Fishing Gear 101: The Best Fishing Vests of 2023

Next to your actual bait and tackle, a good fishing vest may be the most important piece of fishing gear you own. A quality fishing vest provides ample storage space for hooks knives or other small equipment, keeps essential items close at hand, and helps you stay organized on the water.

Still, a good fishing vest is an investment and not a choice that should be made lightly. We’ve done the heavy lifting for you and have found the top 7 fishing vests to buy in 2023. To make life easier for you, we’ve included the fishing vest brand, features, and cost. 

1. Simms G3 Guide Vest

The Simms G3 Guide Vest is unquestionably the top-of-the-line option for anglers who demand the best in quality and performance. In addition to a wide range of pockets, the vest has several sturdy attachment points for your fishing gear. Added storage comes in the form of two large back pockets and a fly patch. The vest also features a built-in retractor and magnetic docking station for holding tools and accessories. Priced at around $249 the vest is certainly an investment, but a worthwhile one that will last.

Click here to read about Ice Fishing Sleds: The Easiest Way to Haul Winter Fishing Gear 

2. Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Vest

The Patagonia Swiftcurrent Expedition Vest is a versatile and lightweight option suitable for all kinds of anglers and environments. The multiple front pockets and one large back pocket offer plenty of storage. There are also several attachment points for your fishing gear. It’s pretty light, and made from breathable and quick-drying materials, so it’s appropriate for both cold and warm weather. A built-in net holder and tool loops give easy access to your most essential tools. This vest is priced at around $179, so while not the least expensive, it delivers quality and utility. 

3. Orvis Ultralight Vest

The Orvis Ultralight Vest is for the angler who prizes simple functionality above all else.  Made from lightweight materials, it features a range of pockets and attachment points but isn’t heavy or bulky. There’s a large back pocket in addition to the front pockets and a built-in rod holder and tool loops make getting your gear convenient. Priced at around $179, you can’t go wrong with this functional design. 

Click here to read about Hooked on Columbia: The Best Columbia Fishing Shirts in 2023

4. Fishpond Nomad Guide Vest

The Fishpond Nomad Guide Vest delivers is another upper-tier vest in terms of price that delivers in spades. It’s made from durable, high-quality materials and offers a bit more style than most fishing vests. It has plenty of storage space for fishing essentials that includes a range of pockets and attachment points. A built-in net holder and tool loops mean easy access to everything you need. This vest is priced at around $249.

5. Umpqua Swiftwater Tech Vest

The Umpqua Swiftwater Tech Vest is a mid-level vest for those who prioritize staying dry. Made from water-resistant materials, it has a large back pocket in addition to a good number of front pockets. Though not the most expensive fishing vest, it still comes with some bells and whistles like a built-in rod holder and tool loops. It’s well worth the approximately $179 you’ll invest in it. 

6. Redington First Run Vest

For the angler on a budget, The Redington First Run Vest does the trick. It’s made from durable material and has a large back pocket and multiple front pockets. The low price point of $99 won’t cost you any convenience – the vest has a built-in rod holder and tool loops. 

Click here to read about Rolling with Ease: The Top Kayak Carts in 2023

7. Columbia PFG Mesh Vest

The versatile Columbia PFG Mesh Vest is a low-cost, but still quality option for a variety of fishing environments. It’s lightweight and quick-drying, with both front pockets and a large back pocket. Tool loops and a rod holder keep your hands free when necessary, too. Priced at around $50, you can’t beat the utility for the cost. 

Regardless of where you’ll be fishing or your budget, as this list shows finding the right fishing vest isn’t too difficult. All will offer plenty of storage space, convenient attachment points, and built-in features such as rod holders and tool loops. You’ll be well prepared for your next big fish story with any of these options.