In 2017, more than 49 million Americans participated in freshwater, saltwater, and fly fishing. Whether you are surfcasting, float tubing, or wading in the local river, fishing waders and boots will make your fly fishing adventures safe and exciting. They are valuable allies if you are a fishing enthusiast.
Types of Fly-fishing Waders
The type of fishing waders you will buy can either make or break your adventure. We have four types of fishing waders.
1. Boot Foot Chest Waders
Boot foot chest waders come in a simple design suitable for anglers and saltwater fishers. It has no laces to tie or adjust, hence easy to put on and remove. You simply slide them over a pair of socks, and you are good to go. The best part is that you do not have to buy a separate pair of wading boots because a permanent boot is attached to the wader. Boot foot waders allow plenty of air to circulate around your feet and legs. In fact, they are slightly warmer than other types. However, they are bulkier and heavier compared to stocking foot waders. Another drawback is that tall and short size options are not available.
2. Stockingfoot Chest Waders
These waders come with permanent waterproof neoprene sock. However, you will need additional wading boots. The wade construction protects your legs from water as the boots get submerged in water. These waders are lighter than boot foot waders. They are available in different sizes, and you can wear with any wader shoe or boot. Fly fishing requires waterproof boots with thick felt or rubber soles. High-Quality waterproof boots last longer. This type of wading offers much-needed comfort and support. Due to the lightweight, they are suitable for wading in long-distance and traveling anglers.
3. Hip waders
Hip waders cover the area from the foot to the upper thigh. They are ideal for wading shallow and slow-moving water. They come in designs of boot foot and stocking foot. Hip waders are the lightest waders, hence easy to pack. They are suitable for warmer days flying fishing because they allow proper ventilation and are less constricting. What’s more is that they offer easy and quick on-off.
4. High waist waders
High water waders have more coverage than hip waders. They are designed to operate in shallow water. They leave the upper body exposed, ideal for fishing in warm weather.
Wader Materials
1. Nylon Waders
These waders are cheap and lightweight, perfect for rookie fly fishers. On the downside, they do not breathe well and can get warm pretty fast. Similarly, they can chill your core during cold weather and soak the base layer. Nevertheless, it is a cheap and safe way to learn how to fish in the water.
2. Water Proof Breathable waders
Waterproof breathable waders are versatile waders suitable for all seasons. They are made of either synthetic materials or nylon. They come with an air-permeable membrane that allows perspiration and internal moisture to escape. You can even don them with t-shirts and shorts during warm weather. You add warmth by wearing base layers. These waterproof waders are an all-around choice for fly fishing thanks to the breathability and flexibility features. They are suitable for all-season due to their loose flexible fit.
3. Neoprene Waders
Neoprene waders have been the most suitable choice for cold water fishers. The best features of neoprene are waterproof, insulating, and warmth. Neoprene is also durable, stretchy and available in a variety of thicknesses. They provide better mobility in water and last longer than waterproof-breathable waders. The biggest drawback of neoprene waders is that they are not breathable.
4. Rubber Waders
Rubber waders are 100% waterproof and relatively cheaper than other types. However, they are much heavier. In addition, they are not flexible, comfortable, and breathable.
Choosing Wading Boots
Waist-high or chest waders require boot foot waders or stocking feet waders. Stockingfoot waders require wading shoes or boots to wear over the stocking foot. This allows the angler to find comfortable footwear that is suitable for different conditions. Nylon waterproof boots are the most versatile. Although waterproof boots and wading shoes come with additional expenses they allow you to choose suitable tread for different places. Moreover, they make your fishing experience better.
