Preparing for Cold Weather
I’ll be honest—I’m not a fan of cold weather. I’m not one of those people who wear shorts year-round, but I do try to avoid any situation where the temperature dips below 70 degrees. Since I’m no stranger to chilly conditions, I’ve learned that preparation is key, and that mindset extends to how I handle colder weather.
As much as I dislike the cold, I’ve had to adapt, especially since a lot of the fishing I love happens in California’s fall and winter months when the temperature often falls below my comfort zone. Over time, I’ve developed strategies to stay warm and comfortable during my guiding career, even when conditions are far from ideal. The secret? Following the Boy Scout motto: “Be prepared.” And the first step to being prepared is knowing what kind of weather you’re in for.
While we have plenty of tools—literally at our fingertips—to check the forecast, nothing beats the experience gained from a lifetime spent outdoors. Patterns emerge, and observation becomes second nature. For instance, I’ve learned that during fall and winter, cloud cover usually means warmer air temperatures, while a clear, starry sky before dawn signals a colder day ahead.
Cloud cover can also hint at how temperatures will fluctuate throughout the day. Clear, sunny days might warm up in the afternoon, but they cool off quickly once the sun dips below the horizon. Cloudy days tend to maintain a more consistent temperature.
Moisture is another big factor. If it’s rained or snowed recently, the moisture in the air creates what people call a “wet cold”—a thicker, harder-to-shake chill. Dry air, by comparison, often feels warmer and makes it easier to fend off the cold.
When I’m getting ready for a day on the water, I consider all these conditions, along with what my activity for the day will be. If I’m in a motorboat, I know the wind will make for a cold ride. If I’m wading, I’ll be standing in cold water for long periods. If I’m rowing a drift boat, the physical effort will help keep me warm. And if I’m casting or fishing, that extra movement needs to be factored in as well.
Here are a few of my go-to rules for staying warm during cold-weather fishing:
1. Windproof Gear is Essential
When I’m in a boat (other than rowing), wind is always a factor. And on a river, a stiff breeze can kick in unexpectedly. Being ready to ‘batten down the hatches’ with a windproof jacket is critical. You might only need it for part of the day, but without it, you’ll be chilled to the bone.
If there’s a chance of rain, a good Gore-Tex or waterproof jacket (or a dry suit if I’m not wading) is mandatory. There are plenty of excellent windproof, waterproof jackets to choose from.
2. Layer Like an Onion
Layers are your best friend. On clear, sunny days, temperatures can shift significantly, so it’s important to be prepared for both the morning chill and the afternoon warmth.
My buddy Ryan Williams, who guides at Lake Oroville throughout fall and winter, often sees guests make a common mistake: dressing for the warmer part of the day but failing to prepare for the early morning cold before the sun rises. This can be especially tricky during spring and fall when temperatures can be deceptive.
From the waist down, make sure you have good insulation. Waders will keep cold water off your skin, but they won’t protect you from the chill of the cold water flowing around your waders.
If your day involves a lot of physical activity—like hiking, rowing, or casting (of course)—make sure your base layer is moisture-wicking. You’ll want something that dries quickly and keeps sweat off your skin. Avoid cotton!
3. Don’t Forget the Extremities
One of the best lessons I’ve learned is to keep circulation flowing to your fingers and toes. When I was younger, my mom used to buy me thick wool socks every Christmas, and I’d shove them into my waders and boots. It wasn’t long before my feet were numb and freezing. I always thought it was just because of the cold, but then I switched to wearing thin, synthetic wool socks. The difference was incredible—my feet stayed warmer because they had better circulation. The moral of the story: Don’t over-layer. Make sure your feet and hands can move freely to allow for proper blood flow. That will keep you just as warm as an extra layer.
Ultimately, staying comfortable during the colder months is crucial for enjoying the outdoors. With so many technical clothing options available to anglers today, there’s no reason to be uncomfortable or miss out on fishing when temperatures drop. The best advice I can offer is to pay attention to the conditions, do your research, and always be prepared.