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What To Look For
Fly fishing is the kind of activity that brings anglers into the water more often than any other kind of fishing. Rather than fishing from the bank of the river, the savvy fly fisherman knows that standing in the midst of the river has a distinct advantage when luring fish. Fly fishing waders make it possible to fish and stay dry, but before you buy a pair of waders, there are a number of considerations.
Style: You have the option to choose between hip-style waders and those that actually mimic the look and feel of coveralls by covering the chest also. Choose hip-style fly fishing waders for shallow waters and coverall-style waders for deeper lakes and rivers.
Footing: Take a close look at boot-footed waders. As opposed to stocking-footed waders, they do not require the separate purchase of a boot.
Material: Note that the cheapest fly fishing waders are made of rubber. They offer next to no breathability but are waterproof. Other materials include neoprene--which is a material perfect for fly fishing in cold waters--and Gore Tex, which promises supreme breathability.
Optional Features: Some optional features include sealable pockets, attached hook loops for securing gear, and also wading belts that prevent water getting into the waist area.
Common Pitfalls
Choosing the wrong kind of material is the most common pitfall when picking out fly fishing waders. Neoprene is perfect for the coldwater streams in high elevations, since it is made of pretty much the same material as wetsuits. This allows it to seal in heat, but it does not permit for a lot of breathability. Using this kind of wader in lower elevations and hot weather is not a good idea.
Where To Buy
Fly fishing waders are for sale by brick-and-mortar fishing outfitters and also via the Internet. If you have never purchased a pair of fly fishing waders before, it is a good idea to try on different models before making your choice. In this instance, a visit to a local outfitter is best. If you already know what you are looking for in a wader and are familiar with the sizes offered, then an Internet retailer is a great option.
Cost
Notice that the differences in costs are primarily driven by the materials used and the styles of the fly fishing waders you are considering. Rubber-made, hip-high waders are cheapest, usually only costing between $20 and $50, while chest-high Gore Tex waders are some of the most expensive ones. Depending on the manufacturer and also optional features, expect to spend as much as $500 to $700.
Insider Tips
Opt for a boot-footed fly fishing wader whenever possible. Not only do you save money by not having to buy a pair of boots and gravel guards, but stocking-footed waders also take a lot longer to put on. Moreover, since the boot is connected, there is less chance of leakage.
