We put together the top 10 best fishing vests based on user reviews. Which one is your favorite?
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Whether you’re fly fishing or not, a fishing vest is a very convenient addition to your fishing gear. Light, able to hold plenty of gadgets and best of all, makes your items easily accessible.
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1 – KyleBooker Fly Fishing Vest Pack / Backpack
This is a great product at very good price! Plenty of pockets and very durable.
- Plenty of sturdy zip compartments
- Adjustable size, 24.5 oz. / 700g
- Can fit for most anglers comfortably
- Fishing vest features multiple pockets & pouches at your fingertips
- Equipped with rod holder strap
2 – Lixada Fly Fishing Vest
Looks great! Many pockets and other places to keep your lures and flies safe.
- Universal Adult Size up tp 95kg / 209lb
- Crafted with a premium rips top polyester shell and replaceable EPE foam inside for superior buoyancy.
- Four generous chest pocket, four zipped front pockets, two side mesh pocket, and one back pocket.
- Mesh on the back and mesh fabric inside deliver high breathability.
- Open sides leave you with more room to paddle, cast or aim on the water.
3- Fishpond Gore Range Tech Pack
Amazing quality and great design. Not the cheapest, but worth it.
- Adjusts to fit all weather conditions.
- Zip-down fly benches have mesh expansion pockets for tippet spools. Large mesh back pocket with additional horizontal zippered pocket for stowing extra gear.
- One-size-fits-most, adjustable shoulder and waist strap design
- Signature, zip down fly bench with replaceable foam
- Lightweight, waterproof and breathable fabric
- 17 exterior and interior pockets
- Mesh backing for ventilation and warm weather comfort
- Vertical chest pockets hold large and medium boxes
- Mesh pockets on fly bench for tippet spools
- Gear attachment tabs, cord loops, and D-ring net lash
- Hemostat keeper
4 – Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack / Sling Pack / Fishing Backpack
Impressive when compared to other big brands that cost 2-3 times more.
- One year warranty and lifetime repairing warranty
- Multiple pockets to hold everything you want to take to a fishing trip
- One sie: Adjustable shoulder and waist strap design suspension structure.
- Lightweight at only 24.5oz.
- Made of lightweight and breathable fabric, comfortable cool in hot weather
5 – Anglatech Fly Fishing Backpack Vest Combo
This vests offers outstanding quality at a affordable price.
- Includes a 1.5 Liter water bladder so you can stay hydrated.
- Keep your fishing gear and equipment well-organized and quickly within reach.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps for the perfect fit.
- Breathable mesh back allows for air to flow freely so you can stay cool and dry.
6 – Anglatech Fly Fishing Vest Pack for Trout Fishing Gear
Light weight with plenty of well made pockets and bright nylon pulls easy to grab.
- Keep your fishing gear and equipment well-organized and quickly within reach.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps for the perfect fit.
- Breathable mesh back allows for air to flow freely so you can stay cool and dry.
- Premium materials keep this vest small and light.
7 – Allen Gallatin Ultra Light Fishing Vest
Lightweight perfect for the day-trip fisherman.
- Lightweight design with maximum storage capacity
- Padded neck-strap with net D-ring
- Zip-closure front pockets hold large fly boxes
- Large interior mesh pocket and multiple exterior pockets
- One size fits most
8 – Piscifun Fishing Vest Backpack
A great, very well built productwith plenty of space and a water bladder.
- 17 interior and exterior storage pockets.
- Breathable mesh back allows the air to flow freely so you can stay cool and dry.
- Up to 18″ adjustable waist strap and 7.8″ adjustable shoulder strap.
- Waterproof 210D Nylon material weighs only 25.7 oz.
- Sturdy buckles, durable SBS zippers and adjustable straps.
9 – Mounteen Fly Fishing Vest Pack
Hard to beat for the price. Well made and sturdy.
- Made of high-quality light mesh fabric for comfort and breathability.
- Large and expandable to store more gear and rod holder.
- Four generous chest pocket, four zipped front pockets, two inside pocket, four side mesh pocket, and one generous back pocket.
- Adjustable shoulder and waist straps offer a perfect fit experience for almost any person.>
- Reflectors on the back and shoulder.
10 – Lowpricenice Mesh Fly Fishing Vest
A nice vest with many pockets for easy storage of flies and other equipment.
- Fishing vest features multiple pockets & pouches at your fingertips
- Straps adjust size to fit all
- Super Light Weight
- Breathable to keep you cool
- Rod holder
Bonus – 11 – Master Sportsman Adult 26 Pocket Fishing Vest
Small, but solid and well put together.
- Outer: 60-Percent Cotton / 40-Percent Polyester
- 26-pocket designed to hold everything from tippet to fly boxes and all other gear needed for a full day stream fishing
- Larger rear pocket and zipper front closure
- Removable fly patches
- Rounded zipper pockets, rod holder
Buying Guide: What are the advantages of a fishing vest?
Many of us wonder if its even necessary to buy a fishing vest, whether for a vacation, a fishing trip or even a few hours of fishing. Some of us also tend think of it as an outfit for fishing that is “extra”, an accessory to just to have the “angler look”, well, complete. But in actuality, fishing vests have quite a few advantages that are not known by those of us who don’t own one or even have the habit of using one regularly. When fly fishing, or generally fishing, whether freshwater on a lake, pond, river or stream, or even saltwater, from the beach, canal or from the rocks, our take is that a fishing vest is an absolute necessity when fishing because:
It Keeps the Weight Evenly Distributed On Your Shoulders
The problem with chest packs and sling packs is that your neck bears or one of your shoulders bears most of the weight. You may not notice it at first, but as soon as the day goes by your neck and shoulder muscles get stiff and start aching, making fishing a hard task rather than an enjoyable hobby. Is key to remember that it is key to be comfortable, warm and having the right gear when fishing, so you can keep focused on having fun and catching fish, not on something unnecessary such as an aching back or neck. Fishing is not an extreme sport after all.
Classy backpacks and slings might be trendier but nothing beats some of the advantages and the comfort of a traditional fishing vest. With a fishing vest, all the weight of your gear is evenly distributed on your shoulders and all around your body, that is if you have a vest with front and back pockets. It keeps you at ease and less strain is placed on the vulnerable areas of your body such as the neck or the spine.
Pockets, Pockets and More Pockets For All Your Fishing Gear And Anything Else Needed!
No one knows the importance of having everything accessible at the right time as well as a fisherman. A fishing vest saves you from all the hassle of searching through a bag for that special frog, fly, lure, spoon or bait you need at that moment. A fishing vest usually comes with many pockets, allowing you to place everything in its own designated little spot, like plier holders, some with bait knife holders, sunglasses and more so you don’t need to waste time rummaging through all of your gear for one little item. Even better, it may keep you from piercing yourself with a hook or lure. Huge bonus points for accessible snacks, cellphones etc.
Casting Interference Is Minimized With a Fishing Vest
The adjustable straps of the best fishing vests add to the comfort of a perfect fit, making easy to move freely and waddle through the water without having to hold on to a bag or anything that can disturb your balance or restrict your movement.
With evenly distributed through gear in all pockets of one of the top fishing vest of 2018, casting is not disturbed or inhibited in any way, leaving you free to move around and use your hands and arms however you need, as long as the pockets are not bulging out or overstuffed.
Fishing Vest May Play a Part in Protection and Safety
Some fishing vests also work life vests or life jackets, and can protect you when most needed. These are usually not as great for storage, however, extra protection is never a bad thing.
It’s The Professional’s and a Classic Choice
Want the people take you seriously as a fisherman? Okay, maybe not your significant one. Let’s be honest, they may want to make a joke or two at first but its worth it. Go for a fishing vest. It is the classic choice for efficient and professional fly anglers as well as any fishermen. Don’t forget, even if not fly fishing (you can fly fish on salt water too!), you can still wear a vest., Its all about comfort and easy access to your favorite gear.
Should I Have a Fishing Vest, a Backpack or a Regular Tackle Box?
The short answer is, you need them all.
Backpacks and sling packs have gained huge popularity in the market recently due to the good looks and different styles, however, nothing can beat some of the benefits (that become a necessity) of a traditional fishing vest. Even if you have a tackle box or a backpack, you still need a fishing vest when fly fishing or wadding in the water, fishing a creek, stream or river.
Sling Packs:
Pros
- Can fit a whole lot of fishing gear, including your retractable fishing rods and tackle box.
- Easy access to all your items by swinging the bag under your arm and using the chest pocket.
Cons
- Uneven distribution of weight. Puts extra weight on your neck, chest and one shoulder.
- You will need to search through the whole bag (mostly one large pocket) for every little item.
- Can become uncomfortable on longer fishing trips.
Back Packs:
Pros
- Great amount of storage space for carrying all the items needed for a whole day on the water such as, food, fishing rods, extra dry clothes, and all of your fishing gear.
- Comfortable to carry on long fishing days or when on a plane on your way to vacation.
- Some have compartments for cold storage, great for bait or food
- Stores utility boxes
- Perfect for walking on when riding a bike
Cons
- When wearing the back pack, the items are not easily accessible, due to the pockets being out of reach.
- Bag needs to be put down to search for needed gear. Can’t usually get what you need when in the water.
- Unnecessarily bulky depending on size when going a short distance from the car to the water for example.
Fishing Vest:
Pros
- Even distribution of weight on both shoulders.
- Many pockets to easily put everything in a designated spot and avoid the frantic search for that special lure in the time of need.
- Everything is easily accessible without the need to remove the vest, like a back pack.
- Does not limit your range of motion.
- Feels fine over light layers like a simple fishing shirt as well as thick layers.
Cons
- Limited storage for bigger items.
- Can feel bulky when layered over winter clothing.
When comparing the pros and cons one of the top fishing vests seems like the best all around choice.
What to look for in a fishing vest?
Are you thinking of buying a fishing vest? Make sure you check for all the necessary perks before buying a fishing vest to be certain it will meet all your fishing needs. Here is what to look for in a fishing vest:
Check for Number of Pockets and Sizes of Pockets.
Buying a fishing vest will give you the instant benefit of easy access to all your items placed in pockets. Therefore, one of the first things to look at in a fishing vest is the number of pockets. Go for quality when buying a vest, of course, but also size, space, quantity of pockets and ease of access, rather than fancy looks with little to no functionality.
Type of Fabric / Material
Most traditional fishing vests are made up of polystyrene or in some cases, cotton. While some are made of mesh. It’s up to you to decide which one is the best suited for your needs, but make sure to choose a vest that does not make you feel stifled or too hot during the summer days.
The next thing to look for is the durability of the mesh or fabric. Make sure it is of the kind that will hold and will not be destroyed after getting wet in the water once or twice. Check whether the fabric will hold the weight of the gear in the pockets or not. Polyester vests can be more durable and good for windy days but the mesh fishing vest is a more suitable option for hot summers.
Color of the Fishing Vest
Color is an aspect that often gets ignored when buying a fishing vest but it is important. Make sure you choose a vest that will camouflage you when out in the open, specially when say, fishing an area you’re not supposed to. Hey, we’re not judging. A tan, green or brown colored vest is a good option for camouflage.
Comfort Is a Necessity!
Always try on a vest before buying and check if it is comfortable or not. When fishing, comfortable gear is one of the most important things. Look for a sturdy, durable, comfortable vest that can stay with you for a long time. Something that can take the abuse. Keep in mind that investing a little extra money in a good vest usually will make your fishing experience more enjoyable.
Are fishing vests also suited for other types of fishing, or only fly-fishing?
A fishing vest is not just a necessity for fly fishing anglers. It is a good choice for any fishermen of any kind. It does not matter if you are fishing with a fly, bait, lures, salt water or fresh water. A fishing vest is very useful, no matter the type of fishing.
Fly Fishing For Striped Bass?
Yes you can, but make it even more comfortable with a fishing vest.
So what do you think? Do you prefer to organize tour gear with a back pack? Keep it simple with just a tackle box? Go for a stylish sling pack, or like the professionals, wear a fishing vest?
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