No matter what type of fishing you do, the clothing you wear is absolutely essential. If you don’t wear the proper clothing, you simply won’t enjoy your fishing. The very best clothing ranges today are modular, designed around the layer system, and created in the most hi-tech of modern fabrics.

Base layer
This is made from fast-drying, hard-wearing synthetic fibres and worn next to the skin. It keeps you comfortable by wicking moisture away from your body. Let’s say you’re walking the riverbank, using lures for bass or pike. You use energy and begin to sweat. If this moisture stays near the skin, you will start to feel cold, especially when you stop walking. The wicking fabrics in the base layer move this moisture to the next layer of the system. The best base-layer garments are insulating, close-fitting, soft and warm.

Middle layer
These garments are made from fabrics that trap and hold the warm air created by your body. They also move moisture to the outer layer of your clothing. The primary choice for mid-layer fabric is polyester fleece as this is lightweight, durable, has very low water absorbency, dries quickly and moves moisture last. Windproof fleece fabric has the added advantage of preventing wind chill and giving protection from light rain.

Final layer
This layer, often referred to as a shell, provides protection against the elements, especially wind and rain, and helps to release moisture from the previous layer. The shell needs to keep out the rain and wind whilst retaining heat in the two layers beneath.

Obviously, the more money you spend, the better the quality and durability of the clothing. Look also for useful features, such as strong zips good hoods, hand pockets with warm-feel liners, internal pockets and waist adjustments. If you plan to fly fish, you may want to consider buying a vest. This is clothing for life, so take your time and choose the best. (more…)