Gear I like
Some of this is what I actually fish with. Some of it I've fished enough around, or read and asked enough about, to have an opinion on. Each one says which. I'm still newer at this than a guide or a shop, so treat it as one angler's take.
None of these links pay me anything. If that ever changes, each paid link will say so right next to it.
Packs & storage
Risen Fly Blue Line Pack
In my bagWhy: A wonderful little bag for short trips where you know what you want to fish. Two fly patches, waist and neck straps, and spots to clip tools.
The catch: It's small on purpose, so it's not the bag for a long day or when you're not sure what you'll need.
Kylebooker wader storage bag
In my bagWhy: Wet waders and boots go in one vented bag instead of on the car floor.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Flies & fly boxes
Risen Fly Nymph Fly Assortment I (with SLIM box)
In my bagWhy: Four dozen nymphs, caddis and mayfly patterns with and without beads, in a slim box that fits a pocket. A great selection from a great shop.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Risen Fly Mixed Fly Assortment (with double-sided silicone box)
In my bagWhy: Six dozen dries, nymphs, and streamers with plenty of hatch-matching patterns, in a waterproof double-sided box. A great selection from a great shop.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Tools
Gosknor retractable tether (2-pack)
In my bagWhy: Keeps nippers or forceps clipped on so they don't end up in the river. It stretches 3 to 16 inches.
The catch: It's listed for hunting rangefinders, so don't let that put you off.
Loon Outdoors Ergo Quick Release
In my bagWhy: Gets a hook out fast, especially small flies, so the fish spends less time in your hands.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Loon Outdoors Payette Paste
In my bagWhy: Floatant that keeps dry flies riding high. A little goes a long way.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
SF rubber-mesh net with magnetic release
In my bagWhy: Rubber mesh is easier on fish and flies don't tangle in it. The magnet keeps the net on your back until you need it.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Books & guides
Keystone Fly Fishing (Ramsay, Heck, Lichvar, Kell, Rothrock)
In my bagWhy: A water-by-water guide to Pennsylvania's best trout streams.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Pocketguide to Pennsylvania Hatches (Meck & Weamer)
In my bagWhy: Which bugs hatch when, small enough to carry.
The catch: Nothing I've run into yet.
Last updated September 2026