Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack: Trusted Protection for Serious Adventures

The Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack redefines waterproof storage for anglers who venture into challenging conditions. From Alaskan backcountry to Antarctic ice fields, professionals trust the Thunderhead line to protect critical gear. This fully submersible backpack combines bombproof construction with intelligent organization, keeping your cameras, electronics, flies, and essentials completely dry—whether you're boat fishing choppy water, bushwhacking along stream banks, or caught in a Lowveld thunderstorm.

True Submersible Protection

This isn't water-resistant. It's not water-repellent. The Thunderhead Backpack is fully submersible, constructed with 900D TPU-coated NewStream recycled fabric that resists punctures, abrasions, and the elements. The main compartment features a self-healing TRU Zip waterproof zipper that creates an airtight seal. Your gear stays bone-dry even when the pack goes underwater—a critical feature for float tubing, boat fishing, or wading deeper runs.

Built for South African Conditions

Highveld Dams: Perfect for Sterkfontein or Jozini boat fishing where waves and spray threaten electronics and fly boxes. The 28-litre capacity holds everything for a full day on the water.

Coastal Adventures: Handles saltwater environments with sealed construction and TPU-coated fabric. Ideal for estuary fishing or surf launches where gear protection is non-negotiable.

Mountain Streams: Carries tackle for technical stream fishing while protecting camera gear during the hike in. The sturdy harness system distributes weight comfortably on long approaches to Western Cape or Drakensberg waters.

Float Tubing: The ultimate float tube companion. Everything you need stays accessible yet protected, even when launching or landing in deeper water.

Intelligent Organization System

Main Compartment: Roll-top TRU Zip closure provides generous opening for easy packing. Fits multiple large fly boxes (including SA yellowfish boxes), camera gear, extra reels, rain jacket, and lunch. Interior includes removable zippered pocket and clear stash pocket for small items.

Front Splash-Proof Pocket: Water-resistant zipper compartment for items needing quick access—tippet spools, leaders, tools, sunscreen.

External Attachment System: Coated webbing daisy chain, D-rings, and four-way attachments on back panel. Compatible with Fishpond's Thunderhead Submersible Pouch, water bottle holders, and other accessories. Hypalon attachment points on shoulder straps for radios or GPS units.

Rod Security: One set of Lariat gear straps included, positionable on left or right side. Holds 2-piece or 4-piece rods securely. Compatible with Fishpond's Quikshot Rod Holder 2.0 for quick-change rod carrying (sold separately).

Net Scabbard: Secure attachment points for landing nets, keeping hands free for casting and wading.

All-Day Comfort Engineering

The Thunderhead doesn't just protect gear—it carries comfortably for hours. Lightweight foam shoulder straps, padded hip belt, and moulded back panel distribute weight efficiently. The hip belt removes completely and adjusts vertically for different torso lengths. Sternum strap keeps the pack stable during active movement or rough water. Coated webbing haul handle assists with loading and repositioning.

Modular Chest Pack Compatibility

The Thunderhead integrates seamlessly with Fishpond chest packs via modular buckles on shoulder straps and hip belt. Compatible with:

Thunderhead Submersible Chest Pack
Canyon Creek Chest Pack
San Juan Chest Pack
Cross-Current Chest Pack
Sagebrush Mesh Vest front panel

This system lets you configure your carry for specific conditions—full backpack for travel and boat days, chest pack addition for wading access to flies and tools.

Cyclepond Environmental Commitment

Every Thunderhead Backpack is constructed from 100% recycled single-use plastic water bottles through Fishpond's Cyclepond program. The NewStream recycled fabric maintains full durability and waterproof performance while eliminating petrochemical use. Tough enough for professional use from Alaska to Antarctica, responsible enough to reduce environmental impact.

Technical Specifications

Construction:

Material: 900D TPU-coated NewStream recycled fabric (100% recycled water bottles)
Main compartment: Self-healing TRU Zip waterproof zipper with coated webbing finger pulls
Front pocket: Water-resistant zipper closure
Finish: TPU coating for abrasion and puncture resistance

Dimensions & Capacity:

External: 21" H x 12" W x 9" D (53cm x 30cm x 23cm)
Capacity: 28 litres (1,648 cubic inches)
Weight: 3.05 lbs (1.38 kg)

Comfort System:

Lightweight foam shoulder straps with modular chest pack attachments
Padded, removable hip belt with vertical adjustment
Moulded back panel for airflow and comfort
Sternum strap for load stabilization
Coated webbing haul handle

Organization:

Interior: One zippered pocket, one clear stash pocket
Exterior: Front splash-proof pocket with water-resistant zipper
Attachment: Coated webbing daisy chain, D-ring, four-way back panel attachments
Shoulder straps: Hypalon attachment points for accessories
Rod carry: One set Lariat gear straps (included, left or right positioning)

Available Colours:

Eco Yucca: Olive-based tactical pattern for bush and mountain environments
Eco Cutthroat Orange: High-visibility safety colour for boat fishing and low-light conditions
Eco Shadowcast Camo: Neutral grey pattern suitable for all fishing environments

Warranty: Fishpond 90-day return policy for unused items. Professional-grade construction backed by Fishpond's reputation for unmatched quality.

What Makes This Pack Special

Professional Grade: Trusted by guides and professionals working in extreme environments from Alaska to Antarctica. The most technically advanced waterproof storage system available today.

Versatile Application: Functions equally well as fishing pack, travel backpack, urban commuter bag, or adventure gear hauler. The 28-litre capacity and submersible protection handle diverse use cases.

Bombproof Construction: The 900D TPU-coated fabric resists punctures when bushwhacking through thorns, abrasion from boat decks, and exposure to saltwater. This pack is built to last seasons, not months.

Modular Customization: The attachment system and chest pack compatibility let you configure the Thunderhead for specific trips. Travel light with just the backpack, or add chest pack and accessories for complete water access.

Perfect For

Boat Anglers: Sterkfontein, Jozini, or coastal boat fishing where water protection is critical
Float Tubers: Western Cape dams and stillwaters requiring submersible gear storage
Travelling Anglers: Airline travel, lodge stays, or mobile fishing requiring one versatile pack
Photographers: Camera and electronics protection in wet fishing environments
Multi-Day Trips: Capacity for extended fishing adventures requiring comprehensive gear
Gear Protection: Any situation where water, spray, rain, or submersion threatens equipment

Real-World Performance

Professional gear reviewers consistently praise the Thunderhead's versatility: "The Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack definitely has the potential to be that everyday pack that travelers are always looking for. It's durable, comfortable and, with the help of the insert, very packable."

The pack's durability and innovation stand out: "Fishpond's innovative approach to its gear is clearly evident in the accessories that can come with the Thunderhead Submersible Backpack... a fully tricked-out Thunderhead has everything from net holsters and a tippet holder to a water bottle sleeve and a bear spray holder."

Users appreciate the thought behind the design: "One of Fishpond's toughest bags ever" with "bombproof 900D TPU coated NewStream fabric, a waterproof TRU Zip closure, and a sturdy harness system for a more comfortable carry."

Care & Maintenance

TRU Zip Zipper: Clean regularly with fresh water to remove dust and debris. Apply included TRU Zip lubricant frequently to maintain seal integrity and prevent drying or cracking. The self-healing feature works best with proper maintenance.

After Saltwater Use: Rinse thoroughly with fresh water, paying attention to zippers, webbing, and attachment points. Allow to dry completely before storage.

Storage: Store uncompressed in cool, dry location. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight when not in use.

TPU Coating: Wipe clean with damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals or solvents that may damage coating.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Thunderhead Backpack truly submersible or just water-resistant?
A: Fully submersible. The TRU Zip waterproof zipper and TPU-coated fabric create an airtight seal. Your gear stays dry even if the entire pack goes underwater. This isn't marketing—it's professional-grade protection trusted in extreme environments.

Q: What's the difference between the splash-proof front pocket and the main compartment?
A: The main compartment uses a fully waterproof TRU Zip closure for complete submersion protection. The front pocket has a water-resistant zipper suitable for rain and spray but not full submersion. Use it for items needing quick access that can handle brief moisture exposure.

Q: Can this pack accommodate SA's larger yellowfish fly boxes?
A: Yes. The 28-litre capacity and wide TRU Zip opening easily fit multiple large South African fly boxes, including the substantial boxes needed for yellowfish streamers and bass patterns. The generous dimensions accommodate bulky gear without compromise.

Q: How does the chest pack attachment system work?
A: Modular buckles on the shoulder straps and hip belt allow compatible Fishpond chest packs to clip directly onto the Thunderhead. You can wear both simultaneously—backpack carries bulk gear, chest pack provides quick access to flies and tools while wading.

Q: Is the hip belt necessary or can it be removed?
A: The hip belt removes completely for lighter loads or urban use. For fishing applications with full gear loads, the hip belt significantly improves comfort by transferring weight from shoulders to hips. It also adjusts vertically for different torso lengths.

Q: Will this pack work for airline travel and fishing trips?
A: Absolutely. The 28-litre capacity fits within carry-on size limits for most airlines. The waterproof protection guards gear during travel, and the pack transitions seamlessly from airport to fishing destination. Many anglers use it as their primary travel pack.

Q: How do I maintain the TRU Zip zipper?
A: Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential. Rinse the zipper with fresh water after each use to remove dust, salt, and debris. Apply the included TRU Zip lubricant every few trips. If the seal separates behind the zipper, simply back the zipper up and reseal—that's the "self-healing" feature in action.

Q: Does the recycled fabric compromise durability?
A: Not at all. The NewStream recycled fabric maintains identical durability and waterproof performance to virgin materials. Fishpond's Cyclepond program uses 100% recycled water bottles without sacrificing the professional-grade construction the Thunderhead line is known for.

Q: Can I attach a landing net to this pack?
A: Yes. The external attachment system includes multiple points for net holsters and scabbards. The coated webbing daisy chain, D-rings, and four-way back panel attachments accommodate various net carrying methods while keeping your hands free.

Q: What accessories are compatible with the Thunderhead Backpack?
A: The attachment system works with Fishpond's full accessory lineup including: Thunderhead Submersible Pouch, Quikshot Rod Holder 2.0, Thunderhead Water Bottle Holder, various chest packs (Thunderhead, Canyon Creek, San Juan, Cross-Current), Sagebrush Mesh Vest, and standard fishing accessories via the daisy chain and D-rings.

v2.0

Saltwater Fishing Gear

Price

Collections

Scientific Anglers Magnitude Smooth Infinity Salt Clear Tip

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Lumbar Pack

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Sling

Scientific Anglers Absolute Fluorocarbon Tippet

Fishpond Thunderhead Submersible Backpack

Sage Maverick

Horizon Tactical Saltwater Fly Rod

Sage Salt R8

Scientific Anglers Absolute Saltwater Leader - 10'

TroutHunter Fluorocarbon Tippet - Big Game

Scientific Anglers Sonar Titan GT

Scientific Anglers Mastery Grand Slam