Greg's Rod Picks from IFTD / I-CAST 2016

Best New Freshwater | Best New Saltwater | Best Of Show

It was a great time at the big show this year. Lot's of great new stuff but most of all a great time spent getting to know some people in this industry that work hard and pour their heart and passion into making it better for all, every single day.

The purpose of this article is not for me to pick winners and losers but instead showcase to you (our customers) what I saw that you might be interested in. I love gear and will proudly proclaim that I am a gear junkie. I enjoy spending time always seeking a better fly rod, reel, line, bag, tool...you name it. If it gives me an edge then it's a winner.

Fly Rods

It's pretty clear in the fly rod industry to build a better rod we must reach for higher tech materials and/or resins. This is the theme for 2016 coming from Sage, Winston and G.loomis. Outside of that the only unique contributions comes from building niche products like the OHS from Echo. Ask me if fly rods are improving and my answer will quickly be yes but mostly only in materials. Today's fly rod tapers are pretty well established for the intended use. Whether you need dry fly, nymph, saltwater, predator, two hand or any other technique one can find rod tapers that best suit those techniques and fishing situations. As far as what fly rods we like, it leans heavily on our own casting preferences and personalities. If I were to name one characteristic improving in today's high tech fly rods it is the expanded range that they load thus also expanding on the range that the load is felt. Every fly rod has a sweet spot; today's rods seem to have widened that sweet spot. While this expression rings true for the first three entries ahead it also happens to be the tagline for the Winston AIR..."Widen your sweet spot with the new Winston AIR." Back to the original question..."Are today's fly rods better?" Yes, they are much better, at a wider range of uses, load feel and fit a wider range of casting personalities.

Sage X

The New Sage X took the show. Best New Freshwater, Best New Saltwater and Best of Show.
I read somewhere that this three category win was the first ever for a rod series. The New X delivered exactly what it claimed, faster recovery, deeper loading, crisp tip stop and produced incredible tight loops. Match that with an elegant fit and finish Sage is known for and the X becomes one tough rod to beat. On the pond the X held true to its claims and did it with style and grace. The real test of course is on the water and I am so looking forward to time with these new sticks. Single, Switch and Spey models $895-$1095


R.L. Winston Air

"Widen your sweet spot with the new Winston AIR." 

Super Premium, Ultra-Lightweight Boron III Technology and featuring New SuperSilica Resin System. This new line of 3-6 weight freshwater rods from Winston could have easily taken the freshwater award. A clear cut winner in my eyes!

Winston Air

Paired with legendary finish Winston is so well known for into a high energy progressive action from a new SuperSilica resin creating an incredible accurate presentation all came together into one sweeet little fly rod. Year after year this fly rod company and its wonderful group of people continue to impress me with their relentless forward driving passion in the factory as well as on the stream. To build a rod this good can only come from countless hours on the water. Awesome job Winston!
Four Models 3-6 weights, $945

G.Loomis Asquith

Labeled as a Global All-Water Fly Rod in part due to the cooperative effort between G.Loomis with Chief Rod Designer Steve Rajeff and sister corporation Shimano. The New Asquith starts its life in Japan from some extremely high tech material, then finds its way into the Washington State based G.Loomis plant where the finish work is completed. On the pond the Asquith is light and responsive. It tracks a straight line in near perfect form. Swing weight is impressively light. This is another entry into the show that could have easily taken a win. 4-12 weight and 5 spey models $1000-$1400

Scott Flex Series

Scott Flex Series

The New Flex is a mid price point rod designed to offer fast performance with a fine tuned flex and recovery. It did not disappoint. The flex displayed a great amount of power while retaining a good balance of feel. The rod blank finish is classic to Scott natural and the components are premium all coming together into a aesthetically pleasing fly rod.  This is a great American made stick for a price that isn't out of the ball park. 3-8 weights, $475

Redington Hydrogen Trout Spey

Hydrogen Trout Spey

The Hydrogen series of single hand trout rods came out last year and in that time this lightweight rod has left quite the impression. When I heard Hydrogen was to expand into trout spey for 2017, I instantly knew this would be a home run. Now that I have seen and cast the new trout spey model I can honestly say it's out of the park. The med-fast action allows for a deeper load into the blank for great feel while the butt provides great power both for scandi  tight loops and/or skagit power. The downlocking skeletonized reel seat helps reduce the weight and looks great. Shown here with the new Redington Rise Fly Reel. 2-4 weight, $349.95

Predator

Redington Predator

Always a favorite the newly update Predator gets some added horsepower to tackle the whole chickens and bunnies. Fresh or Salt, wherever Predators Roam! 5-12 weights with additional specialized bass and pike/musky models, $299.95


Redington Vice

Redington Vice

Classically Styled Fast Action full range of rods from fresh to salt. The Vice replaces the aging Voyant series of Redington Fly Rods. Besides a full on color face lift the New Vice receives advancements in the use of multi modulus carbon fibers that greatly enhances control, recovery and accuracy. Add saltwater grade components, black anodized snake guides and a lazer etched reel seat indicating rod weight and the package comes together to form a really sweet rod.
3-9 weights, $199.95



Echo Bad Ass Glass
If you follow the fiberglass crowd you will naturally gravitate to the BAG (Bad Ass Glass) Series of rods.

Bad Ass Glass

I admit they are pretty cool looking but really Tarpon on Glass?! But that's the idea behind this big heavy glass stick. Bonefish, Steelhead, Permit, Tarpon. Get your groove on glass fans!
8-12 weights, $274.99

Echo OHS (One Hand Spey)
My real interest coming from the Mr.Tim Rajeff is the new Echo OHS (One Hand Spey).

Measuring in at 10'4" with 6-8 weights. My prediction for this show was that someone is going to show up with a single handed spey rod...Ding, Ding, Ding...we have a winner! While I was hoping for a trout model too, it's a start. I got to spend a little time on the pond with the 7 weight equipped with the new Airflo Skagit Scout head and it HUK'D!

OHS spey handle

A unique feature of the OHS is it comes with two different fighting butts. One is normal standard nubby and the spey version is 2.5"providing you something to underhand some leverage with. 6-8 weights, $474.99

More Echo's
Several other new models coming out of the Echo camp. EPR is rated "Stupid Fast" intended for salt fanatics chasing fins that weigh more than you do. The New DRY is pretty obvious. Boost Reach designed for beach casters both east and west. And the 8 piece trip designed for the backpacking crowd. We'll have more on these when they arrive.


Take Survey - 2017 New Fly Rods - What New Rods have your interest?

This one question survey let's you tell us what fly rods you are curious about. Check one or as many as you want and if your fly rod of interest is not listed use the write-in spot. 

Complete List of Show Winners

Best of Show	Sage	X 590
Fly Rod: Freshwater	Sage	X 590
Fly Rod: Saltwater	Sage	X 890
Reel: Freshwater	Ross Reels	Colorado LT
Reel: Saltwater	Abel Reels	SDS
Fly Line: Freshwater	RIO Products	InTouch Big Nasty
Fly Line: Saltwater	RIO Products	Winter Redfish
Leader / Tippet	RIO Products	RIO Saltwater Mono
Fly Pattern: Freshwater	Aqua Flies, LLC	Stu Foxall’s PrawnTruder
Fly Pattern: Saltwater	Umpqua Feather Merchants	Contraband Crab, Chicone
Fly Box / Storage System	Tacky Fly Fishing	Tacky Dry Fly Box
Fly Tying Materials / Equipment	Freestone Designs	The Go Box
Men’s Waders	Simms Fishing Products	Headwater Pro Waders
Women’s Waders	Hodgeman	Women’s H4 Wader
Wading Boots	Simms Fishing Products	Rip Rap Shoe Felt
Check Pack / Vest	Simms Fishing Products	G4 Pro Sling Pack
Luggage	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZeroSweep Cooler-Gater
Men’s Outerwear	Patagonia	Minimalist Wading Jacket
Men’s General Apparel	Simms Fishing Products	Intruder BiComp L/S Shirt
Women’s Outerwear	Patagonia	Women’s River Salt Jacket
Women’s General Apparel	Simms Fishing Products	Women’s Rip Rap Sandal
Youth Product	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZS Wader Chest Pack
Accessories (under $100)	Orvis	U.S.-Made Aluminum Nipper
Eco-friendly Product	Fishpond	Thunderhead Duffel
Boat / Personal Watercraft	Outcast Sporting Gear	Fish Cat 5 Mat
Book	Angler’s Book Supply	Fusion Fly Tying
DVD	RIO Products	Favorite Fly-Fishing Knots
Gift Items (under $100)	Umpqua Feather Merchants	ZS Guide Wader Belt
P.O.S. / Booking Software	The Outfitter Pro	Online Booking System

Coming soon I will share my Top Reel Picks...

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

Read more of Greg's Post

Greg's Top Picks from I-Cast / IFTD 2015

Every year more and more I look forward to IFTD. Yeah we get to preview all the new products but more than that it's a chance to actually spend some quality time with the individuals we spend countless hours on phone calls and emails working together in the common goal of delivering the products we all benefit from. I can promise you this it's still, and hopefully always will be driven by pure passion for the sport much more than just corporate sales figures. Most everyone I meet in this industry is a passionate angler and I believe nothing is ever going to change that!

Kicking off with Fly Rods

Winston - Last year I quoted "There is a way different vibe at the Winston booth and I like it!", I'm happy to report that vibe is alive and growing!

Boron III Plus

Winston BIII Plus

The BIII Plus Comes in Freshwater, Saltwater and The new Jungle configurations and replaces and BIII SX Saltwater Series. Saltwater rods today are so versatile that labeling one salt specific just doesn't completely describe increasing usefulness of these rods. From trout streamers to jungle predators like peacock bass or golden dorado and all salt species in between this new series of rods are built to perform and exceed your expectations. Much lighter than the previous SX and much livelier! The freshwater and saltwater models certainly exceeded my expectations but it was the Jungle model that set off my adrenaline. While casting I could vision myself launching big flies from a boat into the wind and delivering them to the targets were these predators lie! I am certain we will be delivering solid reviews on this new series of rods once we get them in our hands and on the water. Stay Tuned! 2 Freshwater sizes, 6 Saltwater sizes and 3 Jungle Series sizes expected to arrive in September. $855 - $895

Sage - Sage came to the show with more new rods than some rod companies have in there entire lineup. I assure you there is a new Sage rod this year that will spark your interest.

MOD - "The MOD is a Modern Interpretation of a Moderate Action"

Mod Single Hand Trout - In a world where fast action rods seem to be the norm there is an ever increasing craving to get back to roots of days gone by when fly casting was relaxing and rod actions lend themselves to the finesse nature of the sport. Meet the MOD! Built on the Konnetic platform the MOD represents what modern graphite and technology are capable of achieving. You don't grab this rod to take out in the parking lot to impress your friends but instead you take it to your favorite river and enjoy a relaxing day of fishing.
5 models 2-6 weight all 9 foot. Retail $850

Mod Two Hand - The MOD two handed spey model could easily be that rod that writes a new chapter in history. It develops its power with such ease and grace. Basically takes no effort to make great cast with the MOD. Set a good anchor point, swing into a D-loop, pull some underhand and watch your fly reach orbit, It's really that easy. Just two models of the MOD Spey...6130-4 and 7130-4. Retail $1050

Little ONE - Replaces the TXL-F line of spring creek rods. These rods are so light and crisp and the Konnetic Technology provides unparalleled accuracy. 5 sizes: 082-4, 182-4, 282-4, 382-4, 482-4
Retail $850

ONE Trout Spey - You can rest assure I will be doing a full review of this new addition to the Sage ONE family once I've have some time on the water.
Two Sizes: 2109-4 and 3110-4. Retail $1050

BOLT - Ultra Fast Generation 5 Technology. Anglers looking for long distances, fast line speeds and quick recovery will appreciate the BOLT.
5 sizes, 490-4, 590-4, 690-4, 790-4, 890-4. Retail $650

PULSE - Replaces the Response. Fast action Graphite III in a full line of single hand, switch and spey models. Fast action but still connected.
Retail Single Hand $450, Switch $550, Spey $650

G. Loomis adds several additions to the Pro4x family of rods.

Pro4x Lite Presentation - Built on the wildly popular success of the NRX Lite presentation.
Four sizes: 269-3, 376-4, 486-4, 590-4
Retail $325 - $375

More Pro4x additions include: 

• 790-4 Salmon/Steelhead rod
• 790-4 and a 1290-4 Saltwater
• 4106-4, 6110-4, 8116-4 Switch rods
• 12'6" 5/6 Spey, and 6/7 Spey
• 7'6" 7/8 Short Stix

Echo continues their tradition of delivering uncompromising rod actions

Gecko Outfit

Echo Carbon XL and Ion XL - The big news here is "LIGHTER!" I got a chance to cast both models and found them to be excellent rods with actions that would suit a wide range of anglers and with a very forgiving price tag. 8 Models of Saltwater grade Ion's retail at $159.99 and 6 Models of Carbon freshwater rods retailing at $139.99

Echo Glass sees some additions
Sales of Echo glass rods have been off the hook and often times they are exceeding supply. Glass is back and in a big way! Three new groovy models are coming soon to fill the need of big water anglers. Included are a 486-4, 586-4 and 690-4. Retail $219.99

Echo is also adding to their Shadow II Nymph rods and additional models to the popular Base line of rods.

Echo Gecko is now going to be offered in an outfit complete with rod, reel, line and rod/reel case. Retail $169.99

Redington continues to up the bar of value and performance

Hydrogen

Redington Hydrogen - An incredibly good trout rod! Super light weight and a great mod-fast action. This rod really impressed me as an incredible value for an import rod. It casts and looks great. Pair it with the new Redington Zero reel and be a hero! 11 New Trout sizes including three nymph models. Retail $299.95

Chromer

Redington Chromer - Feature custom polymer gripping sections on the top and bottom handles. No trouble gripping mono with these grips! 3 switch rods and 5 spey rods coming in at $399.95

Reels...

Nautilus X-Frame

Nautilus - The new X-Frame is super light and has all the features you know and love From Nautilus including super smooth sealed carbon fiber disc drag, Activseal and Giga Arbor. While most open frame reels appear fragile I can assure that the X-Frame displays a bold look and the X beams provide amazing strength. Lighter than ever with sizes from 3/4 to 8/9 and priced from $275 to $395. Look for it around the new year.


Ross - Lots of good news coming from Ross Reels, The best is yet to come but for the immediate future the two existing imports get a complete make-over. Look for them in November

Left-Glimpse of a future New CLA, Middle-Rapid, Right-Eddy

Ross Rapid - Replaces the aging flyrise with a new large arbor design and enclose reliable rulon disc drag. Sizes 3/4 to 7/8 and prices are $100 - $120

Ross Eddy - A New entry level reel replacing the old standby Flystart. Utilizing a strong cast design coupled with large arbor and smooth disc drag the Eddy offers value at a price that's hard to find. 3/4 to 7/8 and price $70 - $80

Galvan Grip

Galvan Grip - Galvan Unveils it's newest creation called "Grip". The Grip features a fully sealed version of Galvan's Torque MicroTune drag system known for its silky smooth startup and reliable powerful performance. Three models to handle all your bonefish to tarpon needs. G-8, G10 and G-12 with prices starting at $525 for the G-8 and topping out at $625 for the G-12. Expected around October

Hardy Ultralite CA DD 

Hardy - Ultralite series gets an entire makeover. Two new models include a CA DD (Conical Arbor Disc Drag) and a MA DD (Mid-Arbor Disc Drag). The Ultralite CA DD reel is an ultra large arbor giving it incredible line pickup and reduces drag gain on long runs. The Ultralite MA DD offers extra capacity with its mid arbor design. Both reels feature a Color coded drag knob for easy reference. Sizes and prices coming soon




Sage Click -
I've always like the Sage click reel and with the redesign it looks better than ever. It's also lighter than ever with even the largest 4/5/6 size still comes in under 2 oz. Besides cosmetic upgrades the new Click has an even larger arbor than before and more open area for palming.
3 sizes from $259 to $299




Redington Zero - Looking for a good lightweight large arbor click pawl trout reel for a reasonable price than look no farther. Redington kept the cost down on this reel by utilizing die cast construction but it doesn't have the appearance of a die cast reel. Comes in two sizes a 2/3 and 4/5 and two colors (Sand and Black) with price set at $89.95




Redington Behemoth - Like the Zero the Behemoth is also a die-cast constructed reel offering up very impressive carbon fiber drag force. It's utilizes large arbor design for fast line retrieval and a V-shaped spool for backing capacity. Behemoth comes in four sizes (5/6, 7/8, 9/10, 11/12) and two colors (Black and Gunmetal) and retails from $109.95 - $129.95

Best Accessory

Hatch Nippers - Hatch continues to expand their superior line of products with a new pair of Nippers. The Nippers feature machined aluminum bodies with super hardened carbide cutters. Also incorporated is a hook eye cleaner. Nippers include the lanyard and retail for $100. Three colors: Red, Blue and Silver

Hatch Nippers

Fly Lines

Rio Skagit Trout Max

RIO...Too many changes to list...Most of it is current lines going to ConnectCore low stretch core technology. If you have not expereinced ConnectCore do yourself a favor and try it with the next line you buy.

Skagit Trout Max - You will either love this or hate this new skagit head and here is why. It's short! Very Short! I did not like this skagit head at first but when I learned what was positive about it I ended loving it. Two key notes about this head. First is the shorter the rod the better simply meaning everyone out there that has been looking for or creating your own skagits for short switch or single hand rods, look no more, here it is! The second key feature of these short skagits is that they cast more off the tip of the rod than they do with water load. Bottom line is it makes them more versatile in many different situations than the more standard length skagits we're use to.

Single Hand Spey - More and more anglers are discovering the benefits of spey casting even with single hand rods. Armed with spey techniques you can go ahead and make a cast even if you have no backcast room behind you. Finally a line for single hand rods that really gives you the power to make these spey cast and also have a line that performs excellent overhead cast as well. This is a great choice for anglers that have always wanted to learn some spey techniques without having to invest in Specialized rods, reels and lines. Comes in #4 thru #8 weight sizes and retails for $84.95


Scientific Anglers

S/A...Just like RIO too many changes to list...I'll hit some highlights!

S/A Mastery Series news - The big news in this series is S/A has gone back to their roots and revised the lines that we all have come to know and love. Like the GPX, Expert Distance and the Bonefish taper, the very lines that has set so many standards in the industry! S/A did a re-evaluation on the mastery series and applied modern line technology to these long time favorites. We asked for it and S/A delivered...Thank you Scientific Anglers

Titan Line additions - If you casts streamers or bass bugs from foot or boat with single hand power rods than S/A's Titan series of lines might just become your new favorite. While they are a short shooting head the Titan incorporates a longer rear taper that can help in two ways. One, no need to strip all the way back to the fly line head to recast and two, better line stability on false casting. I guess you could also include better mend-ability. Titan started out as a freshwater floating line in the textured line category. Due to the overwhelming success of this taper S/A has decided to expand into clear tips, sinking tips, saltwater versions, big water tapers and even a smooth original version for those not interested in a textured line. Look for my post in the near future were I will break down the entire series of these awesome lines.

Airflo Bandit

Airflo
Bandit - Australia / New Zealand line. You asked for it and here it is! The bandit is an ultra stealthy line with the first 12' broken up with two tone bands. It also features a long rear taper for line stability on long casts. 4-8 wt...$79.95

Skagit Compact G2 (Generation 2)
Since introduction in 2007 there has never been a need to improve upon the skagit head that still defines what we know as skagit today.
Supple changes are what the new G2 is all about. Leading the way is Super-DRI Technology. 

With Super-DRI the G2 now floats higher than ever which helps tracking and improves mending. Slightly shorter overall and slightly increased rear taper requires less energy to cast, produces tight precise loops and is more stable in flight. Utilizing Zone Technology, the back of the head is more buoyant for better tracking and improved mending capability meanwhile the tip features increased density to help drive the cast on layout.
Look for it in September 2015


OPST - Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics

Pure Skagit Commando Heads
Designed by Ed Ward and Jerry French,  the new Commando heads take skagit casting to the next revolution. Get a complete look at this new product in OPST - Olympic Peninsula Skagit Tactics - $54.95 - In Stock
Pure Skagit Lazer Line
To Complement Commando Heads OPST releases Pure Skagit Lazer Line. This new shooting line is super slick, hydrophobic and easy handling. This is a line for those of us who love to launch a cast, sit back, maybe eat a sandwich while the line rushes out of the guides and pulls line off the reel as is comes tight. $31.95 - In Stock

My pick for this years best of the best!

Tough decision...And the Winner is...In my opinion everything I put in this article is a winner! That's why it's in the article. But if you must know here is three of my immediate favorites!

Seeing that so much of my summer fishing is predator fishing I can't wait to get the New Winston Boron III Plus Jungle rod in my hands. It really felt great casting it on the pond. I can't wait to throw some big bugs on it and tame some predators.

Equally I'm just as excited to get back to swinging streamers for trout! I am really looking forward to the new Sage Little One Trout Spey and see how it compares to the Winston Boron III Microspey. That will be a great showdown!

Going along with two hand trout swinging is the new OPST Commando head and RIO's Trout Max Shooting head. In my limited experience with these new lines thus far I really believe we are looking at the next Skagit Revolution!

Greg Darling 

Gorge Fly Shop Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

"Fly Fish the World with Us"

RIO's InTouch Lines - Get "In-Touch" with the other end of your fly line

It's middle July and I-CAST/IFTD mega show is just a week away. This is where all the dealers go to check out all that is new and improved for the upcoming 2015 season. We'll cast rods and handle reels and catch up on all the latest gear designed to catch more fish (or more fisherman). 

A product that I have watched steadily improve over the last few years is fly lines. I just received product information sheets of the new additions to the Rio InTouch series of lines and I think we all have something to cheer about. 

Simms Headwaters Large Sling Pack review

Simms Headwaters Large Sling Pack

Ask me if one perfect pack exist. I can answer that question in one word; NO! That’s an easy answer because the right pack is determined by your needs at that moment in time of use. Example; If it is summer and you plan on being out all day hiking in the sunshine than hydration will play a key importance to your function…for this I like a full-on backpack with hydration bladder, But that’s a bit bulky for the evening run and gun to your honey hole were you will only need some of your favorite flies and tippet. The packs I would equip myself for these two situations are obviously quite different. I’m not about to go into what I think you should use each type of pack for or what pack is best for you. It’s a personal choice and only you know what your needs is on your adventures. 

My idea of a perfect pack no matter what size or style may be is a pack that stays organized and items do not become lost. A pack has to be comfortable so that it’s forgotten while wearing it. It has to have enough flash to easily be seen for the times you do remove it so as to not get forgotten and left behind. Easy access to the tools you need is quite important. I’m sure we could brainstorm many more requirements of a great pack but I would like to get on with a new pack that has me pretty excited.

I have been slinging waist packs over my shoulder for years before any company ever named a pack a “Sling Pack”. But waist packs or chest packs thrown over the shoulder never quite met my needs and wearing a waist pack or a chest pack just always seemed to be in my way. Especially now that I Two Hand cast so much of the time, a chest pack is absolutely out of the question. On longer days I normally go with a backpack for the hydration capabilities enough space for lunch and all my needed gear. They do have the disadvantage of having to remove it to get to things but I can attach my tools and carry a fly box in my wader pocket for the basic needs.

Simms Headwaters Sling Pack in Lead Color

What I needed was a pack for all those other times such as short morning or evening adventures, and day adventures that don’t take me too far away from the truck and winter adventures where I don’t need to carry more than a 20 oz bottle of water or small thermos of coffee but still roomy enough to stuff a layer in it for the hike out or pack a PB&J for some stream-side energy. I also like to make sure I’m equipped with a good variety of flies and plenty of leaders, tips and tippet. Tools are a major importance to me. They need to always be at reach.

The Simms Headwaters Sling pack has all these needs covered and I can comfortably wear it all day and honestly forget about it being on my back. When I need something it slings around easily and the pockets are upright directly in front of you. The tools are also right at reach. You can equip it with tools on the pack and on the strap also so you always have tools were you need them no matter where the pack is. I really like the clamp holders and so far the magnets have been strong enough to keep them secure. Another great feature is the hideaways for the accessory straps. Tuck the rod and waist straps when not in use and you have no loose straps dangling around. I quickly figured out to use the back pocket (the one closet to your body) for larger items like a bottle of water and it’s perfect to stuff a fleece layer in when things warm up. The large front pocket holds my extra flies and leaders and the outermost pocket is perfect for the flies and tippet that I am currently using. The inside of this pocket is compatible with Simms hook and loop items such as the Simms Fly Patch. I have one of these stuck to the inside of that pocket to hang my wet flies to dry. The removable hook and loop floatant and tippet-spool retainers are also a nice feature. Just stick them on the outside of the pack while using them or stash them away when you’re not using them.

Simms Headwaters Sling Pack (smaller version)

Simms also makes the Headwaters Sling pack in a smaller version pictured here to the right shown in the Fury Orange color.

I am angler that likes to lean toward the minimalist approach. The large Headwaters Sling pack has a roomy 15 liter capacity but it feels compact, comfortable to wear all day and gives me the security of knowing I have what I need for any situation I may encounter. I've never had a pack that I liked as much as the Headwaters Sling Pack.

Greg Darling

Gorge Fly Shop 
Internet Sales Manager | Product Specialist

Features and Specs - 

• Lightweight pack for a full day on the water – pack in all your gear & fish on the go 
• 2 large zippered compartments with stretch mesh pockets 
• Quick-access stash pocket beneath the waistband allows easy access without slinging pack all the way around 
• Compression molded front pocket creates a fold-down workspace 
• Removable hook & loop floatant holder & tippet-spool retainer 
• FABRIC TECH: 420 Denier Abrasion resistant fabric with DWR 
• APPROX. WEIGHT: 32 oz 
• CAPACITY: 15 liters, 915.36 cubic in. 
• DIMENSIONS: 20” x 14” x 8”

Simms Representative Eric Neufeld demonstrates the functionality of the New Simms Headwaters Sling Pack at the 2013 I-CAST / IFTD Show in Las Vegas

"Fly Fish the World with Us"