New Cold Weather Gear for Winter Bass Fishing
I didn’t fish as much as I would’ve liked in 2024, and I plan to make up for that by going out as often as possible this winter. I have a lake about 90 miles from home that fishes pretty well in the winter months and I intend to go there not only to stretch a line, but also to work on my long-held goal of improving my Livescoping skills.
I’ve fished there for 30 years and while younger me struggled through the coldest times in subpar gear, the quality of the clothing available today makes this creaky-boned fiftysomething much more comfortable. Back in the day I coveted the snowmobile suits and motorcycle helmets the older guys owned, but now I can stay every bit as warm with gear that’s faster-drying, more comfortable and lighter, allowing me to stay more mobile and to fish longer.
Here are some items I’m adding to the rotation this winter:
A high-end hoodie with built-in buff at a remarkably reasonable price.
I’m always looking for new ways to keep my hands dry, which is the primary goal in protecting them from getting uncomfortably cold.
PAKA Trail Socks
Warm, dry feet are also a key way to help the rest of you stay warm. These are made from a blend of nylon, merino wool and Alpaca, which has the lowest water retention rate of all natural fibers.
The cotton t-shirt is your enemy, as is itchy long underwear, so go with this comfortable, moisture-wicking first layer.
There are days when I go back and forth between the comfort of a baseball hat and the warmth of a wool or fleece hat covering my ears – now I don’t need to choose.
A midlayer that’s breathable and waterproof, made for inactivity in a tree stand or blind, translates well to the coldest days on the boat.
And don’t forget some of my other cold weather fishing gear staples:
