Regardless of the season, the clothing an angler chooses to wear will significantly impact the quality of their time on the water. Over the years, I've learned a lot about dressing correctly to maximize the fishing experience. Even with the advances in clothing design and new materials, I am convinced the key to year-round comfort continues to center around the concept of "layering."
Winter
There is no better time to "layer up", than when it is cold outside. I begin with a tight-fitting pair of undergarments that are insulated, and thin, but not too binding. Whether it is manufactured by Under Armour, or any other brand, insulated underwear is an essential first layer.
When selecting pants and shirts, I prefer heavy denim blue jeans, cotton shirts, and pullover sweatshirts. I like how this combination keeps me warm and comfortable.
The next layer has to do with wind resistance. Regardless of the weather conditions, when you fire up that big Mercury engine and head down the lake, you create your own wind. I like to add a Gore-Tex outer shell that is waterproof and windproof. In winter, cold wind is a big deal; I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to wear a wind-resistant layer.
Many people fish with gloves, but that has never worked for me. I've tried various types and materials, including the versions that have the fingers cut out. But as important as it is to keep the hands warm, I have never been able to make gloves work. Instead, I coat my hands with Vaseline, which is surprising how well it works to keep my hands warm.
Even with the layers and outer Gore-Tex shell, I tend to keep an additional oversized heavy jacket in the boat that I put on when running down the lake and dealing with the wind chill factor.
Protecting your face is also critical. It is essential to have a good face mask, though I admit I've got a facemask that everyone tends to laugh at. It's a goose-down facemask that I've had for eons, and I'd be lost without it. It has small eye holes so I can see, and it keeps me warm.
Some folks use motorcycle helmets to keep the wind off, but wear them cautiously when operating your boat because they tend to restrict your peripheral vision. Turn your head often in both directions to stay aware of boats approaching from the sides.
Spring
Layering is as essential in the springtime as it is in the wintertime. Dressing this way lets you start shedding some of those layers as the day warms up. Being able to add or subtract items provides control and comfort throughout the day that cannot occur if you wear just one oversized bulky item.
Summer
In the summertime, l still start the day with layers. I begin with a light cotton jacket and shirt. While there are a lot of different materials out there, I personally prefer cotton because it is absorbent when you are hot and sweaty, and it helps keep you cool. For the same reason, I really like vented clothing, such as Tarponwear. All my shirts are vented in the back, and I genuinely feel it significantly improves my comfort in the summertime.
When the sun is bright, hats and sunscreen should always be worn. But, I have discovered that some brands of sunscreens make you hotter, especially if they are heavy cream or oil-based. I prefer a real lightweight sunscreen with a minimum SPF rating of 15. I'll go as high as an SPF 45, depending on the sun's intensity.
I have found that the key to effective sunscreen is knowing "when" it should be applied. Waiting until you are in the boat, the sun is up, and you have already begun sweating - is not the ideal application time. I put sunscreen on early in the morning, right after I shave. Applying it before you start to sweat is the key to sunscreen effectiveness. And remember to apply it to all exposed skin, especially ears, nose, and hands, if you want to reduce the risk of skin cancer.
Fall
Naturally, fall fishing is also all about layering. One of the layers I haven't discussed yet concerns the feet. I love the little booties that Arctic Shield makes - although Boot Blankets and other brands are also available. They slide right over your deck shoes, and I keep them in my dry storage next to my rain gear in my Ranger boat. I wear them in Winter, Spring, and Fall. These boot covers are warm and waterproof, and if it's frigid, you can put a hand or foot warmer in them for additional heat.
I don't like to wear big, bulky boots. Most boat owners are aware that falling in the lake is always a possibility, and I don't want to be wearing heavy boots should that happen. Some form of light boot blanket will always help keep your feet warm, and they are easy to put on, kick-off, and store in the boat.
The wicking action of big, thick cotton socks will help keep your feet warm and comfortable in the fall.
Summary
Let's face the facts; there will always be extreme weather, (sweltering 100-degree days, or shivering cold 25-degree days), when being comfortable is a challenging task to accomplish. But for the most part, being adequately dressed will significantly add to your comfort. And being "comfortable" always leads to a more productive fishing day.
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