My 7-Ounce Ultralight Fly Fishing Kit for Backcountry Adventures

If you’ve ever dreamed of catching trout miles away from the nearest road, you know every ounce in your pack matters. That’s why I put together an ultralight fly fishing kit that weighs just seven ounces—perfect for long-distance trails like the Uinta Highline.

In this video, I walk through every piece of gear I carry:

• Dragon Tail Tenkara Rod (Talon Mini): A Japanese-style telescoping rod that extends to 12 feet but weighs only 3.5 ounces. Its fixed-line system makes casting simple and effective.

• Ultralight Gear Bag: A 3.5-ounce Z-pack-style bag that organizes all my fishing essentials.

• Essential Tools: Nippers, floatant for dry flies, and forceps for safe fish handling.

• Lines and Tippet: Two lightweight lines (braided and level) plus 5X tippet for versatility.

• Fly Selection: A minimalist fly box with proven dry flies like Elk Hair Caddis and foam patterns, plus nymphs for subsurface action.

I’ve tested this kit in the Sierra and Appalachian Mountains with great success, and I’m excited to try for Arctic Grayling on the Uinta Highline Trail—a bucket-list fish for me.

If you’re curious about how to keep your pack light without sacrificing fishing fun, watch the full video. It’s packed with tips for ultralight anglers who love exploring remote waters.

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