JAPANESE manufacturer C&F Design’s minimalist approach to fly fishing is evident yet again in its new Lightweight Chest Stack (LCS).
It was the Japanese, of course, who gave us tenkara – the ultimate in minimalist fly fishing, where even the fly reel could be dispensed with! While C&F isn’t advocating this approach, the LCS-1 reflects this traditional fishing method where the focus is on catching trout, rather than the obsession with gear and the need to carry enough of it to meet every eventuality.
Essentially, the C&F Design LCS-1 is a hi-spec gear lanyard, which retains all the elements of its standard lanyard – a popular item among professional guides – but by incorporating a landing-net holder and lightweight fly box, the LCS-1 effectively replaces the traditional fly vest.
The lightweight fly box, around which the lanyard is built, features 18-bars of micro-slit foam which will comfortably hold around 180 flies, and a magnetic sheet that will accommodate many more. There are eight snap attachments to hold tools such as forceps, nail-knotters, clippers, etc, and a tippet holder capable of holding up to three spools of tippet material. A set of Velcro tabs is included, which can be affixed to the fly box to enable an additional lightweight fly box to be attached or ‘stacked’.
The LCS-1 also features a retaining clip for attachment to your shirt or jacket. It’s a thoughtful touch that will prevent the LCS-1 from swinging out from your chest when bending over to release a fish when negotiating your way through thick scrub or over a wire fence. Adjustable cord length allows the lanyard to be adjusted to suit the wearer.
Most fly fishers would admit to carrying far more gear in their vests than they need. A box of favourite flies, spare leader and some tippet material are all that’s really needed for a great day’s fishing.
The C&F Design LCS-1 weighs in at a mere 100g and is likely to prove a cure for those of us looking to shed heavy, bulging fly vests!
For more information, visit: www.mayflytackle.com.au/C&F
