My sons and I all use Fishpond bags. We can rig them as chest packs if needed, but much prefer to use them as shoulder bags. They are easily flipped around an ride on the small of our back or hip and are out of the way when wading or moving through brush.

It's been years since I've been able to see my feet, and having yet another 4 or 6 inches riding out front doesn't help me avoid obstacles any better!