While some anglers choose to venture out with their casual clothes, others slip into a pair of waders, allowing them to navigate challenging waters confidently.
As a seasoned fly fisher, I would lean towards the latter since they have proved effective after my years of fishing.
However, some beginners still wonder: how do fly fishing waders work? And how can this footwear benefit their fishing sessions? Don’t fret! I will walk you through its uses right below!
Do I Really Need Waders For Fly Fishing?
When To Use
How do you use fly fishing waders? Come rain or shine, waders have accompanied me for nearly a decade – a testament to their undeniable benefits. The two most notable advantages of this footwear are:
- Keeping you dry and warm: Let’s face it; it’s a pain in the neck when going fly fishing in winter, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. To this end, a quality pair of waders come to the rescue, shielding you from the bitterly cold water. It’s not just about staying warm, though. Keeping your feet dry also protects them from unwanted infection. In the worst-case scenarios, the cold might hinder blood circulation, leading to severe nerve damage.
- Protecting your body: Wearing this piece of equipment when fly fishing adds a layer of physical protection. As you tread over sharp rocks, jagged logs or stickers, slippery moss, and other wet surfaces, the waders will minimize cuts and injuries. Not to mention, we never know what poisonous plants are hiding underwater!
Aren’t these benefits convincing enough? Well then, these circumstances below will further underscore the importance of waders:
- You plan for a long fishing session in spring, fall, and winter.
- You target trophies or giant trout in cold tailwater rivers.
- You don’t intend to use a drift boat.
- You want to cast in deep waters.
- You are a saltwater angler who frequents cold oceans, where temperatures are more or less 50°F.
Trust me; I couldn’t stand dipping my feet underwater when fly fishing in Less Ferry of Arizona without waders, even on sunny days!
When Not To Use
As beneficial as they are, waders are not favored by fly fishers in tropical regions. Along with the heat from the sun, the not-too-breathable waders also trap heat inside, leaving you sweat-soaked in no time.
Fly fishing in these conditions is far from pleasant, which can even dampen your mood for fishing.
So, in the below situations, you can fly fishing without waders:
- You will cast and retrieve from a boat and not intend to get into the water.
- You’re going to fish from a river bank.
- You venture out in the western regions, southern coasts of the US, or places where the temperature falls on the warmer side.
- You go fishing in the summer or warmer weather conditions.
- You only target small fish in shallow waters.
How Do Fly Fishing Waders Work
Stockingfoot waders feature the wader part and the stocking to keep your feet warm and dry, but you have to put on separate boots. Meanwhile, bootfoot waders come standard with boots for more convenience. You can simply slip into the waders and head out.
How Do Stockingfoot Waders Work
Stockingfoot waders, as the name implies, have a pair of wading socks attached to the wader parts, necessitating an additional pair of boots. The stocking adds a touch of stability to your feet when stepping on uneven riverbeds.
So, how do waders and wading boots work together? I first thought that boots are what keep our feet from getting soaked. But in fact, most of the socks are made of waterproof fabric, mostly neoprene, preventing water from absorbing and wetting your feet.
On the other hand, there will be drainage holes on wader boots to displace water once it finds its way inside. These holes also contribute to the air circulation inside the boots, impeding the development of fungus and bacteria that lead to foot infections.
Some anglers wonder whether we can wear only wading boots for fly fishing. While it’s possible, I don’t recommend doing so, as the boots alone can’t shield your feet from water.
How Do Bootfoot Waders Work?
For me, wearing bootfoot waders is like going full-on, with waders and boots readily available. All you need to do is to put them on, and you are good to go in the blink of an eye.
The boots are firmly attached to the waders and free of laces or holes. Since they come in one-piece construction, it’s hard to see water or debris enter inside the waders.
Does that mean 100% protection? Not really. I know some of you might be in two minds now, confused between stockingfoot or bootfoot waders. That’s why I will break down the pros and cons of each type of waders in the following section.
Are Stockingfoot Waders Or Bootfoot Waders Better?
The choice between stockingfoot waders and bootfoot waders boils down to your preferences and fishing conditions. While the bootfoot type is more affordable and easy to put on, stockingfoot waders offer a snug fit, greater comfort, and more freedom in movement.
Here is my breakdown of the two types after trying both:
Stocking Foot Waders
Pros
- More customized fit: Using separate wading boots grants you more freedom in choosing the best fit. Those boots also come with laces, ensuring a secure and snug fit.
- More comfort and easier movement: Their high tops offer greater support for the ankles when navigating uneven terrain. The secure fit also empowers you to move more freely and flexibly.
- More options: Materials, styles, sizes, you can call the shot for your favorite wading boots. A wide range of models even have soles specially designed, like with additional studs, for more traction.
Even better, you can buy more than one pair and alternate them with different waders to your liking.
- Allow for wet wading: When the weather becomes warmer, putting you in the mood for wet wading, you can easily take off your waders and wear only the boots for more traction and protection.
- Convenient storage: It’s easier to fold up your stocking foot waders and pack them away without taking too much room, making them suitable for those who are frequently on the move like me.
- Easy to clean: Many anglers assume that cleaning two separate parts will waste more time and effort, but many wading boots are machine-washable. I only have to clean my waders and let the machine take care of my boots on a gentle cycle.
Cons
- Higher cost: Obviously, buying the boots and waders separately will cost you more – the trade-off for more freedom in options.
- More time to get ready: Slipping into the stockingfoot waders, putting on the boots, and lacing them up, it will take at least 10 minutes to be all set for your fishing trip.
- Can let water, sand, and other debris in: Remember the drainage holes I mentioned above? Well, they are a double-edged knife. Water, sand, debris, or even small rocks can find their way into your boots through the openings or those holes.
This is a real pet peeve, especially if you tread in deeper water where the high pressure hinders the drainage holes from doing their jobs.
- Can’t keep you warm: Once the water enters the boots, it’s more challenging to retain heat.
- Mess with the fishing line: The long fishing line can easily whip around snag on your laces or other features on the boots and ruin your cast.
When to use
- You venture out in summer, late spring, or early fall.
- You go fly fishing in regions with a hot climate.
- You will cast from a boat, jetty, or dock.
- You have to navigate uneven terrain and want a more secure fit.
- You love wet wading or want to wear your favorite wading boots.
- You are about to transport between different water areas during the session.
Bootfoot Waders
Pros
- Save money: Boot foot waders are a 2-in-1 gear, saving you some bucks on buying an additional pair of boots.
- Less preparation time: No need to waste time with the cumbersome laces; you just have to slip into the one-piece waders and start your trip.
- Better heat retention: The insulated materials, combined with their one-piece construction, excel in holding your body heat on chilly days or in frigid water.
- Better protection from sand, rocks, or debris: Since the boots and waders are bonded together unless the water is up to your chest, there is no way sand, rocks, or debris can get inside.
- Less risk of tangled line: The smooth transition between boots and waders minimizes the likelihood of your fishing line getting caught there.
Cons
- Clumsy feeling: The biggest drawback of bootfoot waders is their sloppy feeling, compromising your stability.
- Hinder your movement: Their loose fit also slows you down when moving underwater.
- Take up a lot of room: They are quite heavy and can’t be folded up into a compact piece, taking a lot of room in your bag.
- Time-consuming cleaning and drying: You have to hand-wash bootfoot waders and dry them naturally.
- Limited customization: Only pre-determined sizes are available, and their soles only come in rubber or felt.
- Less repairable: Once there is damage on one part, you have to replace a new pair of waders.
When to use
- Saltwater fly fishing is your habit. The minimal design of bootfoots is less susceptible to corrosion by saltwater.
- You frequently go fly fishing in winter or in regions with colder weather.
- You prefer swamp or surf casting.
- You don’t move often during the fishing session.
- Anglers who are older or heavier can benefit from bootfoot waders since they don’t have to bend down to tighten the laces or adjust the boots.
Users’ Experience When Using The Two
Honestly, I’ve equipped myself with both types of waders for various occasions, each shining in its own way. However, most of the time, I prefer the stockingfoot waders.
They provide the snug fit and comfort I desire, allowing me to confidently navigate through water, rocks, or sand.
I must warn you that unless you’ve mastered your casting technique, there’s a good chance that the line can get tangled around your boots. Even as a seasoned fly fisher, I find myself occasionally letting the line snag on the laces.
I only switch to bootfoot waders when winter comes with its frosty embrace and my fingers turn too numb to tie the frozen laces. If I layer enough clothes under the waders, they can keep me cozy all day of fly fishing underwater.
That’s the only occasion I use bootfoot waders, though, because they feel heavy and tend to drag me down when I’m trying to walk in the water.
Some of my fellows with non-standard body shapes also share that they struggle to find sizes from S to XL that fit them well.
How To Choose Fishing Waders
Materials For Different Environments
There are three main types of materials you can find on the market, including neoprene, rubber, and breathable materials.
Rubber takes the crown in terms of durability with its 100% waterproof PVC construction, making it the preferred choice for anglers preferring saltwater fishing.
That said, I believe many of you don’t want to walk a mile in rubber waders due to their heaviness. Unless you frequently go fishing in demanding or rough conditions, these models only work wonders for commercial fishermen.
While both neoprene and breathable materials are suitable for freshwater fishing, my preference leans towards breathable waders due to their versatility.
Their lightweight and moisture-wicking properties keep me comfortable on scorching days, and I can still stay warm enough during winter months with a few layers underneath.
After all, who wants to deal with dripping sweat in steamy, insulated waders, right? The only minor drawback is these waders are more prone to punctures than other types.
However, if you happen to reside in a region with harsh winter conditions, waders with neoprene socks become the superior choice for its unmatched heat retention.
Size
When it comes to what to wear for fly fishing, getting the right size is key to your comfort. Whether you opt for stockingfoot or bootfoot waders, remember to try them on at the fly shop, ensuring they are neither too tight nor too loose.
For those shopping online, take the time to measure your chest, waist, hips, and inseam, and compare these measurements with the provided size chart carefully. Regarding wader boots, it would be best to try them for the perfect foot size.
Cost Of Waders
Here’s a hard-earned lesson: Expensive waders don’t always equal high quality. Some brands provide durable and comfortable waders without breaking the bank, while others inflate their prices based on reputation.
Before making a purchase, weigh up the pros and cons of each brand. Also, if you want to save some bucks, go for bootfoot types.
5 Tips For Fly Fishing Wader Setup
What Do I Wear Under Fly Fishing Waders?
A rule of thumb is to dress for the weather! Regardless of the season, constant movement and activity will leave you sweaty. So, it’s recommended to pick moisture-wicking clothes to layer under your waders.
Here are some suggestions for each season:
For summer
During hot days, my preference is wet wading, allowing me to move freely and read the water while staying cool in the summer heat.
However, if you choose to wear waders, opting for lightweight pants is essential to protect your legs from UV rays, thorny bushes, and bugs—shorts and flip-flops are not the wisest choice!
Moving to the upper part, fly fishing shirts are ideal, equipped with excellent moisture-wicking capabilities and UV protection ratings.
For winter
The key here is not to bundle up with thick clothes but to dress up with many base layers to hold the warmth better.
- Synthetic base layer: Mostly made of polyester, this can make the perfect first layer to wick away your moisture.
- Wool base layer: Wool is thermally insulated and moisture-wicking, keeping you cozy and comfy simultaneously.
- Fleece layer: Wearing a fleece top and pants over the synthetic and wool layers will be your best bet.
Tuck Your Pants Under The Socks
For both stockfooting or bootfoot waders, wearing a pair of thermal socks underneath is a must in bitterly cold conditions. Here’s my tip: tuck the hem of the paints under the socks to keep them in place.
This trick proves beneficial, especially when wearing loose pants where excess material can bunch up and rub against my leg. Folding the hems neatly and holding them under your socks will put an end to this nuisance.
Carry A Bottle Of Water Or Net In The Waist Belt
Most waders come with a waist belt for a snug fit, and I sometimes see it as a perfect hanger for my fishing tackle. A bottle of water, a net, or some zingers, you name it! As long as they are not so heavy that they can weigh down your belt, you are good to go.
Roll The Waders Down When It’s Hot
Imagine venturing out in the early morning when the temperature is still low, and you’ve decided to put on a pair of waders. What if it becomes hotter mid-day? Easy-peasy!
Just roll the waders down, and voila, you have wading pants! The only thing to note here is to secure them tightly in the belt, ensuring that they won’t fall down when you move or bend down.
Install Studs Under Your Wading Boots To Increase Traction
I came across this effective tip on a reputable forum frequented by experienced fly anglers, and it worked like a charm for me.
The trick is simple: prepare 12 to 15 screws or metal studs and insert them on the underside of your wading boots. Soon enough, you’ll notice a significant improvement in traction.
FAQs
Do You Wear Shoes With Fly Fishing Waders? Can You Use Regular Shoes?
It depends on your chosen type of waders, with stockingfoot waders calling for separate wading boots. However, it’s critical not to opt for regular shoes; instead, dedicated wading boots are essential. Common footwear is not designed to provide a reliable grip underwater.
Do Your Feet Stay Dry In Stocking Foot Waders?
Yes, stockingfoot waders ensure your feet stay dry as water only enters the boots, remaining separated from your feet by the stocking.
Do Breathable Waders Let Water In?
In essence, breathable waders won’t allow water in, thanks to their combination of waterproof and breathable fabrics. However, don’t anticipate staying entirely dry after extended hours of wading underwater.
Conclusion
How fly fishing waders work depends on what type you choose. Long story short, bootfoot waders are effortless to put on, while stockingfoot options call for an additional pair of boots.
Regardless of your choice, they both protect you from external factors, like UV rays, cold weather, bugs, etc. Even when you wear this piece of gear on hot summer days, don’t forget to select proper clothes to layer under them for optimal protection.
