Grubb, those are some good tips. I have lost my footing many times, especially when I'm tired, and anything in my hands is susceptible to damage. I like the idea of keeping the rod above the bottom of the pack as well, although sliding down a mountain on my backside isn't my typical downhill mode of transport .

Here are some pictures of my now-finished kit. Well, I guess I do still need to figure out a pillow. All of the big three (sleeping, shelter, and pack) should be a little under 5 pounds, although I haven't weighed it. The picture of the backpack is with the tarp, bivy, quilt, and air pad all inside. The folded tarp is what you see in the front pocket.

G4 Backpack.jpgRay-Way quilt.jpgTyvek bivy.jpg

A broken rod is what I'm trying to avoid with this thread, although there will always be some risk. Perhaps the most dangerous time will be when I'm actually fishing: balanced on two unstable rocks, trying to cast to a pool that I can only partially see, while avoiding overhanging limbs in all directions.