Wader Selection

[yzf0600]

Hi alll,
I am new to fly fishing and waiting and since fall is around the corner I thought I would start looking for a good comfortable pair of waders, and I was hoping to get some input for the board. I live in central Florida and fish either in the local lakes or the Mosiqito Loggon area (saltwater). I end up walking through alot of mud and grass.
I have looked on line and at the local Bass Pro shops and have not been able to make a clear choice. Since I don't have much knowledge with waders I was hoping to get some sugestions on what type of material, boots, susspenders and any information on what kind of pockets accessories are available.

Thanks in advance for the boards time and input.

Sincerely,

Russell Hannon

[Ray]

Russell,

Being in Florida, you want breathable waders for sure. The bigger question is what type of boots. I like the stocking-foot waders, and wear neoprene wading shoes over them. I've been using this combo in NE waters for many years and find it to be very comfortable.

Many of the manufacturers (I use Orvis) are now using a formed 3D neoprene bootie (stocking-foot). This has dramatically increased the comfort for longterm use.

Though you may not need this, a pair of lightweight fleece pants makes wading in cold water comfortable (and feels nice and soft too).

Checkout some of the affiliates in the "shop" pull down menu on the top of the page.

Ray

[DLWKFW]

I've waded in streams, rivers, lakes, oceans, etc for a long time. I agree on the comfort of a wading shoe / stocking foot. However, I would suggest a bootfoot model given that you are new to wading. In the unlikely event that you get wet (i.e. submerge), they are a whole lot easier to get off. And the new boots are pretty comfortable.

Definately use a wading belt in addition to any belt that you use to strap on your stiping basket. The basket is the first thing that you will want to ditch if you get in trouble, and it'll get really wet really fast if that's the only belt that you're wearing.

I have a pair of LL Bean breathables that are well made, inexpensive and have a great warranty. I borrowe a new pair of Orvis breatables last year from a guide friend and they leaked from the cuff, hence the decision on the LL Bean waders.

Be careful, know where you are going and don't let a fish fool you into wading where you shouldn't be. If you keep these things in mind, you will enjoy many years of wade fishing.

[bdowning]

Cabela's breathables are a low-cost alternative, plus they usually will replace leaky ones no questions asked unless you slash them with a knife or something (#$119) . That said, I have yet to find any wader or hip boot that stands up to more than two years of the (ab)use that I dish out without developing leaks. You can patch them to a point to extend life, but not by much. For really hard-wearing waders, get those heavy, expensive Gralites, if they even sell them retail anymore.

In other words, I've come to the conclusion that comfortable waders are basically a short-term disposable commodity.

-bd

[pops]

simms breathable bootfoot lug soles , its easy to add layers and shed as the seasons dictate,,,, worth the extra dollar . they are quality waders .