Built for the Water - Baptized in the Marsh

HellaDry - Waterproof Hip Pack

Product Review

I grew up a bit of a gear head. All those years camping and backpacking in the Appalachian mountains taught me one thing - a backpack is the best way to carry gear, but not always the easiest to access. So I started hiking with a hip pack in addition to my backpack. This allowed me to access gear like snacks, a multitool, first aid gear, a flashlight all while hiking and never having to take my backpack off. But when I started fly fishing, I forgot that lesson. I opted for a heavy duty dry backpack or roll top to carry my gear, but every time I needed new flies, leader, tippet, my camera, or a snack, I had to find a dry flat area to take off my pack and get my gear out. After years of being frustrated by toting a backpack onto the water I decided to make a change.

Hip Pack’s have always been efficient, but not always the most comfortable or practical. The Hella Dry Waterproof Hip Pack is the exception. They have created a piece of gear that is tough, comfortable, accessible and looks awesome. After spending some time in the saltwater marsh with this Hip Pack, its hard for me to consider any other way to carry and store my fly fishing gear.

From the first trip, it was clear this pack wasn’t just another accessory—it’s a purpose-built tool for anglers who spend real time wading, paddling, and grinding it out in tough conditions.I’ve put it through the paces chasing fish in tidal creeks, flooded spartina flats, riverbanks, and even fishing out of a kayak—and it hasn’t missed a beat.

First Impressions

Right out of the box, the first thing that stands out is how rugged this pack feels. This isn’t some lightweight, flimsy waist pack you baby along. It’s built to take abuse.

The material is thick, waterproof, and clearly designed with water and mud in mind. The zippers, seams, and attachment points all feel overbuilt - in a good way -like they’re ready for years of use, not just a season or two.

And the storage? It’s not just “good” - it’s seriously impressive.

On-the-Water Performance

I tested this pack the way I fish—moving constantly, climbing in and out of a boat, wading through mud, hopping over rocks, and dealing with everything the water throws at you.

The waterproof reliability is where the Hella Dry really shines.Whether it was spray coming over the bow in the kayak or water pushing up against me while wading deeper water, everything inside stayed bone dry. Phone, camera, fly boxes—you name it, it stayed protected.

That peace of mind alone is worth it.

Storage That Actually Works

A lot of packs claim to have “plenty of storage,” but few deliver in a way that’s actually usable on the water.

This one does.

There’s room for:

• Multiple fly boxes

• Leaders and tippet

• Tools (pliers, nippers, etc.)

• Wallet

• Phone

• Keys

• Snacks

• Water

• Camera

• Rain Jacket

And it’s all organized in a way that doesn’t turn into a cluttered mess during your trip.

You don’t have to pick and choose what to bring — you can carry what you need, and space for a little extra.

Comfort & Fit

This is a big one, especially if you’re wade fishing long days on the water.

The Hella Dry Hip Pack rides comfortably without bouncing around or digging into your side. Even loaded down, it stays secure and balanced. The side straps can be adjusted for maximum comfort on your hips, and the pack stays secure.

Whether I was walking mud flats, climbing into the kayak, or standing and casting for hours, it never felt like a burden.

Built for More Than Just Wading

While it’s clearly designed with wade anglers in mind, this pack transitions seamlessly into other setups.

• Kayak Fishing: Easy access, stays out of the way, stores well in small spaces, and keeps the essentials dry

• Canoe or Raft Trips: This pack can be secured like a boat bag, allowing for plenty of room for other gear, and quick access to fly boxes, tippet, leader, and other tools

• Non-fishing Travel: Makes a solid grab-and-go pack for day hikes or mountain bike rides

It’s one of those rare pieces of gear that adapts to however you spend time outdoors.

Durability in Harsh Conditions

Saltwater is unforgiving. Between corrosion, sand, mud, and constant moisture, gear either holds up—or it gets destroyed. So far, this pack has proven it belongs.

After repeated trips in the marsh:

• No seam issues

• No zipper failures

• No signs of breakdown

It’s the kind of durability you want when you’re investing in new gear

Price vs. Value

One of the most surprising parts of this pack is the price point.

For something this well-built, fully waterproof, and loaded with storage, it comes in at a very reasonable price—especially compared to other premium fishing packs on the market.

You’re getting high-end performance without the high-end markup.

Final Thoughts

The Hella Dry Waterproof Hip Pack has quickly earned a permanent place in my setup.

It solves a lot of the common problems that I and other anglers deal with—wet gear, limited storage, uncomfortable carry—and this pack does it in a way that feels intentional and well-designed.

If you spend time on the water, especially in the salty marshes, creeks, or tidal estuaries, this is one of those pieces of gear that just makes your day easier.

And at the end of the day, that’s what good gear is supposed to do.

Check it out here - https://helladrygear.com/collections/waterproof-bags/products/waterproof-hip-pack