A good fly fishing vest is an angler’s best friend on the water. The right vest keeps gear organized and accessible, without weighing you down. When shopping for a vest, keep these key factors in mind:
Pockets – You need enough pockets to carry essentials, but not so many that things get lost. Aim for 10-20 pockets in a mix of sizes. Have several smaller pockets for tools and accessories. Include a few larger pockets for fly boxes, tippet, etc.
Material – Mesh vests offer breathability on hot days, but rugged fabrics hold up better over time. Consider when and where you’ll fish most when choosing mesh vs. fabric.
Comfort – An uncomfortable vest ruins your day on the water. Look for vests with wide shoulder straps, adjustable waist straps, and weight distributing designs. The vest should move with you as you cast.
Organization – Simple is best. Limit yourself to the bare essentials needed for each trip. Don’t let extra pockets tempt you into carrying non-essentials. Develop a system for which items go in which pockets.
Durability – Look for quality materials and construction. Hang and store the vest properly when not in use. A bit more money upfront pays off with a vest that lasts season after season.
A fly fishing vest keeps your gear secure while allowing freedom of movement. With a well-designed vest stocked only with necessities, you can focus on the fishing at hand, rather than rummaging for lost items. Choose thoughtfully and your vest will be a trusted companion for years of fishing adventures.