By now everyone living in a cold weather area is itching to fish, and as soon as the first signs of spring appear, that itch will increase tenfold. So go ahead, get out there now. Just make sure you protect yourself. When heading out during winter, it’s most important to keep warm and dry. Scrape the dust and dried salt off the Grunden’s and the shrimper boots and try on these layers for size.
Gill Inshore Lite Jacket $145, www.gillna.com The Gill Inshore Lite Jacket has a breathable waterproof outer shell that protects you from the wind and is lightweight enough to accommodate a variety of base layers underneath. I tested it during a day of fall fishing when the thermometer hit 41 degrees with a 15-knot wind, and it protected me just fine. The heavy collar with stowable hood keeps wind from penetrating into your layering. I sealed the cuffs tight to keep out water while handling fish.
Under Armour Coldgear UA Metal Legging $90, www.underarmour.com While the snug fit leaves little to the imagination, you’ll presumably be wearing the skin-tight legging under a pair of pants, so don’t sweat it. These leggings are intended for use when the temperature drops below 55 degrees. Their lightweight material helps wick moisture away from your skin while providing your body with a layer of thermal insulation. Their contoured design allows lots of flexibility, a good thing to have while fishing. Under Armour also makes UA Metal shirts.
Ibex zepher sport $95,www.ibex.com Long before polypropylene and fleece, wool was the material of choice to keep sportsmen warm. Ibex makes the Zepher with New Zealand merino wool for excellent breathability and temperature regulation. Its T-neck allows you to zip up for more protection from the elements. For fans of natural fiber, it’s an excellent base layer.
