests these days have plenty of pockets and compartments to keep whatever it is you need. Camera compartments, cell phone pockets, sunglasses, sunscreens, the list goes on.
Everyone will have need for different fly vests. For myself I have 2, one I use for fishing from a boat, canoe or where i know what to expect such as local lakes rivers and streams. This is a general pupose vest for general gear such as flies, leaders, a spare line, and a few tools. On the other extreme is a full day pack or vest that can carry various reels, lines and gear for a long day hike.
Obviously the fishing vest you choose will suit your style of fishing, be prepared to spend a little extra and opt for quality vests such as a simms fishing vest, Like the rest of your fly equipment good quality will give years of enjoyment and fond memories.
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