Wondering what to wear on your fishing trip? While it may seem like you can wear whatever you want for a day of fishing, the truth is a poorly chosen outfit can quickly turn a fun day into a miserable one. Exactly what you wear will depend on the weather and the type of fishing you plan to do, but one thing will always be certain: you’re going to get wet. Keep this is mind when you’re rifling through your closet.
Cold Weather Fishing
When you’re layering your clothes for fishing in the cooler months, it’s important to pay attention to the first layer, as it’s the one that comes into contact with your skin. The last thing you want is to work up a sweat reeling in the big one and have your clothes retain that moisture for the rest of the day. Choose moisture-wicking inner layers made from wool or synthetic materials like polyester or nylon. Avoid cotton, as it holds moisture and encourages fungal growth like jock itch and athlete’s foot. Go for soft textures that feel good on your skin. Comfort is essential. Wool and fleece are good choices for your second and third layers.
Don’t neglect layering for your legs as well, especially if you’ll be wading into cold water. Stick to the same standards of moisture-wicking and comfort. Top your clothes with a waterproof jacket and hat with a brim wide enough to offer protection from possible rain. Choose a jacket with plenty of places to stash extra fishing gear. Wear waterproof gloves that allow your fingers plenty of movement. If the weather isn’t too cold, you may want to wear fingerless gloves. If you’ll be wading into water, wear high-quality, chest-high waders that are fitted to your body and bend at the knee
Warm Weather Fishing
It’s certainly easier (and more comfortable) to fish during the spring and summer, but you still have to pay attention to your clothing choices. Your priorities are staying dry and protecting your skin from the sun. Wear a hat with a brim and a tie to keep it from blowing away in the breeze. Wear sunglasses that block damaging sun rays. Choose clothes that wick away moisture and dry quickly. (As a side note, remember to bring sunblock and apply it liberally throughout the day, even if it’s cloudy.)
Waders are still a good choice if you’ll be walking into deep water, but you can get away with less than this if you won’t be going too far. For standing in very shallow water, for example, you can wear thick-soled river sandals designed to give you plenty of traction while keeping your feet cool. These are a good idea for surf fishing as well, since you can easily lose a pair of flip flops to the tide.
Stay Prepared
Things change. A sunny morning can develop into a rainy afternoon. A chilly, blustery morning can ripen into a hot day. A warm day can turn into a cold, wet evening. Play it smart by bringing backup options in case things don’t go quite as planned. In summer, bring a lightweight, waterproof wind breaker and an extra pair of shorts. In winter, bring an extra set of warm clothes in case yours get wet. Having everything you need to stay comfortable allows you to focus on what’s really important: catching that big fish!
