Your Guide to Backcountry Fly Fishing

So you’re interested in backcountry fly fishing?

It doesn’t get much better than fly fishing in the backcountry. The fish in those streams almost seems purer. Enough with the romance talk. 

While backpacking fly fishing in the backcountry is a blast, it’s also dangerous. The same things that make backpack fly fishing fun also make it treacherous. Emergency personnel is miles away and typically the nearest person is the same. 

But don’t worry, we cover what you need to think through before striking off on your next backcountry fly fishing excursion. 

Let’s dig in:

So what is backcountry fly fishing?

Backcountry fly fishing combines two of the purest forms of witnessing nature. Instead of pulling your car over on the side of the road to fish, you load all of your gear into a backpack and hit the trail. 

A backpack fly fishing trip can be as long as you want it to. The real hindrance is how much weight you can carry. A trip can be as short as a day and as long as a week. The longer your trips the more preparation and gear you’ll need. 

All in all, fly fishing was made for the backcountry. Fly rods break down into small cylinders. Tenkara rods are even smaller. You can get away with a handful of flies as well.

Can you fly fish while backpacking?

This is a question that ultimately depends on the local laws and regulations of the area you are backpacking in, as well as the type of fishing you plan to do. Generally, if the area you are backpacking in allows recreational fishing, it is possible to go fishing while backpacking.

The main pros of backpacking while fishing are the convenience of being able to stop and fish while you are already out in the wilderness, and the added experience it can provide. We’ve broken down what backpacking fly fishing gear is essential.

How do you pack a fly rod for backpacking?

In order to successfully pack a fly rod for backpacking, you will need to have the right gear. Firstly, make sure you have a fly rod case that is lightweight and durable. Secondly, you should consider investing in a rod tube that is designed to protect your rod while traveling.

Additionally, make sure to carry line and tippet with you if you plan on switching out flies while out in the wilderness. Finally, make sure to bring the proper tools to repair any damage to your gear.

How to get started

Before you start compiling gear, you need to do your research. This is as simple as performing a Google Search for where you want to go.

The backpacking and hiking forums are full of helpful people who are knowledgeable and often willing to overshare. 

You’ll need to keep a close eye on the weather especially depending on where you go. Some mountain streams can swell to raging rivers within seconds after a rainfall you were never aware of. Another possibility is encountering snow when all you packed was shorts and a t-shirt. 

The forums will point you in the right direction. But don’t leave it completely up to a bunch of strangers. Visit your local bookstore or Amazon. There are numerous backpack fly fishing books that cover everything in intricate detail. 

Below are a couple of books to get you started: 

Speaking of forums, check out the top forums related to backpacking and hiking below. Some are geographically specific so feel free to ignore the ones that do not apply to you. 

Now your gear

After you’ve researched where you’re going, you need to address the gear you’ll need to make the trip successful and more importantly safe.

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Backpacks

TETON Sports Ultralight Backpack

The Teton Sports Ultralight pack is an excellent lightweight pack. The pack can carry almost anything you’d need into the woods at 65L. The TETON Sports Ultralight Internal Frame Backpack is designed with comfort and convenience in mind. It features an adjustable frame that helps keep your back straight and evenly distributed the weight throughout your back, while the ergonomic shoulder straps and hip belt provide extra cushioning and support. The backpack is made with tough, ripstop nylon and is airy, allowing maximum breathability, while the large storage compartment is great for storing all of your gear. The Ultralight also features dual waist straps and multi-purpose side pockets, making organizing

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TETON Sports Scout 3400 Internal Frame Backpack

Another excellent choice from Teton. The Sports Scout is slightly smaller than the Sports Ultralight at only 55L. This is still enough space for a comfortable 2-4 day adventure. 

The TETON Sports Internal Frame Backpack is an ultra-durable and lightweight backpack for outdoor adventures. It features a padded back and belt system for superior comfort and support, plus an adjustable suspension system to make sure it fits comfortably no matter the size of the user. The large main compartment is great for storing essential items, and multiple pockets and pouches on the sides and in the lid are perfect for organizing smaller items. The waterproof and tear-resistant fabric ensures that all of your items stay dry and secure during a rainstorm.

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Osprey Atmos AG 65 Men’s Backpacking Backpack

At 65L, the pack can carry almost anything you’ll need during your trip. Osprey is known for their versatile hip belts. Their packs are some of the most comfortable packs I’ve carried into the wilderness.

The Osprey Packs Atmos Backpack is a great choice for daypackers who need plenty of storage and are looking for comfort and convenience. The backpack features adjustable shoulder and hip straps, as well as a fully adjustable back panel for maximum comfort. It has an abundance of internal and external pockets, and compartments for storing everything from your phone and keys to your laptop and hydration bladder. The backpack is also made from durable, lightweight material and comes in multiple colors and designs.

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NEVO Rhino Internal Frame Hiking Backpack 

The NEVO Rhino comes in multiple sizes at 40, 50, 60, 65, or 80 liters. It’s another internal frame pack which makes it light to carry.

The smaller-sized backs are ideal for shorter trips while an 80L can suit up to a week-long trip depending on the conditions.

The Nevo Rhino internal backpack is an ultralight, water-resistant bag designed for carrying essential items like a laptop, notes, and extra clothing. It features a separate laptop compartment, plus a main compartment with multiple pockets and adjustable straps for optimal organization. The bag is made from durable ripstop fabric and features a padded back panel and adjustable shoulder straps for improved comfort. It also has a water bottle pocket and an adjustable sternum strap to help distribute the weight evenly and comfortably. The Nevo Rhino is perfect for everyday use, business trips

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Day Packs

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System G Fishing Bag

Easily fits inside or on the outside of your backpacking pack. Throw it over your shoulder or around your waist to hit the stream after dropping camp. 

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Maxcatch Fly Fishing Vest Pack

Slightly larger than the System G. The Maxcatch is a versatile pack that allows you to carry more gear when navigating the streams. This is an excellent pack if you plan to hike from base camp to your fishing destination. You have plenty of pockets to store your fishing gear, snacks, and water. 

This MAXIMUMCATCH fishing sling bag is a high-quality, adjustable carrying bag that is perfect for fishermen looking to store their tackle and other fishing accessories. The adjustable shoulder strap allows you to easily and comfortably carry the bag on your shoulder or across your chest, while the multiple pockets provide ample storage space for all your supplies. The bag is made from durable nylon material and features adjustable buckle straps, a large main storage compartment, and several external pockets for convenient organization of your fishing supplies. The sling bag is water-resistant and comes in

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VIXYN Fly Fishing Waist Pack

The smallest of the packs. The Vixyn is an excellent waist/fanny pack-style pack. The pack limits you to carry only the essentials. It’s an excellent choice for fishing streams near basecamp.

The VIXYN Fishing Chest Pack is a stylish and functional pack that is perfect for anyone who loves to go fishing. This lightweight, water-resistant pack is made of 600D polyester with a ripstop finish that is durable and comfortable. It features two main compartments, one with a zipper and the other with a drawstring closure for secure storage. The main compartment has a multitude of pockets and slots for tools, lures and other fishing accessories. On the sides, there are 2 mesh pockets for holding water bottles, snacks and other

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Check out the best fly fishing sling packs.

Fly Rods

The best fly rods to pack along for your journey.

Orvis Encounter

At 8 foot 6 inches, the Orvis Encounter is an excellent rod to take into the backcountry. The 5-weight gives you enough play to make fighting medium size trout enjoyable and not too easy. You’ll also be able to throw a woolly bugger or another streamer with ease.

The rod and reel combo is the cherry on top. 

The Orvis Encounter 5-Weight Fly Outfit is a great value rod and reel combo that is perfect for anglers looking to get into fly fishing. It features a lightweight, graphite-composite rod that’s been designed for a wide range of fishing conditions, and a smooth-drag Encounter fly reel. The rod is designed for easy use, as it has a short learning curve and is suitable for beginners. The reel is constructed from high-grade aluminum and features an easy retrieve system with a disc drag for ultimate control on the water. All in all, the Orvis Encounter 5-Weight Fly Outfit is an excellent starter kit for anyone looking to get into the sport of fly fishing.

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Wild Water Fly Fishing Rod and Reel Combo

Wild Water puts out an excellent fly-fishing combo. A 9 foot 5/6 weight is a good choice for backcountry fly fishing. It’s a little longer if fishing under the magnolias of the Appalachians.

A 4-piece rod is crucial to pack into the backcountry. It will fit in any side bottle holder on most backpacks.

The Wild Water Fishing Starter Kit is a comprehensive package designed to provide everything an angler needs to get started. It includes a six-piece rod and reel combo, a tackle box with ninety-one pieces of tackle, a line spooler and bobber, a hand-landing net, and a pair of polarized sunglasses. It also comes with a line clipper and a half-dozen lures, as well as a spare spool and an adjustable rod rest.

This quality kit is an ideal choice for the budget-conscious angler seeking quality equipment for the value. The quality of construction and the artistry of the rod and reel combo stand out, making fishing with Wild Water gear a pleasure. With this starter kit, anglers can go out on the water with confidence and catch plenty of fish.

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Redington Fly Fishing Combo Kit 590-4 Crosswater Outfit

Redington is known in the fly fishing community as a reliable and long-lasting rod. A rod and reel combo is a fantastic option. 

A 9-foot 4-piece rod in a 5-weight is a great choice for any backpacking fly fisherman/woman.

The Redington Crosswater Outfit is a fly fishing kit that includes a 9-foot, four-piece rod, a rod sock and an aluminum reel. The rod is made from a durable and lightweight IM8 graphite blank, and is equipped with stainless steel snake guides and a stripping guide for smooth line retrieval. The reel is pre-spooled with backing, Redington’s RIO Gold Weight Forward Floating Line, and a tapered leader to get you started with your fly fishing journey. With this kit, anglers of all levels can tackle a wide range of species in both fresh and saltwater.

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Moonshine Rod Co. The Drifter Series

The Moonshine Rod is the only rod only option on our list. We love Moonshine rods. The Drifter Series is an excellent choice. 

Moonshine Rod Drifter Fishing Rod is an innovative and efficient rod designed for anglers looking for extra reach and flexibility. It is crafted with a proprietary blend of ultra-light materials and features an ergonomic handle for comfortable handling. The lightweight design makes it easy to carry, and it has a unique matte finish that makes it look great. Additionally, the rod is fitted with a guide that allows anglers to easily adjust the line tension and length.

This rod is perfect for anglers looking for a reliable and efficient rod for all types of fishing. Whether you’re fishing in trout streams, bass ponds, or the ocean, the Moonshine Rod Drifter will ensure that you maximize your success and enjoy the fishing experience.

See our full review of the best Moonshine fly rods.

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Tenkara Rods

Tenkara rods are made for compact fishing. Most rods telescope down to around a foot in length which makes them easy to stow away in a pack. 

Here are our favorites for backpack fly fishing:

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Check out our guide of the best Tenkara fly rods.

Essential Accessories

Fly Boxes

Flies Direct Waterproof Fly Box

Waterproof and durable. This fly box can withstand a beating and be dropped in a stream. You don’t have to worry about your hooks rusting after dropping your box in the water. 

This is a Waterproof Fly Box by Flies Direct, a trusted brand in fly fishing products. This box is constructed with a dual-density foam-locking system on the interior to hold the flies in place while protecting them from moisture. The exterior is made from durable ABS plastic and is buoyant, making it ideal for use in rivers and streams. This box measures 5.5 x 4.25 x 2 inches, making it a great size for storing your favorite fly-fishing flies. The lid features a silicone seal and heavy-duty latch, making it water- and dust-resistant. This box is sure to keep your flies safe, so you can keep on fishing!

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Croch Fly Fishing Box

Waterproof and can hold up to 120 flies including dry and wet flies. 

Croch Designs Floating Assortment is a great way to accessorize your pool or pond. This set includes a variety of vibrant, waterproof floats with fun and modern designs. From vibrant blooms, life like turtles and adorable butterflies, you can create a fun and exciting environment for your pool or pond. This set also comes with an adjustable clip and a 12 month warranty. With its durability and fun designs, this floating assortment is sure to be a great addition to your pool or pond.

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Tippet & Gink

Rio Fly Fishing Tippet Head Gate

Tippet management is annoying. A poorly organized compartment of tippets can cost you hours on the water. No one wants to sit down to untangle tippet spools who decided to dance around in your pack on your hike to the water.

This product is a fishing tippet offered by Fury Fishing Tackle on Amazon. It is a 2X-6X PowerfleX tippet that is made of nylon monofilament and is highly abrasion-resistant. It is a clear tippet that is made with a proprietary blend of ultra-strong polymers that offer greater knot strength and excellent durability. The tippet comes in a variety of sizes, so it is ideal for any anglers who are looking for a tough and reliable tippet that can handle all types of fishing conditions.

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Gehrke-Feets GINK Fly Pro Original Flotant

There’s nothing more annoying than having your dry fly sink. It’s not what fish expect either. Gehrke-Feets Gink is trustworthy and a must-carry when dry fly fishing is a possibility. You don’t want to get caught without it.

Gehrke’s GINK Fly Floatant is a liquid wax-based floatant that is designed to help keep flies and other lures afloat in the water. It is easy to use, as it simply requires one to apply a few drops onto the fly and then gently spread it across the surface with one’s fingers. This formula helps to keep your flies and lures afloat and is easier to spot in the water. It also helps to keep the flies more visible to the fish. Gehrke’s GINK Fly Floatant is an essential item for any serious fly fisherman.

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Wrapping It Up

The above should be enough to get you started in your backpack fly fishing excursions. 

We’ve covered everything from resources to use for researching your trip to the best backpacking packs, day packs, and fly fishing rods for backpacking. 

We’re excited to hear how your trips go. We’d love to feature your trip on our site – send us a note if interested.

Next, we’ll discuss where to go! You’ll want to sign up below so you receive our next article directly in your email inbox. 

Photo by Jp Valery on Unsplash

Contributed by

Travis D.

Travis learned how to fly fish in early 2000 from his dad. Since then he's been obsessed. From fly fishing to fly tying, Travis is enamored. He started Fishing with a Fly to share his passion and what he's learned with others.