Fishpond recently released a new lineup of products. Coming off the success of their Thunderhead Submersible series, they have not only all new products but also added new colors to existing items. Quality fishing packs/bags are tough to come by. The amount of abuse a well used fishing pack gets is high and added to that the meticulous demand of an avid angler, most fishing products can't stand up. Fishpond's quality is well known and now they've taken a step into some clever new products. While more of a preview than a "tested gear review," this should help give you a good idea what Fishpond has cooked up recently...
Thunderhead Submersible Chest Pack
Continuing the Thunderhead series was a smart move. These packs have proven to be some of the best waterproof fishing packs available. (Check out my review of the Thunderhead Submersible Backpack while in Costa Rica HERE). The newest member of the family is the chest pack. Made of the same material as their other Thunderheads, this is the smallest of the group and meant for the minimalist. There is a large padded strap at the back with an attachment point and sleeve for a net. Capacity for the interior pocket is 5L (305 cu/in). It also boats the same bombproof TiZip waterproof zippers. A great feature about this chest pack is that it can attach to the Thunderhead Backpack as well. This allows you to wear both packs at the same time and easily unattached when needed.
Click HERE for the Thunderhead Chest Pack
Switchback Wading Belt System
This has been one of the most asked about new products from Fishpond. Combining the ideas of a stripped down wading belt (with attachment points) and a small and moveable/adjustable hip pack, is one of the more unique fishing packs I've seen. There is a padded belt with shoulder strap which comfortably holds various tools such as a net, nippers, etc. Then adding in a small hip pack which can be moved to either side (along a "rail"), can then hold the rest of your gear with a 5L pack. The shoulder strap can be configured for left or right side, or completely removed entirely.
Click HERE for the Switchback Wading Belt System
West Bank Wading Belt
Think of this as the Switchback Wading Belt without the added shoulder strap or pack. For those that are looking for simply a way of holding their net plus hold up their waders and give back support, this is your piece! Plus, if you want to add on/upgrade later, you can easily attach a pack, water bottle, wading staff, and other tools as it has the same attachment "rail" as the Switchback.
Click HERE for the West Bank Wading Belt
Thunderhead Submersible Sling (Shale Color)
Not a new product, but a new color: Shale. Some of the other Thunderhead packs have also been getting a new color treatment. The Thunderhead sling, lumbar, and chest pack are all available now in Shale. Think of it as a little more "earth" mixed in to their Yucca (green) color.
Click HERE for the Thunderhead Sling in Shale
Words + Photos By: Josh Thelin
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