While this year’s lower flows will certainly change where—and when—we fish, it also opens the door to one of our favorite ways to spend a summer day: wet wading.
Instead of stepping into your chest waders, grab a pair of wet-wading socks, lightweight wading shoes, and quick-drying pants. You'll be lighter, cooler, and perfectly equipped for exploring the high-country streams and alpine lakes that offer their best fishing this time of year (for more ideas on that subject, check out our tips on where to fish during a low-water year).
Why Wet Wade?
Wet wading simply means leaving the waders at home and fishing in lightweight clothing that's designed to get wet and dry quickly.
For much of the summer, especially in Colorado's mountains, it's all you need. Wet wading is ideal for high alpine lakes, small mountain streams, pocket water and canyon creeks, warmwater fisheries like bass and carp, plus any hot summer day when bulky waders feel like overkill.
It's also incredibly comfortable. Hiking between spots is easier, climbing over rocks, jumping in and of a boat feels more natural, and you won't mind stepping into the water to make the perfect cast.
This is the Summer to Explore Higher Elevations
With many lower elevation trout streams seeing lower flows and increasing water temperatures, more anglers are heading uphill in search of cooler water.
Colorado's high-country fisheries offer exactly that.
Whether you're hiking into an alpine lake, or exploring a small freestone creek, wet wading makes the entire experience more enjoyable. You'll cover more ground, stay cooler during long hikes, and carry less gear on your back.
What You’ll Need:
The beauty of wet wading is that you don't need much.
1. Wet Wading Neoprene Socks
Think of these as the replacement for your wader booties. Neoprene socks fill the volume and provide cushioning inside your boots while keeping gravel and sand from rubbing your feet. Plus, they act like a wet-suit, keeping your feet warmer when standing in that cold, high-alpine water. You may want to wear a thin sock under your neoprene socks and against your skin. We recommend a fully synthetic sock or sock liner. Check out the Simms Wet Wading Sock.
At Anglers All, you'll find a variety of excellent options including:
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For a thinner option, try the 0.5mm Orvis Neoprene Socks
Each offers a slightly different fit, features and level of insulation, but they'll all make a full day of wet wading significantly more comfortable. Stop by the fly shop in Littleton or Denver to try them on.
2. Wading Shoes & Boots
When it comes to wet wading boots, you have a couple of options. First, you could use the same boot that you normally wear with your waders. Just put it right over the neoprene wet-wading sock. Alternatively, you could go for a lighter-weight, low-top, or more minimalist shoe for wet wading.
Some of our favorites include:
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Simms Flyweight Access Wet Wading Shoe – Built specifically for wet wading, this has quickly become one of the best choices for anglers who spend all summer hiking into small streams and alpine lakes.
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Astral TR1 Merge Boot – An ultra lightweight, high-performance boot with sticky soles and ankle support for creek fishing and high mountain scrambles.
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Simms Pursuit Shoe – Great for anglers looking for a lighter, multi-purpose option that transitions easily from trail to stream.
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Simms Flyweight Boots - Maybe the perfect middle ground between a boot that is very sturdy and comfortable for long wading days, but also feels light and snug on your feet like a hiking boot.
3. Quick-Dry Pants
You wouldn’t ski in jeans (we hope). So, skip the blue jeans for wet wading.
A solid pair of quick-dry pants will protect your legs from sun and brush, and remain comfortable even after multiple river crossings.
We have some excellent options available at Anglers All. Shop men’s fishing pants and women’s pants online. Or stop by one of our fly shop locations to try them on and find the best fit.
4. Don't Forget Sun Protection
One thing you'll notice when fishing higher elevations is just how intense the sun can be.
A lightweight sun hoody, sun gloves, polarized sunglasses, and a good hat go a long way toward keeping you comfortable throughout the day. Many of our favorite warm-weather options from Patagonia, Skwala, Simms, and Free Fly are designed specifically for long days on the water.
A Few Wet Wading Tips
Before jumping in, keep these tips in mind:
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Start slowly. Even on a hot day, mountain water at higher elevations can be surprisingly cold.
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Wear proper footwear. Tennis shoes or sandals simply don't offer the traction or support you'll want on slick rocks, not to mention protection from sharp sticks, rocks, and generally rugged mountain terrain.
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Keep your feet warmer and more comfortable with neoprene wet wading socks.
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Be mindful of water temperatures if you're fishing for trout. If temperatures begin climbing into the mid-60s, it's time to move to cooler water or call it a day.
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Whenever you’re fishing the backcountry or more remote high-alpine waters, be prepared for changing conditions. A lightweight rain jacket, sun protection, extra water, and a simple first-aid kit are examples of those must-have essentials.
Ready to Get Started?
Whether you're planning your first alpine lake adventure or simply looking for a cooler way to fish this summer, there's never been a better time to add a wet wading setup to your arsenal.
Stop by an Anglers All Fly Shop location or browse the website to check out the latest wet wading gear. Our staff spends plenty of time fishing Colorado's high-country waters, and we'd be happy to help you build a setup that's perfect for wherever your next adventure takes you.
Here's to wet feet, cool mountain water, and plenty of eager trout!
