Hey there fly fishers and welcome to my post where we will check out my top three best fly fishing hip packs to keep your gear dry on the water this year. When it comes to fly fishing, one contributing factor to any successful endeavor is how organized we are with our gear. This is because we tend to spend a lot of time standing knee deep in a river or lake where running back and forth to the bank for some gear simply means lees time with a fly on the water.
Fly fishing packs then effectively store our small tools, spare flies and other tiny personal items allowing us to grab stuff quickly or keep it dry. So if this is something you are looking for, to help you out here I have had a good look around and come up with 3 good options below.
Let’s check them out.
My three recommended fly fishing hip packs
I will review these in more detail below however if you just want to get moving without all the carry-on, my recommended products are listed here for your convenience:
| Fly Fishing Hip Packs | Price | Get it | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | Piscifun Fishing Waist Bag | $ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | Eagle River Lumbar Pack | $$ | CURRENT PRICE |
 | FishPond Waterdance Guide Fly Fishing Waist Pack | $$$ | CURRENT PRICE |
What are fly fishing hip packs?
Also known as lumbar, hip, waist or fanny packs (in Australia we also call them bum bags), fly fishing packs are storage solutions that will help avid anglers access their fishing gear whilst out in the water. As it is with fly fishing vests, the best fly fishing hip packs have pockets and multiple attachment points for accessories such as tippets, nippers, flies and tools.
As the name implies, a hip pack is worn around your hip and the great thing about these are that they tend to not limit your mobility as much as a fly fishing backpack or sling pack when you cast.
What should you be looking for?
The following factors should be considered as you look for a good hip pack for your fly fishing needs.
- Pockets
- Adjustability
- Durability
- Additions
Pockets
When purchasing a new fly fishing pack, seasoned and novice fly anglers consider the number of pocket spaces available. For this reason, ensure you have enough space to fit everything you intend to bring with you. These hip packs should store your fly fishing tools, gear, and even your small personal items such as keys, wallets, licenses, etc. as well.
Adjustability
This factor describes how the fly fishing hip pack can adjust to your body type and the clothing you have underneath. If you plan to fly fish all year during warm and cold climates, the lumbar bag must give you comfort during these fishing seasons.
Note that what hugs your chest in the summer will give you irritation and discomfort during cold-season fly fishing when you stack a few extra layers. Therefore I highly recommend that you find something that fits you well and that you can easily adjust depending on what you’re wearing.
Durability
The product should withstand the rugged life of fly fishing. You need something that can handle the harsh conditions so, if you intend to spend a lot of time outdoors and fishing, durability is an important consideration. Look for products with TPU welded plastic or sturdy nylon DWR outer materials with solid and rugged zippers that are durable and waterproof – meaning it is able to protect your essential items in case it falls into the water.
Additions
Other potential additions include:
- Net holder: This addition will help you put your fishing net in place as well.
- Buckle system: A bestselling fly fishing hip pack has an excellent buckle system that helps in adjusting the product according to your body size and preference.
- Breathable: It will benefit you if the hip pack helps deal with your sweat, especially during summer fly fishing.
My three recommendations broken down
So based on the information above and my own experience, I recommend the following options:
1. Piscifun Fishing Waist Bag
This first product is an excellent choice with light weight design, plenty of pockets and an adjustable strap. It is made with super string materials and zippers as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Piscifun
- Construction material: Durable, scratch-proof nylon
- Dimensions: 12.2 x 4.7 x 5.3 inches
- Weight: 0.59 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Anti-theft pocket
- Double adjustable waist-belt system
- Premium SBS zippers
Why have I chosen it?
Aside from possessing numerous compartments on the inside, this belt bag has five additional external pockets including a mesh pocket, two fastener pockets, and two zippered pockets. The mesh pocket takes care of your water bottle, and the pocket on the left side is allotted for your small belongings such as keys.
The waist belt of this fly fishing pack can be easily altered to a personalized fit. It can be adjusted up to 56 inches owing to its quick-release buckle and there is even an easy-to-use loop fastener to ensure your extra belt parts are in place.
2. Eagle River Lumbar Pack
Despite weighing only a pound, this next lumbar pack is surprisingly roomy and can hold several large fly boxes and your other necessary gear. The hip strap is cushioned for added support, and the shoulder strap is removable as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: Allen
- Construction material: Durable, scratch-proof nylon
- Dimensions: 12 x 8 x 4 inches
- Weight: 1.2 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Multiple D rings, loops, and straps for carrying accessories
- Zip down work station with tippet tender and fly patch
Why have I chosen it?
My second recommended hip bag provides multiple storage options and comes with additional internal pockets and dividers in the main compartment, which keeps everything organized and easy to find. While on the water, the integrated external zippered pocket folds down, giving you a workstation. A foam fly drying patch, D-rings, side pockets, a water bottle holder, and daisy chains are located outside the pack. This is a great option for those spending a little longer in the water.
3. FishPond Waterdance Guide Fly Fishing Waist Pack
My final product is a favorite choice among many fly fishers as it gives superb comfort and does the job of keeping your gear safe and accessible. This hip pack can be worn as a chest bag, depending on the situation as well. See its specifications below:
- Brand: FishPond
- Construction material: 420D nylon Cyclepond fabric
- Dimensions: 15 x 10 x 6 inches
- Weight: 1.3 pounds
Other inclusions:
- Adjustable compression strap system
- Interior pockets for extra gear storage
- Webbing and cord loops
Why have I chosen this?
My last recommended product is made from durable materials and can assist you in many fly fishing seasons. It is equipped with a multi-pocket system that fits your gear and other essential belongings and the drop-down fly bench gives you easy access to your fly whenever you need them.
The two inside large compartments carry your large fly boxes and other necessary accessories that you need for extended periods out on the water.
Conclusion
There you have it, my three best fly fishing hip packs that are effective storage solutions. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual, let me know of your experiences with them.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
