Simms Dry Creek Z Sling Pack | Insider Review
Packs & Bags Quick Picks
- Best Waterproof Sling: Simms Dry Creek Z Sling Pack - Built for anglers who wade deep, fish from rafts/skiffs, or want a true submersible sling for valuables and fly boxes. It pairs a TRU Zip waterproof zipper with fishing-specific organization and a swing-around access design.
- Best Waterproof Backpack: Yeti Panga Waterproof Backpack - A strong choice for travel, boat spray, and weather that doesn’t cooperate, especially when you need to protect electronics and dry layers. The waterproof zipper and RF-welded construction are aimed at real water exposure, not just drizzle.
- Best All-Around Sling: Orvis Sling Pack - Great for day trips when you want enough capacity for boxes, tippet, and tools without wearing a full backpack. Its layout emphasizes quick access, built-in tool docking, and an easy-swing carry that stays clear while casting.
- Best Chest Pack for Deep Wading: Umpqua Northfork Chest Pack - Ideal for anglers who want gear high and out of the water, with organized storage for fly boxes and terminal tackle. It’s a clean, efficient option when you prefer “front and center” access.
- Best for Wader & Boot Transport: Simms Taco Wader Bag - Perfect for keeping wet, muddy waders and boots from trashing your truck or backseat after a session. It doubles as a changing mat and then zips up into a self-contained carry bag for the ride home.
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How to Choose Packs & Bags
A fly fishing pack starts with where you fish (wade, boat, travel)
Action: Choose the carry style that matches how often you’re moving and how often you need to access gear mid-wade.
- Walk-and-wade rivers: Slings and hip packs are popular because they keep essentials close without the bulk of a backpack.
- Deep wading: Chest packs keep fly boxes and tools higher and easier to reach without dunking pockets.
- Boat days & travel: Backpacks, boat bags, and duffels make it easier to carry layers, lunch, cameras, and spare spools.
Capacity: the “two fly boxes” test
Best for: anglers who want a pack that actually gets used all season.
- Minimal (quick sessions): room for 1, 2 boxes, tippet, nippers/forceps, and a license/phone.
- Day-trip (most anglers): room for 2, 4 boxes, leaders/tippet, indicators/shot, a light layer, and a water bottle.
- Full-day / travel support: extra layers, bigger lunch, camera, and “just in case” gear.
Water protection: water-resistant vs. waterproof vs. submersible
- Water-resistant: fine for light rain and splashes, but don’t plan on dunking it.
- Waterproof / stormproof: better fabrics and zippers for sustained rain or boat spray.
- Submersible: designed for real immersion, great for raft days, skiffs, and aggressive wading.
Comfort & workflow features to prioritize
- Tool docking: built-in attachment points keep nippers and forceps from disappearing into pockets.
- Net carry: integrated sleeves/scabbards help keep a net stable while hiking or wading.
- Access style: slings and chest packs excel when you change flies often and don’t want to set gear down.
Materials & Durability
- After each trip: Empty the pack, open zippers, and let it fully air-dry (especially after rain or wet wading).
- After saltwater use: Rinse exterior (and hardware) with fresh water and dry before storing to reduce corrosion.
- Zippers & closures: Keep zipper teeth free of sand/silt; don’t force a gritty zipper, rinse first.
- Storage: Store loosely packed (not compressed) to help maintain strap and foam shape.
Complete Your Setup
Related Gear
- Packs & Bags - Build a system (pack + storage + travel) that fits how you fish most days.
- Gear Bags & Tackle Storage - Great for boat organization, protecting accessories, and keeping small items from becoming a mess.
- Rod & Reel Cases - Adds protection for travel days and prevents rods/reels from getting banged up in trucks and boats.
- Tools & Gadgets - Nippers, hemostats, and small carry tools pair perfectly with pack tool docks and zinger ports.
Related Guides
Packs & Bags FAQs
Q: What’s the difference between a sling pack and a hip pack for fly fishing?
A: Sling packs ride on your back and rotate to the front for access, which many anglers like for changing flies mid-wade. Hip packs sit at the waist and can feel more balanced for long walk-and-wade days, especially if you keep weight low and centered.
Q: Are chest packs good for deep wading?
A: Yes, chest packs keep fly boxes, tools, and your phone higher and easier to reach when the water is up. They also minimize the need to set gear on the bank when you’re re-rigging.
Q: Do I need a waterproof pack, or is “water-resistant” enough?
A: If you mostly fish fair weather and aren’t wading deep, water-resistant is often fine. If you fish from boats, in heavy rain, or regularly dunk gear, look at waterproof or submersible options.
Q: What size pack should I buy for a typical trout day?
A: Most anglers are happiest with a setup that carries 2, 4 fly boxes, leaders/tippet, tools, and a light layer. If you rarely bring extra clothing or lunch, a smaller chest/hip pack is usually enough.
Q: Are fishing vests still worth it compared to modern packs?
A: Vests are still a great choice if you like lots of pocket organization and even weight distribution across your shoulders. Many anglers switch to slings/hip packs for a cleaner front and less bulk, especially in warm weather.
Q: What’s the easiest way to keep muddy waders from wrecking my car?
A: A dedicated wader bag or changing-mat style bag lets you stand on a clean surface, pack wet gear up fast, and contain water and grit for the drive home.
Warranty & Brand Resources
A fly fishing pack keeps your gear organized, protected, and easy to reach— This collection includes packs and bags from multiple manufacturers, and warranty coverage varies by brand and product. Check the individual product page for warranty notes, and reach out to us if you want help choosing between comparable options.