Bought a very decent pair of new Gortex waders this spring at a reputable store. Sales guy actually told me many fisherman are now using the new Gortex waders year round. Have not winter fished in a few years and thinking my old neoprene waders probably need replacement and just cannot convince myself there is enough underwear/fleece in the world to make January-April fishing comfortable wearing Gortex. On the other hand, really hate the neo's.
If Gortex being worn in the winter I suspect they must be boot foot to be warmer?
Any suggestion appreciated.
Greyfox,
I've never owned a pair of Gortex waders so I cannot comment on them. However, I've been winter fishing the Salmon River for 12 years now and over the years have learned how to stay warm all day on the river and the whole package is not that expensive. One day last winter we hit the river and it was -10 and only got up to 17. We were on the river from 7am -6pm and never got cold.
Hodgeman 3.5mm neoprene waders:
60.00 - stocking foot waders or
85.00 - boot foot waders (Dicks Sporting Goods)
Undergarments:
For feet:
7.00 - Wigwam or Cabella's wickaway sock liners (Ramsey's or Cabella's)
12.00 - Wigwam or Cabellas -40 Merino wool socks (Ramsey's or Cabella's)
For lower body:
15.00 - Rocky cold weather long underware (with wickaway) (Walmart)
You can do the same with Merino wool but it will cost more. Then wear a pair of comfortable pants. Preferably not jeans cause the seams will create pressure points.
For upper body:
15.00 - Rocky cold weather long undershirt (with wickaway) (Walmart)
Then wear a fleece shirt and over that a cotton hooded sweatshirt (you probably already have these).
For face:
5.00 - Fleece face mask. I wear Turtle Fur (like fleese). (Ramsey's or Cabella's)
Hands:
20.00 - 2 pair of Merino wool gloves. Second pair in case your gloves get wet. (Fat Nancy's)
Outer garment:
Waterproof jacket. Doesn't need to be heavy. You probably already have one.
Things to remember:
Do not wear cotton against your skin.
Your feet and legs will be fine, but layer your upper body so if you begin to sweat you can remove some clothes.
Keep hand warmers going in your coat pockets so you can warm your fingers when cold. Cold fingers will make you shiver faster than anything and take your mind off of what's really important...that fish biting on the other end of your line.
If you wear stocking foot waders get boots that are 2 sizes larger than your foot size. The air space will help keep your feet warm.
The first 30 minutes on the river your body will be adjusting to the cold...that will pass.
When your feet start feeling cool (about every hour) get out of the water and walk a bit or run in place to get your heart rate up.
I would try this with your Gorgex waders and see of you stay warm before buying neos.
I carry a backpack with a few items that have become essentials to me when winter fishing. Water, emergency blanket, toilet paper, and a change of clothes in case I go for a swim. Backpack gas stove with fuel (about the size of a coffee cup), tin cup for heating water, and single cup coffee pouches. A cup of hot coffee on the river will do wonders for you on a cold damp day.
Good luck and stay warm,
Cdog
