The William Joseph Solo chest pack review
By Edward Stephens

Chest Pack 1



I recently started fly fishing again after a long hiatus. I do most of my fishing out of a kayak and was looking for something that I could wear over a PFD or by itself. Since I have just started back I wasn’t sure what I would need and/or like. I think though I might have found something good almost off the bat. The William Joseph Solo chest pack is compact, but well thought out and carries much more than I would have guessed upon first impression. With three separate compartments you can keep your gear organized and ready to hand. Starting with the front compartment there’s a tippet dispenser. I used to think those were overrated but after having my tippet material so easy to reach I am now converted. Basically the tippet dispenser frees up your second hand allowing you to work a lot faster and get back to fishing. Plus, you know you are not going to drop the spool in the water or in the boat. You always know where it is and the next time you need it you aren’t searching each pocket or going all though your tackle box (or dry bag).

The second compartment has a fold down work station and features a removable foam fly tray. Folding down is very practical because it allows you to steady your hand, gives you some space to work, and provides a place to catch the stray fly that you drop (or maybe that’s just me). Being removable also has some benefits. You can lay it out on a table to sort and select flies (or bass poppers) for your next trip. It’s also easier to dry and clean if you can take it out of its compartment.

The third or main compartment is equipped with some organizer pockets for tools and supplies and has space enough to hold a sandwich (or two) or even an extra Orvis fly box. All the compartments come with two-way zips. There is a zinger and holster to corral a set of pliers. A padded neck strap and adjustable waist strap with quick-release buckle round out the system.


The William Joseph Solo chest pack is ideal for fly fisherman, and features three separate compartments to keep supplies organized and easily accessible.

So after a more than 20 year hiatus from outdoorsy things I started kayaking with a good friend. One thing has led to another and as a result I have gotten back into fishing. One thing I did have from years ago is an old shakespear spinning fly rod combination. I had a fly rod as a kid and enjoyed it and found I was using the fly rod more than the spinning rod as I eased back into fishing..