All-round protection
The latest gear and fly-tying materials for discerning game-fishers
The Orvis Pro wading jacket is made from next generation puncture-and abrasion-resistant, three-layer Cordura and Lycra, which Orvis describes as “the best [materials] we’ve found from a comfort and durability perspective”. Extremely waterproof and breathable, it is softer and quieter than most shell jackets and is designed to last. It also has natural stretch and is tailored to give unrestricted movement.
Weatherproofing features include a YKK AquaGuard zip, taped seams, a longer rear, and internal cuffs that stop moisture even when submerged. The three-point peaked hood has hidden adjusters — no dangling cords to whip your face in the wind.
With two side handwarmer pockets, chest pockets with rubberised zips and a zipped internal pocket, there’s plenty of storage above the waterline. Zipped underarm openings work with Orvis's ProBib-and-Brace and Pro Waders, allowing access to features without the need to remove the jacket. They also provide a flow of air in hot weather or when you’re hiking along a beat.
Available in ink (blue/tan) or black. Men’s sizes: S (34-36), M (38-40), L (42-44), XL (46-48), XXL (50-52).
Orvis Pro Wading Jacket, £469.
Tel 0333 400 4188. Web orvis.co.uk
Strip tease
Fulling Mill now supplies fly-tying materials direct, as well as the ready-tied flies for which it is famous.
It appears to be doing so in style judging by these marvellous Zonker strips, which are ideal for winter fry and baitfish patterns. There are four types: Micro with a 2mm width (ten strips per pack); Standard with a 3mm width (eight strips); Big Game with a 6mm width (four strips); and Cross Cut (eight strips), which is cut against the grain of the skin and used for winding around the hook shank (much like a hackle), allowing the fur to be laid back after each wind to create a streamlined fly body or hackle with incredible pulsing movement.
Big Game strips are ideal for big pike and saltwater patterns, but they are more air-resistant and not suitable for standard trout outfits.
The quality and dying of these 23cm (8in-9in) long strips is immaculate, and they are cut precisely. They are then mounted to a backing card and inserted into a sealed packet so that they remain perfectly straight with no kinks in the skin, which means there should be minimal wastage. Each packet is hermetically sealed and must be cut open to access an inner resealable opening. This attention to detail is commendable and results in a superior, user-friendly and more durable product.
There are 28 colours. Standard hues are white, cream, black, tan, charcoal, natural brown, grizzly, olive, brown, yello
