GEAR REVIEW: Want a great lumbar pack?

OK.  A little eye candy for RD... : )  Flyfishers...a breed always looking for improved gear!!  At least gear that makes life on the water a little easier.  And if you spend as much time as I do on the water, this review just might be something you need to read!  I have had two switch outs already when it comes to packs...in three years!  Not a good statistic, I know.  But, I am happy to say that the third try is the charm!!  No doubt about it.  I love my Fishpond Waterdance!!  And I have Rebecca (The Outdooress) to thank for it.  She hinted to me on a trip out that this was a pack she was looking at.  I started seriously looking after that trip and found this to be the pack of my dreams!  I'm not one to have anything heavy on my back.  Out went my first backpack that I started with.  (But, it is a great gear bag that I take along on my journeys)  Next, I went to the chest pack.  I'm just not a girl that wants anything binding on the front of me, if you know what I mean.  The added bulkage also made me extra hot!! (as in temp.~ ha)  So, my decision to get a lumbar fanny pack was the best decision that I have made.

The newest version of the guide pack from Fishpond features a little more storage capacity than its earlier model.  The pack can be worn as a chest pack or around the waist as a fanny pack. (If you do prefer the chest pack)  But, having it behind me and lower on my waist/hips gives me ample room to cast...Freedom is good!!  Chest/Fanny packs seem to be the latest craze on the river, how many of you have traded in the old vest for a pack?  The Fishpond Waterdance...Great pack, tons of storage, zippers that WORK (a rarity it seems), and water bottle holders. Whats not to love?

When I went into the fly shops to look at the different brands out there, I just kept going back to this one.  It is the roomiest for my larger hands (yes, and nails) to get into.  Nice, deep pockets.  I can fit about 6 spools of tippet in one pocket with various other items.  The other pocket holds at least four of my fly boxes.  Then, there is a nice zip down fly bench with replaceable foam.   There are nice loops to attach tools of the trade!  And more mesh pockets on front to use...One more thing, Fishpond is quality.  Bottom line.  Generous padding throughout and protecting the back is really important.  This is a sweet pack!! And for $99. retail, it is the best value in my opinion for the money...And I am one that is careful on my dollars.  Yes, there are cheaper ones out there, but will they hold up as long?   It also dries quickly and will help you outfish those other guys...with the vests...heehee ; ) Ok...I'm just kidding there...well, maybe. Give it a hard look!!