Vests

[blacktail]

Curious as to what kind of vest you are using for Steelhead fishing. Which brand, model, etc.?

I believe that Columbia used to make one called The Steelheader, but I haven't seen one around for a long time.

The G. Loomis Steelhead vest looks nice, but at $110.00, not cheap.

Maybe you don't even use a vest. If not, what do you use? fanny pack, canvas creel, chest pack?

Thanks,
Mike

[Jennie@ifish]

Fanny pack and/or soft bag.
Hassle to carry around that bag. Especially when you set it down, walk downstream, hook into a wild steelhead and realize your pliers are... way.... back..... there!
Snap!
Jen

[ 02-05-2002, 08:49 PM: Message edited by: Jennie@ifish ]

[BlueWater]

No high dollar fanny pack of fancy brand names here. I got mine at a yard sale close to 20 years ago for $1.00. :smile: Lots and lots of pockets. Basic outdoor tan color. You know what they say about a mans vest. It is how you use it that counts. :wink: I am with Jen in the fact that if you are wearing it you will not forget it. Vest or fanny pack is better than bag or creel.

BlueWater.

[cully]

LLBean for me. I've had it 5 years. 85.00 and it'll be around for at least that many more. I've had many a hook, berries and no tears.

[Catch 22]

Columbia PFG. Has neoprene around collar to help soak up the weight and distribute it better. They have a few different styles out. I have one and absolutely love it. Roughly $60.

[TideRunner]

Ditto Catch 22. That neoprene collar is awesome. So much comfort. :grin:

Get the Columbia.

[Thumper]

Why not make sure you can float too? Stormy Seas float vest. Tons of pockets. Does everything.

[lightline]

inflatable anglers vest by sterns, had for over 15 years and its my 2nd. wont leave home without it.

[MetalHead]

I use and old Columbia Steelheader (canvas) vest I have had since 1986. Its a little frayed around the collar and the left inside pocket is stiff from solidified egg juice but it is still very functional. The only down side to the vest is in 1986 I was an XL guy and now 16 years later I'm an XXL guy so I can no longer zip it up :depressed:

[lead thrower]

The columbia steeheader vest was excellent. It has been recreated buy a guy that used to work for Outdoor Emporium. Picked one up it is made from some heavy canvas like material that will last a life time. It is available at Outdoor Emporium or online at http://www.coldwaterpacks.com

It is around $100 but holds a ton of gear. I will never have to buy another vest again.

Did the fanny pack thing for a couple of seasons, it is a pain if you need to get something out while wading.

[Firedog]

I wear a Columbia vest also. Bought it 10-15 years ago. Lots of Pockets, been good to me. Had a cheapy before that, it did the job but the weight wasn't distributed very well. I like the Idea of that neoprene collar, sounds comfy. Mine doesn't smell the best either with all the egg gunk and scents that have been spilled on it and in it. Or the sand shrimp my partner tries to hide in the pockets if I take it off and leave it on the bank :smile:

[Cohodependent]

I have a Filson guide vest that I got for free. I really like it, but at $200.00 I would never have bought it myself. Like all of their products the vest is great and should last for years.