Backpacking
- Outstanding Fly Fishing and Backpacking Gifts
Top 25 Gifts for Black Friday and the Holiday Season
The holiday season is upon us! As I write this, Black Friday is only two weeks a way, and Christmas is only 40 days away. What follows is a list of my favorite backpacking and fly fishing gear that I highly recommend. Each of these would make wonderful gifts for your friends or family members that actively enjoy the outdoors. I’ve included the list price of each item, as well as a link to where they can be purchased. Make sure to read all the way to the end where you’ll find a bonus gift idea, a once-in-a-lifetime type of a gift.. Shopping this year doesn’t get any easier than this!
#1 – Best Value
Katadyn BeFree Water Filter (1.0 L, 2.3 oz)
List Price: $47.95, but often sold at a discounted price
I never go fishing without my Katadyn water filter/bottle. In the past, I used to always carry a heavy bottle of water with me while out on the water. Now, I instead carry my lightweight Katadyn in a little pouch on my Fishpond hip pack. It’s collapsible, so it can be rolled-up and stored in a very small space. When I’m thirsty I simply take it out, scoop-up water from the river or lake I’m fishing in, and drink-up as much water as I’d like. When I’m done I dump the remaining water and return the bottle to its pouch. In case you’re interested, I bought a Gossamer Gear Hipbelt Pocket and attached it to my Fishpond hip pack. The Katadyn water bottle fits perfectly in it when rolled-up.
#2 – Essential Apparel
Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie
List Price: $189, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale
Not only do I always take this on my backpacking and fishing trips, but I find myself constantly wearing it during my everyday life. It only weighs 7oz and yet it is very warm. That’s what makes it unique, it’s weight to warmth ratio. It’s also what makes it a perfect item for backpacking where every ounce matters. The Ventus Active Hoodie is often all I need to stay warm and I usually wear it as an outer layer. When temperatures drop significantly it is a very effective mid-layer, with either a rain jacket or an even warmer jacket on top. It’s water and wind resistant, but it’s NOT completely waterproof. The Ventus Active Hoodie is incredibly comfortable because it is so light. I’ve bought 2 of them. If you’d like the same jacket, but with hand pockets and a full-length zipper, try the Outdoor Vitals Vario Jacket. I have one of those jackets as well!
#3 – More Essential Apparel
Outdoor Vitals Tushar Rain Jacket
List Price: $219, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale
I’ve owned a lot of rain jackets through the years. Most of them begin failing after only a year or two. I’ve had my Outdoor Vitals Tushar Rain Jacket for three years now and it still keeps me perfectly dry. As a fisherman, one thing I appreciate about the jacket is that it doesn’t restrict my movements. I can cast a rod all day and it doesn’t bind. It also serves as my rain jacket when I go golfing. I’m able to take full golf swings without a problem. I often wear this as a shell over my Ventus Active Hoodie, a wonderful combination to stay warm and dry when the weather turns bad.
#4 – Useful Backpacking Accessory
Flextail Tiny Pump X (1.7 oz) – Rechargeable Air Pump
List Price: $22
The Tiny Pump X is a great backpacking gadget. It weighs very little, but it sure comes in handy on backpacking trips. After a long and tiring hike, it’s nice to have a pump to inflate my air mattress instead of having to blow it up on my own. The Tiny Pump also has a built in light that shines out of the bottom. I hang mine from a loop on the inside/top of my tent at night, allowing me to play cards or read before going to sleep. A fun, inexpensive, little gadget that makes for a perfect stocking-stuffer.
#5 – Moderately Priced Fly Rod
Fenwick Aetos – 9ft 5wt fly rod (Old Model)
Fenwick Aetos – 9ft 5wt fly rod (New Model)
List Price: $269
There have been two fly rods brands that I’ve used consistently for many years now. I have several Hardy rods that Hardy doesn’t make anymore. I’d recommend them, but as I said, they’re no longer available. The other rod I own, and use frequently, is my Fenwick Aetos. It is a wonderful rod for the price, and a rod I’m very comfortable recommending. The first link above is to their “old model”, which is what I own, and is difficult to find. The second link is for their new model. I always recommend going into a shop to actually cast fly rods before buying them. After all, there are so many choices. However, if you’d like to give a rod as a gift without casting it first, you can be comfortable knowing this is an excellent rod, especially for the price.
#6 – To Help Keep You Warm
Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor sleeping bag liner – (9.2 oz)
List Price: $74
For many years I didn’t know these even existed. When I first became aware of them I thought the concept of a sleeping bag liner made so much sense! They add extra warmth to a sleeping bag or quilt, which I appreciate because I’m a cold sleeper. They also can be washed, something that can keep your sleeping bag or quilt from smelling bad after a few multi-day backcountry trips. These Sea to Summit sleeping bag liners are not restrictive, they stretch very well when moving inside of them. That makes them perfect to pair with a quilt, which a lot of backpackers have turned to because they don’t want their movement restricted at night. I have found the combination of a sleeping bag liner and a backpack quilt to be far more comfortable than the old mummy bags I grew-up sleeping in.
#7 – My All-Time Favorite Reel
Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect fly reel
List Price: $895
I’ve had my Hardy Narrow Spool Perfect reel for 6 or 7 years now, and I still feel a thrill every time I put it on my rod to begin a day of fly fishing. It’s a work of art, but highly functional as well. This reel is so smooth when the line is reeled-in. “Smooth like butter”, as a friend of mine likes to say. The Narrow Spool Perfect is an expensive reel, probably not for a beginner. Also, it’s a click & pawl reel. I prefer them when fishing for trout, but they are a little different than most fly reels. Click & Pawl essentially means there is no drag. I wrote a complete detailed review of this reel last year – to read more click here. This is a great gift idea for someone who has been fly fishing a long time and who appreciates the nostalgic, artistic, aspects of fly fishing. Of course, it has to fit your budget too. It’s more of a special, once-in-a-lifetime type gift. Like I said though, my all-time favorite reel. It’s not even close.
#8 – Chair for Comfort
Big Agnes Mica Basin backpacking chair (2.6 lbs)
List Price: $147
One of the reasons I’ve tried to take advantage of the ultralight trend in backpacking is so that I can pack in a few “extras” and still meet my pack-weight goals. My pack will never be as light as a lot of the through-hikers who go 20+ miles per day, especially with all the fishing gear I pack in. I choose to save weight in other areas so that I can bring this chair in with me. It’s certainly not heavy, but there are chairs that weigh half as much. The difference is, I don’t think they’re nearly as comfortable as the Mica Basin. Part of the problem is that I’m over 6’2″, and the really light camp chairs don’t fit me quite right. The posts on the side dig into my sides a little bit. Not so with the Mica Basin. It’s a big enough backpack chair to fit someone my size comfortably, yet still not weighing too much to pack-in. I’m a big fan of this chair. At the end of a 10-mile hike into an alpine lake, and after setting-up my tent, it’s wonderful to be able to relax in such a comfortable chair.
#9 – Inexpensive Gift Idea
List Price: $2-$4 per fly, or $17 for a variety box, $17 for a leader 3-pack
I love flies. When my kids were growing-up and they asked me what I wanted for Christmas, I told them they didn’t need to spend a lot. Pick out a few flies, and that would be as good a gift as anything. Sure enough, with all kinds of gifts at my feet, it was the flies that I would sit and look at through the afternoon, appreciating that each one was tied by hand. If you have a fly angler that you’re looking to give a gift to, consider a box of flies and/or a few leader packs. The link above is to Discount Flies. I have no affiliation with them, but it’s who I buy my flies from when I don’t have enough time to tie my own. For a discount fly company, I have found that they sell quality flies. Visiting a local fly shop is also a good idea. They’d be happy to fill a box up with flies for you!
#10 – The Top of My Wish List
Outdoor Vitals Pursuit Hybrid Fleece
List Price: $140, 10% off for members, periodically will go on sale
This is the one of only two items on this list that I don’t actually have myself (the fly tying kit is the other). So to be clear, I’ve never worn this fleece jacket. The reason I list it here is because it’s at the very top of my wish list for the holidays. This is a new item being offered by Outdoor Vitals and I can tell they put a lot of thought into its design. I’ve bought so much clothing from Outdoor Vitals over the past few years. I’m confident this will be another great product. All their apparel is lightweight, comfortable, and functions as designed.
#11 – One of My Favorites!
Enlightened Equipment Torrid Booties
List Price: $56
I can’t even put into words how good it feels to slip my feet into these at night in my tent on our backpacking trips. Certainly not a necessity….these can’t be worn outside the tent unless you wear something to protect the bottom of them. They don’t weigh a lot though, only 1.7 oz., so they’re easy to bring along. They will keep your feet warm at night without them overheating. Truly one of my favorite items I take backpacking!
#12 – Solid, Comfortable, Wading Boots
Skwala Carbon Wading Boots
List Price: $289
While we’re on the subject of boots….This summer I was looking for a quality pair of wading boots for my trip to Iceland. Iceland is primarily a walk and wade fishery, and I needed boots with soles like hiking boots that would protect my feet over many miles of hiking along its rivers. These boots were incredible. They functioned much better than any I’ve ever owned in the past. They are solid, comfortable, and protect my feet. They aren’t cheap, but they will last a long time. I definitely recommend them. These are the first wading boots I’ve had without felt soles. I haven’t had any issues slipping while wading yet, but its something I’m going to be careful of in the future.
#13 – Great Backpacking Food
Peak Refuel Outdoor Meal Box
List Price: $99
Peak Refuel is my favorite brand of backpacking food, but there are many choices. Backpacking food can be an expensive, which makes this a perfect gift for you to give to a friend or family member who likes to go backpacking. Give them one meal, or several, whatever fits your budget. The link above is for a box with 14 total servings, including Chicken Alfredo – my favorite. Backpack meals can be purchased at any outdoor store and are usually offered in single units. Giving even just one or two will make a great gift!
#14 – Remote Wilderness Fly Fishing Book
Spot Pack Fly Fishing by PJ Emerson
List Price: $23
Spot Pack Fly Fishing is a 4-part book discussing how to access outstanding fly fishing destinations deep in the backcountry on horseback. It’s about the adventure of riding horses, basic strategies on catching fish in the backcountry, the necessary backpacking equipment to bring along, and a timeline of preparation for the trip. Spot Pack Fly Fishing is a wonderful gift idea for any family member or friend that loves fly fishing and backcountry adventures. It is packed full of beautiful photography that is sure to generate excitement for their next fishing adventure.
#15 – Quality Waders, Reasonable Price
Briver Max Comfort Waders
List Price: $159
You don’t have to spend $500-$800 for a quality, reliable, pair of waders. I’ve worn these waders this past summer and was very happy with them. They are comfortable, durable, and keep me dry. That’s what matters to me. I wore them while crashing through beaver ponds in the Colorado high country, crossing the highlands in Iceland in search of large browns, and float-tubing on lakes while trolling for trout. Briver waders are a great value for those who want quality waders without having to spend too much. I wrote a complete review of the Briver Max Comfort Waders, which can be found by clicking here.
#16 – High Quality Hip/Waist Pack
Fishpond Switchback 2.0
List Price: $119
I used to always wear a vest while fly fishing. It was loaded with fly boxes and other items that would give me a sore back by the end of the day. I started looking for a pack system instead, but never could find one I liked. They were either on my chest, or my front hip, and were always getting in the way. Then I discovered the Fishpond’s Switchback 2.0. The pack slides back and forth on a track system. When I need something, it’s right there on my front hip. After I’m done with it, I push it out of the way behind me. The net holder works great too. I still use a vest when I’m on trips where I need to carry a jacket, lunch, and other gear. For simple day trips – you just can’t beat the Switchback system. They also offer a “Pro System” that holds more, but I prefer the smaller version. After all, the reason I’m wearing it is to be more light and nimble, and not feel like I’m hauling too much around. Also pictured, is my Outdoor Vitals Ventus Active Hoodie….I told you I wear it all the time!
#17 – Long & Wide Sleeping Pad
Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated 25 x 78 (25 oz, 4.8 R Value)
List Price: $179
Big Agnes is one of my favorite manufacturers of backpacking equipment. I have found that you can count on the quality of their products. The Rapide SL pad is a high quality, comfortable, quilted, insulated pad that is perfect for backpacking. Some pads may weigh slightly less, or cost less, but I don’t believe in compromising a good night’s sleep just to save a few dollars. Good rest is important in the backcountry. For that reason, I’ve also made the choice to use long and wide sleeping pads. I’m 6’3″, so I need a pad that I’m not falling off of at night. The Rapide SL is my favorite pad that I’ve ever owned. I did have a leak once, near the valve, and Big Agnes replace the pad with a brand new one. You can count on excellent customer service from them.
#18 – An Ultralight Tent Made for Stargazing
Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker hybrid double wall tent (28 oz, 103” long interior)
List Price: $285, but periodically will go on sale
The Skyscape Trekker is a one-person ultralight trekking pole tent that is perfect for tall individuals. A lot of ultralight trekking pole tents are single walled, so condensation can be a problem. That’s not the case with the Skyscape because it’s double-walled. The sides of the Skyscape Trekker can be rolled-back providing a full view of the night sky. If you like looking at stars at night, this is a wonderful tent. I wrote a complete review of the Skyscape Trekker, which can be found by clicking here.
#19 – Stability While Hiking
Leki ultralight soft antishock (9.1 oz)
List Price: $103
I can’t imagine going backpacking without my trekking poles. First of all, my tents are trekking pole tents, so I need them for that purpose alone. More than that, they provide stability while hiking with a heavy pack on. At least once a trip I’ll step on the edge of a rock and feel my ankle beginning to turn. My trekking poles save the day because they stabilize me in those situations and keep me spraining my ankle. They also take a lot of the load off my knees, especially with the added weigh of a pack. Trekking poles are a great gift idea for a family member or friend that enjoys backpacking but doesn’t own a pair yet.
#20 – Create Your Own Flies
Orvis Premium Fly Tying Kit or Kingfisher Fly Tying Kit
List Price: $200 (Orvis) or $99 (Kingfisher)
There is great satisfaction in catching a fish that you have personally tied. If you have a friend or family member that also enjoys crafts, consider giving them a fly tying kit this holiday season. It takes practice to begin making quality flies, but it is a lot of fun. The Orvis link above includes materials as well as the vice and tools. The Kingfisher is just the vice and tools, so the fly tying materials are not included. I have not used either of these kits – the one I have my parents bought me when I was about 10 years old. I recommend stopping by your local fly shop or sporting goods store to ask more about this. Many fly shops offer fly tying classes that would be very helpful in getting started. They can also give advice regarding what kit and what materials to buy.
#21 – For Cold-Weather Backpacking
CamelBak Crux Insulated Tube
List Price: $16
While compiling this list I asked my son, who is also an outdoorsman, if he had any gift idea suggestions. He recommended an insulated water bladder tube. The water in a water bladder stays unfrozen while winter hiking because it’s in the hiker’s pack and is close to the hiker’s body. However, the water in the bladder tube outside the pack will often freeze, clogging the tube so that water can’t pass through it. This insulated tube will keep the water in the tube from freezing. A simple, inexpensive gift idea!
#22 – Effortless Water Filter System
Katadyn BeFree Gravity Water Filter (6.0 L, 8.9 oz)
List Price: $115
The number #1 item on this list was a Katadyn water filter bottle to carry while fishing. This water filtration system is for camp. For those of you who are older, you’ll remember the days of having to walk down to the water source and use a pump-water filter system. Pumping water through a filter was a lot of work. It was slow, and not particularly a lot of fun after a long day hiking. The Katadyn system is much easier. Backpackers simply walk to the water source, scoop water into the bag, then take it back to camp and hang it from a tree limb. Gravity does the rest. As the water passes from the bag to the tube, it goes through a filter that removes 99.9% of the bad things that can contaminate water.
#23 – A VERY Bright light
Black Diamond Spot 400 Headlamp (2.8 oz)
List Price: $54
When I look for headlamps, I look for ones with a high number of lumens of brightness. That’s because if I’m going to wear a headlamp I want it to be really bright, not dim. This Black Diamond headlamp had 400 lumens. It’s bright. I’ve used this now for about 4 years and have been very satisfied with it. Headlamps are great because they leave the user’s hands free for whatever may be necessary. A nice, moderately priced, gift.
#24 – One Stop-Shop Fly Fishing Equipment
Redington Rod and Reel Combo Kit
List Price: $269
This is a great gift for a friend or family member that wants to learn how to fly fish but doesn’t have any of the equipment. It includes a rod, reel, and fly line – the essential components necessary to get started fly fishing. I don’t have a Redington fly rod, but my son does, and it’s his favorite. There are other very trustworthy brands that also offer rod/reel/line combo kits such as TFO, Orvis, Cortland, and Echo. Some are more expensive than others, which is based on the quality of the rod and reel that are included. Check-in with your local fly shop or sporting goods store to ask for advice if you’re not sure which combo kit to purchase. Redington is quality brand you can trust.
#25 – Camp Meals in a Flash!
Jetboil Flash 1.0 Liter fast boil stove
List Price: $145, but more typically sold for around $110
I’ve been using my Jetboil for almost 20 years. They boil water in minutes, perfect for quickly preparing dehydrated meals, oatmeal, or soup. It has a convenient self-ignite button which makes starting the Jetboil easy. There are stoves available that weigh less, but it is difficult to beat the convenience of a Jetboil. I use mine every time I go backpacking.
BONUS GIFT IDEA – Trip of a Lifetime!
List Price: Varies depending on if fully guided or a spot pack trip. My book Spot Pack Fly Fishing goes into great detail how to price-out such a trip.
This is a very big gift, but also a very creative one to give to a family member who loves the backcountry and who loves to fish. It’s not an every-year type of a gift, rather it’s a special one that they’ll always remember. My buddies and I have hired many different outfitters through the years, and Diamond 4 is my favorite. Diamond 4 is a family business who has been guiding in the Wind River Range for many years now. They know exactly what they’re doing, and they are absolutely wonderful people. They offer all kinds of trips, including spot pack trips a and fully guided trips. I highly recommend them! They offer cabins to stay in the night before heading into the backcountry, and will even provide a nice hot breakfast the morning you leave. The region they take trips into has spectacular scenery and incredible fishing. They are the best!
*** This post does contain affiliate links. This means that I may make a small commission if you purchase a product using those links. This in no way affects my opinion of those products and services. There are also products listed here for which I won’t make any commission. These gift ideas are products I use and recommend, regardless of whether I receive a commission or not.
- Spot Pack Flyfishing
SPOT PACK FLY FISHING: RIDING HORSES
An excerpt from the book Spot Pack Fly fishing
Horses add a whole new dimension to the backcountry experience making it feel like a true adventure. Riding allows you to look around and soak in the beauty on your way to your destination while the horse does all the work.
Imagine yourself putting one foot into a stirrup, pushing on that leg while swinging your other over the back of a horse. Your horse starts to shift around while you settle in and try to get comfortable. The wrangler is the real deal, with a cowboy hat, flannel shirt, blue jeans, chaps, boots, and perhaps even a revolver. He or she is helping you, making sure the horse you’re riding for the next four or five hours will be a good match for you. The wrangler will make sure your stirrups are set at the correct length and the cinch is tightened properly. Next, he or she will show you how to hold the reigns and to direct the horse if you’re not familiar with riding. As your horse continues to shift around and chew on its bit, you realize you’re now sitting on a living, breathing, animal that’s about to carry you deep into the wilderness. Now that you’re on your horse, you watch as all the other members of your party get onto theirs. You’re all in this together and you realize this is something special. There is a sense of thrill and anticipation of what will follow and the country you’re about to see.
The wrangler leads off, followed by a couple of packhorses trailing on a lead rope. Finally, it’s your close friends, or perhaps your father, son, or daughter, trailing behind in single file. The wrangler leads the group through a shallow stream, then begins to switchback up a mountain on the other side. You begin to thank the Good Lord that you have a horse carrying you up the trail instead of trudging up the mountain yourself. The trail is like this for quite a while as you gain about 2,500 feet in elevation. Finally, you break out of the trees as you ascend above timberline. The scene is classic, like something out of Hollywood western, as you see the wrangler leading the group in single file over the tundra with a backdrop of vertical mountains pocketed with glaciers. It’s an image you’ll never forget. You may even begin to daydream a little, having fun imagining that you’re Clint Eastwood, wearing a poncho, squinting, with a cigar in your mouth, as you take in the classic western scene. Those of you over the age of forty know what I’m talking about.
All right, back to reality. The horses are breathing heavily, so the wrangler advises the group to hop down and walk for a few minutes. This gives the members of your party the chance to stretch their legs, which will help to not be too sore later. The horses also have a chance to catch their breath from the climb. The top of the pass is near, and you can feel the wind picking up as you get closer and closer to the top. Once there, your group comes to a halt, and you stop for a photo. In the distance, on the other side of the pass, you can see a valley still five or six miles away holding a string of glacier-fed lakes. You realize that’s your destination, the goal of all your planning. The excitement is building, but it’s a time to be quiet and to take in the scenery. It’s humbling as you realize how small you actually are in comparison to the vast wilderness that is spread out before you.
After a quick lunch you and your group hop back on the horses and begin your descent down the other side of the pass. The trail gets steep as you re-enter the trees and the wrangler tells the group to lean back and stand up in the stirrups. Meanwhile, you’re thinking to yourself that in five days you’ll be hiking up and over this on your way out. Maybe even questioning if you made the right choice to hike out on your own rather than having the outfitter pack you out. The group will be able to do it though, after the hard work and training that they put in over the last six months. It will be a great challenge and a physical test.
After another hour you enter the drainage where you’ll be camping and fishing for the next four days. The stream emptying the higher alpine lakes is now running alongside the trail and you begin to scout it. Now the excitement really begins to build as you see pocket after pocket, run after run, that you know will hold fish. This deep into the backcountry fish are, in general, everywhere they’re supposed to be. One last climb and you top out into a basin with the lake you’ll be camping on. As it comes into view, you’re tired from the ride but ready to walk and stretch your legs. You’re also overflowing with excitement because you’ve finally arrived. You realize with clarity that the horses were worth it because you’re physically still fresh. A little sore, but not ready to drop like you would have been if you hiked up and over the pass carrying your own pack. You’re ready to get your fly rod out and fish!
The wrangler begins to take your gear off the packhorses and your group begins to scout for where to set up tents. After firmly shaking the wrangler’s hand you nonchalantly give the wrangler his tip, and part ways with a friendly wave. The riding part of the trip is now complete.
Spot Pack Fly Fishing is made up of four parts, its Table of Contents listed below:
Part I
Adventure Awaits in the Backcountry
Chapter 1: What is Spot Pack Fly Fishing
Chapter 2: The Appeal
Chapter 3: Riding Horses
Chapter 4: Outfitters and Cost
Chapter 5: Wilderness Adventure and Risks
Part II
Fly Fishing the Remote Backcountry
Chapter 6: Go Far Away
Chapter 7: Multiple Options
Chapter 8: Fly Fishing Equipment List
Chapter 9: Fly Fishing High Mountain Lakes
Chapter 10: High Mountain Lake Techniques and Strategies
Chapter 11: Fly Fishing Headwater Streams
Chapter 12: Recommended Fly Patterns
Part III
Strategically Ultralight Backpacking
Chapter 13: Strategically Ultralight
Chapter 14: Backpack Equipment List
Chapter 15: Food Ideas and Recommendations
Chapter 16: Backcountry Safety
Chapter 17: Etiquette and Leave No Trace
Part IV
Step-by-Step Timeline of Preparation
Chapter 18: 9-12 Months Out
Chapter 19: 6-9 Months Out
Chapter 20: 1 Month Out
Chapter 21: 1-2 Weeks Out
Chapter 22: 1-2 Days Out
- The Two Best Wet Wading Shoes
These Shoes Keep the Gravel Out!
About ten years ago I was fishing the Railroad Ranch section of the Henry’s Fork. I was on a trip covering some of the most famous fly fishing water in the west, including such places as the Madison, Nelson Spring Creek, and Yellowstone National Park. I was wet wading the Ranch because it was mid-summer, and it was HOT! I had caught a couple fish earlier in the day a little lower down on the river where the water was broken and it was a little easier fishing. We were now in the smooth water and the fish were rising everywhere. As those of you know who have fished there before, these fish are extremely selective and difficult to catch. Downstream drifts are required or the line/leader will without doubt spook the fish. All my attention should have been on figuring out how to fool those big, beautiful, rising fish. Unfortunately my attention was only half on the fish. The other half was on my feet which were in pain. Real pain. As I said before I was wet wading. My customary apparel while wet wading was REI brand “quick-dry” pants, and Keen sandals. The problem I was facing was that the Henry’s Fork gravel was getting into my Keens between my feet and the soles of the shoes. When I emptied the gravel, which was not easy while standing thigh-deep in the river, it would return within seconds. Gravel would flow in, but it did not flow out. The arches of my feet were in great pain and there was nothing that I could do about it. After hours of frustration and discomfort I eventually left the river.
My wet wading shoes also frequently caused problems for me when I would go on backpacking trips. Often these trips involved walking from camp to an alpine lake several miles away. I almost always leave my boots and waders at home on such trips because of their weight. Instead, I take wet wading shoes on my backpacking trips. In the past I would take my Keen sandals because they are are relatively light, durable, and solid enough to hike in. They did well in almost every aspect except that I’d inevitably end up getting pine needles in the sandals while hiking. Like my Henry’s Fork experience described earlier, this would hurt my feet considerably.
Keen makes great, high quality sandals. The front of the sandals have thick rubber that protects toes extremely well in rivers and on trails when banged against rocks. They are solid, durable, and last a long time. Despite their high quality construction, the fact that gravel and pine needles consistently get into them eventually became a deal-breaker for me in terms of using them for wet wading. This happened about 6 or 7 years ago. It was at that time that my quest to find a better wet wading shoe began.
I first looked to see what other products Keen offered, to see if they had a water shoe with mesh sides to keep gravel out. They had previously offered a version with mesh sides, but for some reason had just discontinued them. The only pair I could find online were ones that were a size to small. I decided to give them a try anyway, but just as you would suspect, they functioned well but my feet hurt because they were too small. Next I settled on a pair of Body Glove water shoes I thought might work. They were light, which appealed to me from a backpacking standpoint. I used them for a couple summers, but in the end they weren’t solid enough. My feet would get sore if there was any hiking involved. That’s not a knock on their quality because I really wasn’t using them as they were intended to be used. Last summer (2023) I went back to the Keen sandals because I still hadn’t found anything better.
This year I finally had a breakthrough. Not only did I find one great solution for wet wading shoes, I found two! They are quite different from each other, but are both far better than the Keen sandals I’ve used in the past. I used them both extensively throughout this last summer. What follows is a quick review of both of them.
Simms Pursuit Shoe
What I really like about the Simms Pursuit is that they are specifically designed for fisherman, and you can tell. They are lightweight shoes (24 oz. per pair) that keep the gravel out. They are very comfortable to wear, much more so than any other wading shoe or boot I’ve ever worn. They are solid shoes, not like some of the water shoes on the market that are really designed for the deck of a boat. These are designed for fisherman, to be used wading rivers. They are breathable and quick-draining. At times this summer I wore them barefoot. At other times, if the water was colder or if I had to do a little hiking, I wore ultra-thin neoprene socks with them. The attribute of Simms Pursuit shoes that I’d like to emphasize the most is that they are very comfortable wet wading shoes.
My only concern when I first bought the Pursuit shoes was the tread on the bottom. Would they slip on wet rocks, and would they hold up while hiking in them. I understand wet wading shoes aren’t necessarily designed to also be hiking shoes, but I sometimes need them to function that way. The answer to the first question above is that the Simms Pursuit shoes function well on wet rocks in rivers and in lakes. They have a better grip than all the wet wading shoes I’ve used in the past. Now, no shoe is perfect, and a slippery rock is a slippery rock. You have to be careful no matter what wading boot or shoe you end up with. That said, they performed well for me while wading. The answer to the second question above, their use while hiking, is that they were not as sturdy as I’d hoped, and that they can slip on rock and gravel when scrambling around alpine lakes. In fairness, they’re not hiking boots! However, if that is something that you sometimes may require, there may be a better solution that I’ll discuss in the next section below.
In summary, I highly recommend the Simms Pursuit wading shoes. I believe you will really like these shoes if most of your time will be spent in the water or on a drift boat, as opposed to hiking or scrambling around high mountain terrain. They look great, they are extremely comfortable, they keep the gravel out, and they function as they should. Simms Pursuit shoes typically retail for around $140 and can be found at many retail outlets. They really are a high-quality wet wading shoe!
Salomon Techamphibian 5 Water Shoe
The other wet wading shoes I used extensively this last summer were the Salomon Techamphibian 5. I gave them a try because I’ve used Salomon hiking boots for years and I believe in the quality of Salomon products. Also, the Techamphibians have a sole that is essentially the sole of a hiking boot. That stood out to me when I was doing my research. A typical scenario for me is to begin wet wading near where I park my truck, but then to finish the day several miles away. It is very common for me to have a long hike back that requires sturdy shoes. Another common scenario for me where my selection of shoes is important is on our backpacking trips. The high mountain lakes we fish are often several miles from our camp. In situations like that I either need to wear my hiking boots and carry my wet wading shoes with me, or I need water shoes that can also function as hiking boots. Salomon Techamphibian water shoes work perfectly in both of the situations I just described.
Salomon Techamphibians are relatively light (21 oz. per pair). The outsoles are solid, durable, and have excellent grip on slippery terrain. The upper section is made of a mesh that dries quickly and keeps the gravel and pine needles out. The heel is collapsible for versatility and ease of getting in and out of them. As with any Salomon product, these are high quality shoes. They typically retail for around $110 which is not terribly expensive.
One comment that I frequently read while researching these shoes was that they are quite narrow and that they are not as comfortable as other shoes. I agree with this comment. When I first tried them on I felt they were too uncomfortable to keep, but here’s what happened. Some of you may know that my “day job” is working for the Colorado Rockies baseball team. When I placed my order for these shoes I used my Rockies email address. That fact did not go unnoticed by the person filling my order. Whoever filled it, their child wrote Go Rockies and drew the Rockies logo all over the shipping box. They were so excited to send it to me that I didn’t have the heart to send the shoes back. I kept them, and I’m thankful that I did! I’ve been able to adjust the straps, and break in the shoes to the point that they are no longer uncomfortable to wear. Still not as comfortable as my Simms Pursuit shoes are, but they do just fine. Especially if I’m wearing thin socks or neoprene socks while hiking. The key though, as I’ve said, is the treads on them. I went on quite a few trips last summer where I hiked many miles in them to high mountain lakes. They did a wonderful job on steep, slippery, slopes where it was absolutely critical that my shoes did not slide. They functioned extremely well on rough terrain and over many miles of trails. However, if you have wide feet these may not be the shoes for you.
Conclusion
I recommend both the Simms Pursuit and the Salomon Techamphibian 5 water shoes for wet wading. The best solution is to have both available so that you can pick which shoes make the most sense for the specific trip you’re taking them on. That’s pretty expensive though. If I had to choose only one pair, I’d probably give the nod to the Simms Pursuit shoes because of their comfort. On hiking trips to alpine lakes I’d wear hiking boots and pack the Simms Pursuits to the lake if I felt I needed wading shoes. What I recommend is to find a store that sells both, or order both of them and have them sent to your house. See which ones you prefer and that fit best, and return the other pair. That is how you will really know which ones to buy.
Simms Pursuit and Salomon Techamphibians are both high quality shoes, so you really can’t go wrong. They’ll both do the job. Still, make sure whichever ones you choose are comfortable and won’t hurt your feet. You will enjoy not having gravel and pine needles constantly in between your feet and the soles of your shoes. It has made a huge difference for me.
- Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker
An Ultralight Tent Perfect for Stargazing!
Imagine yourself high-up in the mountains, at 10,000 feet, surrounded by mountains rising above timberline. A few minutes ago, having put out the campfire, each member of your group has made their way to his or her own tent. Flat on your back, head on a pillow, cozy underneath a warm quilt, you stare-up at the magnificent sky. You can hear the wind whispering through the pine trees around you, as well as all of the other typical night sounds. The stars are amazing, far too many to count. They are brilliant and extend from horizon to horizon. Having a good night’s sleep and experience is such an important part of backpacking and camping.
My nephew told me about the company Six Moon Designs when I first started looking for an ultralight tent about three years ago. He suggested I consider their award winning Lunar Solo tent, a one-person ultralight tent that utilizes a single trekking pole. I looked closely at the Lunar Solo, as well as many other tents from well known manufacturers such as Gossamer Gear, Zpacks, Durston Gear, Big Agnes, REI, etc., etc. After reading articles, watching videos, and comparing specs, the tent that really caught my attention was one manufactured by Six Moon Designs, but it wasn’t their Lunar Solo. It was their Skyscape Trekker.
The Skyscape Trekker is a high quality, 27 oz trekking pole tent. It is lightweight and it packs small, which can be said of many ultralight tents on the market today. What I would like to highlight in this article are the three attributes of the Skyscape Trekker that I found to be somewhat unique. I didn’t see these three attributes in other tents that were available and each of them are important to me. Here they are:
Stargazing – Most of my backpacking trips are high-up in the Rocky Mountain west where the stars are amazing. I live in the Denver Metro area of Colorado where I seldom see any stars in my day-to-day life. As a result, seeing stars at night is one of the things I look forward to most on our trips into the mountains. The Skyscape Trekker, as the name implies, is designed so that you can see virtually the entire sky when going to sleep at night. The fly on both sides of the tent can be rolled-back which unveils almost the entire night sky. It is possible to achieve such views with other tents as well, if the fly is not set up. The problem is that if a storm rolls in with wind or rain, the camper has to get all the way out of the tent to put the fly back on. With the Skyscape Trekker it is easy to unzip the screen, reach out and release the rolled-up fly, and securely zip it shut. One never needs to even get out of their sleeping bag. There is a section of solid material directly overhead so there isn’t an entirely unobstructed view of the stars, but I have not found this to be an issue stargazing.
8 Ft. Long Floor – The Skyscape Trekker is designed to accommodate tall backpackers. The “bathtub floor” is 103″ long, approximately 8 1/2 feet. This was very important for me because I’m almost 6’3″. Other ultralight tent options would not have been long enough for me. With other tents my head would be snug against one wall of the tent while my feet would be pressing against the the far end. With the Skyscape there is actually room for me to store gear on the floor beyond my head, which I consistently use. Another interesting benefit of its dimensions is that the high point is slightly offset from the center which creates extra headroom while lying down. This gives the camper more sense of space around them while inside the tent. The Skyscape is wide enough for my 25″ pad so there is plenty of room for one person. It is not designed for two people. Two people will not fit.
Hybrid Double Wall – Most ultralight trekking pole tents are single wall tents. Condensation can become a problem with single wall tents depending on weather conditions and backpacking destinations. The issue of condensation kept coming up over and over while I was doing my research. I had never really dealt with it because I’d always used a double wall design (mesh tent and a separate fly) and I typically am camping in dry climates. Still, I was attracted to the fact that over 80% of the Skyscape Trekker canopy is separated by a mesh wall. This keeps that section of the wet canopy off you and also allows for excellent ventilation. However, I have found that the 20% that is single wall does have condensation build-up in certain conditions. That wet canopy will get on your bag with contact. Personally, I have not found that to be a very big issue. When I wake up I take a wash towel or t-shirt and swipe that part of the canopy dry. Problem solved. For those who are backpacking in wetter climates, condensation may become more of a problem.
Other characteristics and things to consider:
The Skyscape Trekker is a trekking pole tent. It does not setup as easily as a typical free standing tent with the traditional tent, poles, and fly. This is important to understand if you’ve never setup a trekking pole tent before. As with any trekking pole tent, it is highly recommended that you set it up a couple times in your backyard or a nearby park before taking it out for the first time into the backcountry. The Skyscape Trekker is not too difficult to setup, but it does take a little practice to get it pitched just right. Before I purchased mine I watched several videos on YouTube that showed it being setup. Those videos were helpful for me when I set mine up for the first time.
The Skyscape does not have a huge footprint, as some trekking pole tents do. Still, it is larger than most free standing tents. It is 120″ long, and 76″ wide, and is shaped like a diamond. I have found it to be stable, even in strong wind. The two poles are inside the tent and are near my elbows. I’ve found I have to be conscience of where they are so that I don’t knock them with my arms. I’ve bumped them plenty of times, and the tent’s never come down on me, but it’s something that I try to be aware of. The Skyscape Trekker has two side doors so it can be accessed from either side. There is a stash pocket on the inside as well as a clip centered on the ceiling where I hang a light. It has two medium sized vestibules between the doors and the fly for keeping addition gear dry.
Six Moon Designs currently prices the Skyscape Trekker at $275. They have another tent, the Skyscape Scout, that is the same design but utilizes a slightly heavier material. It sells for $160. These prices do not include stakes, poles, or a groundsheet. Those items are all sold separately. Also, when I weighed my tent in at 27 oz. (pictured above), that did not include stakes, poles, or a groundsheet either. When I pack in the stakes and a groundsheet the total pack weight is 30 oz. What I’ve learned with most backpacking manufacturers is that they will offer good deals around Memorial Day and Black Friday. So if you’re not in a hurry, and can wait until those dates, you’re likely to save a little money.
Lastly, and this is important, the price does not include having sealed, waterproof, seams! You can either purchase the seam sealer yourself, DIY and save a little money, or you can pay to have them seal the seams for you prior to delivery. I recommend having Six Moon Designs do it so that when the Skyscape arrives it’s completely ready to go.
Conclusion – I highly recommend the Skyscape Trekker if you’re a tall individual like me, and I especially recommend it if you enjoy looking at stars at night. I’ve been happy with mine and still look forward to using it each time I take it backpacking. Below is an Amazon link where you can purchase the Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker.
- 10 Ways Fly Fisherman Can Lighten Their Packs
Conserve Strength for the Fishing!
When I first started backpacking my pack typically would weigh-in between 45 and 50 pounds. I had a lot of fishing gear, sometimes packing in boots, waders and even a float tube and fins. I was younger, stronger, and could handle a pack that weight. Still, my buddies often had smaller packs that were closer to 40 pounds. I was jealous, but didn’t really know what I could leave behind because I used everything I brought.
The recent trend of ultralight backpacking gear has created opportunity for all of us to lighten the weight of our packs. I talk in my book Spot Pack Fly Fishing about an overnight trip I took with my nephew that completely changed how I evaluate my backpacking gear. He had ultralight everything, his gear weighing-in at about 10 pounds, and I had a 40 pound pack. For an overnight! Even though it was just one night, I still needed a tent, sleeping bag, pad, etc., etc. I had brought everything I would have taken on a five night trip, the only thing different being that I didn’t bring as much food. Everything else was the same. That was it, I’d had enough. I decided then and there that I needed to change how I backpacked, especially if I wanted to continue taking backpack fishing trips in my 50’s, 60’s, and beyond.
Listed and described below are ten things that I did to lighten my pack. I’ve reduced my pack weight from 45 pounds down to just under 30 pounds, on average. This includes pack, food, water, camping gear, and fishing gear. I hope this is an encouragement for you to do the same, even if you only pick and choose a few of these ideas. If you currently backpack with a 40+ pound pack, I recommend to first focus on saving pounds. As you begin to get your pack weight lower you’ll begin to think in term of saving ounces. Decide what your target pack-weight is, and then develop a strategy where to cut weight to reach that goal. You will see that most of the suggestions below come with a disclaimer, or a trade-off. To save weight there is often something that is sacrificed. Please remember that when reducing weight, never sacrifice safety.
1 – Inventory your gear and weigh each item. You need to know what each item weighs so that you can begin to decide where to save weight. Certain items that you take for granted, may surprise you as to their weight. For example, I typically take two fly rods on each backpacking trip. The rod cases for each weigh 1.25 pounds each. I found a solution that saves almost two pounds (see point #6 below). The first step to lowering your pack-weight is to understand the weight of what you currently have. Once you know that you can begin to strategically lower the weight of your pack.
2 – Ultralight pack. The backpack I used in the past was a 70 liter Osprey pack. It’s a wonderful pack that can carry a lot of weight comfortably. It weighs 5.25 pounds. The pack I use now is a Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L backpack that only weighs 1.75 pounds including the customizations I’ve added. The Arc Haul can NOT carry as much weight comfortably as the Osprey can, nor can other ultralight packs. When you buy an ultralight backpack understand that you’re committing to cutting your overall weight down to 30 – 35 pounds, or less. Some ultralight packs have built in frames, some do not. Even if they do have frames the conventional thought is that they don’t do well carrying more than 35 pounds. With the Zpacks Arc Haul, I ended up buying from them a lumbar pad and shoulder pads that make the pack considerably more comfortable. Without that customization I would not want to carry the weight I typically carry. In summary, switching to an ultralight pack will save weight in two ways. First, the pack itself will save weight. Second, it will force you to cut weight in other areas to ultimately reach your pack-weight goal.
3 – Don’t carry excess water. Let me first preface this idea by saying that taking enough water is critical. Dehydration is a significant risk of backpacking, especially at high elevations. Always be fully hydrated and have water with you to drink at all times. That being said, don’t carry extra water you don’t need because it’s very heavy. One liter of water weighs 2.2 pounds. Early on in my backpacking career I had a water bladder in my pack that held 3 liters. I would routinely fill it up completely at the beginning of each trip – 6.6 pounds. Now I carry a 20 oz sports drink bottle instead. This cuts down my old pack weight by almost 4 pounds, about 10%. I then use a Katadyn BeFree Water Filter (2.3 oz) to replenish the sports drink bottle along the way.
The key to knowing how much water to pack-in is to know your route, and the water available along the way. If you are packing-in along a stream, or will be regularly encountering streams or lakes, plan on using them to replenish your water. On the other hand, if you will be packing away from any water sources all day long, you’re going to have to carry the extra water with you. It takes intentional planning to know how much water to take with you. Backpacking to fishing destinations will most often be on trails where water sources are present. As I said at the beginning, absolutely do not run short on water. Dehydration is a real danger.
4 – Ultralight trekking pole tent. Consider switching to a trekking pole tent if you’re already using trekking poles while you backpack (which I recommend using). There are so many wonderful trekking pole tents available. They typically weigh less, and they pack smaller. My old tent was considered a backpacking tent when purchased, but it still weighed-in at 8 pounds. It comfortably slept 2 adults, and could fit 3 adults if needed. We would split the tent up into its various parts. One person carrying the tent itself and the other person carrying the fly and poles. We’d split it up even further if 3 adults were squeezing in. Still, the weight was 3-4 pounds per person. I’ve used another one-person shelter that weighs about 3.5 pounds, but I wasn’t sharing that weight with anyone. My current tent is a Six Moon Design Skyscape Trekker. It’s a trekking pole tent that weighs 1.75 pounds.
5 – Ultralight DIY quilt. My traditional Big Agnes sleeping bag weighs 3.25 pounds. It’s warm, but as with most bags my movement is very restricted. It was the restrictiveness as much as the weight that had me considering other options. There’s been a movement towards quilts for both of these reasons. Quilts, however, can be difficult to get used to because of the drafts that seem to creep in during the middle of the night. I use a DIY quilt, one that my wife and I made, that weighs 1.5 pounds. It was not difficult to make, but I’m admittedly still trying to figure out how to keep all the drafts out at night. I like the weight savings and the ability to move my arms and legs. My sleep system includes a Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated 25 x 78 pad that I love. That is something I won’t sacrifice to save weight.
6 – DIY fly rod case. As I mentioned earlier, I take two fly rods on each trip. The cases for each weigh-in at about 1.25 pounds each. I was reading an article written by Janet George in the July/August 2022 issue of Colorado Outdoors titled Ultralight Fly-Fishing Gear. In it she recounted and experience where she was backpacking and met someone using a fluorescent light tube guard (size T12) to protect his fly rod. These can be bought on Amazon.com and only weigh a few ounces. You have to cut them to the correct length, and should insert some foam to cushion the rod tips. I also put my rods into a sock prior to inserting them into the tube. By doing this I save about 2 pounds. Now, understand that the weight savings comes at a cost. The fly rods are reasonably protected against things brushing against them or knocking into them. You can’t shut them in a car door or step on them. I wouldn’t stack other packs or gear on top of them in your vehicle while driving to the trailhead. Understand that the rods will not be as protected as they would be if they’re packed in the rod cases they came in. That’s the trade-off. Janet George’s article also mentioned a tube made by Bourne Outdoors that weighs 8 ounces. I haven’t used it, so I can’t personally recommend it, but it may be worth investigating. To purchase a fluorescent light tube guard, click the link below:
7 – Don’t bring excess clothing. Slowly, over time, I’ve converted most of my backpacking wardrobe to Outdoor Vitals clothing. They specialize in offering lightweight and functional apparel for backpacking. I’m not sure the exact amount of weight I save but here are two categories that alone save me at least a couple pounds. I used to take a bulky fleece vest in the summer, and fleece pullover during shoulder seasons. I would also always take a lined sweater for the evenings. Now I leave all that behind and bring along a Ventus Active Hoodie made by Outdoor Vitals. It is warm, but very lightweight. During shoulder seasons I bring along their Novaul Mens Jacket.
The quantity of clothing to bring is also an area to consider. I used to bring several changes in clothing for multi-day trips. Now, by bringing lightweight clothing made out of odor resistant merino wool, I bring less clothing along. Plan to bring one set of clothing that is made-up of layers. Add layers when cold, take them off when hot. Also pack in a few extra articles of clothing that you make sure to always keep dry. In the event you get soaked, it is always good to have dry clothing to change in to. Really, that’s all you need. Read my Backpacking Apparel Checklist to see the exact clothing I take along. Clothing is a good category to take a close look at when it comes to finding ways to cut your overall pack weight.
8 – Food and cooking equipment. Food that contains a lot of water can be quite heavy. Fruit, for example, can taste wonderful while in the backcountry but it comes at a price from a weight standpoint. Dehydrated dinners are the common way to go. Experiment with the different brands and various meals and you’re sure to find some you like. I’ve found that I use so many calories in the backcountry, and get so hungry while fishing all day, that almost anything will taste good by the end of the day. Still this is an area you can have fun with in your planning. Food is a category that can add surprising weight if not planned. Don’t take just anything. Weigh your food, and make strategic choices of what to bring. One lightweight meal I enjoy is instant mashed potatoes combined with some form of protein. That can be either jerky that I bring or a fish that I catch. For more ideas, I discuss food in detail in my book Spot Pack Fly Fishing.
I use a Jetboil for cooking on all my backpack trips. There are more lightweight stove options available, but I prefer the convenience and the functionality of the Jetboil. Also make sure any cookware such as spoons, cups, and pots are made of titanium or lightweight aluminum.
9 – Leave the boots and waders at home. The key question to be answered with this category is how do you feel about wet-wading. Boots and waders are heavy, and often are not really needed if you are comfortable wet-wading. High alpine lakes typically can be fished effectively from shore. Still, sometimes wading-out onto flats is necessary in order to reach drop-offs where fish like to cruise. Streams are most often fished more effectively while wading, and at the very least, will at times need to be crossed. It is important to understand that wet-wading will likely be required if the boots and waders are left at home. Wet-wading, of course, entails bringing in wet-wading shoes and pants that will dry quickly. For many years I used Keens for wet wading, but this season I began using Simms Pursuit fishing shoes. They’ve been wonderful. They’re comfortable, and they keep the rocks and pebbles out.
10 – Reels and other fishing equipment. Packing in multiple reels can add weight quickly, but may be necessary on fly fishing trips where the destination includes both lakes and small headwater streams. On such trips it is nice to have a heavier 5 or 6-weight rod for the lakes and a 3-weight rod for the streams. This means that reels that match the rods will also be necessary. In addition, sinking line may also be required to fish the lakes effectively. A possible solution is to have multiple spare spools for one reel rather than packing-in two or three individual reels. The spools will weigh less.
Also consider combining your flies into lightweight containers or boxes. Flies weigh next to nothing so you should take all of them along that you think you might need. However, be careful of the weight of the boxes you keep them in. Empty boxes can weigh from two to four ounces. Surprisingly, you can add a pound to your pack if you bring three or four such boxes along with you.
Other ancillary fishing and camping equipment can add surprising weight to your overall pack weight. Weighing each item will help you to decide what to bring and what to leave at home. If items are necessary, bring them. If they’re safety items, definitely bring them! Otherwise, give each item thought and strategically make decisions so that you meet your pack weight goal.
- Backpacking Gear Checklist
Strategically Ultralight!
Typically, the ultralight backpacker’s goal is to have their pack weigh as little as possible. That’s pretty straight forward. This makes sense for those who are going to be hiking twenty miles a day along trails like the Colorado Trail, Pacific Coast Trail, or the Appalachian Trail. I’m not that type of backpacker, and I knew I’d never get my pack down to crazy ultralight levels. I have too much fishing gear and I never want to leave anything behind that I might need. I also want to have a certain level of comfort that ultralight packers are willing to give up. Instead of trying to get every piece of gear to weigh as little as possible, even leaving certain items at home for the sake of weight, I decided to pick and choose where to cut down weight strategically.
Strategically ultralight is a term I use to describe my backpacking philosophy. It means to pick and choose where to cut down weight instead of cutting weight absolutely everywhere possible. My pack weight goal is 30 lbs. on the way in, 26 lbs. on the way out with food having been eaten. By strategically saving weight in some areas, I’m able to carry a comfortable sleeping pad, camp chair, and fly fishing gear while still meeting my pack weight goal.
Below is a list of my backpacking gear, including the manufacturer and weight of each item. Look for future posts reviewing each of these items. I’ll discuss what I like and what I don’t like about each of them, as well as which other manufacturers I considered.
Ultralight (UL) Backpack – Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L backpack (20.9 oz). Pack customization includes Zpack lumbar pad (.99 oz), shoulder pads (.95 oz), and two belt pouches (1.7 oz).
One Person UL Tent – Six Moon Designs Skyscape Trekker (pictured above), hybrid double wall tent (28 oz, 103” long interior)
Two Person UL Tent – Durston X-Mid 2 Solid if I’m sharing a tent or if I feel extra space is necessary (39.9 oz, including tent, stakes & sack)
Trekking Poles – Leki ultralight soft antishock (16.6 oz)
UL Quilt – DIY project using materials purchased from Ripstop by the Roll (27 oz)
Sleeping Bag Liner – Sea to Summit Thermolite Reactor (9.2 oz)
Pillow – NEMO Fillo Elite Luxury (4.2 oz)
Insulated Pad – Big Agnes Rapide SL Insulated 25 x 78 (25 oz, 4.8 R Value)
Ultra Mini Air Pump and Tent Light – Flextail Tiny Pump X (1.7 oz)
Water Purification or Filtration – Katadyn BeFree Gravity Water Filter (6.0 L, 8.9 oz) at camp. Katadyn BeFree Water Filter (1.0 L, 2.3 oz) while out in the field.
Water bottles – Two empty sports drink bottles (1.3 oz each)
Cook System – Jetboil and Jetboil fuel canister (16.5 oz)
Chair – Big Agnes Mica Basin (2.6 lbs) or Nemo Moonlight Elite (1.6 lbs)
Bug Repellent/Net – Ben’s 100 Max Formula spray (1.25 fl. oz)
Headlamp – Black Diamond Spot 400 (2.8 oz)
Sattelite Communicator – Garmen In Reach Mini (3.5 oz)
Navigation – iPhone with downloaded offline map and printed map of destination using Caltopo.com (7.1 oz)
Bear Bag and Rope – Zpacks Bear Bagging Kit (3.4 oz)
Other Miscellaneous Checklist Items – Found at any outdoor store such as Jax Outdoors or REI
First Aid Kit
Bear Spray
Air Horn
Odor Proof Bag for food
Matches or Lighter
Titanium Spoon and a Cup
TP and Trowel
Knife/Multi-tool
Solar Battery Cell – Only if needed for longer trips
Kindle Book / Cards – Optional
Sunscreen/Lip Balm
Deodorant/Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Advil/Pepto
Polarized Sunglasses
Pack Liner/Pack Cover – I simply use a big trash bag to protect gear that must stay dry (sleeping quilt and clothing). In camp I store pack in the vestibule area of my tent.