It should be a no brainer that fly fishing requires specialized clothing such as waders, a fishing vest, rain gear, underwear, polarized sunglasses, gloves, and a hat. Hip or chest waders are an essential part of the wardrobe of a fly fisherman. When choosing waders most people will choose chest waders which come in two styles, boot waders and stocking foot waders. Most fly fishermen seem to prefer the stocking foot type which are made of neoprene rubber.



Another thing that every fly fisherman needs is a fly fishing vest with lots of pockets. Why the need for all the pockets? This is to keep all of the fly fishing items that the fisherman needs to have for fishing. Anyone who has ever waded to fish knows that having to leave the water and return to the bank to get more equipment is a pain so the cure is to have a vest that will hold all you need. Be sure that you have a vest with Velcro closures to hold all of your stuff securely.

Another thing that is an important piece of a fly fisherman's wardrobe is a high quality rain suit. Like any rain suit for active people the best ones are constructed so that they breathe and keep you dry from the rain and at the same time keep you from being hot and wet from perspiration. You also need to have them with the ability to close the wrists and neck in case of cold weather and of course a hood is a must.

Another necessity for fly fishermen is long underwear which will prevent heat loss when you are standing in a cold stream for long hours. For the best results one should choose underwear made from wool or Durofold, a blend of wool, cotton, and polypropylene. This is the same type of fabric blend that one should have for socks as well.

As a fisherman for over 30 years I can also tell you that a good pair of polarized sunglasses is another item that is crucial for fishing in any water including fly fishing in streams. This is not only good for cutting the glare on the water but it also allows you to see the movement in the water that indicates that fish are below the surface.

Gloves are another item that a fly fisherman needs to keep warm but at the same time one also needs to have the full sensitivity to be able to feel the bite from the fish. Fly fishing gloves are made with the last joint of the fingers left free to give that sensitivity.

Another important item is a hat to protect both you head and your eyes, it should also be wide brimmed to protect your ears and the back of your neck. A good hat also will protect you from a fly that may pull from the mouth of the fish.