DRESS FOR SUCCESS
After a few years at any activity, we all start taking things for granted. Not just the access we have to wonderful natural resources and spectacular fishing sites, but also the knowledge that we glean from season after season on the water. Every now and again, an event or comment brings me back to ground zero and sets me to thinking about some of things I just do automatically now.
Little things like keeping my stripping hand low so I can better control my line speed and presentation. Or stuff like mending the line in the proper direction to control drift. A client asked a question and then the same week, our very own staff asked the same thing:
“What are the do‘s and don‘ts for outdoor clothing? And … How to do this without breaking the bank?”
(Note: I live and fish in Central Quebec. Daytime temperatures on the river range from 29 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the season or time of day! Some of what I mention here might not be applicable where you play)
I take for granted the outdoor gear I use today like breathable waders, nylon rain jackets, synthetic shirts and slacks. They all help to keep me warm in the fall and cool in the summer. Looking back on the “good ‘ole days”, we didn‘t have the same choices as today, but some of the same stand-by‘s are still out there and some of them have never been replaced.
A stroll through any sporting goods shop or outlet will show you that there are thousands of products on the market to keep us dry and warm or cool and comfy. While looking about, I always remember that, to stay safe and comfortable, I must stay dry! Let‘s look at a typical day on the river for me and you‘ll see what I mean.
From the inside out, I wear synthetics next to my skin. Inside my waders I use old cross-country or cycling tights. Lightweight long underwear does well too. As do my heavy weight Polartech pants when it‘s really cold.
DO NOT WEAR BLUE JEANS under your waders. The natural fibres will grab and chaff the inside of the waders as well as your legs. The synthetic fabric I use slides against the waders making walking much more comfortable. Further, the fabric wicks moisture away from me, helping the breathable waders to do their job.
On my upper body I wear either synthetics under a cotton blend shirt or just the cotton blend shirt when it‘s really warm. I prefer blends of 60/40 cotton/synthetic as it really helps to wick away moisture and can add up to SPF-30 or more, depending on the blend.
Headgear is a must for staying comfortable: An FAOL ball cap for warm weather and a cracked wax “Aussie style” hat for rain and snow.
I have invested in a good rain jacket. A breathable model has been serving me well for several years. I also have a spare from Chota, which is also holding up well. Together, my breathable waders and wading jacket cost more than a high-end rod. You can find breathables for much less.
As for under layers, there are literally TONS of inexpensive fleece garments on the market. Don‘t like fleece? Well, a best place to find fine wool sweaters and slacks are thrift stores and bargain bins in the “dress” section of most chain stores. A fine cashmere pull over makes a nice warm and light to medium weight layer. My heavier sweaters are rag wool that I found at an outdoor adventure store.
Finally, I don‘t usually wear big heavy socks. My waders already have thick neoprene feet. When I want to add a bit of added insulation, I pull out an old pair of wool dress socks. They add a layer without bulking up and cutting off the circulation in my feet.
Sure I have some garments with logos on them. Then again, on even the best shirts, I will always end up replacing buttons as they start to loosen up. So rummage around in the attic or the bargain bin at the Work Warehouse before dropping some major cash for products with a logo. You might just find some real treasures.
Chris Chin
Proulxville Quebec