Preparing for your upcoming fishing trip requires you to pack plenty of gear. So it helps to know what is necessary and what isn’t. Some items, such as waders, stir up a debate among anglers about whether they need them for a successful trip. So are waders a necessary item for fly fishing? Well, it depends on who you ask and what you plan on doing.
Benefits of Waders
If you’ve ever gone into a body of water with your clothes on, you know the feeling of walking diligently across the water as your wet clothes bog you down. Waders significantly reduce that feeling and allow you to get to areas you otherwise couldn’t reach. Here are some pros of using waders:
- They keep you warm and toasty, allowing you to fish longer in colder temperatures.
- They permit you to kneel in the water to release fish without getting soaked.
- They allow you to take a break without having to get out of the water.
- They give you better traction when walking and standing in the water.
- They provide pockets for easy access to all your fly fishing essentials.
- They prevent you from getting scrapes, bites, and other abrasions.
Recommendations
Finding the best waders is a lot like finding a new pair of shoes. Once you get the right fit, they feel like a part of you. Therefore, follow these recommendations to find your ideal match:
- Choose waders that allow your body to breathe. Although their materials are restrictive to keep water out, they also need to feel comfortable. Therefore, avoid overly stiff waders.
- Use stockingfoot waders because they are more resourceful than bootfoot options.
- Only wear insulated waders if cold weather is an issue.
- Remember that the lighter they feel, the better off you’ll be.
Situations To Leave the Waders at Home
We said some conditions might allow you to keep the waders at home. One of those conditions is fishing in warm weather and warm water. Some anglers may hit the water without waders on warm summer days due to the high heat.
Additionally, waders might not be necessary for shallow water. This is because most of your body will stay out of the water anyway. Wearing some wetsocks should be adequate.
Lastly, if you plan on doing all your fishing from a boat or on dry land, you can shelve the waders for another time.
Based on the definition of the word necessary in the question, “Are waders a necessary item for fly fishing,” they may not be essential. However, we highly recommend waders for most fly fishing excursions.
Check out our online fly shop at Ed’s Fly Shop to choose a pair of waders that best fits your needs. You won’t regret it!
