The pleasure of any nature walk depends on the equipment chosen. A backpack is no exception, it should sit comfortably on your back so that a pleasant rest does not turn into sheer torment. The large volume will allow you to accommodate everything you need, and travelers will not have to carry additional bags and things in their hands. This article will tell you all about the choice of backpacks for hunting and fishing, as well as present a ranking of the best for 2024.
What is the difference between tourist, easel and hunting-fishing bags
Backpacks can be categorized into three types, but the subtle difference between the two is difficult for the inexperienced shopper. Below we will tell you in detail about the features of each type:
- Tourist. This type is used for multi-day travel. It is equipped with a simple or advanced harness. There is always a multi-layer belt on the hips. The straps can be easily adjusted for height. Comfortable backs are ordinary, with foam or profiled with aluminum armor;
- Easel. Bag with an outer frame that precisely follows the shape of the back. They are able to correctly distribute the weight of the load, so that the back is less tired. If you need to transfer hard or angular objects, then the easel type is what you need. With the help of it, it is much more comfortable to do this;
- Hunting and fishing. The main feature is a large number of pockets in which it is very convenient to place everything you need. However, they have a simpler harness, so these backpacks are not suitable for carrying heavy loads, and they are not designed for large volumes.
How to determine the required volume?
The backpack should contain all the necessary things, but a half-empty bag will also cause inconvenience on the road. It is usually packed tightly to just below the tube, as this is considered the most comfortable solution.
The tube and side ties can reduce the backpack by a third, which is why you do not need to choose the most voluminous one. When buying, be guided by the amount of things you plan to carry. They will tell you the required volume.
Also, the required capacity will be indicated by the duration of the trip. There is a huge difference between a 2-3 day supply of food and a 2 week supply.
Much also depends on the season. In the summer, the number of things you need is less than in the fall, as warm spare clothes take up much more space.
Experienced travelers recommend having different sized bags for different types of trekking. Based on their experience, below are tips on how to choose the right volume:
- For one overnight stay, a small backpack of 35 liters will be enough;
- 2-3 days require a size of 60-80 liters;
- More than 5 days you need a bag with a volume of 80-110 liters.
Types of suspensions
When hiking, the load should be evenly distributed, otherwise the back and shoulders will quickly get tired. To do this, the backpack must perfectly match the height. However, standard sizes are rarely suitable for buyers, but manufacturers have found a solution:
- Floating suspension. This type allows you to adjust the place of attachment of the straps. However, it is technologically difficult to create this backpack, so their price is quite high.
- Fixed suspension height. A budget option, but buyers note that often bags over 60 liters are suitable only for people taller than average. Therefore, finding a suitable backpack can be difficult.
- One volume for different growth. Manufacturers sometimes use this type of solution, but rarely. Usually, stores indicate sizes depending on height.
Various elements of the backpack and their functions
It is often difficult for inexperienced hunters and fishermen to figure out what elements of the backpack are for what. For this reason, in the process, it sometimes turns out that they purchased a bag with many unnecessary functions, or vice versa, they were not enough, which is why difficulties arose during the hike. Therefore, below we will tell you in detail about all parts of the backpack:
- Suspended system. How comfortable it will be to carry loads depends on it. Its design consists of several parts:
- Back. Usually divided into three types: hard, semi-hard or soft. Thanks to the rigid loads, it is more comfortable to carry, but the price of such bags is more expensive. The semi-rigid back significantly reduces the pressure on the back and makes it much easier to put things in it. The padded backpacks are lightweight and easier to store.
- Straps. Modern backpacks have anatomical shoulder straps. They fit in the shape of the shoulders, without interfering with the person during movement. There are two types: crescent and S-shaped. The second is more difficult to manufacture, therefore its price is higher, but it distributes the load better.
- Chest strap. Its function is to fasten the straps to the fastener. Thus, they do not diverge in different directions and lie firmly on the shoulders.
- Belt. Secures the satchel and also distributes half the weight of the bag from the back to the hips.
- Shock absorbers. Outside the bag there are soft pads with foam inside. They are needed to ventilate the air between the backpack and the back, so that the body sweats less when walking.
- Tube. This is such a "pipe" at the top of the backpack. It is distinguished from the main body by a lighter fabric. With it, you can adjust the volume of the bag.
- Valve. There are two types: sewn and floating. Sewn on is more convenient to throw on. However, if the satchel is packed too tightly, then this is difficult to do. Therefore, in small backpacks, sewn is most often found, and in bulk, floating. The valve usually has two pockets: an outer and an inner one. The outer one is used for fragile or especially important things: a map, a first aid kit, glasses, and so on. In the domestic money and documents.
- Pockets. Hunting and fishing packs usually have many pockets sewn on for different tasks.
- Lower entrance. Most often found in touring models. It is needed in order to be able to quickly reach items from below without unpacking the entire backpack.
- Attachments for additional loads. They help to more economically arrange the most important and additional things.
- The belts under the bottom are used for a rug or "reserve" for items that do not fit in the bag.
- Side ties. Helps to flatten the satchel and to secure the rug.
- Sling over the tube. If you overfill the backpack, then while walking through the forest, it will tilt to one side. In order to prevent this, a sling is needed. It can also be used to store a jacket.
- Lanyards or lacing on the valve. Their task is to secure the outerwear or raincoat.
- Slings, eyelets and half rings. Additionally, various items are fixed on the knapsack.
Rating of the best backpacks and their manufacturers
A high-quality knapsack guarantees pleasant outdoor recreation. Below we will tell you about the best manufacturers and their products.
Nova Tour Bear 80 km
An easel type of backpack designed specifically for fishing, hunting and long distance hiking. Bag capacity: 80 l. Length: 90 cm, width: 40, depth: 35, weight: 1 kg. Differs in soft construction. This model has a simple adjustment that will take a couple of minutes to fit. The hip belt is quite wide and can carry up to 80 percent of the weight. On the front there is a large zippered pocket and side pockets for long items. There is a drawstring system and a carrying handle. The valve has a special zipped compartment. Buyers claim it is especially good for fishing. The average price is 2500 rubles.
Nova Tour Bear 80 km
Advantages:
- High quality sewn;
- Roominess;
- 100% waterproof;
- Floating valve;
- Excellent fittings;
- Good value for money.
Disadvantages:
- Buyers note that adjusting the waist belt is difficult;
- The padded part is too long, which makes the backpack difficult to fix;
- There is no chest strap.
Nova Tour Bear 120
The backpack can hold 120 liters. Its dimensions: height - 120 cm, width - 60 and thickness - 38. Weight of the product itself: 1.4 kg. It has a comfortable anatomical design. The manufacturer uses durable and wear-resistant material for manufacturing. The product is equipped with strong zippers, which are designed for a long service life. Due to the special impregnation, the bag is not exposed to moisture. Side pockets can easily store long items. The product is also equipped with top and front pockets. There is a top valve. Compression straps will help you fit the backpack to any shape, and the straps can be adjusted to suit your height. The wide waist belt can carry up to 80% of the weight. Average cost: 3000 rubles.
Nova Tour Bear 120
Advantages:
- Durability;
- Large volume;
- Little weight;
- Wide shoulder straps;
- There is a suspension system adjustment.
Disadvantages:
- High price;
- No chest strap.
Nova Tour Snipe
This is a simple, sturdy, time-tested knapsack with kilometers of roads. Its capacity is 55 liters. It's pretty compact. Height - 65 cm, width - 55, depth 40, weight - 800 g. This size provides maximum maneuverability in field conditions. Anatomical design, polyester material. The backpack is as easy to open as a suitcase. The bag does not have a top flap, this is done to increase visibility while walking. There is a front pocket. The main disadvantage is that the fabric of the bag is not protected from water, therefore it is more suitable for hunting. The price is about 1900 rubles.
Nova Tour Snipe
Advantages:
- Low price;
- Durability;
- Well sewn;
- Easy to open;
- There are long ties on the sides;
- There are zip pockets on the sides.
Disadvantages:
- The back and straps are poorly breathable;
- Poorly keeps its shape;
- Not suitable for carrying heavy weight;
- It gets wet during the rain.
Nova Tour Contour 75 km
This model is universal. Inside, 75 liters are free. The type of construction is soft. Features durable fabric and reinforced bottom. The modern harness system allows the backpack to sit firmly on the back. Wide shoulder straps do not cut into the skin and evenly distribute the weight of the load. There are many pockets inside, which are convenient for storing various items. The material is durable, does not absorb dirt and moisture. With zip ties, the bag can be easily adjusted to the desired size. The back is additionally reinforced, so the load on the back is less. Outside there are mounts for additional equipment. Cost: about 2200 rubles.
Nova Tour Contour 75 km
Advantages:
- Durable fabric;
- Affordable price;
- Spacious.
Disadvantages:
- Weak lacing, however, replacement is possible;
- Inconvenient belt.
Aquatic P-50
The satchel is spacious, lightweight and functional. It is made of durable waterproof material. The volume of the bag is 50 liters. Inside the bag is divided into two compartments. The lower one is intended for carrying clothes and shoes, the upper one is for essential things. The product is also equipped with 5 additional pockets and various attachments on the outside.Comfortable anatomical design, soft back and chest strap allow you to comfortably overcome long transitions even with heavy loads. There is a side brace, an upper valve, a partition in the main compartment, a lower entrance. The average cost in stores is 2600 rubles.
Aquatic P-50
Advantages:
- High quality;
- Durability;
- Lots of roomy pockets;
- Strong and reliable locks;
- Sits comfortably on the back.
Disadvantages:
- Sophisticated adjustment system;
- The upper pocket is not waterproof.
Aquatic P-20
The product is practical and ergonomic. Volume - approximately 20 liters, 40 cm high, 30 cm wide and 16 cm deep. Bag with soft construction. There is a special screed. The backpack, in addition to the main compartment, has 4 additional pockets, perfect for fishing. The average price is 1200 rubles.
Aquatic P-20
Advantages:
- Compact;
- Lasting;
- Moisture resistant.
Disadvantages:
PRIVAL Travel
Capacity - 35 liters. Height - 54 cm, width - 28, thickness - 20. Product weight - 700 g. It is compact and lightweight. The type of construction is soft. There is a top flap with a zip pocket, and there are also front and side pockets. A chest strap secures the backpack firmly on the shoulders. Its main feature is the bottom entrance with a clasp. The approximate cost is 2200 rubles.
PRIVAL Travel
Advantages:
- Value for money;
- Spacious;
- Convenient;
- There is a lower entrance;
- Stitched firmly.
Disadvantages:
PRIVAL Kuzmich 55
Multifunctional and lightweight backpack. The bag has a capacity of 55 liters and a carrying capacity of 20 kg. The weight of the product itself is 0.8 kg. Satchel height 60 cm, width 30 cm, thickness 25 cm. Soft construction. The fabric material is not afraid of moisture. There is a side tie and a top flap. The outer side pockets are closed with a double-tab zip for quick access to items inside. Average price: 2000 rubles.
PRIVAL Kuzmich 55
Advantages:
- Convenient and functional;
- Withstands heavy weight.
Disadvantages:
- There is no waist and chest brace.
Tramp Setter
The volume of the bag is 60 liters. Height without top flap - 60 cm, width without side pockets - 35, with them - 65. The product is made of high quality polyester. Soft construction. The backpack has a waist belt, non-removable top flap, front and side pockets. The main feature is a comfortable construction without a rigid frame. The approximate price is 2400 rubles.
Tramp Setter
Advantages:
- Large pockets;
- Functional.
Disadvantages:
- The harness is not height adjustable;
- Narrow waist belt.
HUNTER NOVA TOUR Snipe
Satchel with a volume of 55 liters and a carrying capacity of 25 kg. The weight of the product itself is 0.9 kg. Bag height - 50 cm, width - 37 cm, thickness - 33 cm. Compact dimensions provide good maneuverability while walking. The backpack has a soft construction. There is a hip belt and a side tie. The backpack is equipped with front and side pockets.
HUNTER NOVA TOUR Snipe
Dignity:
- Roominess;
- Comfortable shoulder straps;
- There is moisture protection;
- Value for money.
Disadvantages:
- The fabric is unusual to the touch;
- Poorly retains its shape.
Expert advice on choosing a backpack
In order for a backpack to become a faithful assistant in a hike or fishing trip, you must follow certain criteria when buying:
- The purpose of the sortie will help you choose the right model. Define his main task: to deliver things to a certain place or travel with him for several days.
- The ratio of weight to volume depends on the specific application. For a short hike to the camp, travel by transport, a small bag is enough.
- Of the knapsacks of the same volume, a smaller one in weight is chosen, but not at the expense of strength.
- A heavy or angular load is best carried on a bench type.
- A backpack for hunting and fishing should be chosen with a large number of pockets.
- On a multi-day hike, it is recommended to choose backpacks with side ties that will compress it, and also make it more solid and flat. This type is much easier to carry. During the transition, the owner of this backpack will get tired less.
- The structural elements will help to firmly fix the equipment on the body.Tighter construction ensures comfortable wearing.
- If you are planning to overcome difficult terrain, then purchase a bag that is ideal in height, with a rigid back and a multi-layer belt and shoulder straps.
- It is best to opt for a durable material with a waterproof fabric.
- For hunters, the noiselessness of the material is also important. In order to check it, it is enough to run your hand over the surface of the bag.
- Check the attachment of straps, clips, zippers, buttons, etc. Everything should be reliable and convenient.
- Functionality. Determine for what purpose the bag will serve. Extra devices will only interfere, and their lack will significantly complicate the trip.
- If an empty backpack without load easily retains its shape, then when fully loaded it will not tilt to one side and it will not swell. This is an important criterion, since the mixing of the center of gravity is very tiring along the way.
Conclusion
Hunting and fishing is a traditional hobby that many people enjoy. In order to catch prey, you need to have weapons or fishing rods with you, a supply of food, warm clothing, communication equipment and many other necessary items. It is quite difficult to convey all this in the hands, and a special backpack will easily solve this problem. The right outfit will help you enjoy the outdoors.