Filson is a name that hardly needs introducing in the outdoors gear space. They’ve consistently made fantastic apparel and outerwear for years, and their tin cloth hats have been worn by a few famous anglers.
They recently partnered with Housefly Fishing, a shop based in Hawley, Pennsylvania, to produce a lineup of new gear tailored for fly anglers. This gear collaboration includes a hip pack, rain poncho, hat, and a few shirts.
The hip pack is the star of the lineup, although Filson calls it a “waist pack.” This Ranger Waist Pack is built from dry-waxed cotton, which is a unique material that maintains the feel and heft of traditional waxed garments, but without the oily residue. Filson also says this dry-waxed cotton won’t need re-treatment, either.
The Ranger features classic Filson styling, but with a unique color scheme that’s probably been influenced by Housefly Fishing. Lime-green zippers adorn the dark-green pack, which has two front pockets and a large main compartment that’s big enough for a fly box or two. You’ll also find a shearling patch for drying off your flies, and a ripstop water-resistant cover that can be stowed when not in use. There’s a surprising amount of functionality built into this piece of gear.
The Waist Pack is reasonably priced at $165.
Also in the collection is the Swiftwater Rain Poncho, made from the same waterproof fabric as Filson’s Swiftwater Rain Jacket.
The Poncho does have front pockets, a quarter-zip zipper, and an adjustable hood. Clocking in at 3.8 ounces, it’s light enough to pack into most day bags.
You can also shop from a pair of quick-dry pants, a selection of shirts, and a Filson and Housefly Fishing branded Ranger Duckbill Cap. The entire collection is available to view here.