This review dives deep into the Wynd Fly Box, a new contender in the world of fly fishing accessories. The author, a self-proclaimed fly-tying enthusiast with a sizable collection of fly boxes, shares their in-depth experience with this innovative product. Beyond the initial impression of a standard plastic box, the Wynd Fly Box reveals unique features designed to streamline the fishing experience. Expect a detailed look at its compact design, removable foam insert, and the overall practicality for anglers who prefer pre-rigged flies. We'll explore both the strengths and weaknesses, considering factors like durability, portability, and potential areas for improvement.This comprehensive assessment covers the box's usability, organization capabilities, and suitability for various fly sizes and angler needs. We'll examine how effectively the well-spaced slots accommodate both large and small flies, and delve into the convenience of the removable foam insert for secure storage and easy access. The review includes considerations for long-term use and addresses potential drawbacks such as the durability of the plastic clip and the lack of waterproof sealing. Ultimately, this review aims to provide a balanced perspective on the Wynd Fly Box, helping you decide if it's the right addition to your fly fishing gear.
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Excessive Fly Box Collection
I must admit, I have what some might consider an excessive collection of fly boxes. This isn't entirely surprising, as I'm a self-proclaimed fly-tying enthusiast. My passion often leads to quickly filling these boxes with my creations.
This review focuses on the Wynd Fly Box, a new addition to my collection. My initial impression was that it was another inexpensive, mass-produced plastic box, but a closer look revealed some unique features.
Portability and Design
The Wynd Fly Box fits easily into my chest pack and even a large bellows pocket on a waterproof jacket. Its compact size and design make it perfect for carrying on the go.
The box features a removable foam insert. This allows for pre-rigged flies to be stored securely, eliminating the need for on-the-spot rigging.
This convenient feature is especially helpful when dealing with smaller flies and for those with less-than-perfect eyesight.
Functionality and Features
The foam insert slots hold pre-made rigs securely. This is a lifesaver, especially for those of us who like to prepare in advance, ensuring a smooth fishing experience.
The box is closed by a simple plastic clip. The fly box itself is manufactured by Up Haven Fly Fishing and features a subtle logo on the bottom right corner.
On-the-Water Performance (Limited due to lockdown)
Unfortunately, due to lockdown restrictions, I couldn't demonstrate the Wynd Fly Box's performance on the water during the video. The footage shown was filmed in previous months.
Despite this, the box shows great promise for keeping pre-rigged flies organized and readily accessible, especially for smaller hooks and those with eyesight limitations.
Detailed Assessment of Features
The slots in the box are well-spaced, making it easy to access and insert flies. Many other fly boxes have slots that are too close together, especially problematic with smaller flies.
The removable section is a fantastic feature, allowing you to efficiently store and organize pre-made rigs, streamlining the fishing process. There’s ample room for a generous supply of flies.
Areas for Improvement and Conclusion
While the Wynd Fly Box offers a great concept, some improvements could enhance its functionality. The box could benefit from being slightly thinner for better portability and a waterproof seal for protection against water damage.
The plastic clip is a concern for long-term durability. While it seems secure for now, it may weaken with extended use. This is important for a device that needs to be reliable in varied and sometimes harsh conditions.
Overall, the Wynd Fly Box is a promising fly-fishing accessory with some excellent features. While minor improvements such as waterproof sealing and sturdier clasp would make it even better, the innovative design and convenient features make it a worthwhile purchase for any angler, especially those who pre-rig flies.