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I'm the kinda guy who's always looking for
new stuff, but not always willing to pay the
price for that new stuff. In other words, I
like new stuff, but often think it is
overpriced or somehow lacks the components
that make it worth the price tag attached
to it. The product I'm sharing today is one
of those items that might fall into that
overpriced category; but then again, it offers
some things I feel make it worth the price.
That was the case when I was sent the J&W Fishing
Backpack (Scientific Anglers). When you first
look at this daypack, it looks like a pricey
$100.00 daypack that with anybody else's name
on it would cost less. However, after looking
more closely, it looks a lot different. If
features make a pack, this one was made for
fishing. Just about everything about it is
designed for fishing and comfort.
The first thing is the harness and backpack.
The harness is the stuff that holds the pack
to your back. It is padded and contoured to
fit your shoulders with comfort and weight
bearing ease. It is also long enough for a
long bodied person like me. The inside of
the pack (the part that rubs on the back of
the user), has a padded surface that will
handle the load without stress, or discomfort.
It also has a waist strap and torso strap for
non-movement while walking. The waist strap
has little zippered pockets on each side for
whatever you want to store in it.
When I opened the inside compartment, I noticed
a fold up type of bag. This is a bag that will
keep your gear dry when in a wet situation,
or when you might be kayaking or in a canoe. It
is also big enough for a pair of wading shoes or
waders, if you need that.
There is an outside compartment that is breathable
and will hold a set of waders, shoes or anything
else you might put there. There are cargo straps
on both sides to keep the cargo secure and close
to your back while walking. They can also be
used to secure a fly rod or two for a long hike
into a remote location. There is also a strap
on the top of the outside compartment to secure
that flyrod.
To top it all off, there are two breathable
compartments (one on each side) that will hold
large water bottles (or whatever you choose to
carry). They will easily hold two, quart-sized
bottles of water for your day's hike. Of course,
you could also cram those pockets with goodies
to eat. It is your choice.
I had to try this pack before I was convinced
that it was worth the bounty they were asking
for it. Not everyone will be thrilled enough
to try it, and I can understand that. However,
if you do try it, you'll find that it is about
as comfortable and well laid out as any pack
made for fishing. And, I think you'll like it.
For more information, contact Scientific Anglers at:
Scientific Anglers
3M Center, Building 223-4NE
St. Paul, MN 55144-1000
USA
Call 1-800-430-5000 for the location of your nearest dealer.
~ AC
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