Anyone use the Fishpond Thunderhead Hip Pack?

[runejl]

Hi-

Just wondering if any of you all have used the Fishpond Thunderhead Hip pack, and if so curious of your thoughts on it?

I have used a number of different slings packs and find myself always just taking them off and leaving them on the bank while I fish. The one hip pack that I used in the past didn't have a shoulder strap and would always sag so it got the same treatment as the sling packs.

Thanks for any advice,
Josh

 

[O' Clarkii Stomias]

Hi-

Just wondering if any of you all have used the Fishpond Thunderhead Hip pack, and if so curious of your thoughts on it?

I have used a number of different slings packs and find myself always just taking them off and leaving them on the bank while I fish. The one hip pack that I used in the past didn't have a shoulder strap and would always sag so it got the same treatment as the sling packs.

Thanks for any advice,
Josh

I found the thunderhead a bit too much for my liking, too bulky. I have the switch back pro which I really like. I also will vouch for the quality of fishpond products and their customer service.

 

[cedarslug]

I haven't used the Thunderhead hip pack, but I do have a Patagonia submersible hip pack. If you haven't used or handled a submersible pack before, just a heads up, those waterproof zippers can be tricky to open one handed.

I do have a Fishpond Waterdance hip pack and like it a lot. It has a shoulder strap for support, and doesn't feel too bulky. The zippers are easier to pull one handed, however, it isn't waterproof.

 

[ColinShots]

Another non-direct comparison, but I also have a Patagucci waterproof hip pack. It's comfortable enough with the shoulder strap. The main zipper is a bit a of a chore to open and close, even if you keep it lubed. The Thunderhead's main zipepr is a different design, so maybe it's easier. One issue I have with all waterproof slings and hip packs is the lack of organization in them. The Patagonia has one big main pocket, and then a very small zippered pocket on the front (maybe the Thunderhead is different, but it's had to tell from the pictures. It looks very similar).

 

[Jake Watrous]

They make a smaller one now that I wish I had instead, but it’s nice—just a little bulky.

Wish it had internal dividers.

 

[Scottybs]

Josh,

I’ve had a Simms waterproof and now have the Thunderhead hip. Honestly despite it being a little bulkier I like it more than the Simms due to I can pack a lot more, extra water, pbj, sunscreen can. I use it primarily for flats fishing. Good luck!

 

[runejl]

I bought the small version a few weeks ago and have been pleased with it so far. It wont fit a ton of gear, but it will fit enough. It rides on my hip without slipping down thanks to the additional sling strap. Comfortable and easy to use.

 

[Eastside]

They make a smaller one now that I wish I had instead, but it’s nice—just a little bulky.

Wish it had internal dividers.

They sell divider inserts for those. I bought their sling pack and will probably spring for the divider at some point.

 

[SpawnFlyFish]

I use one and love it but I would agree with Jake, the smaller one makes more sense and is great. We have the smaller ones in the shop and I have been itching to pull one out of inventory. If I was to recommend one it would be the smaller size!

 

[Zak]

I haven't used the FP hip sack, but I have a small FP Thunderhead shoulder bag (that could be used as a chest pack if I had a FP brand backpack). It is a great little piece of gear, waterproof as long as I remember to close the zipper, and just the right size for a few hours on the beach.