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The best rain gear for fishing needs to keep you dry. Period. It doesn’t matter if it’s rain, sleet, or snow—dedicated anglers are out there in the worst conditions. Without the right gear, you won’t last long, and you could even end up in a dangerous situation. Your jacket, bibs, and boots all need to keep water out. The equation is simple: The longer you stay dry and comfortable, the longer you can fish.
To find the best rain gear for fishing, the editors asked me to test the latest foul-weather gear and identify the top options for braving the elements. I had manufacturers send their best jackets, bibs, and boots, then evaluated each for construction, fit, comfort, and, most importantly, waterproof performance. The best rain gear checks all those boxes, keeping you on the water longer—and giving you a better chance to come tight with a giant.
- Best Overall: Simms ProDry Fishing Jacket and ProDry Bibs
- Best Value: FXR Vapor Pro Tri-Laminate Jacket and Bibs
- Best Budget: Academy Magellan Outdoors Rain Jacket
- Best Boots: Sitka Rover Gore-Tex Waterproof Pull-on Boots
- Huk Pro Series Rain Jacket and Bibs
- Grundens Neptune Jacket
- Huk Rogue Wave Boots
Best Overall: Simms ProDry Fishing Jacket and ProDry Bibs
Simms ProDry Fishing Jacket
Pros
Breathable fabric keeps you dry while letting moisture escape
Innovative pockets keep essential gear at your fingertips Â
Excellent freedom of movement
Cons
Expensive
The Simms ProDry sheds water better than any other fishing rain gear I tested. Its shell-only design makes it versatile enough for year-round use—you can layer underneath it in winter or wear it on its own during summer storms. At $1,300 for the jacket and bibs, the ProDry suit is undeniably expensive. But if you’re looking for the best rain gear money can buy, this is it.
Thoughtful design details are everywhere. The bibs are highly adjustable, the hood features a front flap that locks securely to the bill of your cap, and the jacket’s high collar keeps out wind and rain without feeling restrictive. You can cinch the waist, hem, and hood for a customized fit, while the cuffs seal tightly around your wrists to keep water from creeping in. But it’s the three-layer microgrid GORE-TEX Pro construction that truly sets this suit apart.
By pairing a 100-percent recycled nylon shell with a GORE-TEX membrane and a 100-percent nylon backer, Simms has created the most waterproof rain gear I tested. Just as important, the ProDry includes two features that should be industry standards: thigh-high leg zippers and a dual-zipper bib design for quick bathroom breaks. It may not be the most glamorous feature, but bibs without a fly become a real headache when nature calls. Likewise, pulling bibs on over boots without full-length leg zippers is an unnecessary hassle. Simms solves both problems with a practical, well-executed design.
Best Value: FXR Vapor Pro Tri-Laminate Jacket and Bibs
The FXR brand has burst onto the bass fishing scene the last couple of years, and their new Vapor Pro Tri-Laminate suit is fantastic. The Vapor Pro Tri-Laminate has my two non-negotiable features: the zippered fly and the hip-high zippered legs. In addition to these, there are pockets all over, magnetic tabs to seal off pocket flaps and zippers, and a snazzy little line cutter incorporated into a D-ring on the bibs. This suit has made its way to the top of the heap for value, coming in a couple hundred dollars shy of the Simms Pro Dry. Eleven hundred dollars is still a lot to pay for a rainsuit, but I haven’t been as impressed by any other as I have this one when trying to find something comparable to the ProDry.Â
FXR also has a new deck boot out that I tested the last couple of months. The Vapor Pro Lite boots are priced at $120; they have front and back pull tabs to make putting them on easier, and a toe tab on the back for easy removal. One word of caution: the neoprene upper part of the boot isn’t waterproof. This isn’t an issue in the rain when wearing pants that cover this area, but if you step off into ankle-deep water, you’ll find yourself with a wet foot.
Best Budget: Academy Magellan Outdoors Rain Jacket
The Academy Magellan Outdoors packable rain jacket is a great, lightweight, easy-on-the-wallet option if you’re looking for a jacket to store in the truck, boat, or backpack. This is primarily a lightweight shell, made of 100 percent woven nylon. This isn’t the jacket you’ll want to have on running down the lake in a downpour. But it is great for those short-lived summer showers or light all-day drizzles. For $23, it’s hard to find a better price.
Best Boots: Sitka Rover Gore-Tex Waterproof Pull-on Boots
I’ve been testing the Sitka Rover boots for more than a year, and they’ve become my favorite fishing boots. I wasn’t sold on them at first because the snug opening made them difficult to pull on and off—though I do have wider-than-average feet. Once I got them on, however, I found them comfortable enough to wear all day. Built with a GORE-TEX construction and wrapped in lightweight leather, the Rover boots are noticeably lighter than most rubber deck boots. I opted for the light-colored Buckskin model, which also stays cooler in the sun than darker rubber boots. Their traction is excellent, providing confident footing on wet boat decks while remaining comfortable and capable on just about any terrain. At $180, they’re certainly an investment, but after more than a year of testing, they’ve earned a permanent spot in my gear lineup.
Huk Pro Series Rain Jacket and Bibs
Huk’s Pro Series suit is top-notch. A zippered fly and hip-high leg zippers are just the beginning. You’ll also find nearly a dozen thoughtfully placed pockets, adjustable suspenders and waist tabs, abrasion-resistant reinforcements in high-wear areas, and fully sealed seams. The Pro Series Jacket includes one feature I’ve never seen on a rain suit: integrated suspender-style straps inside the jacket. They help keep the jacket snug against your body, preventing it from ballooning in the wind.
Duck Camp Men’s Deck Rain Jacket and Bibs
The Duck Camp Deck Rain Jacket and Bibs are a softer option than the other rainsuits I tested, which made them a little more comfortable. This suit also has a touch more insulation than the other rain gear, but I didn’t notice it being any hotter while testing it. Since this suit is lined on the inside, it feels a lot better against your skin, not clingy. With D-rings, zippered pockets, and other common features throughout this suit, it is a great pick for fishing in foul weather.
Grundens Neptune Jacket
I’ve been wearing this jacket for months, and it is hands-down the best fishing rain jacket I’ve ever worn. It’s the only thing that keeps me totally dry, even in the most torrential downpour, thanks to the polyurethane-coated shell. Just as importantly, it’s very flexible and lightweight—I don’t sweat or feel constricted in it. The athletic cut and pliable material allow for a full range of motion along with breathability on warmer days. The hood is plenty spacious for ample coverage, and zips all the way up to the chin to protect even my face. I also like that the jacket has room to wear layers underneath (especially because it’s not insulated) and has a slightly longer back to keep out water when you’re moving around. Made for commercial fishermen—but absolutely appropriate and recommended for the casual angler!—it’s designed to hold up to years of wear and tear. And at just $100, it’s surprisingly affordable, to boot. —Amanda Oliver
Huk Rogue Wave Boots
Huk Rogue Wave Boots
Pros
Comfortable fit
Strong grip and non-marking outsole
Can submerge boots in water and stay dry
Cons
Not adjustable
Can get hot
I expected the Huk Rogue Wave boots to perform well during typical fishing adventures, and they did. What surprised me was how useful these boots are for other situations. For example, I pulled my duck boat out of the water for the season, and the Rogue Wave boots were perfect for navigating the slippery ramp. The GripX wet-traction design helps keep your footing when maneuvering on wet surfaces. The boots are ideal for getting out of the truck and rigging up in a mucky parking lot. These things are meant to get wet, dirty, and, frankly, have the crap beat out of them. The final test came during a full day of pond hopping. These boots shined and kept me dry in muddy banks as I worked my way around different ponds.
If it can handle all of this, you can bet it will do just fine on a boat. The soles are removable, and the ankle area is made with neoprene for a better fit. If you’re a half size, I’d suggest buying up. I wear a size 11 ½, and the size 12 boot fits perfectly. Not to mention they are just dang comfortable. I wore them all day fishing and didn’t even think twice about it. If you’re looking to keep your feet dry, these boots are for you. —Ryan Chelius
How We Tested Rain Gear for Fishing
Our testing process has been from trial and error over the years. Being soaked on a boat is not fun—trust us, we know. Here are the criteria we based our selections on to determine the best rain gear for fishing:
- Construction: How well is the rain gear built? What materials is it made from? What waterproof technology does it use?
- Waterproof Ability: Is the rain gear waterproof? Will you be able to all day in the rain and not get wet?Â
- Durability: Can you get multiple seasons out of it? Will you be able to trust this gear in the harshest conditions you face?
- Comfort: Is the gear breathable and comfortable? Can you fish all day in it without any restrictions?
- Value: Are you getting what you paid for? This is an important question because you need to make sure that if you choose to spend a lot of money, then you need the best materials.
What to Look for When Choosing Fishing Rain Gear
Though choosing rain gear seems pretty simple, there is more to it than meets the eye. Fabric, construction, fit, and comfort all play a role in the overall performance of rain gear. Here are some other considerations to think about to make sure you stay dry on the water:
Materials and Construction
Quality rain gear starts with quality materials. Unfortunately, the best materials aren’t cheap, and you’re going to pay for them. Most quality construction has strong coated nylons on the outside. These nylons are often coated in DWR (Durable Water Repellent), which sheds water and helps prevent the fabric from absorbing moisture. Make sure to look for DWR initials when shopping for rain gear.Â
We also prefer our gear to be Gore-Tex. This waterproof technology is lightweight, breathable, and as watertight as possible. Other waterproof technologies like Polartec NeoShell and eVent are similar to Gore-Tex by providing strong, breathable waterproof gear.Â
Waterproof Ability
Rain gear needs to keep you dry. It doesn’t seem like a difficult concept, but there are plenty of rain jackets that can’t withstand a drizzle let alone a downpour. You want your rain gear to withstand the harshest conditions. This means a strong DWR construction, watertight seals, and features that keep you safe and comfortable. You should be able to fish for hours in the rain without having any water or moisture get through to your clothing.
Durability
Anglers beat the hell out of their gear. It just comes with the territory, and your rain gear will take the brunt of it. Quality equipment will last you season after season, and you won’t even have to think about it. This might mean spending a little more upfront, but you’ll save money (and be more comfortable) in the long run with a quality setup.Â
Pay attention to materials and construction when determining durability. Rugged nylon and polyester are some of the best choices, especially when paired with Gore-Tex, Polartec NeoShell, and eVent technologies.
Fit
It goes without saying that your rain gear needs to fit you, but don’t overlook this feature. The fit of your rain gear is most likely going to be different from your everyday clothes. You have to remember that rain jackets and bibs go over everything else you wear. If you’re bundled up on a cold November day, your rain jacket has to fit comfortably over your layers of clothes. You don’t want to be restricted from moving or casting. Make sure to look at the manufacturer’s sizing guide on their website. Size and fit vary from company to company.Â
FAQs
Q: What is the best waterproof fishing gear?Â
The best waterproof fishing gear depends on your style of fishing. For instance, fly fishers will look for a waterproof and durable wading jacket to pair with their waders. While serious bass anglers want a durable rain jacket and bibs to keep them completely dry all day, and maybe even a pair of comfortable waterproof shoes. Saltwater anglers may need something heavier to face rough environments like the ocean. This means extended cuff designs, adjustable hoods, and indestructible designs.Â
Q: What rain gear do pro bass fishermen use?Â
Pro bass anglers will usually wear a durable waterproof jacket and a pair of waterproof bibs. High quality Gore-Tex jackets and bibs keep bass anglers fishing through the nastiest conditions so they can land more fish.Â
Q: Is Goretex worth the price?
Yes. Gore-Tex is a breathable, waterproof fabric that repels water while allowing water vapor to pass through. This design keeps anglers comfortable on the water and, more importantly—dry. Gore-Tex is also lightweight and designed for all-weather use. You will find Gore-Tex in some of the most reputable fishing clothing brands like Simms and Grundens. While it isn’t cheap, it is worth the money.Â
Why Trust Us
For more than 125 years, Field & Stream has been providing readers with honest and authentic coverage of outdoor gear. Our writers and editors eat, sleep, and breathe the outdoors, and that passion comes through in our product reviews. You can count on F&S to keep you up to date on the best new gear. And when we write about a product—whether it’s a bass lure or a backpack—we cover the good and the bad, so you know exactly what to expect before you decide to make a purchase.
THE 1871 CLUB
