Editors Choice Award Fly Fish America 2007
The
more I fish, the more anglers I see using chest and fanny packs
in lieu of traditional vests. And if my guess is right, one that
I’ll be seeing a lot more of next season is
the new Pine Hollow Pack from Clear Creek.
Constructed of 420-Denier nylon, the Pine Hollow Pack measures
10” W x 5” D x 7” H, and being completely
padded with closed-cell foam, it will float if you drop it.
The zip-open main compartment is big enough to hold several
full-sized fly boxes, or a bunch of smaller ones, and has a
see-through zippered compartment in the lid sized for tippet
spools. A zip-down front fly deck features interchangeable
ripple-foam fly holders, and includes two elastic-top pockets
sized for leaders, floatants, etc., plus tethered swivel snap
shackle to secure your car keys. A fold down cover with its
own internal zippered pocket is held open by two captive magnets,
and locked closed via a web strap with quick-detach buckle.
Elastic-top, mesh water bottle holders are mounted on both
sides, and zippers are premium YKK models with big web zipper
pulls that can be worked with gloved hands.
The modular suspension system – consisting of a padded
mesh waist belt with side adjusters, adjustable web straps
and quick-detach buckle, plus a padded, aeromesh – backed
neck/shoulder strap with quick-detach swivel snap shackles – allows
it to be worn as a hip, fanny or chest pack.
Fly Fish America
Gear Guide 2007
Review by High Country Angler
Features: Can be worn as a shoulder or hip pack, zip-open
work station with ripple foam fly holder, padded, breathable
waist belt system, large main compartment for additional fly
boxes or gear, padded shoulder strap, two mesh water bottle
holders, several eyelets for retractors or accessories.
HCA Field Test: Clear Creek has always been a trusted name
when it comes to fishing pack, bags and vests, so when I heard
that they had a new pack out for 2007 I was excited to give
it a test run. The new Pine Hollow Pack didn't disappoint.
I can see why it won the 2007 Editor's Choice award from Fly
Fish America. Not only is it a perfect size for a waist or
shoulder pack, but it has all the right compartments and components
you need in a good pack. It holds 2 water bottles, and the
compartments are easily accessible--which is a key feature
most fly fishermen look for in a pack. The larger compartment
is waterproof, and large enough for several fly boxes--even
a power bar or two. And the smaller front compartment comes
with a foam fly holder and work station. It can be worn over
the shoulder, but I prefer it as a waist pack, and the fit
is very comfortable. It's lighter than most--which is a critical
feature for those of us with chronic back pains. A great pack,
and priced to sell!
High Country Angler
