Wading jacket Recommendations in General

[Bob Widmaier]

I logged on to post my question on wading jackets and saw fishyboy's post. I am not limiting my interest to wading Patigonia jackets but wading jackets in general. I am looking at any brands including store brands (Cabelas, LL Bean)and was wondering positive and negative experience you have had? How about breathable vs non-breathable, Gore Tex vs private label breathable fabric, general sizing and fit, etc? All feedback is valuable. I am planning on using the jacket over waders when needed in wet weather.

No need to repeat your comments if you have posted under fishyboy's question.

Thanks.

Dr Bob

[SilverMallard]

I have a Cabela's Dry Plus wading jacket that I wear for duck hunting and winter fishing (it's camo). I like everything about it.

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Fishing the Ozarks

[brookid]

...I have one from LLBean that I like. I don't like to wear a vest in the rain so this has 2 huge pockets in front which generally handles most everything I need.

Another feature I like is you can adjust the sleeve cuffs pretty tight around your wrists so in the event you put your hand, arm or whatever in the water it does a surprisingly good job at keeping water out.

Another key is it has lined hand warmer pockets...those have come in handy this spring. I've also worn it in the summer with just a t-shirt and it seems pretty breathable...

...i think it was about 70 bucks...

brookid

[D. Micus]

i second the bean recommendation...

[eponymous]

third

[Shibainu]

Simms Classic Guide Jacket. Goretex XCR, neoprene cuffs, and pockets big enough to leave the vest in the car.

If you hunt you can still find one on sale for the low $200s.

[Migs]

My choice would be Simms or Patagonia. But in any case, true Gore Tex over any substitute. I had a pair of LLBean waders that were "breathable" until I bought a pair of Simms and discovered what "breathable" really meant.
Just make sure the sleeves don't have tabs to catch your line!

Migs

[Rawthumb]

Simms, and real Goretex.

You need the extreme wet weather rating if you will use it in a cold environ in the rain.

[oldfrat]

I use a non-specific breathable jacket with a cord at the bottom that can be used to cinch it up to whatever height I need. Far cheaper than wading specific jackets. I have it in a size larger than I normally use so it will fit over my chest vest.

Ditto on the bean recommendation....super value!