Waders are essential fishing equipment for many anglers, and those that use them regularly swear by them, and say that are able to catch more fish and enjoy fishing even more.
So, if you're looking for waders, what should you look out for?
1. Cost
When choosing your first pair of waders you will definitely have a budget in mind, and know what you are realistically willing to spend. You don't have to buy the most expensive waders in order to get the most out of your fishing, nor should you instinctively dismiss the cheaper waders solely on price.
2. Fit
Your waders will need to fit properly, and be suitable. You may need to be able to work a fair distance in them, depending on where you fish, and what you fish for.
3. Comfort
Waders need to be comfortable as well as fitting well. You'll need to make sure that you think you'll be able to stand up for several hours in them, in the cold and wet. You'll also need to make sure that you have all the pockets and belt loops you need so that you can carry your essential fishing accessories with you.
4. Durability
Standing in the water fishing can be quite a hostile environment for clothing. Think about over hanging branches rocks and branches in the water, and the walk to and from the bank of the river
5. Where
Depending on where you fish can help you to determine how much you need waders. If you spend all of your time at the edge of a lake, and see fishing more as a break from work and the family, and the chance to spend some time for yourself, then you might choose to sit by a lake all day. On the other hand, you might take your fishing seriously and want to fish fast rivers, or catch a certain type of fish.
6. How often
How often you anticipate wearing your waders can be an important factor when choosing waders. If you think you might wear them once or twice a year, then clearly there's little point in spending hundreds of pounds on them. Conversely, you should spend as much as you can afford, and get the best waders, if you think you'll wear them every time you go fishing.
7. When
Some anglers fish for different types of fish at different times of the year. If you know that your fishing changes during the year, then you may need better and warmer waders in the winter compared to when you're fishing in the warmer months.
8. Care
You'll need to make sure that you take care of your waders so that they will last, and provide the warmth and protection you need whilst you're out fishing. Look out for any rips of tears that become more serious if left untreated.
9. Brand
You may not be fussy about the brand of waders you choose. You may want to have the same brand as the rest of your fishing clothing because you know it fits, and provides the protection and performance you need. You might want to choose a brand that is well known for waders, or clothing, rather than a brand that makes everything from rods to jackets.
10. Quality
Whatever brand of waders you choose, however much you spend, and however often you wear your waders, you'll want to make sure that they offer value for money, and provide the quality you need.
Now you know more about waders, and how to choose them, why not take the plunge, and get in the water, with some new waders?
