What you wear when your fishing seems like a trivial topic. I think being comfortable is important. Anyone who has been wet & cold or sunburned and hot on a day of fishing would agree. Luckily, there is PLENTY of apparel out there for all sorts of weather conditions. While you will find something literally for head to toe comfort, here are the top three I wouldn’t do without.
A Good Rain Suit
By far, the BEST investment I ever made as an angler was a good quality rain suit with bibs and coat. I wear it year round in rainy, windy or cold conditions. My fishing season has been extended by months! Now I am warm and cozy April through November for Ohio fishing. We store ours in our boat all year, so it is perfect for staying dry in summer rain storms, too. You will find many brands and styles to choose from online, or consider hitting up your local tackle shop to see what they have in stock. Some good name brands are Frogg Toggs and Huk, and of course you will find an assortment at Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s.
Personally, I have owned a Hely-Hansen rain suit for about 15 years. It has rubber, adjustable gaskets on the sleeves, a warm, high neck that zips up to my chin, and a hood. I love that it has enough drawstrings and velcro that I can adjust it to fit right and still move freely to cast and land fish. I also like the multiple and deep pockets I can fill with a small tackle box, personal belongings or a snack.
There are many days I would have stayed home or waited in the truck if I hadn’t had that rain suit! Let’s face it – we live in OHIO. You know, the land of “if you don’t like the weather, wait fifteen minutes”. My rain suit is my favorite and most useful piece of fishing apparel. I will never be caught without it.
A Balaclava or Neck Gaiter
A what? The thing on my face in the picture. These have become super popular among bass anglers, and serves many purposes. I have used it for everything from keeping my hair back, to keeping my ears or head warm, and often to shield my skin from the sun. Again, there is a wide range in material they are made of and price. I own a fleece winter one and a few lightweight summer ones. They really work far better than sunscreen. Unlike sunscreen, you don’t have to remember to reapply and you will spend far less money overall. Plus it will keep your hair back and your ears warm. I like multi-purpose, useful items like that!
A Long Sleeved Sun Shirt
Again, a game-changer piece of clothing for me. There is no better sun protection than the high performance UV 50 sun shirts. I love the sun, but even my skin is begging for a break after several hours along a lakeshore. I can pull on a sun shirt and feel instant cooling. Wearing a sun shirt will keep me out fishing far longer because I no longer worry about sun exposure. You would be surprised how cool your skin stays, even on a 90 degree day with one of these UV shirts!
They are super lightweight and breathable. On really hot days, I often will dip mine in the water before pulling it on. Its instantly cooling and the shirt dries super quick so you don’t feel soaked for long. I don’t go fishing without one on any July or August day in Ohio. There is always one in the boat with me.
Dress For Your Success
Whether you agree with my choices or not, I hope you consider what your top three fishing apparel choices are. Need to keep your feet warm? Consider simple toe warmers you stick in your shoes, or make an investment in waterproof shoes. My husband would have a wide brimmed hat on his list. Being prepared for changing weather conditions can make the difference – especially in Ohio!
