The latest gear for discerning game-fishers
Home and dry
This waterproof backpack is part of the new range of Pro luggage from Orvis. It’s made from abrasion and puncture resistant 840-denier ballistic nylon, to which a 0.1mm coating of TPU (Thermoplastic Polyurethane) is applied inside and out to ensure it is waterproof and durable. Orvis says, “If there’s a more waterproof and more thoroughly seam-sealed pack collection on the planet, we’ve yet to see it.” On close inspection, we think it’s impressively well-built.
The backpack has a generous 20 litres of storage and a roll-top design with over-the-top and corner buckles. This provides a secure seal and allows the bag shape to be adjusted according to the contents for more flexibility than a standard zip.
Orvis has stripped away unnecessary weight and clutter to leave a streamlined body with only the fastenings and two rod-tube straps. Padded shoulder and chest straps, a padded back panel and waist strap ensure comfortable carriage and weight distribution. The shoulder straps are made from breathable coated mesh to stop them absorbing water and have docking points for accessories or a water bottle.
Inside, there’s a single zipped pocket for a phone or keys and other find-quickly items.
While this pack is primarily aimed at travelling anglers, it would be useful on a boat or to protect cameras or laptops when outdoors.
Orvis Pro Waterproof Roll Top Backpack, £189 Contact Orvis UK Tel 03334 004 188 Web orvis.co.uk
Good to see you again
Bestselling sports sunglasses Costa Del Mar have made a welcome return to the UK. Costa’s range of premium polarised fishing glasses has had no UK distributor since 2020, but the brand, based in Daytona Beach, Florida, has now joined other leading names (Rio, Sage et al) distributed by Guide Fly Fishing in Leeds.
In addition to classic styles such as Tuna Ally and Black Fin are the new Diego and Paunch, as well as the Pro models, which utilise new technology such as textured Hydrolite rubber nose pads, upgraded venting, sweat management channels and top and side shields. Other popular models are now available in an XL size for improved face coverage.
Costa shades come in many frame and lens options, including the proven 580 colour-enhancing lens, considered one of the best for fly-fishing. Choose your colour and style to suit your fishing, whether in day and evening light, blue water or chalkstreams.
All Costa glasses carry a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. To view the new range, visit the Guide Fly Fishing website.
Costa Del Mar Sunglasses, from £144 Contact Guide Flyfishing Tel 01977 681 300 Web guideflyfishing.co.uk
