As many of you know, I recently started fishing more than I ever have before and with all of the opportunities around the Denver area can you blame me? As my fishing toolbox began to grow, I needed to figure out a way to simplify and organize all of my tricks of the trade for a full day out on the water. Scouting taught me to “Be Prepared” and the fishpond Westwater Sling Pack gives you ample room to do just that while out on the water.

First and foremost, I really like the styling of this pack and I tend to use it during the workweek around Denver, Colorado as well. The shoulder strap is comfortable and combined with a substantial waist belt you’ll be hiking just about anywhere with ease no matter how full you stuff the pack. Two weeks ago, my wife and I floated the Roaring Fork River with Taylor Creek Fly Shops and used the Westwater Sling to keep our important items dry during the trip. I was able to quickly disconnect the shoulder strap and securely fasten the pack, zippers up, on the frame of the raft keeping the pack off the bottom of the boat. This helped keep everything dry and allowed for quick access from my seat in the raft.

fishpond recently added a second attachment point to the outside of the pack and frankly it comes in handy. I took a small piece of rope and have lined up all of my tippet material for quick access when switching flies. Two fishpond Rod Tube Straps are included with the pack and securely fasten your fly rod tube to the side of when traveling or hiking to your favorite fishing hole. Overall, I’ve been pretty impressed with the welded fabric construction and have only had the bag leak a little from a zipper not being completely shut.

While on the water wading, the sling pack sits securely and out of the way of your casting arm. When you need to gain access, simply release the waist belt and swing the pack around your body in front of you. The first thing you’ll notice is the extra large YKK Water Resistant zippers that allow easy access into both compartment pockets. The large open pocket is perfect for fly boxes, terminal tackle and just about anything you want. I find the small pocket on the front perfect for my nippers and Rising Tactical Scissors when not out in the open on a simple lanyard. Staying organized is key and so far the Westwater Sling pack has not let me down. With summer right around the corner here in Colorado, I can’t wait to take out my Westwater Sling Pack and explore some more.

Tips:

• If you’re in a raft or fishing the surf, seat the YKK zippers completely closed to help keep everything in your pack dry.
• Pack large items, such as jackets cameras and extra layer towards the bottom of the pack to keep terminal tackle handy when fishing.
• If you’re carrying digital cameras it may not be a bad idea to double up your protection with a fishpond Westwater Pouch or Roll Top Bag.

Details:

• Pack Weight: 1.3 lb
• Cubic Inches: 795
• Dimensions: 16.75" x 10" x 5"