Downsizing - Junk We Don't Need!

[DomR]

The coffee stays and I deal with the peeing. Definitely worse habits.

I gave up coffee for Lent, I have NOT been a pleasant person around the office. LOL
Easter can't come soon enough.

 

[Fly-Swatter]

Best post on here.

I Freeking hate fads. I wear a 20 year old vest also, carry exactly what i need and no more, and never carry a net. Has served me very well.

These new generation anglers look like they are more interested in a fashion show then catching fish. I like to catch fish 😄

I'm almost this old, but not quite (pushing 60). 😉 The way I see it, if someone is more focused on fashion than fishing, I have more fish to catch.

FWIW, I'm firmly in the form-follows-function camp on this and the fishing fashion topics.

With that said, what I bring (and wear) is situational. I'm sure some would think I bring too much along. For me, part of the fun with fly fishing is trying (and sometimes succeeding) to solve problems to catch fish. That can mean bringing enough stuff, particularly flies, so I have options.

 

[dwa111]

I think one way to reduce the load is specialization. For example, think tenkara on one extreme where you can get away with carrying very little. Or if you go out and just swing wets. Or throw dries. Or just tightlight.

Point is, there is definitely a trade off between technique versatility (and likely success) and how much you have to carry. I personally like the simplicity of a single technique but can also appreciate the 'figuring it out' component of a broader approach.

 

[DomR]

I'm almost this old, but not quite (pushing 60). 😉 The way I see it, if someone is more focused on fashion than fishing, I have more fish to catch.

FWIW, I'm firmly in the form-follows-function camp on this and the fishing fashion topics.

With that said, what I bring (and wear) is situational. I'm sure some would think I bring too much along. For me, part of the fun with fly fishing is trying (and sometimes succeeding) to solve problems to catch fish. That can mean bringing enough stuff, particularly flies, so I have options.

I just tripped the double nickel. I've had an Orvis Super Tac-L-Pac vest for 25 years, it was an anniversary present from my wife. Nice vest with a double yoke around the neck. It really is quite comfy for the weight I burden it with. Of course I can't remember the last time it was washed other than in rain storms. LOL. I also have a Richardson box and a couple of chest packs for small stream hike ins and to be honest, I tend to slouch over more when I'm wearing them.