Plan Your Trip

Wade fishing in Western North Carolina during the spring and fall requires a smart layering strategy to stay comfortable. The weather can be unpredictable, with chilly mornings, warm afternoons, and a chance of rain. Here's a breakdown of recommended apparel:

The Core Outfit:

• Waders: This is your most important piece of gear. Breathable waders are the best choice. They keep you dry from the outside while allowing moisture from your body to escape, preventing you from getting clammy. Chest waders are the most versatile option, as they allow you to fish in deeper water and provide more protection from the elements.
• Wading Boots: A good pair of wading boots is essential for safety and comfort. Look for boots with a durable rubber sole for traction on slippery riverbeds. Many anglers also add metal studs for extra grip.
• You will not need waders or wading boots on our river trips or lake trips.
• Layering: The key to spring fishing is layering.
  • Base Layer: Start with a moisture-wicking base layer against your skin. Materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics (polyester, polypropylene) are excellent choices because they pull sweat away from your body and dry quickly. Avoid cotton, as it retains moisture and will make you cold.
  • Mid-Layer: Add an insulating mid-layer for warmth. A fleece jacket, a wool sweater, or a puffy vest works well. This layer provides warmth without adding too much bulk.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof rain jacket is a must. Spring showers can pop up at any time, and staying dry is crucial for staying warm. Better to have it and not need it.

Essential Accessories:

• Socks: Wear a good pair of thick wool or synthetic socks inside your waders. This will provide warmth and cushioning.
• Hat: A hat helps shield your face from the sun and rain and works in tandem with a pair of sunglasses to help see the fish and cut down on glare.
• Polarized Sunglasses: These are not just for style; they are a vital safety and fishing tool. They cut the glare on the water's surface, allowing you to see the river bottom, spot fish, and protect your eyes from stray casts.
• Wading Belt: Always wear a wading belt. In the event of a fall, it will help prevent your waders from filling with water, which can be extremely dangerous.
• Gloves: A pair of thin, fingerless gloves can keep your hands warm on chilly mornings while still allowing you to handle your gear.
• Sunscreen: In the cooler months, sunburn can occur on your face and hands without even realizing it.

For summer fishing in Western North Carolina, the focus shifts from warmth to staying cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun. Here's what you should wear:

The Core Outfit

• Waders or Wet Wading: In the heat of summer, many anglers prefer to wet wade rather than wear waders. Wet wading involves wearing shorts or quick-drying pants with your wading boots or water shoes. This allows you to stay cool while still providing protection and good footing. If you choose to wear waders, opt for lightweight, breathable models and be prepared to get warm. If you choose to wet wade, be sure to wear closed-toed shoes.
• Wading Boots: A good pair of wading boots is still essential for safety and comfort, whether you're wet wading or in waders. Look for boots with a durable rubber sole for traction on slippery riverbeds.
• You will not need waders or wading boots on our river and lake trips.
• Wading Socks or Gravel Guards: If you're wet wading, wear a pair of synthetic socks to prevent blisters and a set of gravel guards to keep small rocks out of your boots.

Essential Layers

• Sun Protection: This is the most critical factor for summer fishing.
  • Long-Sleeved Shirt: Wear a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt with a high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating. These shirts are designed to wick away moisture and block harmful UV rays. A hooded shirt is always good to help cover your neck and face.
  • Pants: If you prefer more protection than shorts, choose lightweight, quick-drying pants designed for fishing or hiking.
• Hat: A wide-brimmed hat is crucial for shielding your face, ears, and neck from the sun.
• Polarized Sunglasses: These are non-negotiable. They protect your eyes from the sun's glare, help you spot fish and submerged obstacles, and shield your eyes from hooks on errant casts.

Additional Accessories

• Waterproof Rain Jacket: Even in summer, a pop-up thunderstorm can occur. A lightweight, packable rain jacket is a smart addition to your gear.
• Gloves: Consider wearing sun gloves. These are lightweight, fingerless gloves that protect the backs of your hands from sunburn.
• Neck Gaiter/Buff: A neck gaiter provides excellent sun protection for your neck and face. It can be pulled up over your nose and ears for complete coverage.

For winter fishing in Western North Carolina, your primary goal is to stay warm and dry to combat the cold temperatures of both the air and the water. Layering is not just a good idea—it's essential for a comfortable and safe trip.

The Core Outfit

• Waders: Insulated waders and clothing are your best friends in winter. They provide a thicker barrier against the cold water than standard breathable waders. If you don't have insulated waders, you can wear a heavier insulating layer underneath your breathable waders.
• Wading Boots: Paired with thick socks, a good pair of wading boots will keep your feet warm and provide the necessary traction on icy and slippery rocks.
• You will not need waders or boots on our river trips or lake trips, but you may want to wear a pair of bibs to help combat any rain, snow, and generally cooler weather.
• Layering: This is the most critical part of your winter gear.
  • Base Layer: Wear a heavyweight, moisture-wicking base layer made from merino wool or a synthetic material. This layer will pull sweat away from your skin, which is crucial for preventing a dangerous drop in body temperature.
  • Mid-Layers: Use multiple mid-layers for maximum warmth. A fleece jacket or a puffy down jacket is excellent for insulation. Many anglers will wear two mid-layers—a lighter fleece followed by a heavier one—for more adaptability.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof shell jacket is non-negotiable. It protects you from wind chill and any precipitation, which can feel much colder in the winter.

Essential Accessories

• Socks: Wear two pairs of thick, thermal socks. A thin liner sock can help wick away moisture, and a heavy wool sock on top provides insulation.
• Hat: A warm, fleece-lined beanie or a heavy wool hat that covers your ears is a must to prevent heat loss from your head.
• Gloves: Look for gloves specifically designed for fishing in cold weather. Some have fold-back fingers or are made from neoprene to allow for dexterity while tying knots.
• Neck Gaiter: A fleece or wool neck gaiter provides an extra layer of warmth and protection for your neck and face against the biting cold wind.
• Hand Warmers: These are a simple but effective tool. Slip them into your gloves or pockets to give your hands a quick warm-up.
• Wading Belt: As always, wear a wading belt to cinch your waders and prevent them from filling with water if you fall.