FishPond Thunderhead Chest Pack, Shale

Only giving this 4 stars because I wish it had more organization inside. It’s just a big empty space not much for pockets or anything. But with that being said I actually love this chest pack. I made some thick leather dividers for inside to keep my fly box in place, and attached a small Mystery Ranch Fanny pack to one of the straps, and it’s perfect. I also own the Thunderhead pack and the system works awesome for an all day or multiple day fishing trips in Montana. Keeps all my gear completely dry.

Allows me to take a real camera along without worrying about getting it wet. Also has a nice slot inside for my phone. I like the ability to wear it three ways: as a standalone pack with the included harness, attached to a Fishpond backpack, or mounted to a wading belt. Construction and material quality are excellent.Nitpicks: The front zipper pouch will fit slim fly boxes, but I wish it had more depth. The TIZIP zipper on the main compartment requires two hands to operate (this is true of all TIZIP systems), so it would be nice if the front could hold more stuff for quick access. The buckles releases can be a little stiff, particularly when it's cold out. None of these are showstoppers.

Worth it so far! I haven’t gotten on the water yet but seems so far to be top quality. Buddy told me he has had his for a bit and he loves it.

The build quality is quite substantial and I can't imagine that it'll ever wear-out. The watertight zipper, however, can be a challenge to open and close, even after applying zipper lube. I also find it rather uncomfortable to reach into the pouch as the zipper tends to shred the hands. That said, I can throw a cigar or electronic items in there without worrying about them getting wet, which was the motivating factor for me going this route. Note that the front pouch is not waterproof and isn't adequate for much more than your ID or a fishing license. Given the rather high cost, for what is otherwise just a waterproof box, ask yourself if you're willing to hassle with the zipper simply for the sake of said waterproof storage. If you don't really need waterproof storage, Fishpond offers other, less expensive and hassle-free options.

As advertised. Nice layout

please

The waterproof zipper is extremely to zip or unzip. It's so bad I'm not sure I trust I can every open it.The main pack is very stiff and hard to access content, especially when there is something in the front pocket.The net quiver doesn't work with a regular handle net. The quiver rides in the lower back. If you try to go over your shoulder you reach the quiver. You can't reach from the side. You can not rotate the quiver to access.The online video looked good. When I actually tried to use it nothing really worked or felt right. I really wanted to like it. It's just not functional.

I bought one. The zipper jammed. I took it back and the retailer replaced it. The zipper jammed a second time. The pouch is smallishish. I hate it. If I can get my money back I’ll buy an Orvis product.