Jobs that probably don't suck...Trout TV Hostess

Wherein we realize that we have some pretty talented and cool friends in the fly fishing industry... More info soon about FlyfishMagazine contributor, Hilary Hutcheson's latest media project.

Gear Review: fishpond Tundra Tech Pack

When fishpond mentioned they were sending me the new Tundra Tech Pack to test this fall, I got all Pavlovian. Who knew I could drool so much?! And when I got it out for an overnight on the Bitterroot River near Missoula, Montana, it didn't disappoint. The Tundra Tech Pack is a great piece for short backpacking trips. Fishermen know it's a pain to stuff your fly pack into your regular backpack...and no one likes to hike in a vest with accessories banging around. The Tundra keeps everything contained in well-considered compartments.

There is enough room in the 1525 cubic inches of storage space to fit all the overnight gear you need. (But not quite enough room for more than two nights unless you're an expert at minimalist camping.) The removable chest pack can clip on to the back of the pack when you're hiking and to the front when you get to the river. And, it completely separates from the pack so you can leave the big gear at camp and just wear the front pouch while you're fishing. The backpack's molded back and internal frame make it very comfortable and easy to haul heavy gear. There's a 100 oz hydration reservoir, a d-ring to attach your net, and a loop for a wading staff. If you're a smaller-sized fisherman, you'll have to cut quite a bit of length from the tightening straps...they come long enough to fit around any fisherman's keg-sized belly. The large mesh pocket on the outside of the pack is great for letting wet wading socks air out as you hike.


There are two internal rod sleeves that are the perfect size for 4pc rods, but I don't think it's deep enough for a 3pc. I chose not to bring the rod case, just to save on weight and room...but my 3pc stuck up too high and I kept hitting the rod on branches as I bushwhacked to the river.


The fishpond Tundra Tech Pack is a great solution for anyone who likes to keep their gear organized and contained as they hike into high mountain lakes or streams. I know the picture above doesn't make the pack look like it holds a lot, but I have a one-man tent, camping pad, food, water, hat, gloves and emergency supplies in there.

(The chest pack is sold separately as the Deep Creek for $79). MSRP: $239
Available Now

http://www.fishpondusa.com/

IFTD Coverage: Hilary Hutcheson Live from the show floor

Our favorite television star / PR guru / and FlyfishMagazine.com correspondent, Hilary Hutcheson will once again be roaming the show floor at the International Fly Tackle Dealer Show, September 9-11th. She will be scoping out all the new products for our readers while attempting to take photos of industry types in compromising situations for blackmail purposes (not as hard as it sounds). Stay tuned for your personal look at this industry insider only show.

And The Latest Fly Fishing Industry Rumor is....

Industry insiders have reported that Outside Media PR Guru, Hilary Hutcheson (who provided coverage of this year's Fly Fishing Retailer show for our readers) is heading to Patagonia next week . We asked her to pick up one of those righteous SST wading Jackets for us, only to find out at the last minute that she is not going to the famous apparel store but rather going to visit geographical area of the world famous for trout fishing and known by the same name.

Since we didn't get our jacket we have told her that she could make it up to us by providing regular updates about her fishing adventures. Be sure to watch for them here next week and also on her blog aptly named "Holler." You can also follow her exploits via twitter @OutsideHilary.

Guest Blogger: Hilary Hutcheson

Industry types attending this year's Fly Fishing Retailer show in Denver, CO might just get a bit of a surprise when FlyFishMagazine shows up on their door step. This year instead of ruffians like Jay Moore and myself, FlyfishMagazine will be represented by a much more talented journalist.

We are pleased to announce that Hilary Hutcheson, PR Director for Outside Media will be our eyes and ears on the show floor. Look for posts from Hilary for the duration of the show about everything from new gear to industry scuttlebutt. We will also be closely monitoring the amount of schwag and free drinks that Hilary racks up and comparing it to our take from previous shows. Be forewarned, if she snags more than two middle aged balding guys we are fully prepared to have our corporate counsel draft a strongly worded letter.

Stay tuned for Hilary's unique view from the show floor during this year's Fly Fishing Retailer Show.