What’s in my bag

WHATS IN MY BAG

THE VAALIE

THE VAAL RIVER HAS BEEN FIRING OF LATE. PARYS-AREA GUIDE ANTHEA PIATER SHOWS US WHAT SHE PACKS FOR A GREAT DAY OUT FISHING FOR SMALLMOUTH YELLOWFISH.

Photos. Anthea Piater Archive

Rod: I’m currently using the Reel Fly Fishing TechNymph 10’ 3-weight. It’s lightweight which helps prevent fatigue, and the extra sensitive tip is great for protecting thin tippet and for detecting every bump and bite. It’s extremely flexible and a proper workhorse for hauling in big fish and has stood the test against some challenging carp and cat fish which sometimes surprise you with a take while targeting yellows.

Reel and line: My go-to reel is a Shilton CR3. I love the large arbour as it helps with quick line retrieval when fighting a speeding fish and it’s durability is perfectly suited to the harsh conditions of the Vaal River. I pair it with the Vision Ultra Light Nymph Line which, besides keeping the whole setup light, has a braided core which is a necessity for fighting yellowfish. Leader and tippet: My preferred leader is JMC Kamoufil as it has zero memory, so it can last you many river sessions without ever needing to be changed. For my Indicator line I use Vision Nymphmaniac bi-colour line in yellow and pink, or the Rio Two-Tone, in black and white. And one can’t forget 2mm tippet rings. These little things are super useful as every time you change your tippet you aren’t having to cut away at and shorten your leader or indicator line. Hanak sells refill packs which are super handy. For my tippet I use Stroft or Dragon Nano Crystal because they both have a fine diameter with a high breaking strain. Wading boots: Don’t underestimate the necessity of a good pair of wading boots on the Vaal. Felt soles are preferable as they have better grip than Vibram, especial when wading through salad. I’m currently using the Korkers Buckskin Mary, that come with interchangeable soles. They have high ankle support and extra padding in the sole, which is a game changer when wading long hours through the river. My boots are paired with a set of Orvis neoprene gravel guards which help to keep the grit out. Fly box: I prefer to carry one fly box to keep my pack as light as possible. I use the small Predator swing leaf box with foam inserts. This way I can use three panels for nymphs, and the last panel for “in case” flies such as dry flies, jig buggers and small streamers.

Net:

For guiding clients, I sometimes use a McLean Weigh Net which has a scale in the handle. Otherwise, I use the Predator large aluminium frame net. A deep, wide net is most suitable for yellowfish, and should be tough and lightweight. I use a magnet system to attach my net to the back of my pack for a quick release, with an additional bungee cord attached from the handle to my pack. This in super important so that you don’t lose the net if you drop it in the river. The Reel Fly Fishing Aero Drift floating net is also great because it floats and you won’t lose it in the current.

Pack: I’m using an old USSL Water resistant laptop backpack to carry all my gear on the river. (Yes, I know). One day I will invest in an Orvis sling pack, but it’s been serving me well and I love that it doesn’t weigh a ton and you don’t have a million zips, pockets and gadgets to contend with on the front of your body. It’s small, neat and keeps everything out of my way, with my fly box and tippet holder neatly tucked in the side pouches for quick access.

“ONLY TAKE WHAT YOU REALLY NEED SO YOU CAN KEEP YOUR PACK LIGHT AND COMFY”

Clothing: For ultimate sun protection I wear the Skout Supply hoodies. They are locally manufactured, UV safe and quick-dry, and they offer cuts for both men and women, so they are really comfy. Their patch caps are also a win because you can dry or store flies on-the-go. Tights or quick dry pants are also better suited than waders as they eliminate drag in the current and you won’t overheat during the day.

Sunglasses: I have various pairs of polarised sunnies which help with spotting fish, and prefer the amber tinted lenses as they are suitable for most light conditions. Oh, and a trusty sunglasses’ cord It’s very easy to lose a pair of sunnies to a gushing river.

Sunscreen: I won’t use anything less than a SPF50 water resistant cream, my favourite being the Eucerin Dry Touch Gel Creme which will never ever run into your eyes or leave you with greasy fingers. Extras goodies: Nippers, Wax indicator stick (Mouche or Skafars). This helps improve the visibility of your indicator when light conditions are poor. Ziplock bag - your best bet for water proofing your phone, storing car keys, and keeping snacks dry

Always a safe bet: The Vaal can be harsh and things can break, so it’s good to be prepared so you don’t have to cut your day out on the water short. That’s why I will also carry electrical tape that is useful for mending boots onthe-go, reattaching broken rod eyes, fixing loose reel seats or broken sunnies, and can work as a Band-Aid. Mini cable ties will fix clasps, laces, net magnets and broken straps.

Tips

• If you don’t have felt sole wading boots, grab a pair of long oversized socks that you can wear over your shoes, it will improve your grip while wading.

• Support local brands when buying gear and you won’t bust the bank.

• Less is more. Only take what you really need so you can keep your pack light and comfy and you won’t drop and lose items as you rummage around full pockets looking for things.