Tips for staying warm while trying to land the big one
Ihad the opportunity to spend a few days fishing in River Denys Basin last week. It is a trip I have been making for a few years now and it is always my first big fishing trip of the year. It also gives me the opportunity to spend time with old friends, and make some new ones.
While catching fish is an important part of any trip, as I grow older, the number of fish I’ve landed becomes less important. Being able to spend some time on the water with old friends is something I cherish and every year I make sure I get a chance to renew those friendships. Another thing I cherish as I get older is comfort so I paid particular attention to what I would wear. Staying warm while fishing can be critical to your comfort, safety and success.
When you are cold you cannot concentrate on fishing and, in my experience, the fun goes out of it very quickly. Hypothermia is always a danger when you get cold and can turn a day on the water into a life and death situation.
Last week the Bras d’Or Lake threw everything it could at us from wind and waves to driving rain and very cool temperatures. Dressing properly for fishing is a combination of staying warm and dry. Protection from the wind can be just as important as protection from the water.
Last week we ran into a couple of friends who had to leave the water early because they became too cold. Wading in cold water is guaranteed to chill you unless you take some precautions. That includes wearing the correct wading gear. Neoprene waders are guaranteed to help keep you warm but I teamed up my breathable waders with long underwear on this trip and I was fine.
Your upper body needs attention as well. Layering your clothing is the best method to maintain body heat. It is critical, if you are going to be comfortable, that the core part of your body remains warm. In my experience the best way to do this is by using a series of layers of water proof and wind proof clothing. By adding or removing layers you can maintain a comfortable body temperature.
Since we lose a lot of body heat through our head a good hat is also critical to staying warm. While we all have favourite fishing hats or caps it is hard to beat a stocking cap when the wind is blowing and the temperature drops down to near freezing. Your hands are another critical area where a pair of gloves can make a big difference.
If you put together a system of gloves, clothes and waders which keep you warm and comfortable when fishing in any weather conditions it will allow you to stay on the water longer, increasing your fishing enjoyment as well as your chances of catching a big one.
Tight Lines.
Tip of the week:
Carry a mat in your car on fishing trips and place it on the ground when changing into boots or waders. It will ensure your socks stay dry and help keep small rocks out of your boots.