Carrying all of the fly fishing essentials to the water safely could be a huge hassle. With the appropriate choice of fly fishing packs, you can easily manage to take all the important stuff conveniently. These packs come in different variants including hip packs, backpacks, chest packs, sling packs, etc.
All of these packs are superb when it comes to functionality however, the hip pocketed are highly preferred by anglers. These come with a belt that is tied around the waist, you can easily twist the bag forward to access. When not in use, turn it to the back to fish conveniently.
After a lot of research, our experts found Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible as the overall best fly fishing hip pack. It is an extremely durable waterproof storage bag with a degree of adjustability.
Learn more about this bag along with our other top recommendations in detail below.
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10 Best Fly Fishing Hip Packs
We have reviewed the 10 best fly fishing hip packs and categorized them as waterproof and non-waterproof hip packs. First of all:
Best Waterproof Hip Packs
If you can’t stand the idea of non-waterproof fly fishing bags and need one that protects your stuff from getting wet at any cost, here are some amazing choices.
1. Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible – Best Fly Fishing Hip Pack
This one from Fishpond is the most expensive choice on our list and is waterproof. It comes with one main compartment with lots of storage space. To protect the items inside, the main pocket features waterproof TIZIP zippers.
We loved how big the compartment is and easily housed fly boxes, a tackle box, an extra reel, soft drink cans, and a few more stuff. There is also a pocket on the outside which unfortunately isn’t waterproof.
The hip belt is quite broad and cushioned for the best-ever comfort no matter how long you stay in the water. If you don’t have budget restrictions then this is surely the most amazing choice ever.
Pros
- Exceptional durability
- Zippers don’t corrode in saltwater
- Very lightweight
Cons
- The outer pocket isn’t waterproof
- Extremely costly
Verdict
Be it saltwater flats or freshwater deep fly fishing, this incredible fly fishing hip pack comes in handy for all.
2. Simms Tributary Hip Pack – Best Fishing Fanny Pack Of All Time
If you need a highly durable bag that lasts a lifetime and is extremely spacious, the Simms tributary hip pack has got you covered. The waterproof nylon fabric ensures dryness throughout whereas, the polyurethane coating keeps the moisture out of the bag.
What makes this bag ideal for all time is its sturdiness and dedicated compartments for important fly fishing equipment such as fly boxes and tippets. Its main pocket is quite big that we easily kept hooks, flies, an extra reel, chewing gum, and sunscreen in it.
Another impressive feature making it an excellent choice is the adjustability. It is primarily designed to be worn as a fanny pack. However, using the longer strap, we could also use it across the body as a sling pack. Considering the price, it might not be a budget-friendly choice for all anglers.
Pros
- Internal mesh stretch pocket
- Lots of storage space
- Multiple carry options
Cons
- Slightly expensive
Verdict
An extremely versatile and highly functional product, the Simms tributary hip pack is indeed one of the best fly fishing packs one could invest in.
3. Orvis Waterproof Hip Pack – Best Chest And Hip Pack For Fly Fishing
Made from recycled materials, this hip pack from Orvis differs from the Orvis Guide pack. However, it has a one-third capacity of that pack i.e., only 3 liters. Despite that, we were totally surprised by the sturdiness of this pack.
Being the best waterproof fanny pack, our anglers tried this bag for various fly fishing trips, and none of the equipment was wet. The tippet whippet docking station comes with a bar that ensures maximum convenience.
Carrying this bag was never a hassle as it comes with a hideaway hip strap along with a removable shoulder strap. Unfortunately, only the shoulder straps are padded. However, the hip strap doesn’t cause strain since it is used for light packing.
Pros
- Very durable
- No strain on back or shoulders
- Includes fly selection box
Cons
- Non-padded straps
Verdict
Get your hands on the highly versatile and one of the best fly fishing hip packs for a fair price for an amazing experience.
4. Simms Freestone Hip Pack – Best Modular Fly Fishing Hip Pack
An incredible piece of convenience from Simms is its Freestone hip pack. It is designed to keep all of your fly fishing accessories in one place. Its modular design makes it easy to access and super comfortable, especially for longer sessions.
Unlike its competitors, this bag is a compression-molded box with a single compartment closed with a zipper. As you open the bag, the front part folds down and serves as a great platform for rigging.
What adds to the overall price of this pack is the full-sized foam fly retaining panel on the exterior and molle webbing through the waist belt. The breathable air mesh topped onto the perforated EVA foam ensures comfort and prevents sweating.
Pros
- Comes with a tipper caddy and floatant holster
- Holder for large water bottles
- DWR finish for waterproofing
Cons
- Very expensive
Verdict
If you don’t have any budget issues and looking for the best hip bag for fishing, this one from Simms is a wonderful choice.
Best Non-Waterproof Hip Packs
If you are looking for the best fly fishing hip packs without waterproofing ability, the following are some great choices.
1. Orvis Guide Hip Pack – Best Full-Size Fly Fishing Hip Pack
Are you an expert angler who spends lots of time fly fishing and needs a large bag? This organizational powerhouse is for you. This bag also suits anglers who camp for days and have lots of stuff to store. The hefty space of 9 liters in the main compartments makes this bag an excellent full-size choice.
Being a complete guide pack, it comes with a fly patch, tippet spool, net holster, and a water bottle holder. We utilized all these compartments and they actually held everything pretty conveniently. In the main pocket, there are additional stretchable mesh sorting pockets along with a few drop-in ones.
The overwhelming number of compartments helped us stay organized throughout the fishing trip. With all the load, the bag indeed becomes quite heavy to hold using the waist belt only. The manufacturers have added an extra supporting neck strap which releases the strain on the waist. Considering the price, it should have waterproofing abilities.
Pros
- Schematic pockets
- Tippet whippet docking station
- Extremely spacious
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Pricey
Verdict
The Orvis guide hip pack allows you to wear the heavyweight with maximum comfort without any issues.
2. Allen Eagle River Pack – Best Padded Fly Fishing Hip Pack
Simple on the outside and durable on the inside, the Allen Eagle pack is an impressive pick for all anglers. Its stand-out feature is the padded waist belt with mesh that prevents you from sweating while carrying the bag. Additionally, it also has a padded and removable neck strap for added support.
When it comes to the pockets, the bag has several including d-rings to attach various accessories. The inner compartment has ample space where we could store a 9-inch tackle box, two fly boxes in it, an extra reel, and sunglasses.
Because of the bright yellow interior fabric color, finding objects in low light was made extremely convenient. Though it is not as spacious as the Orvis guide bag, it is still an incredible one with several pockets to stay organized. It is half the price of Orvis and lasts a long time.
Pros
- Padded mesh waist belt
- Straps for various accessories
- Internal zippered waterproof pocket
Cons
- Would feel heavy without the neckstrap
Verdict
Overall, this product from Allen Eagle River is one of the best fly fishing hip packs one can purchase at an affordable price.
3. White River Fly Shop Aventur1 Pack – Best Fly Fishing Waist Packs Under $30
Looking for the best fishing hip packs but on a tight budget? This bag has everything you need. When compared to the Orvis or Allen Eagle bags, this is slightly less spacious but enough for its price. In our experience, the main compartment held a small to medium-sized fly box, a tackle box, a fish scale, forceps, and sunglasses.
It is designed for anglers who spend less time in water and need a storage bag for light packing. The external compartment has a mesh pocket. Whereas, there are two more stretchable mesh pockets on the exterior.
Because of the adjustable waist strap, various members of our team could share the bag for their trips. Half of the waist strap is padded with results in decent comfort. For an extra layer of protection, there is an extra padded mesh neck strap.
Pros
- Excellent value for the money
- Comfortable to carry
- Ideal for beginners
Cons
- Front pockets lack zips
Verdict
At such a low price, this little pack is indeed a gem that provides you with comfortable storage for all the fly fishing essentials.
4. Fishpond Waterdance Fly Fishing Bag – Best Guide Fly Fishing Hip Pack
Another complete guide pack for anglers who require lots of storage. A lot less expensive than the Orvis Guide Pack, the Fishpond waterdance guide pack has quite similar features. It has a maximum storage volume of 7.7 liters and comes with two hefty compartments.
The bag features Fishpond’s signature fly bench that is easily accessible. The best thing about it is that you can change the foam once it gets old or damaged. The two mesh holders on each side of the bag securely held our water bottles. The drawstring helps tighten the pocket if your bottle is smaller than the pocket’s diameter.
Since the waist strap isn’t enough to hold the weight of a fully loaded guide bag, one has to use the neck strap for support. The strap reached its maximum extension for a 5’11” guy and will probably be short for anyone taller than this.
Pros
- Massive storage space
- Zip down the fly bench for easy access
- Padded mesh backing for comfort and breathability
Cons
- Zippers are robust but can corrode with salt water
- Neck strap could be short for tall people
Verdict
It is safe to call this guide bag one of the best fly fishing hip packs one could get for their heavy relevant applications. Also, Fishpond offers a lifetime warranty on all products.
5. Fishpond Switchback Pro Bag – Best Fishing Hip Bag System
This bag has everything that you would expect from a top-notch manufacturer like Fishpond. It is one of the most expensive hip packs on our list and worth each penny. The capacity is quite sufficient i.e., a total of 5 liters.
The most unique feature that makes this bag a superb hip pack system is the rail-like strap. It enables you to slide the pack in the front easily. The large compartment comes with an interior divider and two stretchable pockets. These helped us stay organized with the items.
In the exterior pocket, we kept the fly box which offered quick and convenient access. We also carried our net on the back of the pack. It would’ve been better if the bag was water-resistant considering the hefty price point.
Pros
- Magnetic drop-down pocket
- Extremely comfortable to carry
- Fly pad attachments on the shoulder strap
Cons
- Not waterproof
Verdict
Fishpond never fails to amaze its users and this Switchback Pro hip pack is not different in terms of convenience and comfort.
6. Piscifun Fishing Bag Portable – Best Fly Fishing Hip Packs Under $20
The most inexpensive choices on our list today, Piscifun has a good name when it comes to the best fly fishing hip packs under a budget. This pack has five outer pockets, a water bottle holder, and two hook and loop fasteners.
Speaking of the main pocket, it has ample space to hold the basic stuff. We tested this product for short fly fishing trips and stored a 9-inch tackle box, a fly box, an extra reel, and sunscreen, in the bag. The items weren’t snug and had some room left for any small item.
Considering the versatility of this pack, users can also use it for fishing as well as hiking, and wading. Even though it is a waist bag, the strap offers tremendous adjustability as it can extend up to 56 inches in length.
Pros
- Water-resistant nylon material
- Excellent value for the money
- Hidden anti-theft pocket
Cons
- Poor quality zippers
Verdict
Store your important fly fishing equipment in this durable and lightweight bag by Piscifun without breaking the bank.
Buying Guide
Owning the best fly fishing hip packs saves you from much frustration. But, a couple of factors make any product the most ideal. Make sure to consider the following before purchasing.
1. Durability
Whether you spend every weekend fly fishing or are an infrequent angler, having a durable fly fishing hip pack is a must. Outdoors are rough, especially for sensitive fishing gear. Therefore, you can’t use any regular bag that is unable to hold up the load during harsh conditions.
It is important to look for a fishing hip pack that is sturdy enough to last long season after season.
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2. Waterproofing
Since fly fishing involves almost half-body immersion in the water, a pack with water-resistance properties keeps your gear dry. Such bags are extremely helpful in protecting your items during rainy days or while camping.
If you only spend a brief time fishing in the water, you might also get along well with non-waterproof fishing packs.
3. Pockets
A fishing bag with compartments is a lot better than one having a single compartment. It enables the angler to stay organized and store items categorically. Moreover, you can also use different pockets to store dry and wet items separately.
But hip packs are usually not large enough to carry your best wet wading shoes or fly fishing boots, which you can keep in some of the best wader bags that we have reviewed recently.
4. Comfort
As a fly angler, you already have to stay in the water for catching your desired species. The last thing you would want is added discomfort from your fishing hip pack. Look for a bag that comes with padded straps so you don’t feel the pressure around your waist. Once you are at optimum comfort, your fishing experience will ultimately enhance.
FAQs
A fly fishing bag should have all the must-haves such as the best fly reel, fishing line, fly boxes, leaders, tippets, or any other thing that you might need. You can also store items like sunglasses, sunscreen, chewing gum, etc. in it.
All types of fly fishing packs are unique and amazing in their own way. For fly fishing in shallow waters, hip and best fly fishing chest packs are great choices. Similarly, in deeper water, you must keep your bag above the water to keep it dry hence, chest packs work best.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best fly fishing hip packs, the final decision comes down to your fishing technique. For example, if you do it in deep water, it is ideal to invest in a submersible or waterproof fanny pack. Whereas, for shallow fly fishing, non-waterproof hip packs do the job impressively.
During our field testing with several packs, one product that hooked us to it was the Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible. It is extremely sturdy even withstands harsh weather, is spacious, and super comfortable to carry for longer sessions.