10 Best Fly Fishing Vests 2023

Casting and wading in the water isn’t a walk in the park. The anglers constantly need a greater range of motion and freedom of movement to win the Big Game. so, where sling packs or backpacks are either bulkier and may offer less storage, the best fly fishing vest can potentially change the entire fishing game.

A fisherman vest offers several advantages over sling packs and fishing backpacks when it comes to organization, accessibility, and comfort. Fly fishing vests are an essential piece of equipment for any angler, providing a convenient and practical way to store and organize fishing gear and accessories while on the water. 

With the fishing season in full swing, many anglers including the fishermen in our team wore their fishing vests and took the path to the nearest fishing spot. Although each of them was wearing a fly fishing vest from a different brand, they all spoke for the higher efficacy of Bassdash fishing vest. 

The Bassdash fishing vest typically comes with a multitude of pockets and compartments, allowing the fisherman to carry all the necessary tools and equipment within easy reach. This saves the fisherman valuable time and effort that would otherwise be spent rummaging through tackle boxes or bags. The vest also helps distribute weight more evenly, reducing the strain on the fisherman’s back and shoulders. 

Considering all this, let’s get straight to our findings of fly fishing vest reviews to find out what is the best pick for you in 2023.

Disclosure: The Wading Kit is a reader-supported website and takes part in different affiliate programs. We may earn a small commission if you shop through links on this page. At thewadingkit.com we test products and recommend them based on our unbiased research. For more info see the disclosure here.

10 Best Fly Fishing Vests 

1. Bassdash Strap Fishing Vest: Top Rated Choice

Are you looking to improve your fly or bass fishing skills and maximize the enjoyment of a day on the water? Then check out Bassdash Fishing Vest, one of the most innovative products available today. 

One of the standout features of this vest is its ample storage space. It has multiple pockets of varying sizes and shapes, including zippered and Velcro pockets, which can hold all your fishing gear, from fly boxes to pliers, and even your phone. The pockets are strategically placed for easy access, allowing you to quickly and easily retrieve your tools when needed.

The vest is made with high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting. The fabric is breathable, keeping you cool and comfortable all day long. The vest is also adjustable, so you can customize the fit to your body type. The shoulder straps, waistband, and chest straps can be adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit.

According to our field tests, the repeated openings or closings of the side pockets of the vest might cause their zippers to stuck. Yet this is a slight catch as the zippers don’t break or fail.

One size fits all – the Bassdash has a perfect fit no matter your body type as it comes with adjustable shoulder straps and waistband. With loops and D rings, the anglers can attach additional gear.

Pros:

• Durable construction
• Cost effective choice
• Comes with a high back
• Comfortable and adjustable design

Cons:

• Zippers are difficult to open and close

Our verdict:

Whether you’re a veteran angler or simply curious about exploring exciting recreational opportunities like bass fishing, make sure to give Bassdash’s high quality Fishing Vest a try before planning any big excursions this year—you won’t regret it!

2. Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest: Best Women’s Fly Fishing Vest

The Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest is a new kind of fishing vest that is changing the way we fish. This vest is packed with features that make it perfect for both amateur and professional fishermen. It’s comfortable, lightweight, and has a number of pockets and compartments to keep all your gear organized. 

The unique design ensures that the vest is lightweight and comfortable with an adjustable fit. It is also breathable, so you won’t get too hot or sweaty. The pockets are easy to access and can be organized for easy retrieval.

Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest includes an adjustable shoulder and waist strap system to keep your water and fishing gear secure. And also has a large main compartment perfect for a big tackle box. It also has multiple zippered pockets, perfect for tools or other small items.

Unfortunately, there are a few drawbacks to the Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest. First, it is not waterproof, which is an issue if you are fishing in areas with a lot of moisture. 

Also, a small woman in our field testing team wasn’t convinced to invest in this option. She found the vest to be too large to fit her size. The adjustable straps and front and back panels never got tightened to provide her with a snug fit.

Pros:

• Adjustable to fit a fisherman’s size
• Lightweight and packable
• Well made design

Cons:

• Difficult to fit a small woman

Our Verdict:

Despite its drawbacks, overall, Fishpond Upstream Tech Vest is the best fly fishing vest for women. It is practical, comfortable, and adjustable, making it a great addition to any fisherman’s gear.

3. Orvis Clearwater Mesh Vest: Best Fishing Vest For Summer

We have found a lot of useful features on Orvis clearwater mesh vest, making it one of the best fly fishing vests in the market. The positives are that it is lightweight, comfortable, and effective in catching fish. The vest can be used for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.

The vest comes with two pockets on each side which make it easier to carry your gear around with you during your trip. Also, this vest is made from 100% polyester material so it will not get damaged easily as other types of vests do. The material does not absorb water which makes it even more effective at catching fish because there won’t be any wet patches on your shirt when you catch them! 

The vest comes in two different sizes, so you can choose the one that best suits your body type. The vest also has an adjustable strap that allows you to fit it snugly around your body while ensuring that it doesn’t move around while you’re wearing it.

The good points of this product include its durability and ease of use, which allow users to get great value for money. In addition, this product allows people with back problems to enjoy their favorite hobby without worrying about breaking down over long periods of time.

Keep in mind that this vest doesn’t offer an enormous number of pockets, yet the 8 pockets explicitly fulfill the basic storage and organizing need of anglers. Be mindful that this vest doesn’t come with a back pocket for holding food or rain gear. Nevertheless, the Clearwater vest overcomes this issue by offering a web in the back.

Pros:

• Long lasting vest
• Nice storage capacity
• Breathable, so comfortable

Cons:

• Lack a back pocket

Our Verdict:

Overall, the Orvis Clearwater Mesh Vest is a popular choice among fly fishermen and women for its combination of functionality and comfort.

4. Columbia Men V Vest: Best Lightweight Fishing Vest

If you’re an avid angler who is looking to stay comfortable and prepared while fishing, Columbia’s Henry’s Fork V Vest is for you. This multi-functional vest is designed with the serious angler in mind, boasting numerous useful features that make it a must-have for any hardcore fisherman.

The exterior of the vest has plenty of pockets perfect for storage on your outdoor excursions—it boasts two zippered hand pockets and one chest pocket providing room even when wearing multiple layers. 

The back panel also offers additional space with three more large cargo pockets– so take some food and drinks out on the water! The lightweight, quick drying nylon fabric allows breathability without compromising strength or durability.

Interior design is just as important: quilted insulation keeps you warm yet flexible; adjustable shoulder straps provide comfort and customization; dual D rings keep essential tackle close at all times; side openings offer quicker access and whatnot. For an added sense of security in colder temperatures, try layering up underneath.

For the quality, the Columbia vest scored incredibly well in our tests. However, we also found that the display pocket for showing the fishing license is a bit small. Also, the plastic snap for holding the vest together is small and may open up if you’re a huge fisherman. To address this issue, check carefully with the measurements to get the right fit vest for your body needs.

Pros:

• Comfortable and lightweight
• Impressive storage ability
• Premium quality vest

Cons:

• Relatively expensive choice

Our Verdict:

if you’re an active outdoorsman who loves going fishing regularly, this vest should be part of your arsenal. Not only does its quality craftsmanship guarantee satisfaction but it provides convenience, functionality, protection, and value like no other apparel could deliver.

5. Allen Company Fishing Vest: Minimalist Design

When it comes to fishing in snug rivers and streams or just having a light fishing pack while  searching along various shorelines of lakes, this vest is designed for comfort and simplicity. It may not have all the bells and whistles like some of the best fishing vests out there, but its low price tag allows outdoor adventurers to fish longer without having to break their budget.

The first captivating feature of this vest is its backless design. In our evolution tests, such kind of design has a superiority over a traditional fishing vest with a mesh back. In hot weather, this vest keeps a fisherman much cooler. Apart from this, with no back, the vest is lighter and is impressively useful when more mobility is required to chase speedy salmons. 

The material used on the back strap build keeps weight down so that anglers can cast freely when wading during those summer days spent fishing trout. Plus, even if one decides NOT to use it as a traditional vest type bag — simply as shoulder straps — that’s possible due to adjustable clips around each shoulder panel.

Dual main pockets are plenty spacious enough to store more tackle boxes & lures. In addition, there are two small pockets on the top for holding your small things such as car keys. Allen Co seems to forget adding a water bottle pocket for its wearer, yet we have fixed this issue by utilizing one of the loops over a pocket.

Pros:

• Compact and well made
• Open design to keep the fisherman cooler
• Rugged construction

Cons:

• It doesn’t have a water bottle

Over verdict:

Overall if looking around for something economical plus useful too then definitely take look into purchasing this option. This fishing vest is a practical and versatile fishing vest that provides ample storage space for essential gear while keeping the angler’s hands free for fishing activities.

6. Simms Tributary Vest For Fishing: Best Trout Fishing Vest

Founded in 1980 by visionary angler and entrepreneur John Simms, Simms Fishing Products are well-known in the fishing industry.The Simms Tributary Vest is a highly regarded fishing vest among anglers, and many of them love it for a variety of reasons. 

One of the main advantages of the Simms Tributary Vest compared to its rivals is its ample storage space. With a total of 19 pockets, the vest provides plenty of room for anglers to store all their fishing gear, tools, and tackle. This is particularly useful for anglers who need to carry a lot of gear with them when they’re fishing steelhead trout.

Another advantage of the Simms Tributary Vest is its adjustable fit. The vest features adjustable straps on the sides, which allow anglers to customize the fit to their body size and shape. This ensures that the vest stays securely in place while they’re fishing and provides maximum comfort and mobility.

In terms of durability, the Simms Tributary Vest is also a strong contender. It’s made from high-quality materials, including a water-resistant and abrasion-resistant fabric, which means that it can withstand the wear and tear of regular use and last for many fishing seasons.

An area where the Simms Tributary Vest may not measure up to its rivals is in terms of breathability. While the vest is made from a lightweight and breathable fabric, some anglers have noted that it can still feel a bit warm and stuffy in hot weather conditions.

Pros:

• Weather resistant material
• Great for long fishing days
• Fits well
• Available in different sizes

Cons:

• Comparatively expensive option

Our verdict:

Overall, the Simms Tributary Vest is a high-quality and practical fishing vest that compares favorably to its rivals in terms of storage space, fit, and durability. 

7. Simms Guide Vest: Best Fishing Vest For Trout Fishing

The Simms Guide Vest is a great option for anglers looking for a lightweight and comfortable vest that has plenty of pockets for storing gear and is designed with comfort in mind.

The Simms Guide Vest is constructed from a heavy-duty polyester fabric that’s designed to withstand the elements. The zippers are sturdy, and all of the pockets are securely closed with either Velcro or snaps. The rod holder is built into one side of the vest, so you don’t have to worry about losing it when you’re fishing; there’s also a D-ring on each side for attaching lures or other accessories.

There are a lot of pockets and compartments on this vest. It has an internal zippered pocket that’s great for storing small items, like your wallet or keys. There are also two large fly box pockets on either side of the chest area, so you can store your full collection of flies in one place.

The shoulder straps have small zippered pouches where you can store things like best fly fishing sunglasses or sunscreen bottles without worrying about them falling out when you reach up into them (like they do in most other vests).

The Simms Guide Vest is built to distribute weight evenly, so you don’t feel the strain on your shoulders and back. 

You can also adjust the length of your shoulder straps if they’re too long or short for your liking! This feature makes this product very easy-to-wear on top of being super comfortable when worn under layers like jackets or sweaters.

Pros:

• Padded collar to improve comfort level
• Fits well
• Excellent storage as it comes with 26 pockets

Cons:

• Highly priced

Our Verdict:

The Simms Guide Vest is a high-quality piece of gear that will last you for years to come. It’s not cheap, but it’s not overly expensive either–you get what you pay for here.

8. Redington Blackfoot Vest: Best Kayak Fishing Vest

Finding the best vest for fishingis a challenge. If you’re looking for a vest that has it all – plenty of storage, great features, and a comfortable fit – then you need to check out the Redington Blackfoot Vest. 

When you fish out of a kayak, finding a combo of fishing vest + life vest is generally an expensive deal. However, with this pick, you can significantly maintain your budget as this vest bears an inexpensive price tag. Go one size above to wear it along with your life vest to win the big game in a kayak.

It features a front zip closure and a mesh back panel for ventilation, allowing you to stay cool and comfortable while you fish. The vest also has a large front pocket with zipper closure, making it easy to store any tackle, tools, or snacks you may need during your fishing trip. In addition, the vest has several zippered front pockets, allowing you to keep your small essentials close at hand. 

The vest is also incredibly comfortable, thanks to the breathable mesh back panel and adjustable shoulder straps. It also has a water-resistant finish, so you don’t have to worry about your items getting wet in the event of a downpour.

For the quality, this vest stands out. Our dedicated anglers discovered that the zipper remains intact and caught no corrosion, no matter how many times you’d machine wash it.

 Pros:

• Versatile and great vest
• Value for money
• Adequate storage
• Greater packability factor

Cons:

• Not ideal to use during cold fishing days

Our Verdict:

This vest has everything an angler could want, and more. It’s perfect for those who want to be prepared for anything – from long days on the river to short trips to the local pond. It’s also comfortable and stylish, so you’ll look great while you’re fish

9. Simms G3 Guide Vest: Best Vest For Fly Fishing

the Simms G3 Guide Vest is highly regarded by many anglers as a top-of-the-line option for serious fishing. Its extensive storage space, durable construction, adjustable fit, and comfort features make it a popular choice among anglers who need a reliable and functional fishing vest.

In terms of storage space, the Simms G3 Guide Vest has the most pockets, with a total of 24. This is followed by the Simms Guide Vest, which has 20 pockets, and the Simms Tributary Vest, which has 19 pockets. All three vests have a variety of large and small pockets, as well as dedicated tool and tippet holders, which provide ample space for anglers to store and access all their fishing gear and tackle.

The vest also features a large, stretchy back compartment that can hold a hydration bladder, a rain jacket, or other larger items.

While the number of pockets is not the only factor to consider in the G3 vest, it fits incredibly well. Like the Guide vest and Tributary vest, it features adjustable shoulder straps. This is useful for anglers who need to adjust the vest to accommodate different layers of clothing or to distribute weight more evenly.

In terms of durability, the Simms G3 Guide Vest is the most robust of the three, with heavy-duty fabric and hardware that is designed to withstand the toughest conditions. The Simms Guide Vest and Simms Tributary Vest also have high-quality materials and construction that are built to last, but they may not be as rugged as the G3 Guide Vest.

Pros:

• The most durable fly fishing vest
• Adjustable straps to fit fisherman’s specific body type
• Vest with the highest number of pockets

Cons:

• Expensive and slightly heavier than its competitors

Our Verdict:

The best choice as the best fisherman’s vest will depend on the individual angler’s needs and preferences, such as the amount of gear they typically carry and their environmental or ethical concerns. Yet, according to us, the Simms G3 is the most reliable fishing vest to go for.

10. Bassdash Youths Kids Fly Fishing Vest: Best Fly Vest For Kids

When it comes to fishing vests for youth, there are a few options on the market.The Bassdash Youth Kids Fishing Vest is a good option for young fishermen who are looking for a functional and comfortable fishing vest.

The vest has a total of 10 pockets, including large zippered pockets, small accessory pockets, and mesh pockets, which provide plenty of space for young fishermen to carry all their fishing gear and tackle.

The vest is made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that is designed to keep children cool and comfortable on hot days. The mesh back panel helps to increase ventilation and prevent overheating, while the adjustable straps help to distribute weight evenly and prevent discomfort.

At times, the Bassdash youth kids vest is compared to the Redington youth fly fishing vest. Both are practical and durable, however, bassdash variant features more storage pockets than the other one.

One potential downside of the Bassdash Youth Kids Fishing Vest is that it is only available in one size. While the vest is adjustable and designed to fit children between the ages of 6 and 14, it may not be the best option for children who fall outside of this age range or who have unusual body shapes or sizes. 

some users have noted that the zippers on the vest can be a bit stiff and difficult to operate, especially for younger children who may not have as much dexterity or strength in their fingers. This could be a potential frustration for some users, especially those who need to access their gear quickly and easily while fishing.

Pros:

• Adjustable length for kids’ body needs
• Versatile; great for kids as well as for small adults
• Nicely priced

Cons:

• Sizing descriptions may vary from kid to kid

Our Verdict:

This option should make a popular choice among parents looking for a reliable and functional fishing vest for their children. It is adjustable with ample storage space.

Features To Look Out For In A Fly Fishing Vest: Buying Guide

Fortunately, anglers won’t need to look smart when choosing their fishing apparel. So, when it comes to choosing the best fly fishing vests, their primary concern lies in the utility of the vest – simple design, comfort, and decent storage with perfect fit are the fundamentals anglers should consider when buying a fly fishing vest.

Different Kinds Of Fly Fishing Vests

Fly fishing vests come in a variety of styles and designs, each offering different features and benefits for anglers. Here are some common types of fly fishing vests:

Traditional Vest: 

This is the most common type of fly fishing vest. It is designed with numerous pockets and compartments for storing various fishing accessories and tools. Traditional vests are usually made from durable, breathable materials such as cotton, nylon, or polyester.

Minimalist Vest: 

A minimalist fly fishing vest is designed to be lightweight and streamlined. It usually has fewer pockets and compartments and is made from lightweight materials such as mesh or microfiber. Minimalist vests are ideal for anglers who prefer to travel light and don’t need to carry a lot of gear.

Pack Vest:

 A pack vest is a hybrid of a traditional vest and a backpack. It has multiple pockets and compartments for storing gear, as well as a large central compartment for carrying larger items such as a rain jacket or lunch. Some best fly fishing vest packs also have hydration bladder compatibility, allowing anglers to stay hydrated on long fishing trips.

Check best fly fishing backpacks

Sling Pack: 

A sling pack is a type of fly fishing vest that is worn over one shoulder, with the pack resting on the angler’s back. Sling packs have multiple pockets and compartments for storing gear, and are designed to be easy to access while fishing. They are popular among anglers who want to keep their gear within easy reach without having to take off their vest.

Check best fly fishing sling packs

Waist Pack: 

A waist pack is a small pack that is worn around the waist, like a fanny pack. It is ideal for anglers who don’t need to carry a lot of gear and prefer to travel light. Waist packs usually have a few pockets and compartments for storing essentials such as tippet spools, leaders, and fly boxes.

Check best fly fishing hip packs

Chest Pack:

 A chest pack is a small pack that is worn over the angler’s chest. Don’t confuse a chest pack with a fly fishing vest since both have different designs and different uses. A chest pack is designed to be lightweight and streamlined, and usually has a few pockets and compartments for storing essentials such as tippet spools and fly boxes. Chest packs are popular among anglers who prefer to keep their gear close at hand without having to wear a bulky vest. 

The choice between a fly fishing vest vs a chest pack depend upon an angler’s personal needs or preferences.

After knowing the designs of fly fishing vests, you need to focus on certain features in a vest to make your fishing experience enjoyable.

So, if you have decides what kind of vest is going to fulfill your angling needs, you further need to keep the below pointers in your mind.

Check best fly fishing chest pack

Consider Your Fishing Style:

 The type of fishing you do will determine the amount of gear you need to carry with you. If you prefer to travel light and don’t need a lot of gear, a minimalist vest might be sufficient. But if you need to carry a lot of gear with you, a larger vest or pack might be a better option.

Material 

Look for a vest made from durable materials that can withstand the rigors of fishing. Nylon, polyester, and other synthetic materials are often used because they are lightweight, breathable, and quick-drying.

Number and size of pockets

Consider the number and size of pockets and compartments that the vest has. Look for pockets that are large enough to hold your gear, and make sure there are enough pockets to accommodate all of your essentials.

 Access

Make sure that the pockets are easily accessible, especially while you are fishing. Pockets should be easy to open and close, and ideally, you should be able to access your gear without taking the vest off.

 Fit 

A good vest should fit comfortably and securely, without restricting your movement. Look for vests with adjustable straps and a range of sizes to find the perfect fit.

Ventilation

Look for vests with ventilation features such as mesh panels or breathable fabrics to keep you cool and comfortable on hot days.

 Brand and Price 

Consider the brand and price of the vest. Some brands are known for making high-quality fly fishing gear and may be worth the extra investment. However, there are also many affordable options that can still provide good value and performance.

related guides on fly fishing

• 10 Best Wading Pants in 2023
• Best Wading Boots
• 20 Best Fly Fishing Waders For Men, Women, Kids in 【2023】
• Best Wading Staff

Conclusion

It is important to consider the length of your fishing trips, the type of gear you typically carry, and the environmental conditions you will be fishing in. By determining this, you can surely get the best fly fishing vest for your preferences.

FAQs

Fly fishing vest vs sling pack: which is a better option?

The choice between a fly fishing vest and a sling pack comes down to personal preference and the type of fishing you plan to do. If you value storage capacity and organization, a vest may be the better choice. If you prioritize comfort and accessibility, a sling pack may be the way to go. This is true for 

Can I use a fly fishing vest as a backpack?

While it’s technically possible to make a fly fishing vest backpack, it’s not really the best option for carrying heavy loads over long distances. If you’re serious about fly fishing and need to carry a lot of gear, it’s worth investing in a good quality fly fishing backpack designed specifically for the purpose.

Which is the best fly fishing vest or pack; Simms or Patagonia?

Both Simms and Patagonia are highly respected brands in the fly fishing industry, and they both produce high-quality fly fishing vests. If you’re looking for more storage, fly fishing vests always hold superiority over packs.

The Wading Kit is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission, without any extra cost to you. Learn more.