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Feb 03 2018

Simms Dry Creek Backpack – Review

Simms Dry Creek Backpack review
Simms’ Dry Creek Backpack. Photo: Kyle Dodson.

We pride ourselves on having an expansive network of insanely fishy individuals who spend the majority of their life on, or around, the water. When not guiding at our lodges, many of our guides spend the off-season guiding in other areas of the country, or traveling to fish other areas of the world on their own accord. That gives us a lot of experiences to pull from when highlighting some of our favorite gear we put through the ringer.

Today, Rapids Camp Lodge guide, Kyle Dodson, has put together a great writeup on one of his favorite pieces of gear of late; Simms’ Dry Creek Backpack. When not beating up on huge Naknek rainbows, Kyle also operates an independent guide service in Oregon during the off-season. He knows a thing or two about lugging more than his share of gear, which is why you should trust his words below.

Simms Dry Creek Backpack

Simms really outdid themselves this time. As a full time fishing guide, and an avid angler myself, the need for a versatile backpack is extremely important. Whether guiding in Alaska or Oregon, the means to carry safety equipment, food, water, and a lot of misc fishing gear (including a net) is imperative for a successful day on the water. I’ve owned the last two models of the Simms Dry Creek Backpack and have been pleased – but always did want a little more. However, Simms’ newest edition of the Dry Creek Backpack hit all aspects out of the park.

Waterproof Organization

Like previous roll-top models, Simms’ latest Dry Creek Backpack is comprised of a highly durable and waterproof TPU coated fabric with a large waterproof main pocket featuring a fully submersible roll top closure. However, unlike previous models, one of the new features from its predecessor is a big front zippered pocket that organizes essentials very conveniently. One disclaimer, the gear in the front zip pocket does get wet upon water submersion. That being said, I never liked opening the roll top portion of the bag for something that I needed quickly and often throughout my day, and the outer zip pocket is a great solution.

Another great feature is that the pockets for water bottles are much bigger this go-round. In the past, I’ve had to carry an extra bottle inside the main compartment of previous models. Not any more. With the design on the new Dry Creek Backpack, I can carry two 64oz bottles – one on each side! These can also be used for an extra rod tube as the bag does have lash points positioned above the bottle pockets to secure a tube.

Well Designed Net Holster

If you’ve ever fished with a hike-in net, I’m sure you have forgotten it at one time or another, or worse, had it fall out of your wader belt that it was tucked into. This backpack has a special opening between the main compartment and the outer zippered pocket specifically designed to holster a net. This design is very well thought out and can be easily loaded and pulled when the pack is being worn while on the water. This opening can also make for a great extra rod holder as well.

Improved Harness Design

The harness system has been reinforced and is much more supportive than I’ve seen on other bags. The padding that is on your back all day is shaped to allow airflow to stay cooler. It features “load lifter” adjustable straps to utilize if you have a full pack load. I find myself using these quite often and are a nice fishing bag bonus. Though I don’t use it personally, the bag also has a magnetic drop in and release system that allows you to attach a compatible chest pack to the front straps as well.

Conclusion

With almost every backpack I have used for my fishing and guiding needs, I have always wanted a little more. Simms filled the voids with this extremely versatile backpack that can be packed small and light or loaded and heavy. Every way you pack this bag it’s comfortable to take fishing. If you’re in need of a new fishing backpack, consider the new Simms Dry Creek Backpack.. You won’t regret it!

The Dry Creek Backpack retails for $209.95 and is available in two colors; Bright Orange (shown above) and ‘Gunmetal.’ For more information, visit your nearest Simms dealer or check it out on Simms’ website by clicking right here.

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