TOP 10 Best Fly Fishing Sling Packs 2023

Fly fishing sling packs have become increasingly popular in recent years. The reason: their versatility.How do you choose the best fly fishing sling pack? Sling packs are a mix between a and a . They come in a lot of different styles, shapes, sizes and features. In this guide we’ll tell you everything you need to know about . We’ll present you our Top 10 favorite products. We will take a look at regular fishing sling packs and waterproof fly fishing packs. We will also tell you what to pay attention to before choosing your pack.

Disclaimer:All products in this guide are independently researched by our team. We only recommend products we believe in and never get paid for the reviews.

How to Choose the Best Fly Fishing Sling Packs

A fly fishing sling pack has only one strap that you wrap around your chest. This makes it the perfect hybrid of a fly fishing hip pack (one strap as well that you wear around your hip) and a backpack. You sling the pack around your chest, hence the name sling pack.

Most of the packs are really lightweight coming in around 1-2 pounds and can hold around 15 liters. The choice you have to make is whether you want a regular fly fishing sling that can carry your gear on a dry day or whether you want a waterproof pack (or even a submersible one). In this guide we’ll present you our favorites from both sections.

Fishing Sling Packs vs. Fishing Vests vs. Fly Fishing Backpacks

Sling packs have often become the preferred choice of a pack amongst fly fishermen and women. There are several reasons for that: usually they are really light weight. Sling packs are comfortable to carry all day as the strap distributes the weight well.

With just a flip of the strap you have all the pockets of the sling pack right in front of you for easy access. A backpack for example, you would have to take off first. Despite their lightweight and smaller dimensions they can hold a surprisingly large amount of fly fishing gear.

10 Best Fly Fishing Sling Packs Quick Answer List

1. Teton Fly Fishing Pack
2. Kylebooker Fly Sling Pack SL03
3. Orvis Sling Pack
4. Umpqua Steamboat
5. Fishpond Flathead
6. FishPond Thunderhead Submersible
7. Patagonia Guidewater 15L
8. Kylebooker Sling Pack SL02
9. Simms Dry Creek Z Fishing
10. Orvis Waterproof Sling Pack

Best Regular Fishing Slings

In this first part of our review we want to present you with a few solid options if you are looking for a regular fly fishing sling packs to hold your essential gear. If you are looking for a waterproof fishing sling, click here.

1. Teton Fly Fishing Pack

Key features:

– Big, easily accessible front pocket

– Well padded shoulder strap

– Integrated bottle and net holder

Amazon top review
The first one that showed up had some bad stitching down one side that left a large hole, but they replaced it right away, no issues. The 2nd one is fit as a fiddle. I'm somewhat of a minimalist but this bag still lets me carry quite a bit, is not in the way, and is still compact.
It also comes with a large foam fly pad (with velcro), a foam leader spool, a velcro spool holder, and velcro 2-bottle (floatant) holder.
Can't wait to get out on the water.

Why we picked it:

The Teton Fly Fishing Pack is a great entry into the world of fly fishing sling packs. For less than $60 it offers many features of higher priced fishing slings. Three zippered pocket can hold a lot of gear, especially the easily accessible front pocket. We like the sleeve at the bottom to carry a water bottle. There is another one at the side to carry your landing net – great features!

The Teton Fly Fishing Pack is lightweight at only a little over 1 lbs (0.45 kg). The shoulder sling is nicely padded and provides excellent comfort for all day fishing fun. A foam fly patch can hold your flies and theTeton Fly Fishing Pack offers several attachment options on every side.

At only $59.99 the Teton Fly Fishing Pack is an excellent choice if you want to give sling packs a try but are not yet sure they are your weapon of choice for the future. You can’t go wrong with this one.

Pros:

– Plenty of attachment options

– Thought-through pocket concept

– Highly accessible outside pocket

Cons:

– Can be a bit bulky if fully loaded, especially on smaller people

2. Kylebooker Fly Sling Pack SL03

Key features:

• Compact Design:Fly fishing sling pack allows the angler to wear it over one shoulder, completely out of the way, while allowing quick and easy access to gear. This fishing tackle bag is equipped with adjustable padded shoulder straps for all-day comfort ,to satisfy your different needs for a fishing trip.
• Lightweight and Durable:Made of high high-quality polyester fabric ,only 12 oz weight .the fly fishing sling bag is durable for long-term use. you can take this tackle bag to any freshwater or saltwater fishing trips.And that would make a great gift as well. Do not hesitate, get this functional and fashionable bag as a thoughtful gift to anyone you want!
• Mutifunction Tackle Bag:The size of 15” x 10” x 5.1”is big enough for you to keep daily fishing gears . Large main compartment to store personal items ; Four exterior accessory pockets with zipper closures to organize packed gear,such as the fly lures, pliers, tackle box, wallet and phone etc . One landing net pockets and a variety of accessory loops to various tools.
• Unique Innovative Design:Unique zinger and tool attachment system allows easy integration of your favorite tool into the pack, providing quick and easy access to the tool while minimizing the chance of catching.Strategically placed water bottle holder can be accessed without turning the pack around. Cord loops allow the addition of a tippet bar, Internal pockets help organize your gear
• Superior Service：Kylebooker are very concerned about customer satisfaction and desire to provide excellent customer service.If you're not satisfied with our products please don't hesitate to contact with us,let's make it right.Give a try without hassles!

Amazon top review:

I have brought a good bag similar to this a while ago from this brand; however, my child liked it so much and decided to take it from me. After going to Amazon to look for a replacement, I decided to give this one a try, because it is the right size for fishing. Having received the bag, however, I noticed that that bag is suitable for left-handed and right-handed people. The way it is set up is actually for the left-handed people, which could spell trouble for the people who have no idea how to turn that into one for the right-handed people. It is not too difficult; just switch one of the buckles to the other side of the bag. Once I did that I realized that this bag is really useful for fishing and other outdoor activities: it has a good amount of pockets; it has a pad for carrying heavy stuff, and it is made of decent quality. So far, I like it a lot!

3. Orvis Sling Pack

Key features:

– Lightweight and slender shape

– Integrated bottle holder

– Easy access to important gear

Amazon top review:
The Orvis Sling Pack is easy to use snd very comfortable. High quality materials as well.

Why we picked it:

The Orvis Sling Pack is our favorite choice for a light weight sling fishing pack. At 17″L x 9¾”W x 6½”D. 11L/671 cu. in., the Orvis has great, compact dimensions.

The design of the Orvis is very thought through and the cushy, foam-padded shoulder strap makes it an ideal choice for long days at the river. It is made from 100% recycled cordura.

The Orvis Pack also features multiple tool attachment options. On the bottom it has a water bottle pocket and it also comes with a net holder. Great choice if you want to go light weight at an unbeatable price of less than $100.

Pros:

– Lightweight and small

– Thought-through attachment options

– Tippet spool holder is a neat little feature

Cons:

– Since it’s lightweight and smaller it’s not the ideal choice for people who want to carry a lot of extra gear

4. Umpqua Steamboat

Key features:

– Extra-wide shoulder strap

– Focus is on big main compartment

– Integrated net holder on the back

Amazon top review:
I bought this pack to replace a Fishpond Waterdance, which is more of a fanny pack with a sling. A nice pack, but wanted a little more room. My Fishpond lasted more than 10 years and was passed on to a friend (still in great shape). I was pleasantly surprised at the high quality of the Umpqua. Add on accessories are great. Lots of room, comfortable and very nice looking (camo looks cool). Overall I'm impressed with the beauty, engineering, fit and finish and I'll expect more than 10 years out of the pack. You do get what you pay for and this pack isn't cheap. But worth the price. Would recommend this pack to any fly fisher-person.

Why we picked it:

The Umpqua Steamboat ZS2 1200 Camo almost carries like a normal backpack. This gives you a great range of motion and makes the Umpqua an excellent choice for fly fishermen using double-handed rods.

The large main compartment can be used to store bigger items such as a rain jacket or a lunch if you’re on the water all day. A smaller pocket outside holds your essential and gives you quick access.

The Umpqua Steamboat ZS2 1200 Camo is also ambidextrous. Moreover it features a net holder that can hold even bigger handle nets. The vented back panel is a great asset on hot days.

Pros:

– Wide but not deep, hence doesn’t hinder your casting

– Most comfortable shoulder strap of all products tested

Cons:

– A few more attachment options for gear such as pliers or zingers would be great

5. Fishpond Flathead

Key features:

– Shaped almost like a hip bag

– Plenty of attachment options

– Ambidextrous (can be worn over both shoulders)

Amazon top review:
After trying several of the top manufacturers slings on the market I finally settled on the Fishpond Flathead sling. I only wish that I had started off with this one first. It would have saved me lot's of money! This sling is ambidextrous and has generous storage space. The specs say it is 10L but it sure seems a lot more. I carry four Tacky boxes, leader wallet in the main compartment (they give you two separators that are adjustable and several internal pockets for split shots, indicators, etc. and I can easily fit my snacks and lunch and still have plenty of room. The two water bottle holders are a nice touch. I use one for water and the other to hold a light or rain jacket. The outer pocket has a a strong magnetic closure and roomy. The sling is very comfortable with space to install a pair of Hemostats and zingers and the net sleeve is nicely designed as it has a raised criss-cross pattern to slip your net in while at the same time providing some separation between the sling and upper torso to allow airflow to circulate and keep you cool. I use the Nomad Mid-length net and it fits perfectly and the Nomad Emerger net will fit just as as well. Overall I am very pleased with this product. If you're thinking about a sling, try this one first. You won't be sorry.

Why we picked it:

The Fishpond Flat Head tops our list of the best regular fly fishing packs. It has an incredibly value for money and is an excellent choice if you want a long-lasting product. Fishpond have established themselves as a fly fishing gear authority.

The Fishpond Flat Head is a lightweight fishing sling pack, weighing in at 1.75 pounds (0,8kg). It is ambidextrous which means it can be worn over both shoulders. This fact increases comfort on a long fishing day. Features an adjustable shoulder-strap and an additional cross-body strap for extra stabilisation.

Inside the Fishpond Flat Head features two dividers to keep your gear organised. Two large pockets for water bottles on the side and right and left hand net slots.

Pros:

– Great bonus features such as tippet spool holder or fly patch

– Can holders on each side

Cons:

– Bigger items like a wading jacket might difficult to fit into the Fishpond

6. FishPond Thunderhead Submersible

Key features:

– Fully submersible

– Extra pocket for small items on the back

– One big main compartment

Amazon top review:
I’ve gone through just about every type of pack over the years before finally (and happily) settling on the Thunderhead Sling. The feature that initially attracted me is the net handle sleeve. I’ve never been happy with other systems for packing a net until now. Perfect size for carrying what I need for a day on the river without being so large that I carry too much.

Why we picked it:

The FishPond Thunderhead Pack is one of the fishing sling packs in our review that are fully waterproof. Take this sling pack in your hands and you will instantly feel its sturdiness. It feels like an elephant skin. A small zippered outside pocket (not waterproof, only water resistant) holds your essentials.

The reason why waterproof sling packs such as the FishPond Thunderhead Pack come in at over $200 is the technology that ensures these packs are really fully waterproof. A crucial part in this are the waterproof TIZIP zippers. Open and close them for the first time and you will immediately feel the difference to a normal zipper.

Waterproof sling packs are not as feature rich, especially on the inside. Their strength lies in keeping every drop of moisture out. If you know you’ll wade deep or will be fishing in wet areas such as the Pacific Northwest, go for a waterproof pack such as the FishPond Thunderhead Pack. You won’t regret spending the extra money.

Pros:

– Build to last and withstand the harshest conditions

– Well-padded shoulder strap

– Great gear attachment options

Cons:

– Less versatility due to focus on the big main compartment

7. Patagonia Guidewater 15L

[caption id="attachment_303" align="alignnone" width="280"] Patagonia Guidewater Sling 15L[/caption]

Key features:

– Integrated rod tube holder

– Ultra durable construction

– Fully submersible

Why we picked it:

The Patagonia Guidewater 15L is the successor of the brand’s famous stormsurge sling that was a fly fisherman’s favorite for years. Now Patagonia has reworked its popular submersible sling pack to make it even better.

We like the fact that the new Patagonia Guidewater 15L is made from 100% recycled nylon material. The shoulder strap does not absorb water. The main compartment zipper can be opened from both sides making access as easy as it can be. The ambidextrous pack features a net holder and a rod tube holder.

The Patagonia Guidewater 15L comes in black and blue and weighs in at only 1lb 7 oz (670g). A small separate pocket on the inside can hold your essentials such as a wallet or keys. One of our favorites of the season.

Pros:

– Excellent build quality that means the product will last you for years

– Rod tube holder is a neat little feature

– Additional attachment options for gear

Cons:

– A little heavy when carrying it all day

8. Kylebooker Sling Pack SL02

Key features:

【Multi-Use Bag】The size of 13.4''x13.4''x 4.3'' is big enough for you to keep daily fishing gears .Multi-Pockets and Inner storage compartments to keeps your gears organized and easy to find. Main Pocket size: 7.8'' x9.8 ''x2 .5'' and Front Pocket size: 5.9'' x6.7'' x1'' to carrying tackle boxes,and small pockets for easy storage of bait,pliers,fishing line,accessories you need in life,such as wallet,phone,keys,etc.
【Comforable and Ergonomic】Padded back with ergonomic breathable design is lighter than ordinary fishing tackle bag.The 13.7oz overall weight greatly reduce unnecessary burdens when fishing or outdoor,becoming your best helper in outdoors.Best gift for fishing lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
【Adjustable Shoulder Strap】Designed for comfort and convenience, the fishing storage bag is equipped with padded shoulder straps,which can be adjustable length from 39'' to 50'' to fit most men and women.
【Mulitifunctional Shoulder Backpack】The sling shoulder bag widely used in many outdoor activicities, such as fishing, climbing, hiking, running, travel , casual, going out, and also suitable for daily use. It also can be used as sling bag, sling shoulder backpack, fishing tackle bag, crossbody messenger sling bag etc
【Superior service】Kylebooker are very concerned about customer satisfaction and desire to provide excellent customer service.If you're not satisfied with our products please don't hesitate to contact with us,let's make it right.

Amazon top review:

I have a big, 600+ pocket fishing vest that weighs 900 pounds. It's a fine thing to have if I'm going to be out all day, but for a quick run for an hour after work is really bulky and unnecessary. This sling pack is great for throwing a box of flies, some leader and a few assorted tools in. As other's have stated, the shoulder strap is VERY long. I'm 6'1", and it still hangs below my waist. Used a heavy duty clip at the top to shorten it up and rides right where I want it. I can't imagine a 90 dollar sling pack from one of the big names would be any more useful than this.

9. Simms Dry Creek Z Fishing

[caption id="attachment_306" align="alignnone" width="261"] Simms Dry Creek Z[/caption]

Key features:

– Backpack shape offers a lot of room

– Easily accessible, zippered front pocket

– Highly versatile attachment options

Why we picked it:

Here is another excellent option if you are looking for a waterproof, fully submersible fly fishing sling pack: the Simms Dry Creek Z. The brand new version comes in a light grey and features a wide, comfortable shoulder strap. Exterior lash points all around the sling allow for the attachment of extra gear such as pliers or nippers.

The Simms Dry Creek Z also comes with a neat slide-in pocket for your fly fishing net. On the inside, the sling features mesh pockets for storing small items. All your gear goes into the big main compartment. A big front pocket on the outside can hold a fishing license. But be careful, it’s only water resistant but not waterproof.

Pros:

– Very sturdy, yet lightweight

– Provides a lot of storage space

– Multiple points to attach gear across the sling pack

Cons:

– Not the smallest sling pack tested – not ideal if you want to be light on your feet

10. Orvis Waterproof Sling Pack

Key features:

– Fully waterproof, yet lightweight

– Features tippet spool holder and fly patch on the outside

– Bottle holder on the bottom

Amazon top review:
awesome bag keeps everything dry, the only thing I did not like is that the cup/drink holder is made out of another material and it stays wet way longer. Did not notice the first time and it left my seat wet.

Why we picked it:

The Orvis Waterproof is the last waterproof sling pack in our test and it’s fully loaded with nice little features. Orvis reworked their traditional waterproof sling pack to incorporate feedback from fly fishermen in the field.

The Orvis Waterproof features multiple attachment rings across the entire pack. The tippet spool comes in handy when you need to change tippets in the pouring rain. A fly patch on the side of the Orvis Waterproof can hold your used flies.

On the bottom the Orvis Waterproof has a water bottle holder. With a capacity of 14L it’s right up there with its contenders such as the Simms Dry Creek Z, the Patagonia Guidewater 15L or the Filson Dry. Waterproof but not submersible.

Pros:

– Highest versatility of all waterproof sling packs tested

– Fly patch and tippet spool holder are easily accessible

– Slender shape provides great freedom of movement

Cons:

– Not the best choice if you want to bring a lot of gear

What to Pay Attention to when Picking your Fishing Sling Pack

There are several things you should pay attention to before making a choice.

Space: Depending on how much gear you want to fit inside you should consider buying a bigger or smaller sling pack. A bigger one gives you more flexibility but the additional weight can be annoying on days when you don’t need to carry too much gear.

Shape: Fishing sling packs come in all sorts of variations. Some feature multiple pockets (downside: they can get bulky) others try to keep it simple and focus on the essentials. A smaller, slimmer pack will give you more freedom of movement.

Ambidextrous: Sling packs used to worn over your right shoulder mostly. Nowadays more and more manufacturers are offering products that can be worn over either shoulder.

Waterproofness: This is a crucial characteristic of a sling fishing pack. Although you wear it higher than a waist pack it can potentially get wet when you are wading really deep. The same holds true on a really wet day. If you want to be on the safe side, go for a waterproof one. They are a bit more expensive because of waterproof zippers for example. But on the other hand you are safe with them no matter the conditions.

Conclusion on Fly Fishing Sling Packs

As you can see from our reviews, a fishing sling pack is a great, lightweight option to carry a lot of fly fishing gear easily. Depending on your needs you can get one that can hold more stuff or a more minimal sling pack for a lightweight setup. If you want to be on the safe side for all conditions, get a waterproof sling pack. They are absolute bulletproof.

Fly Fishing Sling Packs: Frequently Asked Questions

How do you organize a fly fishing sling pack?
A fly fishing sling pack is a great option if you don’t want to carry a backpack. The easiest way to organize it is to ask yourself which gear you will need at the water. Most of the time you will want to bring a number of fly boxes including a nymph box, a streamer box and a dry fly box. Your sling pack can also hold additional items such as tippet spools, pliers, sink leaders, or a pair of fishing sunglasses.

What is a sling pack?
A sling pack is a bag that can be worn across your chess. You can look at it at a form of hybrid from a backpack and a hip bag. In contrast to a backpack it features only one strap that you sling around your upper body hence the name sling pack.

Are sling bags good?
Sling bags are a great alternative to a backpack if you don’t need to carry a lot of gear. Especially in warmer temperatures you will sweat less using a sling pack.

Learn more about fly fishing gear:

Best Fly Fishing Vest 2023
Best Fly Fishing Sling Pack 2023
Best Fly Fishing Chest Pack 2023
Best Fly Fishing Reel Case 2023
Best Fly Tying Vise 2023
Kylebooker Fly Fishing Catalog 2023

Notice: All images courtesy of amazon. If you click on one of the links in this article and end up purchasing a product we earn a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you! All images amazon unless otherwise noted.