Fishing clothing: waders, jackets, and more

Compare fishing clothing types. Open an item for sizes and when it belongs on the water.

Fishing clothing

Each item is a catalog type, not a brand. Open waders, jackets, boots, or safety wear for sizes and when it belongs on the water.

Waders

Waders are waterproof legs and body so you can stand in a river or on a wet shore without soaking through.
Wading boots

Wading boots are the felt or rubber shoes you wear over stocking-foot waders.
Fishing boots

Fishing boots are waterproof or rubber boots for mud, rain, and a wet boat deck.
Fishing shoes

Fishing shoes are drainable, grippy shoes for boats and warm-weather banks.
Waterproof jacket

A waterproof fishing jacket is the shell against wind and rain.
Fishing pants

Fishing pants are quick-dry or waterproof-kneed trousers for banks and boats.
Fishing shirt

A fishing shirt is a sun and insect layer with vents and pockets.
Fishing gloves

Fishing gloves keep hands warm, or they protect from teeth and gill plates.
Fishing hat

A fishing hat shades eyes and neck.
Buff

A buff is a tube of cloth for neck, face, and ears against sun, wind, and insects.
Polarized sunglasses

Polarized sunglasses cut surface glare so you can see fish, structure, and a fly.
Life jacket

A life jacket is the buoyancy aid for boats, wading, and any session where a fall is into deep water.
Fishing vest

A fishing vest is pocket storage on the chest for fly boxes, tools, and tippet.

What to wear for fishing

Dress for the water first, then the weather. Most anglers need these, in this order:

Waders: chest waders for rivers and surf, waist waders for shallow water. Size them by boot size and inside-leg length.
Wading boots: felt soles grip slippery rock, rubber soles travel and clean more easily.
Waterproof jacket: breathable, with a hood and sealed cuffs, long enough to sit over chest waders.
Layers, gloves and a buff: a base layer and fleece for cold mornings, a buff and sunglasses for sun and glare.
Life jacket: on boats, kayaks, rocks and jetties, wear one every time.