2016’s best new fly fishing accessories
The year’s best packs, fly boxes, tying materials and apparel
With both exciting innovations and product reboots, anglers will have plenty to choose from when they head to the fly shop this year. Here’s my favourite new tackle.
Best Jacket
VAPOR ELITE
This well-designed jacket is made from three-layer Gore-Tex C-Knit fabric, which is lighter and 15 per cent more breathable than regular Gore-Tex. An improved inside glide coating prevents sticking, making the Vapor Elite easy to put on, even over a fleece jacket. Other features include a three-way adjustable storm hood, dual-drawstring bottom hem and mesh-lined hand-warmer pockets.
Simms Fishing Products, 1-866-585-3570; www.simmsfishing.com
Best Fly Box
BIG BUG BOX
Last year, Tacky introduced a fly box with an innovative slit silicone storage system that held flies securely in place. For 2016, Tacky is debuting a larger version in the oversized Big Bug Box. Measuring seven inches long, 3½ inches wide and just over an inch deep, it accommodates hook sizes up to 2/0 with a redesigned silicon mat. Like the original, this tough polycarbonate case features a clear lid with a magnetic closure.
Tacky Fly Fishing, 801 803 2667; www.tackyflyfishing.com
Best Large Pack
THUNDERHEAD SLING
More and more fly anglers are choosing sling packs over traditional vests, and Fishpond’s Thunderhead Sling is certain not to disappoint. Sturdily constructed from recycled commercial fishing net fabric, it features waterproof zippers and welded seams for dry storage. The large interior holds plenty of gear, with an inside pocket for smaller items. There’s also an exterior pocket and plenty of tabs for tools.
Fishpond, (303) 534-3474; www.fishpondusa.com
Best Tying Material
HYBRID SYNTHETIC HACKLE
Using advanced manufacturing and dyeing techniques, Cascade Crest offers a brilliant new concept in synthetic hackle. By combining holographic flash and Anton fibres, this material will add sparkle and excitement to your favourite patterns. Perfect for large bass, pike, steelhead and trout flies, it’s available in 18 bicoloured varieties, such as silver/black and chartreuse/orange.
Cascade Crest Tools, 1-800-528-0001; www.cascadecrest.com
Best Chest Pack
ROCK CREEK ZS
The most remarkable feature of this compact pack is the way its tool attachments are designed to be absolutely snag-free. Hemostats, nippers and even a key clip are easily accessible, yet tucked away. The main pocket fits two large fly boxes, while the two outside mesh pockets hold accessories. The Rock Creek ZS has wide shoulder straps for all-day comfort, and it’s moderately priced, making it perfect for beginners.
Umpqua Feather Merchants, 1-800-322-3218; www.umpqua.com
