As a hardcore fly fisherman and an outdoors writer, there are always a couple innovative products that catch my eye. A couple newer if not brand new products that are especially attractive are the rod protection and transport systems from Titan Rod Vaults and the new fly boxes soon to hit the market from Umpqua.
Titan Rod Vaults has been around about two years now, but I still field questions as to what they are and where can we get some? These one-of-a-kind products are genius. Doug Bode of Bailey, Colorado designed the rod storage system to allow anglers more time on he water, particularly guides or anybody else who spends multiple days on the water each year. They protect your investment while allowing you to keep you rods fully rigged during transport. This mean more time on the water and secure storage for your backup rod while your fishing or all your rods when you stop along the highway.
Made of high-quality aluminum, these lined tubes feature divided reel housing units for protection from the elements and tangles. Designed with wind resistance and aerodynamics in mind, the lockable Titan Rod Vaults will not make much noise as you shoot down the highway at speeds of 75+. The rod storage system will soon accent any fly fishing rig with attractive silver and black finishes.
In the past couple trips I've taken, both guides have utilized these new rod vaults and had nothing but glowing reviews. As the word of Titan Rod Vaults gets around, you'll be able to find them all over the country. Currently, if your local fly shop doesn't offer them, make a request.
Now that you have a place to store your rod, what about an innovative new fly box for your flies. Coming out in early 2011, look for Umpqua's new UPG Series fly boxes. This is an innovative lineup of fly boxes and there's something for everybody. From a box for big saltwater flies and streamers to a small, yet large box that can hold 274 flies, you'll find a box that caters to your needs.
My personal favorite would have to be the creative Day Tripper. This box is said to be the ideal box for the minimalist. Fly fishers looking to downsize from three medium boxes and only carry one box that can do it all should check out this total package. It will carry all the flies you need for a full day of fishing. It will carry large streamers and dries, but it will also accommodate the smallest “bugs”…all in a package that will fit into your shirt pocket.
Combining micro-slit foam and clever magnetic compartments for easy fly changes with the smallest patterns, anglers will never combat flies again. The foam also offers holes for easy-glide fly placement and the layout allows for a wide variety of configurations. You'll even find headroom for larger patterns for those days you might throw a Stanley Streamer early and then switch to a tiny midge. In addition to function, this new box offers a slim lid and Zerust corrosion protection to ward off any rust when you forget about a wet fly over time.
As for measurements of the Day Tripper, its 4-inch X 6-inch design is only 1.5-inches deep yet still offers double-sided duty for loads of patterns for a week on the water. The unit is also water resistant. If you don't see these boxes in your favorite shop, ask for them by name.
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