Gear Review: Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On
By Jordan Taylor
Why the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On is My New Favorite Travel Companion:
As a fly fisherman and self-proclaimed gear junkie, I’m always on the hunt for tools, gadgets, and equipment that will make my fly fishing easier, more enjoyable, and my trips smoother. There’s something about being prepared for anything that brings me peace of mind – especially when it comes to my gear. If there’s a way to avoid relying on others or worse, being without something I need, I’ll make sure I have it. That’s why I’ve always had a love-hate relationship with carry-on bags. Over the years, I’ve never quite found “the one.” I’ve tried countless bags, but I can’t even remember the last time I used the same luggage for a trip. There always seems to be someone willing to lend me a bag, and honestly, I never thought of my carry-on as an essential piece of gear. Maybe it’s because I’ve had so many duds in the past… But that all changed when I decided to upgrade to the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On from Fishpond.
The Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On: Game Changer:
When I packed for my recent trip to Baja, Mexico, I put the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On to the test. The components and features of this bag surpass any roller duffels currently on the market. The extendable handle is incredibly sturdy and shows no signs of weakness, unlike other bags I’ve used in the past. Many of us have experienced the frustration of a bumpy or loose wheel on a good bag, often leading us to drag it around or eventually toss it out and buy a new one. The wheels on the Stormshadow Rollers are mounted on a fully replaceable axle with off-road wheels featuring ball bearings, ensuring smooth rolling on any surface, no matter the terrain. I’ll be honest, I didn’t expect to be so impressed. But after packing it, rolling it through airports, and seeing how seamlessly it handled all my gear, I knew this bag was a keeper.
The Stormshadow features two main compartments that make it so easy to stay organized. The bottom features a solid, reinforced shell to protect fragile items when the flight attendants are stowing additional bags and slamming down the overhead bins during those “completely full flights” we’re all familiar with. Keep this in mind while packing—place your clothes and softer items in the top section to allow for compression. Whether it’s clothes, toiletries, or extra gear, I was able to neatly separate everything without feeling cramped. It also has a few easily accessible compartments on the outside for your passport, boarding passes, or other small items you will repetitively need without opening your whole bag. This is a much more spacious bag than one can expect from its appearance. The neoprene edges of the bag are a clever touch, allowing me to stretch the bag’s capacity just enough to fit more than I expected – without forcing things in. This is in part due to the incredibly strong YKK Zippers that seal up all of the great compartments it has to offer. The ergonomics of this bag are designed with convenience in mind, featuring compartments and attachment points exactly where you need them. In addition to the previously mentioned features, the bag includes four connection points for Fishpond’s Lariat Gear Straps, allowing you to easily store rod tubes or secure any other gear you want to attach externally.
A Bag That’s Built to Last:
I’ve been a fan of Fishpond gear for years, and for good reason. Over the course of three years guiding salmon and steelhead at Hoodoo Lodge on the Sapsuk and Sandy Rivers in Alaska, I spent thousands of hours in some of the harshest conditions imaginable. One thing I quickly learned is that the only consistency in overnight flyout trips along the banks of the Bering Sea is the inconsistency. Every trip was different, but one thing remained constant: the performance of my gear. Having an extra set of dry clothes on hand can be a game changer when the inevitable happens.
Having already relied on Fishpond’s Thunderhead Sling Pack and Thunderhead Backpack for over six years, I knew I could trust the Stormshadow bag to keep up with my adventures. These bags have been through a lot. Whether I’m wading in waist high water or navigating tough terrain, the Thunderhead lineup’s submersible design has allowed me to push further into the water without worrying about my gear getting soaked. There’s no going back once you realize how liberating it is to not have to think about wet gear. Seriously, I once took a literal dive into the river while crossing a rocky stream – and luckily my waterproof sling pack didn’t bail on me! Not only did they survive, but they saved my dignity too (if you don’t count the minor, ungraceful flailing involved).
Why I Recommend the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On:
Our first sample of the bag came to the shop right before my trip, and I was instantly sold. I bought one right away, and after using this bag on my travels, I can honestly say the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On is worth every penny. If you’re someone who’s tired of dealing with unreliable luggage that doesn’t stand up to the wear and tear of frequent trips, this is the bag you need. Its durability, thoughtful design, and ability to hold everything without a struggle make it my top choice for any Adventure.
If you’re a fisherman like me—or just someone who enjoys traveling with peace of mind—you’ll appreciate the quality and versatility of Fishpond’s gear. Whether you’re hitting the river or heading to the airport, the Stormshadow Rolling Carry-On makes travel more seamless and stress-free.
Trust me, once you try it, you’ll never look at carry-on luggage the same way again. And if you ever find yourself unintentionally taking a swim (like I’ve done too many times), rest easy knowing your gear won’t just survive the adventure—it’ll save you from a soggy disaster.