Of all the gear I get out on the water with, I’m most particular about my fly fishing packs. I don’t love backpacks, since they’re often bulky and make me feel like a turtle. I hate chest packs—too much in the way. Lumbar packs can be fine, just as long as they don’t fall down. I’ve come to prefer fly fishing sling packs, if—and this is a big if—they are comfortable. So many packs I’ve tried over the years have dug into my shoulders, flopped around while I cast, or left me with an aching back by the end of the day. Sure, it needs to fit all my gear, but more importantly, it just needs to be comfortable.
When I first pitched this story, I was on a mission to find that sling pack—the one you actually want to wear, not just tolerate. I tested a ton of them: some too stiff, some too saggy, some that felt great until hour four when they started to dig in. These are the fly fishing sling packs that made the cut.
Best fly fishing sling packs, at a glance:
- Best Overall: Patagonia Stealth Switch Fishing Pack 9L, $149
- Best Waterproof: Fishpond Thunderhead 13L Sling, $249
- Best Lightweight: Simms Tributary Sling Pack 10L, $90
- Most Comfortable: Bote Highwater Sling Pack, $199
- Most Durable: Orvis Pro Waterproof Sling 14L, $298
How We Tested These Sling Packs
I put these fly fishing sling packs through the wringer on long days wading rivers, bushwhacking to alpine lakes, paddling to remote spots, and sneaking in quick after-work sessions. I paid close attention to weight, fit, waterproofing, and how easy it is to swing the pack around to grab gear without feeling clunky.
Most importantly, I paid attention to comfort: Did I actually want to put the pack on in the first place? Were the straps comfortable and even against my shoulders, or did they make me feel constricted? Did I feel good coming off the water, or was I left feeling like Atlas? I also tested how each pack was organized and detailed, accounting for pockets, lash points, D-rings, daisy chains, and other accessories that allowed for streamlined storage. These are the sling packs I’d confidently recommend (and keep in my own rotation).
The Best Sling Packs for Fly Fishing
Best Overall: Patagonia Stealth Switch Fishing Pack 9L, $149
Best Overall
Patagonia Stealth Switch Pack
Key Features:
- Convertible — can be worn as a sling or a hip pack
- Integrated magnets and lash points
- External water bottle holder
Pros:
- Smooth, easy swing for quick access to gear
- Smart internal and external organization
- Ample pockets, magnets, lash points, and an integrated net holder
Cons:
- Water-resistant only, not waterproof
- 9L capacity can be a bit small if you pack a lot of gear
Just when I was ready to give up sling packs for good due to back and shoulder pain, I was gifted the Patagonia Stealth Switch Fishing Pack, and it’s been my trusty fishing companion ever since. I love this thing. It’s smaller in size compared to other bags I’ve carried, but big enough to stash essentials, plus some, like a rain shell, lunch, and SPF. What I love most is the versatility: it converts from a sling pack (for both right and left shoulders) to a hip pack, which is great for days I want to switch it up. As for details, it’s full of touches that you’ll actually use and don’t just get in the way: an external water bottle holder that doubles as a snack pack or beer can sleeve, magnetic tool holders, ample lash points, and even a pocket on the sling that perfectly fits your iPhone. It’s water-resistant, lightweight, and built with recycled materials, which is a big plus in my book. If you want one sling that can pretty much do it all, this is it.
Best Waterproof: Fishpond Thunderhead 13L Sling, $249
Best Waterproof
Fishpong Thunderhead Sling
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Removable internal pocket
- Ample external organization
Pros:
- Waterproof
- Smooth, easy swing for quick access to gear
- Smart internal and external organization
Cons:
- Expensive
I’ve chatted at length with a bunch of fishy friends and guides for this story, and Fishpond’s Thunderhead 13L Sling was recommended over and over and over again. After testing it myself, it’s easy to see why; this thing is 100 percent waterproof and fully submersible, so you never have to worry about your stuff getting wet. The zipper is burly but smooth (a rare combo for waterproof packs), and the exterior is tough without being heavy or cumbersome. It’s big enough to fit extra layers, water bottles, and more, but not so oversized that it feels like a burden.
Like Patagonia’s sling, I feel like the designers really paid attention to every little detail they added throughout. Externally, there are plenty of loops, D-rings, and other attachment points to keep your need-to-haves close at hand. Inside, there’s a removable pocket to keep essentials (mostly my phone and keys) from disappearing into the abyss. Can confirm: it’s worth the hype. If you’re worried about keeping your belongings dry, this sling pack is worth every penny.
Best Lightweight: Simms Tributary Sling Pack 10L, $90
Best Lightweight
Simms Tributary Sling Pack
Key Features:
- Integrated net sheath
- Water bottle pouch
- Ergonomic shoulder strap
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Ample external and internal organization
- Budget-friendly
Cons:
- Not ambidextrous—right shoulder only
- 10L can be small if you pack a lot of gear
If you want to keep things light with a bag for necessities that won’t break the bank, this sling is for you. The 10L capacity is the perfect size for quick after-work sessions or minimalist days where you really just need a fly box, tippet, and tools. It swings easily, sits comfortably, and doesn’t weigh me down when I’m on the move. I love that it’s simple—no overbuilt compartments or features I’ll never use—but heads up, it’s definitely on the smaller side. If you like to pack extra layers, a camera, or your lunch, this one might feel a little tight. For me, it’s the ideal grab-and-go sling when I’m fishing light and fast, or when I just don’t feel like hauling a bunch of stuff.
Most Comfortable: Bote Highwater Sling Pack, $199
Most Comfortable
BOTE Highwater Sling Pack
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Molded back panel
- Padded shoulder strap
Pros:
- Comfortable
- Smart internal and external organization
- Spacious 20L capacity
Cons:
- Expensive
- Technically not a fishing bag, so no net holder
I do a ton of paddleboarding in the summer, sometimes with a fly rod, sometimes without. Regardless, I always pack this waterproof sling pack by Bote. The padded strap and soft back panel make it easy to wear for hours without digging into my shoulders or, more importantly, getting in the way. It’s fully waterproof (huge plus), but it’s more flexible and lightweight than most dry bag-style slings, which makes it feel more natural to get out with. I love the front, quick-access zipper for stuff I need to grab fast, as well as the ample lash points and straps for hooking on extra gear. Occasionally, I’ll just tie it down to the front of the board, and I’ve never once had it leak or swamp.
While it’s not technically a fly fishing pack, it makes a great gear bag for wading trips. The fit just feels dialed—it hugs your back instead of bouncing around, and it doesn’t leave my shoulders achy and sore. It’s expensive, but if you’re looking for a bag that feels as good as it performs, get this one.
Most Durable: Orvis Pro Waterproof Sling 14L, $298
Most Durable
Orvis Pro Waterproof Sling
Key Features:
- Waterproof
- Molded back panel + padded shoulder strap
- Tippet Whippet
Pros:
- Comfortable and spacious
- Built-in tippet whippet
- Durable
Cons:
- Limited internal organization
- The zippers can be hard to open since they’re waterproof
The Orvis Pro Waterproof Sling is a beast in the best way possible. This thing is fully submersible, seriously rugged, and built to handle years of hard fishing without falling apart. The material is thick and abrasion-resistant, the zippers are airtight (but still manageable), and it has just the right amount of structure that it holds its shape without feeling stiff. It’s also pretty comfortable and sports a molded back panel and padded shoulder strap that allows for better weight distribution, which is key for long hikes and wading sessions.
On the outside, there’s a smaller front zipper, cinchable water bottle holder, fly patch, and built-in Tippet Whippet, which is clutch. The inside is no-frills—no internal pockets or compartments, just one big space to store all your stuff. I do wish there were more organization internally because I’m prone to losing gear; however, I appreciate its roominess; I fit an entire spare outfit in it this spring, including a rain jacket, and still had enough room for my fishing gear.
It’s a splurge, no doubt, but if you want a waterproof sling that can handle getting roughed up and keep your stuff bone dry, this is the one.
FAQs
Q: How do I pack a fly fishing sling pack?
Start with the essentials and go from there. I always pack non-negotiables first: fly boxes, tippet, nippers, floatant, Leatherman, sunglasses. I try to keep the items I need quick access to (floatant, my phone, snacks) in outer pockets so they’re in arm’s reach. Less is more—overpacking just makes the sling clunky and awkward to swing around.
Q: How do I wear a fly fishing sling pack?
Some slings are ambidextrous and can be slung around either your right or left shoulder. Others are shoulder-specific—your sling should say how to wear it when you buy it. I recommend using the included support straps that many slings come with. They’re not mandatory, but they can help immensely. Most wrap around your hip or the sternum to take the pressure off your shoulders, which is a godsend when you’re on your feet all day.
Q: What should I look for in a fly fishing sling pack?
Fit, weight, durability, and organization are key. Look for a pack that sits comfortably, swings smoothly, and has just enough space for your essentials. Bonus points if it has thoughtful extras like net holders or quick-access pockets.
Final Thoughts
Life’s too short to wrestle with a bad pack. The only reason your shoulders should ache after a day of fishing is because you fought a record-breaking catch, not because your sling pack damn near broke your back. I can’t promise you’ll hook into a monster, but I’m confident you’ll love these slings.