One of the biggest lessons I’ve had to learn when fishing in the cold is to layer up and invest in quality fishing gear! And believe me, I learned the hard way. I spent plenty of days out on the water, absolutely freezing.
When I fish in the late fall, I can’t live without a couple of layers. I thought they were crazy expensive when I made the purchase. However, after one day on the water…I was a happy camper with my purchase.
So let’s layer up!
#1 – Moisture Wicking Base Layer
Choose a base layer that is lightweight and has a moisture wicking fabric. This base is an essential layer because even though it’s cold, being active fishing, we can break a sweat. When that dampness is against our skin, honestly, it makes us freeze, and it’s almost impossible to warm up.
There are a lot of base layers available on the market. The Women’s Lightweight Core Top is an excellent option from Simms Fishing® (retails: $49.95). You can also look at base layers by Under Armour®, Nike®, and Cabelas®. In addition to wicking, make sure it’s comfortable and lightweight. Remember this is a base layer, so you”ll be adding additional layers and still need to be able to move your arms.
#2. Fleece is ALWAYS a Requirement
Never leave out your fleece layer. For me, it’s one of the most important layers. Not only do I love the softness of fleece (I hate wool), I love the coziness of it.
You can find some great fleece options from Simms, Patagonia, Columbia, Cabelas, and more.
#3. That Layer I’ll Never Regret…
So when I talked about that expensive purchase I never regretted after spending the day on the water… Meet the Simms ExStream BiComp Hoodie. Yes, I know there seems to be a Simms pattern here. What can I say, I love their products. I adore this layer. Sadly, it’s no longer available on the Simms website, but you can find it on other sites like the Fly Shack. It retails for around $199.
A few important things about this hoodie: It is a guy’s cut, not a girl’s. Simms does offer a Women’s ExStream Bicomp Fishing layer, but not in the bronze, and I am pretty obsessed with this specific color. Plus, I found the guy’s cut to fit pretty good without feeling too big or baggy in the wrong places. I honestly can’t say enough about this hoodie. It’s warm, lightweight, super comfy, and oh my gosh, that bronze color is so fun!
Here’s a little tip. Part of the high price is the bronze color. If you switch to the other options specifically for women, you still have that $199 price tag. However, if you google the Simms Fishing Men’s “Raven” ExStream Hoodie, you might be able to find it around $120. I have to admit I also got the Raven, and did find it at the lower price. The Raven fits the same but has one slight difference, it doesn’t have a pocket in the front like the Bronze. Again, these are crazy warm and comfortable. I do love both colors.
#4. Don’t forget about your hands
ALWAYS remember to bring gloves on those cold weather days. Simms offers a fantastic variety of options, all with the fly angler in mind. My favorite is the Headwaters No Finger Gloves. They keep me plenty warm, and I like that the tips of my fingers are free. They are also easy to remove and super soft. I wear these gloves all winter long for everything in Minnesota!
#5. For Those FREEZING Days on the Water
I honestly try to avoid them. However, if you need something to add that final warmth on freezing days, check out the ExStream Hooded Jacket in BRONZE (YEAH!!). Again this is the guy’s cut, Simms does offer a Women’s ExStream Hooded Jacket, but I was not to fond of the colors.
I hope this information helps you on your next fishing adventure in the cold weather!
Stay warm!
Shelly
SassyandOutdoorsy.com
