Fly Fishing Gear
Introduction
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Having spent 20 years in the fly fishing industry as the co-Founder and President & CEO of Hatch Outdoors, I have had the opportunity to try almost every imaginable piece of equipment under the sun. I have personally tested and tortured hundreds of rods, reels, fly lines, monofilament, fluorocarbon, flies, bags, waders, boots and anything else you can think of. This unique insight allows me to recommend these brands and products with confidence. That said, the selections below are MY current personal favorites, and they may or may not work for you. Plus, I change things up all the time, this just happens to be what's in my bag as of today. There are a bunch of really great brands on the market and there is no such thing as "the best" in any category. I suggest you try them all and find out what works best for you.​ If you want to contact me to discuss gear choices I'd be happy to share my thoughts and recommendations. I won't tell you what exactly to buy, but I will give you some options for the price and performance that matches your ability and budget.
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Freshwater Fly Rods
Scott Centric Fly Rods (Fast Action)
It's one of those rods that when you pick it up it just oozes quality, craftsmanship and performance. Jim Bartschi (President & Rod Designer) knows his stuff. He outta, because he's been at it for 30+ years. My current line up consist of the 4wt, 5wt and 6wt models.​
Scott G Series Fly Rods (Medium-Action)
Technical dry fly fishing only. I've used a variety of G's over the years and they've always been stellar. I'm sure that's why the rod's been in the line up for so long. I primarily use the 3wt and 4wt models.
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You'll find the complete line up of Scott Rods here. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/scott-fly-rods.
Saltwater Fly Rods
G Loomis NRX+S Fly Rods
When it comes to saltwater fishing it's all about finding a rod that can put the wood to the fish. And when big game species are on the menu, you can't have enough backbone in my opinion and the NRX+ delivers. Here is my current line up for saltwater: 8wt (bonefish), 9wt (permit), 10wt (smaller tarpon), 11wt (larger tarpon). And no, I don't own a 12wt!
You'll find the complete line up of G Loomis Rods here. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/g-loomis-fly-rods
Mid Price Point & Specialty Rods
ECHO Fly Rods
I'm a big fan of ECHO when it comes to these categories. Founder and rod designer Tim Rajeff is a flat out stick, World Fly Casting Champion, and funny as hell to boot. I've known Tim for 20 years now and he absolutely understands the craft of rod making. If you're looking for something affordable (usually half the price of a premium rod) for any application, I'd look here first. It's all about bang for the buck with ECHO.
You'll find the complete line up of ECHO Rods here. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/echo-fly-rods?pf_t_water_type=Freshwater+Rods
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Fly Reels
Hatch Iconic and Custom Shop Reels
This won't come as a surprise to anyone since I co-founded the company back in 2003. The standard Iconic line up reels are great, but the Custom Shop offerings is where we've always shined. They are my all time favorite reels! Although I might be a little biased on this one;)
Hatch 3+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use the 3+ on my 4wt rods.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
Hatch 4+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use the 4+ on my 5wt rods.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
Hatch 5+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use 5+ on my 6wt & 7wt rods.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
Hatch 7+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use the 7+ on my 8wt & 9wt rods.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
Hatch 9+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use the 9+ on my 10wt.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
Hatch 11+ Iconic Fly Reel. I use the 11+ on my 11wt.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels/products/hatch-iconic-fly-reel
You'll find the complete line up of Hatch Reels here https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-reels
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Pliers, Nippers & Hemostats
Hatch Nomad 2 Plier Just like the reels I might be a little biased on this one since I helped design them.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/pliers-hemostats/products/hatch-nomad-2-plier
Hatch Nipper 3 Just like the reels and pliers I might be a little biased on this one since I helped design the orginals.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/nippers-lanyards/products/hatch-nipper-3-0
Dr. Slick El Dorado Standard Clamp I like the simplicity of these and the gold color is cool too.
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Waders & Boots
SIMMS, Patagonia, Orvis and Skwala
I've been fortunate enough to use all of the brands listed below and what I've found is that the decision really comes down to durability, mobility, waterproofness, and comfort. All of them fit the bill in most respects, but it really just depends on your body type. All waders come with their own set of pros and cons, so it's up to you to decide what you like best. Most anglers will spend less than two to three weeks a year total in these things, so don't overthink it.
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SIMMS https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/simms-fishing-wading-gear
Patagonia https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/patagonia-wading-gear
Orvis https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/orvis-wading-gear
Skwala https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/skwala-wading-gear
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Fly Lines
This is probably the hardest item to recommend because there are a bunch of good ones out there these days, and it really all depends on the fly rod you have and the application you're using it for. Some rods just work better with certain lines, it's a fact. I'm probably overly picky about lines where others aren't, but I absolutely know it makes a difference. I suggest you contact the Yellow Dog Fly Shop first if you need a recommendation. Chances are they've already done all the legwork figuring out the best fly line option for each rod. Here are my top choices of brands in no particular order.
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Airflo https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/airflo-fly-lines
Cortland https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/cortland-fly-lines-backing
Orvis https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/orvis-fly-lines-backing
Rio https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/rio-fly-lines-backing
Scientific Anglers https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/scientific-anglers-fly-lines-backing
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Leader, Tippet & Backing
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This is a category where in the past the quality difference between brands was self evident. Not so much anymore. Today, there are so many good choices you can hardly go wrong. My only advice here is to pay attention to the pound rating and diameters of each line, especially if you tie your own leaders. Here are my top choices of brands in no particular order.
Hatch https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hatch-leaders-tippet
Rio https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/rio-leaders-tippet
Scientific Anglers https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/scientific-anglers-leaders-tippet
TroutHunter https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/trouthunter-leaders-tippet
Seaguar Blue Label Fluorocarbon
Mason Hard Mono 16lb & 20lb (Class Tippet)
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Flies & Boxes
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Flies
No specific brands or flies here, just some friendly advice. Stay away from cheap discount flies as the quality is almost always poor and they tend to fall apart immediately. Instead, buy your flies from a reputable fly fishing shop only. You've been warned! Shop for quality flies here https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-fishing-flie
Boxes
There are a ton of good boxes on the market today so pick whatever works best for your fly collection. I'm a visual guy, so I tend to gravitate towards boxes with clear fronts for easy identification. Also, I like boxes with magnets because it helps keep my flies from blowing away in high winds or if I accidentally drop the box. Which I always do. Here's what I'm using now.
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Fishpond Fly Puck Extremely useful for carrying specialty flies I pick up at local fly shop when visiting a new river, or a place to keep wet flies after use. I'll also use them for a quick stalk on a flat when I only need carry a few flies.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-boxes/products/fishpond-fly-puck
Fishpond Shallow Fly Puck Same puck as above only slimmer. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-boxes/products/fishpond-shallow-fly-puck-ember
Yellow Dog LG Waterproof Thin Fly Box - 12 Compartments I usually carry two of these. One for wet flys, one for drys. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-boxes/products/new-phase-large-waterproof-thin-fly-box-12-compartments-yd-logo
Yellow Dog LG Ultra Slim Fly Box This is where I carry all the micro nymph stuff.
Yellow Dog Clear 36-Compartment Fly Box I have a pile of these I use for storing my "extra" flies at home.
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Umpqua UPG Fly Box Foam Essential A great little box for storing a variety of wet and dry flies. This version is single sided with a clear front for east identification.
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Umpqua UPG Fly Box Foam Essential Double Pretty much the same box as above, but with two sides to store flies on and no clear front. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-boxes/products/umpqua-upg-fly-box-2023-foam-essential-double
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Cliff Bugger Beast Box This is where I currently store my streamers but I'll probably start using a Buzbe Fast Flatz soon. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-boxes/products/cliff-bugger-beast-box
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Plano 3640 Waterproof Stowaway I use these to store all my bonefish and crab patterns while saltwater fishing. I just like them better for organization purposes and my bugs never corrode.
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Buzbe Fast Flatz - Medium It's not a box! Think waterproof Zip Loc pouch on steroids. I use these for storing my tarpon flies that I keep individually wrapped in small plastic ziplock type bags and separated by color. Much more compact for travel and it keeps the flies dry.
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Luggage, Bags & Storage
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Bags, bags and more bags. There are so many to choose from these days it's hard to figure out what to buy. Bags are a personal choice based on your own needs, and the duration and destination of your trip. Here's what's in my current line up.
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Yeti Crossroads 73L/29" Wheeled Luggage Pretty much my go to travel bag for both salt and freshwater. Love the wheels, internal layout and simplicity of design. https://www.yeti.com/bags/luggage/26010000238.html
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YETI Panga 100 Waterproof Duffel The donkey! This is really an expedition bag of sorts. It's one big waterproof hole to dump everything in. And since I use Buzbe Quik Cubes for most of my gear and clothing, it's easy to pack efficiently. I love everything about this bag except carrying it. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/yeti-travel-luggage-and-storage/products/yeti-panga-100-waterproof-duffel
Yeti Panga 28L Waterproof Backpack Simple design, durable, and waterproof. I use it as my carry on backpack when I travel, and my fishing and camera gear in the field. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/yeti-panga-28l-waterproof-backpack
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YETI LoadOut GoBox 15 Gear Case Killer little box that'll hold way more than you think. I love these in skiffs and drift boats when I fish domestically because they can get banged around without damaging the contents inside. I have two of these. One for freshwater and one for saltwater. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/yeti-travel-luggage-and-storage/products/yeti-loadout-gobox-15-gear-case
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YETI LoadOut GoBox 30 Gear Case I use this for my camera gear when I'm shooting out of the truck. Way easier to get stuff in and out of this than a backpack style camera bag. And it keeps my gear safer too. https://www.yeti.com/cargo/storage/26010000218.html
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YETI LoadOut GoBox 60 Gear Case This is a permanent fixture in my truck on every trip I take when I decide to drive to my destination. This will holds all my back up gear, tools, tapes, first aid, accessories and more. https://www.yeti.com/cargo/storage/26010000218.html
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YETI Camino Carryall 35 2.0 Tote Bag This is where I keep my waders and boots on truck trips. I like all my wet gear in one place until I can get back to where I'm staying and hang them to dry. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/yeti-camino-carryall-35-2-0-tote-bag
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YETI Hopper Flip 18 Soft Cooler This is where I store my food and beer during my travels.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/yeti-hopper-flip-18-soft-cooler
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Patagonia Black Hole Duffle Bags I probably own about 20 of these bags in a variety of sizes that I've collected over the years. They're just a simple one compartment duffle bag that you can throw anything in and go. I use them for all types of travel and recreational activities, as well as storing gear in my garage. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/patagonia-travel-luggage-and-storage
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Patagonia Great Divider - 26L This is the bag I'll usually take when I'm fishing out of a drift boat. My version is much older but I'm sure the new one is better. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/patagonia-great-divider-26l
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Orvis Trekkage LT Adventure Checked Roller Bag 80L This is a really good large rolling travel bag with great compartments and useful features. Simple, durable, clean design, good quality at a reasonable price.
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Orvis Carry-It-All I use this for my freshwater rod and reel case when I'm traveling and sometimes as a carry on. Basically it's the same as the SIMMS version but with a little more room. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/orvis-travel-luggage-storage/products/orvis-carry-it-all
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Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Sling I don't even own a fly vest anymore. Instead I use a sling pack and this is a really good one with nice features and stylish looks. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/sling-packs/products/fishpond-thunderhead-submersible-sling-eco
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SIMMS Tailwind Rod & Reel Vault I use this for my saltwater rods and reels and sometimes as a carry on. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/simms-travel-luggage-and-storage/products/simms-tailwind-rod-reel-vault
Simms Dry Creek Z Hip Pack This is my go to bag for surf fishing here in San Diego.
https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/hip-packs/products/simms-dry-creek-z-hip-pack-steel
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Buzbe Quik Qubes - All sizes. Buzbe is a relative newcomer to the fishing world but they make some really nice packing cubes for gear and clothing. I switched over to using these last year and I love them. They have clear front windows and come in a variety of sizes depending on your needs.
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Buzbe Fast Flatz - All sizes. These are really convenient compared to a hard sided case or box. They take up way less room in your luggage too.
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Accessories
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You'll find that this list changes regularly as I like to try out new gadgets, goos and glasses all the time. Here's what's currently in my bag.
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Loon Outdoors Top Ride https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-outdoors-top-ride
Loon UV Knot Sense https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-uv-knot-sense
Loon Outdoors Aquel https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-outdoors-aquel
Loon Dust https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-dust
Loon Camo Drops - 6 Division https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-camo-drops-6-division
Loon Camo Drops - Big Water Selection https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-camo-drops-big-water-selection
Loon Tin Drops - Skinny Water Selection https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/loon-tin-drops-skinny-water-selection
Umpqua Dry Magic Floatant https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-floatants/products/dry-magic-floatant
Umpqua Shimazaki Dry Shake https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/fly-floatants/products/shimazaki-dry-shake
Airlock 1/2" Strike Indicator - Single https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/indicators/products/airlock-1-2-bulk-mix-single
Airlock 3/4" Strike Indicators - 3 Pack https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/indicators/products/airlock-3-4-strike-indicators-3-pack
Scientific Anglers Fly Line Dressing with Cleaning Pad https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/scientific-anglers-fly-line-dressing-with-cleaning-pad
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RIO AgentX Line Dressing https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/products/rio-agent-x-line-dressing
Bajio Sunglasses I switched to these in 2024 and so far so good. The glass version is way better for scratch resistance. And remember, always buy polarized lenses no matter what brand you choose. https://www.yellowdogflyfishing.com/collections/bajio-sunglasses
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Clic It Readers I pretty much wear these all day, everyday. Before switching to these a decade ago I used to lose my readers all the time. These hang nicely around your neck and the magnetic closure mechanism is trick. There's a ton of frame options, colors, and magnifications. Get the pair that fits you best.
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