This post is NOT here to talk about fashion, rather functionality. Wearing the right apparel can extend your fishing season by months in Ohio! Fortunately, there is a wide selection of cold weather gear ranging from Fall to ice fishing wear for you to choose from.
As a native Ohioan, I am a master of the art of layering. You never know what Ohio weather will bring on a given day. There may be a 20 degree temperature range from the start of your fishing day to the end of it. You may need extra insulation from the wind or wet. Whatever the climate calls for, layering allows for adjustments to keep you comfortable.
Let’s get specific: here are some suggestions from the base to the top layer. Mix and match as the weather sees fit. There are several brands and styles of apparel, so we will just talk about type.
I typically will choose a form fitting base layer, like thermals or leggings. Keeping this layer in place is key to keeping the core temperature warm and cozy. A well fitting base layer will keep you comfortable and the rest of your clothes in place. I hate it when three shirts bunch up, leaving my waist and low back exposed!
Layer # 2 for legs obviously would be pants. There are plenty of windproof, waterproof and even fleece lined to match your needs. On top, I start with a long sleeved shirt or hoodie. I love hoodies! They keep your ears, neck and head nice and warm. I have a hoodie for every season, from my summer SPF shirts to fleece lined, windproof cold weather hoodies for those early Spring and late Fall days. Sometimes a layer in between the base and hoodie is either enough for a warmer day, or extra insulation for the really cold ones.
Finally, the top layer I recommend is a combination of bibs and jacket. These are meant to keep weather out. Some are even heated! Every angler I know has gotten soaked to the bone on nasty weather days. The right gear may not change the weather, but it can allow you to handle it better.
Don’t forget about footwear, gloves and hats, too! Again, there are plenty of styles of all of the above made specifically for anglers – like fingerless gloves and multi-use balaclavas. With so much out there, you really can be comfortable fishing in colder weather! So get out there and Fall Brawl or ice fish.
