Question Never Answered

[PanFisher]

OK, I just took inventory, 1 mesh vest, 1 chest vest, 1 chest/fanny combo, two strap vests, two sling packs, and three fanny packs. Oh and two satchels. I don't think I will ever decide on the best way to carry my gear.

I do know though that I don't like chest vests or any thing in the way of my arms and hands while fishing so they are out. The sling pack just isn't built the way I would like. the mesh vest is too big for me so maybe a smaller size. The strap vests are OK but I am not crazy about them. I prefer the fanny packs but they don't work well in a float tube (everything has to be moved to another option) or deep wading. The fly fishing satchel is a pain, but the one made out of plastic bottles is actually a favorite.

So what to try next? Perhaps a sale?

[DG]

What you need is a minion, to follow you around and carry your stuff for you. All the evil geniuses have them.

[Uncle Jesse]

A friend made me a lanyard that contains my leader material, shot and other assorted items. That and the pockets of my float tube do the job. When wading I usually pick a couple of boxes inside my waters and am usually good with that.

[Gigmaster]

The best thing to hold your gear in is a kayak! The ultimate fishing machine!

[oldfrat]

PanFisher, I've been kind of following your journey. Started out with vest. Tried some chest vests. Tried some fanny packs. Have given away all iterations so far, either to a kid or friend or to a charity auction. I think I am headed back to a vest. Sigh!

[quivira kid]

If I need the kitchen sink, I've got a vest. But I've gotten down to a little 15-dollar satchel from Bass Pro. It holds 3 small fly boxes, leaders, indicators, my epi-pen (ugh), a small stringer, and a camera without much bulk. Nippers on a zinger, a magnetic fly patch, and hemostats all on the outside and it is set up perfect for 99% of the fishing I do! I have what I need for a morning or evening on the water with minimal bulk.

I can also easily take the fly boxes out, switch them to little Plano boxes with jigs and bobbers, and go crappie fishing with my spinning gear. Or put a water bottle and GPS unit in and go hiking!