Fly fishing vests are an essential piece of gear for anglers who want to keep their hands free while fishing. These vests come equipped with pockets and loops to hold all the necessary tools and accessories needed for a successful day on the water. When it comes to fly fishing vests, there are many options available, each with its own unique set of features and benefits.
When choosing the best fly fishing vest, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the material of the vest. The material should be durable, lightweight, and breathable to ensure comfort during long days on the water. The size and fit of the vest are also crucial. It should be adjustable to fit snugly but not restrict movement or cause discomfort. Finally, the number and placement of pockets and loops are essential. The vest should have enough pockets and loops to hold all necessary tools and accessories, and they should be easily accessible.
After researching and testing various fly fishing vests, we have narrowed down the top options for anglers. Our top picks offer a range of features and benefits to suit different needs and preferences, from lightweight and minimalist to more substantial and feature-rich options. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, our guide will help you find the best fly fishing vest for your needs.
Best Fly Fishing Vests
As avid fly fishers ourselves, we understand the importance of having a reliable and functional fly fishing vest. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, having the right vest can make all the difference in your fishing experience. After thorough research and testing, we’ve compiled a list of the best fly fishing vests on the market. Each vest on our list offers unique features and benefits, ensuring that there’s an option for every type of angler. So without further ado, here are our top picks for the best fly fishing vests.
BASSDASH FV08 Ultra Lightweight Fly Fishing Vest
If you’re looking for a lightweight fly fishing vest that’s perfect for carrying your essentials, the BASSDASH FV08 Ultra Lightweight Fly Fishing Vest is a great option.
Pros
- Made of premium, durable yet lightweight polyester construction
- One size fits most
- Maximum storage capacity
Cons
- Straps may loosen over time
- Seams may fray after heavy use
- Pockets may be too small for larger items
This vest is perfect for those who want to travel light and don’t need to carry a ton of gear with them. The vest is made of premium, durable yet lightweight polyester construction, making it easy to wear for extended periods of time. It’s also one size fits most, so you don’t need to worry about sizing.
The vest has maximum storage capacity, with plenty of pockets to carry all of your essentials. It’s perfect for carrying your fishing gear, snacks, water bottle, and more. The pockets are well-designed and easy to access, so you can quickly grab what you need without fumbling around.
One downside to the vest is that the straps may loosen over time, so you may need to adjust them periodically. Additionally, the seams may fray after heavy use, so you’ll need to be careful with how you handle the vest. Finally, some of the pockets may be too small for larger items, so you’ll need to plan accordingly.
Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight, durable fly fishing vest that’s perfect for carrying your essentials, the BASSDASH FV08 Ultra Lightweight Fly Fishing Vest is a great option.
BASSDASH Strap Fishing Vest
If you’re looking for a fishing vest that can hold all your gear, then the BASSDASH Strap Fishing Vest is a great choice. It has plenty of pockets and is adjustable for both men and women.
Pros
- The vest has plenty of pockets to hold all your gear.
- It is adjustable for both men and women.
- The vest is made of durable materials.
Cons
- The pockets on the back are not big enough to hold a rain jacket.
- The vest can be a bit heavy when fully loaded with gear.
- The zippers can be a bit difficult to use.
This vest is perfect for those who need to carry a lot of gear with them when fishing. It has plenty of pockets to hold all your gear and is adjustable for both men and women. The vest is also made of durable materials, so it will last you a long time.
One downside to this vest is that the pockets on the back are not big enough to hold a rain jacket. This can be a bit of a hassle if you need to carry one with you. Additionally, the vest can be a bit heavy when fully loaded with gear, so keep that in mind when packing. Finally, the zippers can be a bit difficult to use, so be patient when opening and closing them.
Overall, the BASSDASH Strap Fishing Vest is a great choice for those who need to carry a lot of gear with them when fishing. It is durable, adjustable, and has plenty of pockets to hold all your gear.
M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack
We recommend the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack for those looking for a versatile and adjustable fishing vest.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Plenty of pockets for storage
- Versatile design with options for vest, sling pack, or backpack
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the pockets are not large enough for their fly boxes
- The water bottle holder may not be as sturdy as desired
- Sizing may not be suitable for all body types
This fishing vest is made with mesh fabric and features adjustable straps for a comfortable and customizable fit. The vest can be worn as a traditional vest, sling pack, or backpack, making it a versatile option for different fishing situations. With plenty of pockets for storage, you can easily keep all of your fishing gear organized and accessible.
One potential downside is that some customers have reported that the pockets are not large enough for their fly boxes. Additionally, the water bottle holder may not be as sturdy as desired, and sizing may not be suitable for all body types.
Overall, the M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack is a solid choice for those looking for a versatile and adjustable fishing vest.
Obcursco Fly Fishing Vest
If you’re looking for a versatile and affordable fly fishing vest, the Obcursco Fly Fishing Vest is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The vest is made of breathable mesh, which makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
- It has plenty of pockets and compartments, allowing you to store all of your essential fishing gear.
- The vest is adjustable, so you can get a customized fit that’s comfortable for you.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the zippers on the vest can be a bit flimsy and prone to breaking.
- The sizing of the vest may not be ideal for all users, as it’s designed to be a one-size-fits-all option.
- The vest may not be as durable as some higher-end fly fishing vests on the market.
Overall, we think that the Obcursco Fly Fishing Vest is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable and functional fly fishing vest. While it may not have all of the bells and whistles of some more expensive options, it gets the job done and is comfortable to wear. The breathable mesh material is a nice touch, as it helps to keep you cool and comfortable even on hot days. However, if you’re looking for a vest that’s built to last and can withstand heavy use, you may want to consider investing in a higher-end option.
Kylebooker Fly Fishing Vest Pack
If you’re looking for an affordable and functional fly fishing vest, the Kylebooker Fly Fishing Vest Pack is a solid option.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable to wear all day
- Plenty of pockets for storage
- Well-made with high-quality materials
Cons
- Bright orange zipper extension loops may be unappealing to some
- Pocket orientation may not be ideal for everyone
- No floatation foam included
This vest is made of polyester and mesh, making it breathable and lightweight. It has numerous pockets, including four large zipper pockets, four medium-sized pockets, and two shell pockets. The vest also has a rod holder strap and a D-ring on the back for attaching a net.
While the bright orange zipper extension loops on each pocket may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they can easily be removed or dyed to match the vest. Additionally, the pocket orientation may not be ideal for some, but this is largely a matter of personal preference.
Overall, the Kylebooker Fly Fishing Vest Pack is a great value for the price. It’s comfortable, functional, and well-made, making it a solid choice for any angler on a budget.
Gonex Fly Fishing Vest
If you’re looking for a comfortable and adjustable fly fishing vest with multiple pockets and reflective stripes, then the Gonex Fly Fishing Vest is a great option.
Pros
- The vest has multiple pockets, including two large zip pockets and two mesh pockets, which are convenient for holding fishing lines, fishing lure kit, and other fishing tools.
- The vest features a hanging design with 3 D-rings and 1 hook, which are provided for hanging fishing landing net, fly line holder, fishing pliers, and more.
- The vest is comfortable to wear with a chest buckle that fits your body well even with the zipper opened, and gives you a comfortable feeling under hot weather.
Cons
- The vest may not fit all body types perfectly, as the waist and shoulder positions can only be adjusted according to different sizes to a certain extent.
- The vest is made of polyester material, which may not be as durable as other materials, such as nylon or canvas.
- The vest may not have enough space for larger items, such as water bottles or extra layers.
Overall, the Gonex Fly Fishing Vest is a solid choice for those looking for a comfortable and adjustable vest with multiple pockets and reflective stripes. However, it may not be the best option for those with larger body types or those looking for a more durable material.
BASSDASH Youths Kids Fly Fishing Vest for Adjustable Size with Multiple Pockets Trout Bass Fishing Gear FV09 Grey/Chocolate
If you’re looking for a versatile and adjustable fly fishing vest for your kids, the BASSDASH FV09 Fly Fishing Vest for Youths Kids is a great choice.
Pros
- The adjustable shoulder and waist straps ensure a perfect fit for most kids.
- With 18 interior and exterior pockets, including 11 zippered pockets, your kids can store all their fishing gear and accessories.
- The lightweight mesh lining and padded air mesh upper back and shoulder straps provide ultimate comfort and breathability.
Cons
- Some customers found that the vest was too big for their kids, even with the adjustable straps.
- A few customers reported that the material was not what they expected.
- One customer found that the hydration pocket was too small for their water bottle.
This fly fishing vest is made with premium high-density polyester construction and features a variety of storage options, including four small front mesh pockets for tippet spools, leaders, or other accessories. The adjustable sternum strap provides an alternative use of quick-release buckle closure, and there’s even a D-ring on the back to attach a fishing net.
Other features include reflective stripes, PU attachment points, EVA fly patch, and rod holder loops. The vest is hydration compatible with a rear mesh storage pocket.
In conclusion, the BASSDASH FV09 Fly Fishing Vest for Youths Kids is a great choice for any young angler. With its adjustable size and multiple pockets, it’s versatile enough to meet the needs of any fishing trip.
BASSDASH Fly Fishing Vest
If you’re looking for a versatile fly fishing vest that won’t break the bank, the BASSDASH Fly Fishing Vest is a solid choice.
Pros
- Adjustable size for a comfortable fit
- Multiple pockets for storing all your gear
- Made from durable, lightweight polyester fabric
Cons
- May not be as breathable as more expensive options
- Some users have reported issues with zippers breaking
- May not be suitable for taller individuals
This vest is constructed from premium polyester, which makes it both durable and lightweight. It dries quickly and breathes well, so you won’t feel weighed down or overheated while fishing. The adjustable size ensures a comfortable fit, and there are multiple pockets for storing all your gear.
While some users have reported issues with zippers breaking, overall this vest is a great value for the price. It may not be as breathable as more expensive options, but it still provides ample storage and comfort for a day on the water.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for an affordable fly fishing vest that gets the job done, the BASSDASH Fly Fishing Vest is definitely worth considering.
Allen Company, Big Horn Fishing Chest Vest
If you’re looking for a high capacity vest pack for your fly fishing gear, the Allen Company Big Horn Fishing Chest Vest might be a good choice for you.
Pros
- The vest has multiple interior and exterior storage pockets that provide ample space for your fishing gear.
- The adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps ensure a comfortable fit.
- The hydration compatible rear mesh storage pocket is a convenient feature for staying hydrated during long fishing trips.
Cons
- The vest might be too bulky for some anglers.
- The hemostat docking station might not be as secure as some anglers would like.
- The vest might not fit all body types comfortably.
The Allen Company Big Horn Fishing Chest Vest is a versatile and durable vest pack that provides plenty of storage space for your fly fishing gear. The adjustable padded shoulder and waist straps ensure a comfortable fit, and the hydration compatible rear mesh storage pocket is a convenient feature for staying hydrated during long fishing trips. However, some anglers might find the vest too bulky, and the hemostat docking station might not be as secure as some anglers would like. Additionally, the vest might not fit all body types comfortably. Overall, the Allen Company Big Horn Fishing Chest Vest is a solid choice for anglers who need a lot of storage space for their gear.
carbonholo Fly Fishing Vest Pack Set
If you’re in the market for a fly fishing vest with a water bladder and backpack, the carbonholo Fly Fishing Vest Pack Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The unique waist belt offers additional support and comfort while fishing.
- The insulated bladder pocket keeps your water cool and easily accessible.
- The backpack provides extra storage space for your fishing gear and personal items.
Cons
- Some users have reported issues with the zipper jamming and breaking.
- The vest may not fit comfortably for all body types.
- The product is made in China, which may be a concern for some consumers.
The carbonholo Fly Fishing Vest Pack Set is a versatile option for anglers who want a vest that can also carry a water bladder and backpack. The unique waist belt design adds extra support and comfort, while the insulated bladder pocket keeps your water cool and easily accessible. The backpack provides plenty of additional storage space for your fishing gear and personal items.
However, some users have reported issues with the zipper jamming and breaking, which can be frustrating when you’re out on the water. Additionally, the vest may not fit comfortably for all body types, so it’s important to check the sizing chart before purchasing. Finally, the fact that the product is made in China may be a concern for some consumers who prefer to buy products made in the USA or other countries.
Overall, if you’re looking for a fly fishing vest with a water bladder and backpack, the carbonholo Fly Fishing Vest Pack Set is a solid choice that offers plenty of features and functionality.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best fly fishing vest, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind before making your purchase:
Material
The material of the vest is an important consideration. Look for a vest made from durable, high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use. Some common materials used in fly fishing vests include nylon, polyester, and mesh.
Pockets
Pockets are an essential feature of any fly fishing vest. Look for a vest with plenty of pockets in various sizes to hold all of your gear. Consider the placement of the pockets as well – having them in easy-to-reach places can make a big difference when you’re out on the water.
Comfort
Comfort is key when it comes to wearing a fly fishing vest for extended periods of time. Look for a vest with adjustable straps and a breathable design to ensure that it fits well and keeps you cool.
Capacity
Consider the capacity of the vest – how much gear can it hold? If you’re someone who likes to bring a lot of gear with you on your fishing trips, look for a vest with plenty of storage options.
Additional Features
Finally, consider any additional features that may be important to you. Some vests come with built-in fly patches, tool holders, and even hydration systems. Think about what features would be most useful for your specific needs.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a fly fishing vest that meets your needs and helps you make the most of your time on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some alternatives to traditional fly fishing vests?
While traditional fly fishing vests are a popular choice, there are several alternatives available. Some anglers prefer to use sling packs, chest packs, or backpacks for their fishing gear. These options offer more mobility and can be more comfortable for longer fishing trips.
What are some features to look for in a fly fishing vest?
When choosing a fly fishing vest, there are several features to consider. Look for vests with multiple pockets of varying sizes to hold all your gear, as well as adjustable straps for a comfortable fit. Some vests also have built-in hydration systems or D-ring attachments for landing nets.
What is the best fly fishing vest for larger body types?
For larger body types, it’s important to find a vest with adjustable straps and a range of sizes. Some popular brands, like Simms and Patagonia, offer vests in extended sizes to accommodate a wider range of anglers.
What are some popular brands of fly fishing vests?
There are many quality brands of fly fishing vests, including Simms, Patagonia, Orvis, and Fishpond. Each brand offers a range of styles and features to suit different fishing needs.
What are some essential items to carry in a fly fishing vest?
Fly fishing vests are designed to carry all the necessary gear for a successful trip. Some essential items to carry include flies, tippet, leaders, nippers, forceps, and a small first aid kit. It’s also important to carry any necessary licenses or permits.
Related:Â Fly Fishing Vest Setup: Tips for the Perfect Gear Configuration
Is a fly fishing vest necessary for a successful trip?
While a fly fishing vest is not necessary for a successful trip, it can make things much easier. Vests allow anglers to carry all their gear in one convenient location, keeping everything organized and easily accessible. Ultimately, the choice of whether or not to use a vest is up to the individual angler.
Last Updated on November 5, 2023 by Get Fly Fishing