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Post by ctroy36 on Nov 13, 2005 18:14:38 GMT -5
Anybody out there use a chest pack rather than a vest? I like the idea of having a fold-down tray to use when changing flies, but wonder if the bulk of a chest pack would interfere with other activities (casting, landing fish, etc).
I've always used a vest but never have found use for all the pockets -- and never can remember what's in which pocket.
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Post by jlibs on Nov 14, 2005 20:51:41 GMT -5
Yes, I use a chest pack rather than a vest. I did a ton of research of costly models and inexpensive models. I opted for a roughly $30 chest pack from Cabelas that is higher quality and more functional than many significantly more expensive models. I made this purchase four years ago. My chest pack has an excellent zip down tray with compartments, water bottle holders on the sides, rear zip and a rear pouch pockets as well as several other useful and light weight features. I'm very pleased with the pack and recommend it to all. cabelas.com/Cabela's Deluxe Chest Vest Item: QS-941498 Price: $29.95 JLIBS
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Post by ctroy36 on Nov 14, 2005 21:21:41 GMT -5
Thanks.
Sounds like what I'm looking for.
I'll check it out.
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Post by FishinCane on Nov 15, 2005 15:23:37 GMT -5
I've also been using a chest pack for most of my fishing. One drawback is that the chest packs don't allow you to carry a lot. For this reason when fishing in situations where I am out all day (winter steelheading) I've been using a fanny pack. The fanny pack allows me to carry much more. I use both an orvis chest pack and fanny pack but a friend just got a new chest/fanny pack combo made by fishpond that looks great. They are pricey (about $80) but are well built and have a lot of features. www.fishpondusa.com/Jim
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Post by JoeOverlock on Nov 15, 2005 21:23:29 GMT -5
FishPond has some real nice vests and chest packs. I like the fold down fly bench on the vests. I've been using my vest for so long now though, it would be hard to switch. Plus the price of the FishPond stuff is a real turn off for me also.
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Post by Mark Patenaude on Nov 17, 2005 16:12:55 GMT -5
I own a couple of Fishpond chest packs, one of their new hi-tech vests and a William Joseph "Coastal".
I especially like the William Joseph "Coastal" system. Plenty of storage and is light weight enough for the hot weather.
As for getting in the way. I haven't had any problem with any of the styles. Please note that you can convert most chest packs to fit around your waist where you can spin them to the side/back and away from you casting side.
f-w-f
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Post by tims on Dec 5, 2005 8:39:04 GMT -5
i just dropped $$$ on a fishpong wasatch pack.....fishpond gear is top notch, and i don't mind spending money for top-flight gear....simms waders, for example.....they are far and away the best waders out there, so i'll spend the $$
i fish 75+ days a year (i did over 100 before the baby), so spending $160 on a chest pack system is worth it to me....i can carry my gear more efficiently & comfortably, and it works out to a cup of premium coffee every trip.....i can deal with that!
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Post by Mark Patenaude on Apr 7, 2006 10:51:41 GMT -5
Tim:
I'm wanting one of the Fishpond Wasatch vests...
They look awsome. Congrats. I'm sure it will serve you well.
Mark
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Post by Mark Patenaude on Apr 10, 2006 8:00:43 GMT -5
I broke down and ordered the Wasatch vest. I couldn't resist.
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Post by Uplander on Apr 10, 2006 20:02:25 GMT -5
I broke down and ordered the Wasatch vest. I couldn't resist. Dang! Looks like a pack for an AT thru hiker….
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Post by Mark Patenaude on Apr 11, 2006 8:03:57 GMT -5
My need is that I have all CF flyboxes and have trouble finding vests that I can put the 4 most important ones in the front. I currently use a William Joseph "Coastal" vest and have to carry two in the back. The upside is that its very light and open on the sides so its cool in the hot weather.
I also wanted the water bladder. Where I fish in Wisconsin is quite remote and it comes in handy in the Summer. Better than carrying around a water bottle and then the empty bottle.
I've been eyeing this vest for a while and finally decided to get it. I like trying out new things. I guess it a leftover way of thinking when I used to field test for Shimano a number of years ago.
Mark
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Post by Mark Patenaude on Apr 13, 2006 8:56:36 GMT -5
Got the Fish Pond Wasatch yesterday. Sweet vest. Actually lighter than my William Joseph Coastal and not as bid as it appears in the photo, unless its stuffed full. Plenty of storage. The only draw-back, no built in zingers like the W.J. When I switched my stuff over to the new one, I found out I lost my stream thermometer. Bummer
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Post by ctroy36 on Apr 17, 2006 22:18:24 GMT -5
UPS delivered a Cabelas chest pack that I ordered the other day and I sent it back today. Just didn't feel right with stuff in it. Seemed to stick out in front and be in the way. Was dissapointed as I thought that might be a good way to go.
Might take a look at vertical chest packs (pack on either side) which should be less in the way.
My vest has so many pockets that I can never remember what's in where and would like a simpler solution.
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