Gear Review: fishpond’s Lodgepole Fishing Satchel

It’s nice to know that as fly-fishing gear progresses there’s still some equipment designed to remind us that we’re part of a rich history. That said, the Lodgepole is a classy gear bag. Though the satchel is definitely worthy of a nostalgic day on the water with a bamboo or glass rod, it’s also comfortable […]
Gear Review: The Allen Icon II
Testers enjoyed the feel of Allen’s Icon II. Across the board, the testers noted the rod has a very balanced feel in the hand and that the rod loaded effortlessly. The Icon II has a seamless feel when transferring energy from the rod to the line. Testers also noted that the rod definitely finds its […]
Gear Review: Loon Outdoors Rogue Mitten Scissor Clamps

The Fly Fusion team tested the Rogue Mitten Scissor Clamps through the summer in various trouty situations. The Rogues performed extremely well through the entire test period. Testers specifically noted how much they appreciated the way the Rogue felt in their hands. The handles have a textured padded coating that keeps them from slipping when […]
Gear Review: Orvis Waterproof Sling Pack

Through the summer, Fly Fusion staff tested out the Orvis Waterproof Sling Pack and had an overwhelmingly positive experience with the gear bag. Waterproof zippers have the potential to be stiff and sticky. However, because of the system Orvis uses, the zipper is relatively smooth for a watertight system. It’s a double-layered zipper with the […]
Gear Review: Costa’s Corbina with Sunrise Silver Mirror Lenses

It’s safe to say most fly anglers consider sunglasses a necessity on a few different levels—fish spotting and protection from wayward flies. The first and likely the most important test is whether or not the frames remain comfortable over an entire day of fishing. And without a doubt this was the case with the Costa […]
Gear Review: Fishpond’s Castaway Roll Top

The Castaway Roll Top has lots in common with other boat bags: easy access compartments for whatever gear is needed for a long float, outward attachment areas for forceps and rod tubes, and handles and straps for easy movement. This waterproof boat bag has a few other added features that impressed the Fly Fusion team. […]
Creating Space for Memories

The Fly Fusion team likes testing out fishy products and spreading the word about them, but every once in a while we also like to test out products that are a little more on the fly-fishing fringe. Throughout the summer team members have enjoyed using the Picture Keeper. After a few trips, it’s super easy […]
Gear Review: Redington Hydrogen Trout Spey

There’s a lot that the Fly Fusion staff likes about this new rod from Redington. At the top of the list is the fact that the company consistently finds areas of need and provides a solution at a reasonable cost to the consumer. The Hydrogen Trout Spey is designed to cover a lot of water with […]
Jim McLennan Tests Out a New Stillwater Boat
Gear Review: fishpond Emerger Net

Staff fished with the smaller Native Nomad net for the last couple of seasons and appreciated the fact the net fit perfectly into the net slot on fishpond backpacks. The Emerger Net has all the assets of the Native Nomad, but with a little bit of added length. The Emerger has a longer opening (18.8”) […]