Fly Fishing Hip Packs & Lumbar Packs — Simms, Fishpond & Patagonia

The hip pack has become the dominant gear-carrying solution for wade anglers who want their essential tools accessible without the weight and bulk of a traditional chest pack or vest. Stillwater carries fly fishing hip packs from Simms, Fishpond, and Patagonia — designs purpose-built for fishing with waterproof zippers, rod tube loops, tippet attachment points, and organization optimized for fly boxes, forceps, and the other tools that define a working angler's kit.

Hip Pack vs. Chest Pack — Which is Right for You?

Hip packs excel for minimalist fishing where you're covering water quickly — wade fishing small to medium streams where you want to move fast without heavy gear. They keep weight off your shoulders and chest, which matters over a full day of casting. Chest packs provide more accessible storage while casting and carry more total volume for longer days or complex hatches. Many serious anglers own both and choose based on the day's fishing style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I carry in a fly fishing hip pack?
The essentials fit comfortably in most hip packs: 2–3 fly boxes, tippet spools (3–4 sizes), forceps or hemostats, nippers, floatant, and a small snack and water. For half-day fishing without changing conditions, a hip pack carries everything needed without the weight of a fuller vest or chest pack system.

Q: Are fishing hip packs waterproof?
Most premium fishing hip packs use water-resistant fabrics and waterproof zippers that handle rain and splash reliably. They're not designed for full submersion — a full wipeout in the river will wet the contents. For electronics and anything critical to keep dry, use a waterproof dry bag or case inside the hip pack regardless of the pack's construction.