ADVENTURE VEST-JACKET
Andrew (Wet) Connell slips into the latest all-weather protection.

Winter in Victoria is, as a rule, both cold and wet. You could choose to become a home-body, but I prefer to fish on regardless. However, you do need good gear to beat the winter chills, and I’ve been using the new All-Weather Vest-Jacket from the Adventure Flyfishing Company.

You inevitably try to stuff far more into a fly vest than is ever needed, but clever design in the Vest-Jacket enables you to comfortably carry as much weight as a pack, in fact an optional insulated pack clips on to the back of the vest/jacket. The vest is also designed to fit a water bladder in the back pocket, as well as providing holders for two rod tubes (serious stuff).

The Vest-Jacket is feature packed. Even as I write, I’m still finding hidden secrets (reading instructions has never been a strong point of mine). From concealed tippet dispensers and tool holders to flip-out slotted fly patches, this vest has everything and more.

The All-Weather Vest-Jacket is made from a breathable waterproof DuPont fabric. It has a removable hood, lower skirt/extension and sleeves, making it suitable for all seasons. It fits all the C&F boxes I carry (2 small and 2 large) with room for two more. The main bottom pockets hold large boxes while both top breast pockets are able to hold two small C&F boxes and fold out, revealing a removable slotted fly patch.

The vest has YKK Aquaguard weatherproof zippers throughout. Another nifty feature is the optional micro light that is housed in a small pocket with the flexible neck sticking out. The adjustable zingers are well placed and accessible while concealed out of harms way. Best of all, on a cold Victorian winter day, are the hand warmer pockets.

The Adventure Flyfishing Company’s range also includes some fantastic hats. The two I chose both have a long peak (there are standard peak versions too) and are made from the same breathable waterproof fabric. One is polar fleece lined with fold-down ear-warmer—this is by far the best winter hat I’ve worn— great for cold mornings and winter polaroiding. The other hat is the non-lined version, which I use when the weather is not so bitter.

Wholesale enquiries to The Adventure Flyfishing Company: 03 9016 3133.
www.theadventureflyfishingco.com