Summer is the time to leave your waders behind, and step into that clear, cold, Rocky Mountain water. We love wet wading season around here. It means exploring small creeks, alpine lakes and our favorite high-country waters.
Wet wading simply means fishing wet, without the use of waders. There are many ways to approach wet wading. It can be as simple as shorts and a pair of sandals; or perhaps quick-dry pants and your favorite wading boots. Ask a handful of anglers how they approach wet wading and you’ll likely get a handful of different answers.
Wet wading gear has come a long way in the last several years, with boots, socks, pants, and other gear that’s designed specifically for warm-weather pursuits. Here’s a look at what’s new, as well as a few wet wading tips…
BEST NEW WET WADING GEAR
You can certainly wet wade in a pair of sandals or even some old running shoes. But in recent years, boot makers have dialed in on specific wet-wading footwear that offers a great deal more comfort and performance.
A dedicated wet wading boot will keep your feet warmer, even in very cold high alpine waters. It will keep rocks, sand and debris out. And it’ll provide all-day wading comfort and support.
Simms Flyweight Wet Wading Boots & Shoes
We carry some killer Simms footwear here at the shop, including three models in their Flyweight collection that make perfect wet wading boot options. Their newest option, the new Flyweight Access Wet Wading Shoeis your all-terrain vehicle for those warm weather days on the water. It’s built with quick dry materials and features Vibram Idrogrip Lite Flex soles for excellent traction. It’s lightweight and the high-top design with built it ankle cuff offers good support and it keeps sand and gravel out.
Orvis Pro Approach Shoes
These wet wading shoes from Orvis are a great companion for a wide range of situations, including hiking, boating, summer wet wading and flats fishing. They are versatile, lightweight, and very comfortable for long days of fishing.
The Michelin Outdoor Extreme outsole provides solid traction. The lightweight design fits like a comfy running shoe, while the quick-drying materials provide excellent drainage and the integrated sock keeps debris out.
Sock or No Sock?
Whether you wear a sock while wet wading is entirely a matter of personal preference. Even with a specific wet-wading boot like the Orvis Pro Approach Shoes, some anglers will choose to add a wet-wading sock for additional cushion, protection, or both. Not sure if you want or need to add a sock to your wet wading system? The best way to find out is to stop by the fly shop and try on some footwear with and without a sock.
Pants or Shorts?
Many anglers choose to wet wade in shorts and are perfectly comfortable doing so. But in most cases, we recommend a pair of quick-drying pants. Pants offer protection from bugs, brush and sun.
Wading Staffs
A great idea when wading in slick, freestone rivers and streams is a wading staff. No matter your age or abilities, you may be surprised how much stability you will gain when using a staff. Whether it’s mossy rocks during these warmer months, or ice and snow during the shoulder seasons, this is a great item to keep as a part of your wading kit anytime. Bonus feature to carrying a wading staff is that it doubles as a trekking pole for hike in spots!
Always Pack a Thermometer
While a stream thermometer is not a wet-wading specific piece of equipment, it’s a summertime fishing essential. Whenever you’re fishing during the warmest months of the year, it’s always wise to keep an eye on water temperature. When water temps hit 65 degrees, it’s best to land and release fish quickly. And when the water temperature reaches 67 degrees, it’s time to call it a day.
A Note on Flash Flooding
Flash floods have been a real concern this year with highly variable water levels. Whenever you’re out wading this summer, keep a close eye on weather and water conditions. A big storm upstream sometimes can be hidden by a ridge line, but send a rush of water your way. If this happens you don't want to be across the water from your vehicle. And remember that no day of fishing is worth putting your safety at risk.
Contact Us With Questions
Have questions about wet wading or need help getting ready for your next day on the water? If you’re in the Denver area or along the Front Range, come see us at the fly shop in Littleton. We’d be happy to answer any questions and help you feel prepared for a great day of fishing.
