I admit that I am a little odd. I love the cold. There’s something magical about fall and winter fly fishing. The rivers are quieter, the crowds disappear, and the trout? They’re still there, waiting for the perfect fly. I fish year-round, but enjoying cold weather fly fishing isn’t just about knowing where to cast. It’s about staying warm and comfortable enough to stay out all day.

Start Close to the Skin: Base Layers for Cold Weather Fly Fishing

Everything begins with your base layer. This is what keeps sweat off your skin and helps you stay warm on chilly mornings. Avoid cotton because it holds moisture and loses its insulating power when wet. Instead, choose merino wool or fast-drying synthetic fabrics. These materials keep you warm even when damp. Personally, I like the Patagonia Capilene base layer, available as a crew or hoody, for all-day comfort on the water.

Add Some Insulation: Mid-Layers for Winter Fly Fishing

Next, add a mid-layer to trap heat without restricting movement. Fleece jackets, lightweight down vests, or synthetic insulated layers all work. The goal is to stay warm while still being able to cast, mend, and navigate the river.

I usually start with the Patagonia R2 Tech-Face Jacket. Patagonia calls the R2 a jacket but it's more like a tech fleece. If I’m still cold after standing in the water, I layer a synthetic puffer jacket over it. Synthetic insulation is preferable to down in wet conditions because it retains warmth even when damp.

Top It Off: Waterproof Shells for Cold Weather Anglers

Your outer layer is your protection against wind, rain, and snow. Breathable, waterproof jackets are a must. Look for options with vents or zippers so you can regulate temperature without removing layers mid-cast.

Premium wading jackets, like the Simms Classic Guide, G3, or G4, are designed for this. Regular rain jackets trap moisture and can leave you colder, so investing in a high-quality shell makes a noticeable difference during winter fly fishing.

Don’t Forget Extremities: Gloves, Socks, Boots, and Hats

Hands, feet, and head lose heat fastest, so never skimp on extremities. Choose warm boots, merino wool socks, a good beanie, and gloves that allow dexterity for tying knots and handling flies.

For socks, I rely on Simms Merino Thermal OTC or alpaca socks. Avoid multiple sock layers, which can cause sweating and cold feet.

For gloves, I usually wear 9-mil nitrile gloves. These are available at Harbor Freight, Amazon, and a variety of hardware stores. Anything less than 9-mil and they will tear too easily. The nitrile gloves don’t directly add warmth, but they keep your hands dry and protect the fish’s slime since they are rubber-based. When I’m not handling fish, I wear wool gloves like the Simms Wool Half-Finger gloves, fold-over mittens such as the Simms Windstoppers, or synthetic insulated hunting gloves over top of the nitrile gloves. These options balance warmth and dexterity so you can tie knots, cast, and manage your gear comfortably.

Layer Smart, Not Heavy

The real beauty of fly fishing layers is flexibility. Walking up a riverbank? You might shed a layer. Standing still while casting? You’ll need everything on. Small adjustments make a huge difference in comfort and endurance.

Pro tip: start slightly cold on your approach. You’ll warm up while trekking to your favorite run, then add your mid-layer when you arrive.

Little Extras That Make a Big Difference

Simple items can turn a good day into a great one: a neck gaiter, hand warmers, or a Yeti filled with coffee, tea or hot chocolate. Keep dry socks and gloves in a backpack, and bring snacks like granola bars or beef jerky because your body burns calories quickly in cold conditions.

Enjoying Cold Weather Fly Fishing

Cold weather fly fishing offers solitude, crisp air, and quiet waters. With the right winter fly fishing gear and proper layering techniques, you’ll stay comfortable and focused on what really matters: the fish, the water, and the pure joy of being outdoors.