Fishing is all about patience and strategy. To add on, you have to deal with a number of accessories to have a successful experience.
A fly fishing vest makes the handling a lot easier. You can easily grab the equipment and make a wonderful catch with more confidence. The final choice of a fishing vest that would perform your needs, efficiently requires you to dig down. This buying guide simplifies your search by presenting some top recommendations.
You’re all geared up for your upcoming fly fishing trip. You’ve got the functional fly rod combo, a classy carrying case, and maybe even a pair of fancy sunglasses to avoid the nasty glare on the water. Maybe you already have your pair of sloggers and waterproof pants in tow. But the one item you might be missing is a fly fishing vest.
Though it may seem like a silly purchase that your grandpa has, fly fishing vests are just as useful as ever. Nowadays, however, fly fishing vests aren’t quite your grandpa’s style anymore. They’re even more functional than ever and can take your fishing trip to the next level. Read on to learn more about some of the best fly fishing vests available on Amazon.
Check them out!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Fly Fishing Vests
- OUR TOP PICK: Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Pack
- BEST SIMMS FLY FISHING VEST: Simms Guide Vest
- BEST PATAGONIA FLY FISHING VEST: Patagonia Convertible Vest
Comparison of the Best Fly Fishing Vests
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What is a Fly Fishing Vest?
Simply put, a fly fishing vest provides you with quick and easy access to all your necessary fly fishing tools and supplies. A fly fishing vest features plenty of pockets to store away all your necessary tackle including flies, bait, fly fishing lines, and more. A fly fishing vest also helps to keep your phone, wallet, keys, and other necessities in close proximity for easy access when you need them.
Fly fishing using a vest (Source)
Fly fishing vests are typically available in both mesh and cloth designs, offering you a bit of selection when choosing the option that’s right for you. A fly fishing vest should be light, but durable, and certainly shouldn’t weigh you down when you’re already in deep water.
Are Fly Fishing Vests a Must?
Fly fishing generally requires a number of accessories. Let’s face reality, it becomes difficult sometimes to keep all the things by your side. Getting a fly fishing vest can save you from all this trouble. All the vests mentioned in this review feature numerous pockets that ensure proper organization of all your accessories.
In fact, if you have a vest with enough storage space, you may be able to do away with other bags and boxes altogether. You can carry all your stuff for fly fishing in your vest without feeling any burden. However, some have a lousy zipper system, therefore, you must pay attention to this factor while making a purchase.
Are All Fly Fishing Vests The Same?
Though there are many fly fishing vests available online, not all of them are built the same, and not all of them are worth the time (or headache). As with anything sold online, there are always fly fishing vests that are of poor quality or don’t last as long as they should.
Additionally, not all fly fishing vests feature the amount of storage space you need to get the job done. You’ll want to go with a vest that has enough pockets for your needs without overwhelming you. Also, the quality of the material can vary between vests. You don’t want a cheap vest that will fray and breakdown, but you also don’t need something that is outrageously overpriced.
Vest with lots of pockets is a must in fly fishing (Source)
You’ll want a vest that is heavy-duty enough to withstand years of wear and tear without becoming super heavy and weighing you down. You’ll want to go with a vest that is lightweight yet high-quality.
Additionally, as for design, there is a bit of variance in fly fishing vest styles, but generally, they will be form-fitting without being too snug, but not loose. The last thing you want is to slip into your vest, lean over, and potentially lose your supplies because the vest isn’t secure enough. Make sure to look for vests that feature pockets that can be zipped or velcroed down. You don’t want it to lose your bait or other important stuff because the vest you chose wasn’t as secure as it could be.
How to Choose Fly Fishing Vests
With a plethora of options, you might get confused in making the right decision. Investing in a quality fly fishing vest requires you to think with an open mind. Here we have summarized a couple of features that you must examine before making a purchase.
Let’s discuss them one by one!
Material
The foremost thing to consider is what the vest is made of. Fabric vests are generally manufactured from polyester and nylon. Polyester vests are relatively lightweight, plus they are quite sturdy. They are comfortable to wear for a long period of time, no matter how much weight you are carrying.
Talking about nylon vests, these are known for their durability. However, they are relatively heavier, but if you are looking for long-lasting vests, these are the ones for you.
Pockets
The main feature of any vest is the array of pockets. These help you organize all your accessories easily. Generally, you don't need more than 15 pockets. Different manufacturers offer vests in variable sizes and designs to meet your requirements efficiently.
Fit
Most of the vests come with a similar design. They have a minor difference in the material and design.
Make sure to pick a model with large armholes to let you move your arms freely. Similarly, the shoulder straps should be large enough to evenly distribute the weight on both shoulders.
Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Pack for Trout Fishing Gear and Equipment, Adjustable Size for Men and Women
Breathability
Fishing can be really difficult, especially when the temperature rises. A fishing vest can add on to the difficulty level since there is an extra layer of clothing. Therefore, it is suggested to go for a model with a mesh pattern as it makes the vest light and breathable.
With so many different vests to choose from online, it can be difficult to decide which one is the highest quality and will serve you the best in the long run. Particularly if you’re an avid fly fishing angler, you’ll want a vest that can withstand years of wear and tear and plenty of use. Stop the cycle of having to buy a brand new vest every couple of years.
When you’re looking at the wide variety of vests that are available on sites like Amazon, you’ll want to keep your eyes open for a couple of important details that set certain vests apart. First off, you’ll have to look for a vest that features a variety of pockets and compartments that can store all of your important gear that you need within close reach. No more digging for your important stuff in an overfilled tackle box!
Second, you’ll want to look for a jacket made from high-quality material and the ability to get wet without weighing you down in the water. You’ll want something lightweight that can also provide you with plenty of functionality.
Third, you’ll want to keep your eyes out for durable options that are going to stand the test of time. Since clothing generally doesn’t have a ton of factors to consider, durability is always important. You won’t want to replace this vest again and again. You’ll want one that’s comfortable and won’t give you issues when the last thing you want to think about is your clothing.
Review of the Best Fly Fishing Vests
Well, that was all about the main characteristics that must not be overlooked in order to avoid any regret in the future. Moving forward, we have a detailed review of some of the best fly fishing vests that, in our opinion, are worth the investment.
Now that you have an idea of what to look for in your fly fishing vest, we’re going to move on and take a look at some of our favorite vests available online. Here we go!
Best Fly Fishing Vest:
Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Pac
PROS
CONS
Review
Available in two different colors, this vest from Anglatech is a high-quality, high-capacity fly fishing vest for both the beginner and advanced angler. Each pocket is exceptionally large and features strong, trustworthy zippers that will keep all your gear where it needs to be. There are also mesh pockets available for gear that you don’t mind getting wet.
This vest is a good option for both men and women and features adjustable straps so you can make it as loose or tight as you desire for a comfortable day on the water. The material itself features mesh details making it highly breathable and incredibly lightweight.
The mesh material will keep you nice and cool when the sun hits your back but will also prevent your vest from getting waterlogged. The vest itself weighs about 1.5 pounds making it a lightweight option that will help rather than hinder you.
Bottom Line
Overall, with the Anglatech vest, you’re getting a high-quality, lightweight, adjustable fly fishing vest that is ideal for both beginning and advanced anglers alike. This vest is a good option for both men and women and will support your fly fishing for years to come.
Product Specs
Materials:
Mesh, Nylon
Number and Types of Pockets:
Large pockets, small pockets that open up to reveal inner pouches, mesh slip pockets on the outside and some extra pockets in the back.
Color(s):
Forest green and Sand khaki
Closure Type:
Zipper and velcro
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Yes - Waterproof
Additional Features/Storage:
Water bottle holder
Best Simms Fly Fishing Vest:
Simms Guide Vest
PROS
CONS
Review
With an impressive 26 pockets, the Simms Fly Fishing Guide Vest is available in two different colors and five sizes. Made out of durable rip-stop nylon and with a water-resistant Teflon finish, this vest will last for many years and many fishing trips to come.
Two retractor clips and four D-rings offer a variety of storage options for other important gear while not adding any additional bulk to your vest. An included water bottle allows you easy access to hydration when you need it, while a rod holder makes storing away your most essential tools a breeze. This is a good option for both beginners and advanced anglers, offering plenty of storage space for easy access to everything.
Bottom Line
Overall, this fly fishing vest from Simms offers a wide variety of pockets and a waterproof finish, two details that are both essential and highly beneficial for all of your fishing trips.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% Cordura nylon ripstop with a 100% polyester lining
Number and Types of Pockets:
26 pockets ( 6 chest, 8 waist, and 8 interior)
Color(s):
Hex Camo Loden
Closure Type:
YKK zipper and buckle closure
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Yes - Water Resistant
Additional Features/Storage:
Rod holder with hook-and-loop chest tab and reel-seat sling, Water bottle holder
Best Patagonia Fly Fishing Vest:
Patagonia Convertible Vest
PROS
CONS
Review
If you know anything about Patagonia, it’s probably that they love the environment and that their quality is unmatched. The same goes for this convertible fly fishing vest. The vest itself is made out of a lightweight and breathable polyester, while the pockets are made out of lightweight and fast drying nylon.
The internal pockets are designed with leader material, tippets, and spools in mind, so all of your gear has a dedicated home that you can access quickly. Patagonia also offers similar pieces you can attach to add even more storage capacity to your vest for longer, more intense fishing trips.
The breathable mesh body of this vest makes it perfect for hotter days where you want a vest but not the extra heat associated with it. This jacket weighs in at just under a pound, making it an incredibly light option that won’t weigh you down when you’re out fly fishing in the thick of it.
Bottom Line
Though this Patagonia fly fishing vest offers less in the way of pocket quantity, it offers more in the way of dedicated pockets designed for specific gear in mind. It is also incredibly lightweight and features a mesh design that will keep you cool and dry.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% polyester mesh and 100% nylon
Number and Types of Pockets:
Vertical pockets
Color(s):
Forge Grey
Closure Type:
Zipper
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Yes - Water Resistant
Additional Features/Storage:
Laser-cut Hypalon utility keeper
Best Youth Fly Fishing Vest:
Master Sportsman Youth 26 Pocket Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Similar to the above-reviewed models, this vest is well-reviewed by its customers. They report that there is no doubt on the quality build, plus the breathable design adds to the comfort level. It has enough storage capacity and can be used for various applications. Moreover, it is quite useful for multiple applications.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This vest is made from poly-cotton to ensure a lightweight design. It features an astonishing total of 26 pockets to easily accommodate a lot of stuff during your fishing adventures. Moreover, the user-friendly design guarantees easy access to tools without any struggle from the user. Most importantly, it is available in kid’s sizes.
Who Will Use This Most
It is ideally designed for kids to improve their overall fishing experience. With a great storage capacity, this vest is capable of holding various kinds of stuff for you. Just fit your tools, and you are all ready to go. Moreover, the lightweight design is breathable and avoids overheating to allow you to continue fishing in a comfortable manner.
Bottom Line
This kid’s vest comes with enough storage capacity to help you carry all the stuff for you. Not only is the quality incredibly great, but the design is user-friendly as well to add on to perfection. Overall, this vest is reliable and offers a smooth fishing adventure.
Product Specs
Materials:
Poly-cotton
Number and Types of Pockets:
26 pockets
Color(s):
Khaki
Closure Type:
Zipper
Additional Features/Storage:
Hook & loop rod holder
Best Fly Fishing Vest Backpack:
M MAXIMUMCATCH Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
Review
Now, have you gotten this far through the article and thought how you’re really not a vest guy (or gal)? Then take a look at this fly fishing backpack-style vest! You are really getting an all in one option with this vest since it has storage for more than just fly fishing gear. The vest itself is made out of highly breathable mesh and features an adjustable strap on the sides to ensure that it fits securely to your back.
Two shell pockets add protection for your flys themselves, ensuring that none of them get crushed or squished inside the backpack. Though this vest only offers 16 pockets, they’re larger than some others and the backpack offers plenty of space for anything you may need, including your water bottle, keys, wallet, and phone.
There’s also a space specifically dedicated to the fly fishing rod itself. Even if you aren’t fly fishing quite yet, this vest could still be highly functional for other outdoor activities like hiking and camping.
Bottom Line
Overall, this vest offers a lot of storage and the backpack style adds even more functionality. This could serve more purposes than just fly fishing, making it a versatile option that you’ll use for many years to come.
Product Specs
Materials:
Breathable mesh
Number and Types of Pockets:
16 pockets
Color(s):
Black and grey
Closure Type:
Zipper
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Yes - Water Resistant
Additional Features/Storage:
Rod Holder strap
6. Bassdash Strap Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This product is quite popular among customers for its quality build. Users report that the construction is durable, plus the design comes with an array of pockets to easily hold your tools. Moreover, the fabric is lightweight and does not overheat, leading to better breathing. Finally, the company lets you choose your pick from a range of colors.
Why it Stands Out to Us
One of the finest and nicely constructed vest on the market, this model is made from lightweight fabric. In fact, the beautiful meshwork at the back keeps you cool even under heating conditions. It comes with a total of 18 pockets to easily tackle all your tools. Moreover, with D-ring and a number of loops, this vest has become an ideal option.
Who Will Use This Most
The lightweight design of this vest makes it highly suitable for your fishing adventures. Additionally, the fabric keeps the user cool even in active-heat. Therefore, you can continue fishing without any hassle. Moreover, it can accommodate a number of tools and other fishing accessories, thanks to the array of pockets.
Bottom Line
An extraordinary vest with tons of appreciable features, this model is built to last a long time. It features a nice design with a number of pockets to meet your demands easily. Moreover, the custom fit makes it suitable for people of every stature. Overall, this is the perfect option for your fishing requirements.
Product Specs
Materials:
100% Polyester
Number and Types of Pockets:
18 pockets
Color(s):
Army green, Blackish green, Blue, Brown, Green, Grey, Chocolate Grey, Red, Grey + Light pink
Closure Type:
Zipper
Additional Features/Storage:
Rod Holder loop
7. Raprance Fly Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Customer reports show that this vest is well-reviewed by those who have used this. According to them, there is no question about the quality of this vest, plus the design is extremely user-friendly. You can easily fit all your tools in the pockets and can access them whenever you desire. Finally, their adjustable size system makes fitting quite easy for everyone.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A great vest from Raprance, this model is manufactured from high-quality mesh material to provide maximum comfort. It is durable, plus the design features 18 pockets to hold all your fishing items. Not only is it lightweight, but it keeps the user cool under the scorching sun as well. Moreover, you can easily adjust the size for a comfortable fitting.
Who Will Use This Most
With a high-end design, this vest is ideally designed for both males and females. It can easily fit almost anyone, thanks to the adjustable size system. Whether you are planning to go for fishing or rafting, this vest won't do you wrong. Moreover, these pockets can easily hold the fishing products for you as long as you want.
Bottom Line
Overall, this runner-up marks its position in the industry for exhibiting a lightweight yet sturdy design. It features a great set of pockets that is easily accessible. Moreover, it is perfect for serving various applications. Since the vest is breathable, the whole design is lightweight and keeps you moving during the whole adventure.
Product Specs
Materials:
Premium Polyester, Mesh
Number and Types of Pockets:
18 pockets
Color(s):
Black, Army green, Brown, Green, Grey, Khaki
Closure Type:
Zipper
Additional Features/Storage:
Hemostat keeper
8. Allen Gallatin Ultra Light Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Users are very happy with this vest, and considering the high-end design, we can see why. They report that the construction is built to last a long time, plus you can easily adjust the straps for a comfortable experience. Moreover, it features great storage capacity to easily fit all the stuff. Most of all, customers are attracted to this product for its reasonable price tag.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This vest mainly stands out to us for its incredibly classic design. This design is complemented by a lightweight construction that provides a comfortable experience. There are multiple exterior pockets and one interior pocket to hold stuff for you. Moreover, the vest offers better breathing no matter what you wear.
Who Will Use This Most
It is highly recommended for a fisherman who does not want to carry all of the bait on the boat with him. With a great storage capacity, this vest can easily hold your items for a long time. Moreover, the pockets are accessible and come in handy when you are in a hurry. Finally, the reasonable price makes it a go-to choice for those who are on a tight budget.
Bottom Line
In case you are looking for a versatile vest but can’t afford to spend much money, then this is the perfect choice for you. Whether we talk about lightweight design or quality construction, this well-built model will serve all your needs. In short, this incredible vest is worth the consideration.
Product Specs
Number and Types of Pockets:
Multiple pockets
Color(s):
Green
Closure Type:
Zipper
Additional Features/Storage:
Padded neck-strap with net D-ring
Best Orvis Fly Fishing Vest:
Orvis Hydros Strap Vest/Fully Loaded
PROS
CONS
Review
If 26 pockets just simply aren’t enough for you, the Orvis Hydros, fully loaded vest comes to the rescue with 28 pockets! Each pocket is designed with a specific purchase in mind and no detail is overlooked in terms of pocket capability.
The adjustable suspension set up on this vest allows you to loosen or tighten it as needed while padded mesh shoulders make this option incredibly comfortable. As for the construction, this vest is made out of nylon and features a waterproof finish similar to the previous option. Though this option could work for both men and women, this vest is only available in a men’s M-L.
Bottom Line
Though this vest is only available in a men’s one size, this fly fishing vest makes a positive statement with 28 pockets all dedicated to a certain piece of fly fishing equipment. Additionally, the adjustable straps add a bit of size customizability.
Product Specs
Materials:
Nylon
Number and Types of Pockets:
28 pockets
Color(s):
Brown
Closure Type:
Zipper
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
Yes - Waterproof
Best Women's Fly Fishing Vest:
Master Sportsman Women's Alpine Fishing Vest
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
This women's vest has won the confidence of its customers with its quality and user-friendly design. The most admirable feature is the huge number of pockets that lets you store a great amount of stuff without a problem. Moreover, with the soft collar, you can easily carry it around without any inconvenience and discomfort.
Why it Stands Out to Us
A perfect mixture of quality and performance, this vest is composed of 60% cotton and 40% polyester to mark durability. It has beautiful meshwork at the back to keep it breathable. Similarly, there are a total of 27 pockets to hold everything you need during your trip. Finally, you don't have to compromise on your comfort level, thanks to the soft neoprene collar.
Who Will Use This Most
We find that this vest is ideally designed for women to provide them a comfortable fishing experience. Since the design features numerous pockets, you don’t have to carry all of the bait on the boat with you. Moreover, it is versatile enough to serve you in almost every situation, including extreme heating conditions.
Bottom Line
Manufactured from cotton and polyester, this is honestly the most reliable vest you'll find on the market. The design is user-friendly, as well as lightweight to allow easy access of tools whenever you need it. In short, with this vest, everything would be at your fingertips.
Product Specs
Materials:
Cotton, polyester and mesh
Number and Types of Pockets:
27 pockets
Color(s):
Khaki + Pink
Closure Type:
Zipper
Water Resistant or Waterproof?
No
Fly Fishing Vest vs. Pack - Comparison Overview
Vests have become quite popular among fishermen and enthusiasts. With a great storage capacity, we can see why. Well, there are other options on the market as well that can serve the purpose effectively. Let's have a brief comparison between fly fishing vests and packs to see which tops the other.
Design
The design of any model greatly alters the storage capacity. Both vests and sling packs are generally light in weight. Vests are well-designed with a number of pockets to accommodate the majority of your items. Moreover, they are available in a range of sizes and designs to choose from according to your needs.
On the other hand, sling packs are relatively smaller and mostly suitable for short trips. Backpacks are very large with great volume.
Storage Capacity
Vests feature numerous pockets, depending on their design, to fit all your accessories. You can easily carry all your stuff you will need on a fishing trip. Comparatively, sling packs are smaller and hold less stuff. Therefore, they are generally recommended for mini trips.
Suitability for Hot Weather
A vest can offer warmth in cold weather, however, a backpack or sling pack is usually a go-to choice of people at high temperatures. The reason is that they are relatively small and keep the upper body free and open to breathe.
Overall, in our opinion, vests are versatile and lightweight to serve multiple applications. However, if you intend to go on long trips, we suggest you pick a backpack to easily fit your spare accessories.
Types of Fly Fishing Vests
Fly fishing vests have come a long way since they were invented first. There are various types available on the market with several modifications. The ultimate choice, however, depends on your requirements and taste.
Let's have a look at them.
Traditional Vests
A traditional vest comes with a class design to make it a unisex option for customers. They are generally lightweight and feature mostly interior pockets.
Vest/Backpack Hybrid
These vests are quite different in appearance since they are a combination of vests and backpack designs. You will see numerous pockets on them that resemble those found on the backpack. Such vests are relatively heavier, but they offer maximum storage capacity.
Vests also differ in the type of material used in their construction. They are basically divided into two categories.
Mesh Vests
Well, you should remember that the vest must keep you cool, especially in hot weather. Vests with mesh patterns offer better air circulation to cut down sweating when you are wearing one.
Fabric Vests
Fabric vests are generally built from nylon, cotton, and polyester. The most recommended option is polyester, as it is lightweight and comes with a natural waterproof feature. Moreover, polyester vests do not retain stain and odor like cotton vests.
Conclusion
Fly fishing vest helps you keep everything you need in style. Just name the thing, and you will find everything within your arm’s reach. Finding the right fly fishing vests might take you longer. Well, this buying guide can ease your trouble to a great extent. All of the above-mentioned vests are versatile and offer a comfortable experience to add value to your bucks.
Though the saying may be “less is more”, that doesn’t always apply to fly fishing vests. While you don’t want something that’s heavy and will weigh you down, you do want a vest that’s highly functional with plenty of pockets and dedicated spots for everything you need quickly when fly fishing.
Fly fishing can get chaotic quickly, so you need a vest that will support you rather than hinder you and get in the way. Focus on a vest that’s made of a lightweight, breathable material, and the more pockets the better. Regardless of whether you’re a beginner or an advanced fly fishing angler, a vest is a key piece of equipment for your fishing arsenal, so make sure to pick one that will best suit your needs.
People Also Ask
Fishing vests can come in handy during your long days on the water. They are lightweight and keep you cool in hot weather. However, people are still concerned about the features of these models. Therefore, this section has summarized the answer to the most frequently asked questions to help the users make the most of the product.
What Do You Put in a Fly Fishing Vest?
A fly fishing vest offers ample storage capacity. Well, experts suggest keeping a single fly box in the large pocket for easy access. Similarly, use the smaller pockets for accommodating small stuff like pocket knives, leaders, tubes of floatant, and knot tying tools. Moreover, make use of a large zipper pouch on the back to carry your lunchbox and water bottle.
What Size of Fly Fishing Vest Do I Need?
Most of the fly fishing vests come with a universal fit. The adjustable strap system lets you fit according to your comfort level. The ultimate choice generally depends on your body shape and your requirements. However, we recommend you go for a model that comes with an adjustable strap and features more than 10 pockets.
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