| Disclosure: Just to be open and honest the buttons and links you click on in the website will in most cases take you to another website where you can purchase the products I am reviewing. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. |
Adjustable Mesh Fly Fishing Vest by AnglaTech Review
The Adjustable mesh fly vest is a fly vest you can trust, rip stop materials, 2 waterproof pockets, and adjustable side straps for comfort.
Materials are of a strong quality to aid the lifetime of the vest, well thought out construction with anglers in mind.
There are many vests on the market for twice the price and not nearly as good or comfortable.
Overall, we have to say this vest is worth more than the actual price that we see it on sale for.
Why the need for a Fly Vest?
It may sound like an essential garment for an experienced angler but it’s always surprising how many people new to the sport ignore the advantages of a quality fishing vest.
No matter what style of fishing you engage in a quality vest with plenty of pockets and excellent comfort can make a huge difference in enjoying the day.
Having all equipment immediately on hand is quite simply a massive convenience that saves constantly needing to replenish bait, tackle and so on from your fishing crates.
Plenty of novice anglers may question the need of a fly fishing vest – after all they may be intending on just settling down by the lake in their deckchairs right next to their supplies.
Then when they get out there fishing for the first time they’ll rue not having picked up such a simple but experience-enhancing piece of equipment.
You see even when fishing by a static camp fact of the matter is that having everything on hand even just a few feet away can make all the difference in successful fishing.
When you know that catch is near, the last thing any angler wants is to be getting away from the water even for just a moment.
- PLENTY OF STORAGE - Keep your fishing gear and equipment well-organized and quickly within reach.
- ADJUSTABLE SIZING – Adjustable shoulder and waist straps for the perfect fit.
- COMFORTABLE – Breathable mesh back allows for air to flow freely so you can stay cool and dry.
- LIGHT WEIGHT - Premium materials keep this vest small and light.
This adjustable mesh fly fishing vest courtesy of AnglaTech is one of the best examples of how a quality garment ought to be designed.
Featuring not just plenty of high quality pockets, it’s also been designed in an adjustable way that ensures a comfortable fit for any user.
It’s a truly unisex garment that is perfect for men and women of any size to enjoy their time out angling.
In this review we’ll examine what makes this fly fishing vest such a great option – and why with a little care it’ll last a lifetime.
Check out our Best of Fly Reels List
- Entirely fresh redesign for 2016 incorporating existing customer feedback and requests.
- Highly adjustable straps for maximum comfort. This product will fit all shapes and sizes.
- Top quality materials designed from RipStop nylon and superb breathability and airflow.
- Dual waterproof pockets that offer protection for portable electronics and security for watches, jewelry, keys and other such valuables.
- Chest mounted drink/bottle holder.
- Stylish unisex design that will stand the test of time!
Pros
- The design and materials used in this fishing vest really should last for many years. The straps are designed to be extremely strong and tear resistant. Suitable for all kinds of fishing expeditions and environments.
- Mesh allows for excellent airflow and comfort. This is a rare example of a heavy duty, seriously high quality fishing vest that allows for maximum ventilation. An excellent choice for any angler who regularly fishes in warm or exposed locations.
- The pockets are instinctively accessible and offer plenty of space to hold all the sundries needed for a full day of fishing. Left breast side drink holder is a nice inclusion and will be a serious advantage for those needing to use waterproof waders on a frequent basis.
- This is a real ‘anglers vest’ that has been designed following feedback and market research with those who really know their angling. It’s not been thrown together in a factory without due care, it’s a new model perfectly suited to the needs of any contemporary angler.
- Two waterproof pockets large enough to hold cell phones, gps and any other electrical goods or valuables. This is often an overlooked necessity for a modern angler, especially those who combine fishing with hiking.
- Overall build quality is of the highest order. Sturdy zips, excellent machine stitching that adds even further reliability to this otherwise surprisingly lightweight fly fishing vest.
Cons
- While it’s not uncommon to find fishing vests much more expensive this still represents a modest outlay for a garment that can be picked up for very little in most sports stores. You get what you pay for – but some casual anglers may consider such a garment a luxury.
- It’s important to pack the vest carefully so it does not become too lopsided or feel overly bulky. As it is highly adjustable this may not be an issue for many but anglers who like to carry a great amount of materials on their person may find their vest affecting their casting. This is easily remedied with more suitable packing, but may be an issue to a few.
- It may feel unusual to veteran anglers! Make no mistake this is a high tech design that will feel very different to anglers used to their traditional style khaki angling vests.
- Adjustable straps make the vest perfect for almost every body shape, being able to loosen or tighten as you feel fit helps maintain a comfortable wearing experience.
- The two large waterproof pockets are great for you car keys, mobile or electronic devices. I have often went for an unexpected dip leaving my gear soaking, to help I used to keep it in a plastic bag, not with this jacket, its all built in.
- The extra wide front pocket is perfect for a water bottle place a hose on it and you have a drink on tap when things get hot.
- Ripstop fabric makes this fly vest very tough, used to make parachutes, hammocks, yacht sails etc ripstop is a tough fabric, even if it gets a small nick it will not spread.
- Mesh fabric in the main back panel helps circulate air and keep you cool. When trekking to your favorite beat on a warm day it doesn’t take too long to build up a sweat, with the mesh you can cool off quickly.
- Multiple pockets make for a very versatile vest included is a large back pocket where you can hold large fly boxes or you packed lunch, making this fly vest idea for packing all you need for a days fly fishing.
Summary
All that being said this is a very high quality fly fishing vest that will be a great addition to the inventory of almost any angler.
AnglaTech have crafted a vest that incorporates the practicality and ease of use that one may associate with an ‘old school’ fishing vest, alongside modern materials and design features.
Being extremely adjustable is something that very few fly fishing vests can boast, yet in this instance the durable yet comfortable straps will allow a natural and easy fit for pretty much any angler.
It’s true that the load out needs to be intelligently packed as of course with fly fishing you’ll be need 100% mobility in your arms aligned with comfortable balance.
Yet truth be told this will only be an issue for anglers who are already overburdened – for most people the lightweight and flexible design will likely improve their casting overall.
Personally speaking I can’t think of many better examples for a day-hike fishing vest at this price range.
It’s suitable for use in all weather conditions, will not get any heavier even when exposed to hours of heavy rainfall, is comfortable enough for a long hike and flexible enough to double up for securely transporting valuables too.
Overall it’s fair to say that AnglaTech has come up with one of the finest fly fishing vests out there in this price range.
Possible Alternatives
As with all aspects of angling, kits can be as cheap or expensive as your budget will permit. While going higher up the price spectrum will lead you towards Goretex and other top end materials, the question as ever is going to be – do you really need it?
Serious fly anglers would be well advised not to scrimp when it comes to selecting their vests. Sure some may muddle by with a shoulder carry or even an inverted day sack but the advantage that’s always inherent with any fly fishing vest is practical comfort and bodily flexibility.
Sure you may be able to pick up a $10 vest from a discount store but the fact remains that these models lack waterproofing and likely have very little in the way of body adjust-ability.
Which leaves us somewhere in the middle of the market and this is a product that has very few peers in its price range. Remember that AnglaTech is one of the most respected names in modern fishing and has a reputation for never scrimping on details.
This is why a number of their premium products – not just vests – are so popular with higher end anglers too. Fact of the matter is that this is an excellent option for any angler looking for a great overall vest that ought to last a very long time indeed.
Another Anglatech Vest worth a look!
- STAY HYDRDATED – Includes a 2 Liter water bladder so you can stay hydrated.
- PLENTY OF STORAGE - Keep your fishing gear and equipment well-organized and quickly within reach.
- ADJUSTABLE SIZING – Adjustable shoulder and waist straps for the perfect fit.
- COMFORTABLE – Breathable mesh back allows for air to flow freely so you can stay cool and dry.
Final Verdict
I’d expect by now that most readers will have deduced that your reviewer rates this fly fishing vest very highly indeed! There are two main reasons for this:
Firstly and arguably the most important is that it is a very high quality piece of equipment that just so happens to also be pretty affordable.
This is one of the most positive trends in modern angling at present – the fact that products that only a few years ago would be firmly in the ‘premium’ category are now available to casual anglers with a lower bankroll.
Not only is this a great vest that’s suitable for men and women of all ages, it would also make for an excellent choice for younger or beginner anglers intending to care for their kit and enjoy using it for years to come.
By no means is this a ‘throwaway’ or ‘luxury’ garment – it’s an excellent addition to a fishing kit that will enhance the quality and enjoyment of any fishing expedition.
Secondly, and this cannot be reiterated enough – the Adjustable Mesh Fly Fishing Vest by AnglaTech performs just as advertised.
Waterproof pockets, highly adjustable straps and a mesh construct for lightweight carry and enhanced airflow? All get a major ‘check’!
It’s the little features that help with this vest too – the zip quality extends even to the sturdy little tags, the beverage holder is adaptable for container size and most important of all it’s totally ergonomic.
When sensibly used there’s total flexibility and comfort – two absolute essentials for any fly fishing angler! Highly recommended for anglers of any shape, size, age or experience.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This product presentation was made with AAWP plugin.
Autumn Ridge Traders Fly Fishing Vest Review – Traditional Favorite
Redington First Run Fly Fishing Vest Review
NRS Chinook Fly Fishing Vest PFD Review – A Blend of Safety and Storage
About Author
What a beautifully done review, both in aesthetics and information provided! I love the fact that the vest is both durable and adjustable. That can be very hard to find. When I first saw the product, I thought it looked very cumbersome, but, like you said, that can be avoided with some smart packing.
I really like the 2 large, waterproof pockets. That’s important when it comes to any water-related sport.
This vest seems like a great investment for all anglers!
Thanks Taylor I did like the way this review turned out. The vest is a great asset to any fly angler with loads of pockets and the addition of the waterproof ones is a must. I have taken an untimely dip many a time and got gear wet that wasn’t supposed to.
Hello Mark, great article and great site you have here.
I’ve been looking into taking my two boys fly fishing with me for longer trips (if I can hold their attention that long!). Anyway, when looking into kitting them out – I’m wondering about the adjustments on these sorts of vests?
Both my sons are over the age of ten but are tall for their age. Would this sort of vest model be suitable for them in size terms – or am I buying something I could get cheaper for their age?
Hey Chris as I told Stella previously the vest is sized from M to 4XL if the boys are big enough to fit a medium then it will be a good gift. If they are very slim though it will not tighten enough but you could add a seratate belt for a while until they fill it properly. I have the same problem with my boys but they grow fast and something that doesn’t fit at first will not take long.
Hey Mark;
I think you may have sold me here. I’ve been looking for something as a gift for my brother and he is a very dedicated angler. I like the points about the value for the cost of this AnglaTech vest, the adjustable size, and the drink holder. I hope it can adjust for a pretty big man because my brother has a massive chest area. I’m assuming it would? Also, the drink holder is great because he’s had doc’s orders to stay hydrated. So that’s convenient. I’ve not seen that feature before.
I’ll bookmark this, and thanks for highlighting a great product. 🙂
Hey Stella, Its one sized. There are straps that you adjust to make it bigger or smaller so it fits everyone from M(38″) to 4xm(48″). If he fits that size scale then he’s sorted.
The drinks holder is a great feature especially if out in the hot sun.
Honestly, I have not really gone fishing more than a few times, and that was only for just fun as well, and now I have started to do a little research on what possible equipment we would need – we move soon next to a fishing lake and a big river. This vest is awesome, I really am amazed of all things that it has a space for. I wish that my other bags had the same organizing features to find everything.
My only concern was first if it can be comfortable, but by the end of your review I think it is 🙂
It would be a perfect gift now for Christmas as well. However, if you happen to bump into a “girly” one for myself, that would be good to see among your posts as well 🙂
Kisumu there are more and more vests on the market today. Gone has the day when you carried all your gear in a game bag or satchel.
Most anglers now who fly fish will carry their gear in a fly fishing wading jacket or a fly fishing vest. Both of which have been developed with many varying types of pocket and attachments to keep all your gear handy for when required.
There are more and more manufacturers now providing for female fly anglers and this one by Fishpond is rather good.
Love you very informative site. It has been awhile since I have been fishing and had a class in fly fishing but it also has been years. I was great at the snake roll casting technique. I have book mark you site for when I get the chance to get back out there. You have some great items to buy and the information will be very helpful.
Thanks Willie, keep coming back we will have more items in the fly fishing sector reviewed and more information posts to help with the sport.
Fishing is one of my favorite sports and whenever I have the chance both me and my family go fly fishing. Fly fishing is such an amazing sport along with providing fresh food for the family. This fly vest that you are showing here is pretty amazing and can help you as a fisherman to carry all or most of your gear. I particularly like the fact that it is adjustable and will fit most of the members of my family. One fly vest that fits them all now that’s a bargain.
Hey Norman I like your thinking buy one fly vest and anyone who’s going fishing can adjust it and off they go. OK if two or more go at the same time then you need to do rock, paper, scissors to see who gets to wear it but a good idea. The adjustable shape of the jacket is a great feature not only for fitting different body shapes but for wearing heavier undergarments etc.
My husband loves fishing when fishing he doesn’t like to carry a ton of bags
Looking at that fishing vest give me an idea for making a gift to him for his next birthday
I am sure he will love to wear this fancy waterproof vest, with plenty of pockets
As you have mentioned this fly fishing vest is a great time saver because you can carry all your needs in once to your hands
Excellent post, very well presented with all the necessary details and great images from the fly fishing vest.
Thank you.
Jacqueline
Jacqueline a fly vest like this one is a real time saver you can take all the items you need to the waters edge and not need to carry extra luggage. I am confident your husband with love it.
This is definitely a great fishing vest for the price. I think it would be great for beginners, all the way up to experts. Why pay a massive amount for a name when this will work just as good or better.
My oldest son is an avid fisherman and loves fly fishing the most. Although he does love bass fishing. I just might get one of these for him for his birthday. Thank you for some great information on fishing vests.
The fly fishing vest is a great investment. The fact it fits about every body shape and is loads cheaper than some of the big brands out there is a winning combination.
Very well done on the way your page is laid out. The post was very informative. There was everything here that I ever needed to know about this fishing vest. I’m glad I got to see this post, because I have been wanting a new fishing vest and this vest seems to have all the bells and whistles. It is a good find.
Glad you found the post useful, the adjustable fishing vest is a great option as it has loads of pockets for gear and as its fully adjustable can be made to fit you perfectly.
I love to travel light when fly fishing as I can then move from pool to pool easily. I then don’t like to carry bags and the like so this vest gives me the best option to gear up and have it on me as I fly fish.
Even the task of changing a fly mid pool is easier as they are already with me all I need to do it pause get the fly box out change over and continue fishing. With gear on the banking that is not possible and all that extra moving out and in the water will chase away fish.
Looks like a really good durable fly fishing vest. It’s good to see that it has some waterproof pockets and a place for extra storage in the back of the vest.
I was just curious if there are any pockets on the inside of the vest? I know there are plenty of them on the outside of the vest, but didn’t see any mention of the inner part of the vest.
Hi Eric, loads of pockets as you say but none on the inside. They are all on the outside mainly on the front but as you say a large one on the back.
You can carry quite a bit in this fly fishing vest.
£140 on Amazon UK. I got it for £65 delivered with tax added from the USA.
Good to know that you can purchase from different countries and still get it cheaper than you can in your own country that’s the benefits of using Amazon internationally so many options to the buyer.
Good luck with your best.
Great Post, My father is a seasoned fisherman ( largemouth bass) , and now I go fishing with him and my 5 year old son, it’s kinda of a generational guy trip thing. The first thing my father bought for me and my son was a quality Mesh Fly fishing vest and let me tell you something vests like the one you speak about above are so necessary, I can’t thank my father enough for purchasing a vest like these, 100% necessary, great post.
Hey Shane fly fishing vests can be a great time saver especially when out on the water, everything is to hand. You need a pair of nippers to clip the end off a line or put on a new fly they are all on hand in the many pockets available to you.
You don’t have to wade back to the shore and risk disturbing the fish at your feet and save more time for fishing and the possibilities of catching.
I can attest to all the information connected with this fishing vest. Everything I read on this article is accurate to the best of my knowledge. The author has pointed out all the good points about this vest and since there are really bad points he has stated that too. It is very easy to adjust to any body build and can hold a lot of items needed for fishing or hiking. I like the waterproof pouches to protect valuables. If you have ever slipped and fallen in a stream I’m sure you know how valuable the waterproof pockets can be. Good job in researching this vest, although common sense will show what a great vest this is.
It’s a great vest I agree, it’s got everything you would need in one and as you say the addition of the two waterproof pockets are a good asset for keeping your car keys, your mobile your licenses and wallet dry if you decide to go for a dunk.
The vest is also fully adjustable so if its cold and you want to put on a fleece jacket or heavy sweater it can be let out and again in summer when warm you can tighten it up to fit snugly when only wearing a tee or fly shirt.
The fly fishing vest would really be a nice investment for fishing and hiking. I am actually considering purchasing the fly fishing vest to use when we ride horses, but at the same time as you said it looks like it can be kind of bulky when packed. That we don’t need when riding. All the best to you.
Michelle good to see others using the vest for other activities than just fishing. The fly fishing vest can become bulky if you fill it to the brill but for carrying just a few items it could prove to be useful even on a horse.
Great post, you are so correct on the benefits of having everything at hand. That is true even fishing from a boat.
I hate needing to go into the tackle box and dig things out. The AnglaTech mesh fly fishing vest sounds like a real gem.
Can you tell me if the sizes run big or small? I am a bigger man and it always seems that no two manufacturers make things the same size. One companies XL is not always the same as other companies.
Hey Brandon, what is so beautiful about this mesh fly vest is that it is adjustable. Its one sized. There are straps that you adjust to make it bigger or smaller so it fits everyone from M(38″) to 4xm(48″).
Hello, Mark I love fishing and only used spin cast and spinning reels most of my life. A few years ago I picked up fly fishing. I decided to buy a quality fishing vest. It was the best decision after taking up the sport of fly fishing.
I have everything I need right at my fingertips. I suggest buying the proper quality equipment from the start. It will pay you back in the years to come.
When I’m ready to replace the fishing vest I now have I will take the information you provided and apply it to my next purchase.
Thanks for the information.
Kevin
A fly fishing vest is a good purchase to have when you are getting into the sport. I see guys arriving at a river or lake with a plastic bag full of their gear. Not ideal as they can rip and you can lose your expensive bits and pieces along the river banking.
A fly fishing vest keeps it all together in one place so you don’t lose them and the adjustable mesh vest from Anglatech is a decent one to get.
I have several friends who are keen anglers and I was always wondering what would be the best way to have all the gear on hand. Now that I have read this post I have seen the practicality of having one of these fly fishing vests. I will certainly pass this information onto them as I am sure that they will find it very interesting.
Having all the gear to hand is important when hiking along a river working out swims and fishing through them.
I find the traditional fishing bag too cumbersome a vest is more to my liking and the Anglatech adjustable fly fishing vest is a real good one.
The extra pockets can hold a good deal of gear like fly boxes, tippet, spare fly lines, and some food without a problem.
Hi Mark,
I was wondering if you can tell me about the sizes. I am quite thin and have problems to fit vest in general nice and firmly.
Do you reckon I can tighten this vest enough? It´s quite annoying if everything is bouncing and swinging when the vest is loaded with equipment.
Thanks for your help 🙂
Hey Manny sorry for delay, was trying to get clarity on the vest. It seems it will fit a M(38″) up to 4XL(48″) approx. I know what you mean if its not snug on you and things are flapping about it can be annoying.
Have you considered using the likes of a wading belt to secure around you. They are fully adjustable and comfortable. I use one on my waders all the time and I feel it could do a good job of keeping the vest in place.
Hi Mark
Again I thought this was a very helpful post. Remembering from a long time ago, going fly fishing without a vest and I could have definitely benefited from one.
The AnglaTech mesh fly fishing vest looks a good product. The fact it’s adjustable and will fit just about anyone is a bonus. The loads of pockets and attachment points will make trips to the river more enjoyable.
Knowing my brother as he is a more serious fly fishing angler than me and he has all of the gear, but I will for sure let him know about your product reviews for when he does look for new fly fishing gear .
Thanks again for the read and good luck to you and fishing.
A fly fishing angler who has most of the gear is always looking for spare kit. This mesh fly fishing vest is about as good as it gets for the money involved. There are a few more options out there but the price can go up quite steeply especially going for the top brands.
I like the fact the vest is adjustable so you can tighten or loosen as needs be. For instance if stillwater fly fishing in winter you will have extra layers on to keep warm in the colder weather.
The vest can be adjusted to sit over the extra clothing no problem and then in warmer months when fly fishing in say just a t-shirt it can be tightened to fit snugly over you again.
That feature alone is worth the money for me.
Hi Mark,
What a great article!
My husband loves fishing, no wonder as he was once a fisherman:) He was working on a troller and today he still fishes for pleasure. This vest mesh fly fishing is stunning! This would be an excellent present for Christmas! I love the fact that the pockets are waterproof because he often gets his stuff wet. I just would like to know if there is a warranty that comes with the jacket? We ner know:)
Thank you for this excellent post!
Hey, first off on the warranty I contacted Anglatech directly to double check and they have just got back to me.
The answer is as I thought and its one year on manufacturers faults. Normal wear and tear is not covered as you would expect.
I believe it would make a lovely Christmas gift for anyone who loves to fish never mind fly fish.
Great looking jacket.
Personally not a fisherman, I do have a few friends that are and believe they would enjoy it very much.
Looks like it offers just about everything they need for a great day fishing.
Definitely recommend to friends.
Nothing worst then forgetting something back at the car.
Hey Nick, great vest I agree, loads of pockets and places to store your valuable items.
As a rule I try to travel lite so I’m not afraid to leave stuff in the car once I have re-conned the swim and grabbed what I think i will need.
The adjustable mesh fly fishing vest means i don’t need a back pack or carryall and everthing is in easy reach.
I have been looking at fly fishing rods but was totally unaware of the importance of a fly fishing vest. Really love the look of this adjustable mesh fly fishing vest not only does it carry a lot of gear it is extremely practical. Can you recommend any other accessories that I may be missing out on when first buying my kit?
Hey Keldyn, there is loads of equipment you can get to enhance your fly fishing, my motto however is always travel lite which is why I reviewed this adjustable mesh fly fishing vest as everything I need should be able to fit in the pockets.
However to answer your question the main tools of the trade after your fly rod, reel and line are, waders, boxes of fishing flies, tippet and leader material, clippers, forceps, cap, eye protection, wading staff if deep wading, landing net, wading jacket if expecting rain, spare fly lines and spools to change depth and presentation of your flies, waterproof pouch for your camera/phone and car keys. I could go on but that’s probably the most common tools for fly fishing.
Tight Lines!