Fly Fishing Gear
Top-5 Favorites: Cold Weather Wading Gear I Love & Use | Updated for 2023!
Five of my favorite pieces of fishing gear for wading and floating in cold winter waters
“He who wants to catch fish must not mind getting wet.” — Spanish Proverb.
Some of my most memorable fishing adventures involve a splash or two! My absolute favorites are the ones from the sunny summertime, while the winter ones…well, let’s just say being cold and wet isn’t my cup of tea. I’ve included some gear options here to help you stay dry and warm, and a few little luxuries that can make your day just a bit brighter on the water!
Remember, I’m just here to share what I know — no incentive for me aside from the joy of spreading the word. Any e-commerce links are items I’ve personally bought and used from that shop.
SIMMS M’s G4Z Waders
When the weather turns chilly, staying dry is your ticket to keep reeling in those fish. Your best friend during winter? A sturdy pair of waders. It’s a fact, that these essentials may feel like a splurge — and I get it, not everyone is keen to shell out $800 on waders. But let me tell you, I’ve been rocking mine for two seasons now, and they’re the best waders I’ve ever had.
Fishpond Ridgeline Tech Pack with Vest
I’ve explored a bunch of different bag and pack combos, and guess what? This system is my new favorite! I was on the hunt for a vest for those sunny summer days when I’m fishing off my paddle board. I also had my eye out for a pack that’d be perfect for long day hikes or those chillier winter days on the water when I like to pack extra layers and a thermos. Fishpond absolutely nailed it with the design of this system, its modularity is just top-notch. You can rock just the vest, just the pack, or combine the two for maximum carry capacity. The pack might not be the biggest, but it has just enough room for extra layers, snacks, and the like. Plus, it has two side water bottle pockets, one for my thermos and the other for my wading staff. Just a heads up, if you’re planning on using only the vest, you’ll need to grab the back of the vest separately. It doesn’t come included with any of the other items.
SIMMS Wading Staff
Taking a tumble into the water can be a laugh, especially when it’s not freezing out! If you’re out fishing in the winter without a wading staff, it might be a good idea to add one to your gear. You wouldn’t believe how many times this handy tool has saved me from going for an unplanned swim in less-than-ideal conditions. Most times, I’ll move around to get a better casting spot, no matter how tricky the wading is. It’s just nice to have that extra bit of support and power when you’re navigating through the water and over slippery rocks.
Orvis Tie-Fast Knot-Tying Tool
You know how it’s just so tricky to tie a proper knot when your hands are freezing? Well, I had the same struggle until a friend introduced me to this fantastic tool one chilly morning while we were shaking the ice off our guides. It’s a game-changer! It makes tying on those teeny-tiny size-20 midges feel like a breeze! Trust me, it’s my winter fishing best buddy now, and I never hit the water without it when the temperature drops.
Link to Tie-Fast Knot-Tying Tool.
Hot Hands Hand Warmers
Did you know that hand warmers were accidentally invented by a scientist who was trying to make a Hot-Pocket + Pop-Tart hybrid? It’s true, I just thought of it now. Isn’t it just wonderful that we don’t have to question our love for these functional and reliable little pockets of joy…The only thing we’ve got to remember is to pack them before we head out for a day by the water. I usually get the multi-pack from Target — it’s a total steal at just $7, and it comes in a handy resealable airtight bag.
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