Miscellaneous Equipment
Here is some miscellaneous equipment that elevates the trout bfs experience.
Quality comes first, function over appearance, and lightweight is the key element we look for.
Below are some findings we enjoy.
Net:
Backcountry trout fishing requires a quality landing net to properly catch and release wild fish.
A soft rubber basket is our choice.
The proven models are the ones hanging on the backs of professional guides who guide over 250 days a year in harsh environments… self-explanatory.
We (amateur) exclusively use Fishpond nets, in 3 sizes depending on fish size and field:
Nomad Native, Emerger and El Jefe.
One thing to note: an expert guide’s focus is landing the client's fish effectively and securely, so they choose oversized models that are too big to carry around for individual use.
In most cases, smaller models are available in the same series.
If you target large fish, choose the biggest basket you can carry, with a lightweight frame.
Consider the net length too. Fish gain more leverage with less line out, and the rod is in an extreme bend when landing, especially a short rod.
Numerous "fish of the day" grade fish escape right in front of the net.
If you want to increase your catch rate, it’s better to select a largest net as possible.
There are different types of rubber baskets on the market.
Choose a thin, lightweight basket such as the Fishpond Replacement Rubber, which is safe for fish and very durable.
Inexpensive rubber baskets are usually heavier, harder and less durable, so we stay away from those.
Net baskets do break from bushwhacking and accidents often.
We stick with authentic replacement baskets for stress-free angling.
The smooth surface finish on a carbon frame keeps fish from getting scratched.
A high-quality carbon frame can last decades and pile up memorable moments with you, along with a cool patina.
Choose a model that floats, so if the net comes loose in the current it’s much easier to find downstream.
Aluminum frames are lightweight, cost effective, and add a nostalgic touch.
High-quality neodymium magnets can hold the net on your back, out of the way during every type of cast.
Keep the magnet surface free of magnetite sand for a secure connection.
A durable cord can hold the net handle tight to your body, so it doesn't swing while hiking.
A collapsible net is an awesome space-saver for tiny creeks that need miles of hiking through forest and bushwhacking through thorny jungle.
One drawback of the collapsible: the stainless frame can bend in the current and tip over with a large fish inside.
We enjoy taking the collapsible to tiny creeks with many shallow landing spots, where only 16in and smaller fish live.
Photogenic effect:
Taking photos of the stunning beauty of wild fish is a treat of trout bfs.
A small net makes the fish look larger, and a large net makes it look smaller.
A 20in fish hanging over a 14in basket on the river bed looks impressive. But the same 20in fish kept in the water in an 18in basket length net, 12in deep, looks half its actual size.
Your own balance between photos and a higher landing ratio decides the best model.
Bag:
A double-strap submersible backpack certainly gives the best comfort and enough volume for a long hike.
Sling and lumbar types give quick access to what's inside.
Our favorite is the Filson Dry Sling Pack, which is now discontinued. 😢
It's a good idea to add up the total volume of your items for each season.
For example, extra outerwear for the cold season, more liquids for the warm season, etc.
Add a little extra room for easier access, and there is your ideal bag size.
Waterproof is a must for trout bfs.
Minnow container:
Meiho is the only brand we've bought for decades, for its quality and function in any kind of angling. Meiho is finally here in the US.
Anglers need to change minnows securely in 30mph wind and fast current, standing waist-deep.
A common condition at high elevations.
With hooks tangled and minnows bunched up in a single compartment, there is a higher chance of dropping the whole bunch into the current.
Line clipper:
Trimming the excess tag ends means bits of vegetation are less likely to stick to the leader knot. This increases bites, because wild fish hardly ever commit to a minnow with tiny grass stuck on its nose.
The blade must be sharp and durable to trim high-density quality PE tag ends.
The blade of our Snow Peak line clipper stayed sharp for over 12 years. Unfortunately, it was discontinued a while ago.
Off topic info…
This superior product was crafted for Snow Peak by artisans of Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata.
The region is famous as a "manufacturing town" where hardware and western tableware production flourishes.
You've likely heard of “SUWADA” nail clippers and “TOJIRO” kitchen knives, both specialty products made in Tsubame-Sanjo.
The MC Line Cutter by DAIICHISEIKO has been our choice for the last 4 years.
Save the blade's sharpness by only cutting line, and the occasional hangnail.
Forceps:
Wild fish hardly ever swallow minnows, but it does happen about once every few hundred catches, especially with smaller 45mm minnows and large, active fish.
Brown with a 65mm minnow, hooked deep :(
Forceps are the last hope for removing a barbless single hook that is deep inside the mouth.
The fish’s survival rate is low, but slightly higher than leaving the hardbait in its mouth for a slow death.
Anglers must carry forceps long enough for this. We carry Cultiva (Owner) FT-06 Multi Forceps size M for those unfortunate incidents.
Other helpful goodies: a compact line trash case, leader case, belt rod holder, waterproof pouch, and a thermometer if your hand-skin gauge isn't accurate.
Leader spools must be protected in neoprene or a case.
A little nick on the leader may cost us the fish of the day.
A tape measure is great for accurately measuring fish, but only if it can be done quickly.
Measuring marks on the net frame are the quickest, and ideal for a quick release.
Cool gadgets make trout bfs stylish and efficient. The key is to stay light and carry only what we need.
Efficiency creates more time for catching.
