Proper Clothing For Fishing

 Many people don't realise how demanding fishing can be on your body. I am not talking about the actual movement of casting your bait, or the fact that if you are fishing on truly remote waters, like I do, you usually have to walk for twenty, thirty minutes, or even an hour to get to your destination, but the fact that you don't have anything to defend you against the elements. Bad weather, or even too good weather can have detrimental effects, just think of catching a cold, or skin cancer, and you realise that this is no laughing matter. Proper clothing can help you a lot and prevent problems that might arise in the future.

 First of all, let's get the basics right. I always keep in mind to carry multiple layers of clothing with me, this way I can always dress for the specific weather, and I won't have problems even if it starts to rain suddenly or if the Sun starts shining down heavily. If it gets too warm I remove a few layers, and if it is too cold, I just put on a jumper or too, and I am  comfortable once again.

 As far as footwear goes, people don't give enough attention to their socks. These are vital pieces of clothing, a good piece of sock can keep your feet warm, and dry. I usually use running socks, as they are thicker on the heel and and sole areas of your feet, so they provide extra cushioning and protection. I always bring multiple pairs of socks with me on the trip. My rule of thumb is to bring twice as many pairs as the duration of the trip. It might seem too much, but I like to be on the safe side and count for all possibilities. And I wonder I can't pack lightly?!

Angling in the Yellowstone National Park.
Hiking to your fishing spot is a great experience.
Source: Wikipedia

 I use hiking boots. The most important thing is to wear ones that feel comfortable on your feet. Other important features are breathability, and proper ankle support. Breathability is important, because this ensures that your feet will remain dry, which is an important prerequisite if you want to have hygienic feet. Ankle support is a must for me, because I often have to walk for thirty to sixty minutes before I reach the river I intend to fish on, so I can't risk ankle injuries. I would not be able to walk back to safety.

 As far as pants go, the only guideline is to wear comfortable ones that fit you, and wear long pants. Short pants are not for hiking and fishing, you can suffer from bruises and you might collect a few ticks. Ticks dwell in the bushes and grass, and attach themselves to your legs and suck your blood as you cross through the grass. They are not able to attach themselves to your legs if you wear long sleeve pants, that is why these clothing items provide excellent defence against ticks.

 Wear multiple layers for your upper body. You should wear at least one T-shirt as your most basic layer, that is what you are going to be wearing if it gets very hot. Above that you can wear jumpers or more T-shirts, whatever you desire. I always take a waterproof poncho with myself. It serves as a rain jacket, but I can use the poncho as an additional tarp, or I can make shades out of it, that is why I prefer ponchos to simple rain jackets.