LATEST RELEASES SALAD BAR

UMPQUA - BOAT BOX

We love that there was someone in the R&D department at Umpqua who has felt the frustration of needing to re-rig fast when the fishing is hot, but had to waste time searching through fly boxes. That sentiment comes through in the design of Umpqua’s Boat Boxes, which feature slotted foam internally on the top and bottom lid, but they have also ingeniously added one external slotted foam sheet for easy drying, organising, or quick access to your flies while fishing. The thick, durable foam features fly placement guides to easily identify where the slots are located. Available in Baby, Ultimate (medium), and Magnum sizes. umpqua.com, xplorerflyfishing.co.za

PATAGONIA - BLACK HOLE ROD CASE

Finally! Patagonia have been churning out quality fishing packs and bags from their Stealth and Guidewater ranges, but we were wondering when they would make a rod bag. Voila – the Black Hole Rod Case, categorised in their Black Hole range known for savvy design, cavernous space, and toughness. Built from sturdy 100% recycled fabric that is coated with a recycled thermoplastic polyurethane laminate, this case should withstand decades of fishing trips. At 91cm long it is big enough to fit four-piece rods of up to 3.35m. Modular internal storage dividers and two external pockets allow you to organise your reels, lines, tools and other stuff, while your carrying options include an adjustable shoulder strap and a grab handle that can be slipped over the handle of rolling luggage for easier movement through airports. As always when it comes to Patagonia, it is Fair Trade Certified sewn. patagonia.com, xplorerflyfishing.co.za

RIO - PREMIER BANK ROBBER FLY LINE

If André Stander from the infamous Stander Gang had pulled a Thabo Bester and was in fact alive and well, living in Lesotho and fishing hoppers on the Bokong River, this would be his go-to line. The Premier Bank Robber is designed specifically for presenting terrestrials, stoneflies, and other large dry flies as close to the bank as possible. Its fine front taper enables precise, accurate casts, the rear-loaded head easily carries the bushiest patterns, and a long back taper allows for easy mending and an extended drag free drift. There’s also a unique bright green section located towards the rear of the head for identifying the ideal lengths for loading the rod. Made with a harder SlickCast coating than Rio’s standard trout lines, you’ll find the Bank Robber easy to shoot (dadumtish) right up on the banks even on the muggiest summer days. Available in 5- and 6-weights. farbank.com, xplorerflyfishing.co.za

THE MISSION - PINK EYE CAMO TRUCKER

Not quite Duck Dynasty, but also not quite high fashion either, our Pink Eye Camo Trucker blends in and stands out. Sporting a 70s foam trucker style with a more modern slightly curved visor, it’s as at home bundu bashing for bass as it is at the bar. Conjunctivitis not included. themissionflymag.com