Fishing Rain Gear Compared

Why it’s Essential to Wear Rain Gear When Fishing

If I have a shelter or umbrella, why should I buy more rain gear? Here are some reasons why you should bring some fishing gear on your next trip.

Choosing Quality Rain Gear for Fishing

Fishing Environment

Think carefully about what time of year you regularly go fishing. What is the weather like? What about the temperature? If you live or fish in a particularly cold area, pick up a thicker, warmer set of rain gear. If you fish in hot spots, choose thinner, more breathable gear.

Waterproof

While weather-resistant gear can be useful, we would recommend choosing a waterproof outfit for your trip. We believe that the phrase 'better to be safe than sorry' applies to your fishing gear and your clothing. Why risk getting damp when you can ensure that you will be dry and warm no matter what the weather is like? Not only does your rain gear need to be waterproof, but it should also be oil and mildew resistant to protect you.

Storage

If the weather is dry, you need to be able to store your rain gear away compactly and safely until you need it. Some come with bags or extra features that can help you flatten and fold your rain gear to perfection.

When you are using your rain gear, you want to have extra storage that is both large enough to store your phone and other necessities and secure enough to survive harsh weather. How many pockets does it have? Do the pockets seal? Are there internal and external pockets? How large are they? Read the product description carefully to ensure you get the right ones for you.

Durability

A rain jacket or trousers should be able to stand up to the elements as well as the test of time. Find a jacket or pants that are built with durable materials and has both quality seams and zippers to protect you and your belongings. Look at customer reviews to see whether your chosen rain gear is suitable for you.

Safety Features

While having fun is important, staying safe on a fishing trip is the top priority. Your rain gear should protect you from the wind and rain and be either buoyant or easy to remove in case your capsize. A bright color or reflective strips can help you be seen in an emergency or while passing cyclists, motorboats, and cars.

Fit, Comfort & Adjustability

If your rain gear does not fit comfortably, you will not wear it. Check the size chart and returns policy before you buy it. The material and build should be breathable and lightweight; layers of mesh or other materials can provide added comfort or moisture-wicking abilities depending on your needs.

Air vents and bungee cords can add ventilation and adjustability in the cuffs and seams. Getting a machine washable or tumble dryer compatible one can save you hassle when it comes to cleaning.

Price

The phrase 'you get what you pay for' applies to the world of protective rain gear as well. While you certainly do not need to spend a king's ransom, decide a budget for yourself, and stick to it. If the gear you like is a little out of your budget, wait until it goes on sale to save some money. Make sure that you are getting the best value for money rain gear that you can.

1. Simms Challenger

Our top pick for the best fishing rain gear, the Simms Challenger jacket is available in three different colors and a wide variety of size options. The heavy-duty Toray fabric is both waterproof and breathable; it can even be machine washed and tumble dried.

Featuring fully taped seams, a three-point adjustable storm hood, and a dual cord adjustable bottom, this jacket is both stylish and protective. There are two zippered fleece-lined pockets on this lightweight windbreaker as well as a chest pocket to keep your hands warm, and the outside has a protective layer to ensure it endures the weather and regular use for an extended period.

The YKK zippers are both water-resistant and durable, adding another layer of defense against the elements. While this is an excellent jacket, it is on the expensive side and is only available in three styles; it may not appeal to all customers.

2. Helly Hansen Workwear

The best rain gear for Alaska fishing, this Helly Hansen workwear jacket is an excellent option for fishers battling the elements. Available in dark green and dark orange, the Nusfjord comes in a wide variety of sizes and is made of thick polyester and PVC coated cotton that is completely waterproof and resistant to oil, petrol, concrete, and mildew.

Push-button closures secure your jacket, and there are adjustable drawcords in the cuffs and the hood to keep you warm and dry. Storm flaps are also included, and there are no shoulder seams, increasing the jacket's durability.

The size range is decent, but the price is on the expensive side, and we wish that there were more color options to choose from. Overall, the Helly Hansen workwear jacket is another excellent piece of fishing gear; it is a shame that there are no trousers to go with it. 

3. Hodgman Caster Neoprene

For those who often like to get their hands dirty and their legs wet, Hodgman Caster's neoprene cleated chest waders are our choice for best fishing gear for wading. These waders come in a decent size range and have everything you need for a deep river fishing trip.

A thick 3.5mm neoprene shell has padded and reinforced knees to protect you from rocks and potential injuries, and y-backed suspenders ensure that the waders stay on no matter what you are doing. 200g insulated rubber boots protect your feet from cold water, and the cleated sole keeps your feet protected from rocky riverbeds and ocean floors.

A top entry pocket, an internal pocket, and two fleece-lined pockets are available to protect your gear and keep your hands warm. All seams have been stitched, taped, and glued to ensure that they endure the tests of time, and a rear D ring for nets or other equipment has been sewn on. While we love these waders, we do wish that they were more breathable and came in more color options.

4. SWISSWELL

If you are looking for cheap rain gear for fishing with your kids, we recommend the SWISSWELL jacket and pants rain suit. Amazon’s choice for youth rain gear, the suit is available in four different colors and sizes; the jacket and pants can also be bought separately if needed.

Breathable and waterproof, this suit is easy to pack and features reflective markings for added safety. The pants feature a stretchy waist while the windbreakers have adjustable seam cords in the detachable hood and the seam.

Velcro cuffs make sure that your child is completely protected, and zipper pockets are available to keep your child's hands warm. What makes this set even better is the fact that it is both machine washable and tumble dry safe; no more difficult cleaning and extended drying times. It is worth noting that the hood can be a little large for some children and that the material is on the thin side; consider putting these over warmer clothes.

5. Wantdo Men’s

Our pick for best cold weather rain gear for fishing, Wantdo Men's jacket is featured as Amazon's Choice in the winter coats for men category. Available in a wide range of sizes and colors, this breathable polyester jacket has anti-friction and anti-wear technology to improve durability while a fuzzy interior keeps you warm.

This durable jacket is both waterproof and windproof as well as tear-resistant, making it perfect for rougher weather or terrain. Elastic cuffs and a detachable hood allow you to customize the jacket to your liking, and there are plenty of both internal and external pockets for you to store other gear and essentials.

While we love the aesthetic and features of this jacket, we do wish that there were matching pants for a coordinated and comfortable look on the water. Overall, we think that this is a great option for people looking for insulated rain gear for fishing.

6. 4kidz Rain Suit Set

If you need to look at more rain gear for children, we would suggest considering the 4kidz Rain Suit set. Our pick for best youth rain gear for fishing, this jacket and pants set comes in a wide range of sizes and two color options.

The jacket features four different pockets jacket as well as a hideaway hood and reflective adjustable cuffs. The trousers have two pockets, stud fastened ankle cuffs, and a bungee cord waist for comfort and flexibility.

Taped seams increase the durability of the set, and the polyester material on both is PVC coated for increased protection. It is worth noting that this set does not always fit as expected, so bear this in mind during the selection process. To clean, simply use a clean wet wipe on the dirty areas.

Also, remember that this set is not machine washable or tumble dry compatible; hand wash this set only when necessary. While we love the price point and size range, we do hope that more extensive colors and design range becomes available in the future. 

7. Grundens Weather Watch

The best breathable rain gear for fishing, Grundens Weather Watch fishing jacket is an excellent choice for fishing fans out there. Available in the widest range of sizes on this list, there are plenty of colors to choose from, and the fit is usually as expected.

This medium-duty fishing jacket is made of 420D nylon and is both waterproof and breathable. A full-size adjustable hood is included along with stain-resistant technology to keep you dry and clean.

Some customers have noted that the internal lining can peel over time, and you should consider wearing more layers if the weather is on the cooler side. Overall, this is a decent pick for everyday wear both on and off the water, just keep an eye on the lining.

8. Columbia Women’s Switchback III

The best women’s rain gear for fishing is the Columbia Women’s Switchback III. A marked improvement over previous iterations, the Switchback is another entry on the Amazon’s Choice list for women’s rain jackets.

This nylon and polyester jacket is available in an incredible range of colors and sizes and is machine washable, which is fantastic. Lightweight and waterproof, the Switchback has a flattering feminine cut that is comfortable and easy to move in.

An adjustable stowaway storm hood is included, allowing you to be both fashionable and functional no matter what the weather has in store. The zipper closures on the front and two pockets are durable and easy to use. Adjustable bungee cords are located in the cuffs and the hem for increased customization and protection from the elements.

When not in use, this jacket can be folded down into its own pocket for convenient storage. While this jacket typically fits as expected, some reviews do suggest ordering a size up, and others wish that the collar was smaller.

9. Result Mens

One of the most popular entries on this list, the Result Men's heavyweight waterproof rain suit is available in a decent size and color range to suit most needs. This heavyweight polyester set is perfect for colder weather and comes with a large tear release hood and four spacious pockets.

The seams on both the jacket and the pants are taped, and the rear of the jacket has air vents to keep you feeling fresh. A high-quality zip fastens the front of the jacket, and there is elastic in your cuffs and the hem. The trousers have an elasticated waist for extra comfort and mobility.

Two triangular reflective patches are on the front and rear of the jacket for added visibility. Despite the air vents in the jacket, some customers wish that this set wash more breathable and say that the seams are delicate despite their taping. 

10. FROGG TOGGS All Sport

The best fishing rain gear for the money, the FROGG TOGGS All Sport suit is a jacket and pant set that is featured on Amazon’s Choice list. Made of 100 percent polyester, this suit is available in a wide range of sizes and a few colors.

Customer reviews for this rain gear set note that it is both lightweight and comfortable. The jacket is a parka cut with an open waist design in which the trousers are a four-panel cut. Elastic cuffs, adjustable leg openings, and an elastic waist increase comfort and warmth.  

The zip is covered by a snap-down storm flap, and the jacket has an adjustable and removable hood. This affordable suit is affordable and both waterproof and windproof, making it perfect for those rainy days. While we love these features, the material is noisy and stiff, which can be frustrating to deal with.

Caring for Fishing Rain Gear

People Also Ask (FAQs)

Are all rain fishing gear options waterproof?

No, not all fishing gear options are waterproof. Some are water-resistant, so be sure to read the label before purchase to confirm. Check out this video on how to reproof your fishing gear.

What is the best rain gear for fishing?

It depends on what type of fishing you do, where you do it, and what you need to do. Bearing these things in mind while you shop will help you make the best decision.

Are Frogg Toggs really waterproof?

Not all Frogg Toggs are fully waterproof. Read the label and the customer reviews to see how it fares in wet weather.

What are some other accessories for keeping warm when fishing?

Where is the best place to buy these fishing rain gear options and other fishing accessories?

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