One of the biggest mistakes I see on the water, and in particular on small trout streams is what people decide to wear to the river for a day of fishing.  Trout are very weary creatures, and they don’t like to be alarmed at all.  Your selection of clothing can very well mean the difference of a great day on the water, or a fishless day on the water.

For the most part, trout are looking up from the bottom of the stream.  They notice just about everything that passes over their heads, from insects that they want to eat to birds such as osprey that are also looking for something to eat.  Without a doubt, trout also notice anglers as they tromp up and down the stream.  Loud unnatural  colors, and even bright white will stand out like a sore thumb to trout as they look up at the sky.  You’ve probably noticed that waders, vests, fishing jackets, hip sacks, all of those things come in natural, or drab colors.  The reason should be obvious, and should be followed with other articles of clothing you wear when out fishing.

The Do’s of Fishing Clothing:

• Do wear natural colored clothing – Grey, brown, olive, etc
• Do wear clothing for the weather you might encounter – Rain gear, light clothing for hot days, winter wear
• Do wear a hat to shield your eyes from the sun, and couple that with a pair of polarized fishing glasses to reduce glare

The Don’ts of Fishing Clothing

• Don’t wear bright, loud colors – Red, Yellow, White, Orange, etc
• Don’t overdress and overheat
• Don’t underdress and freeze