How to Choose a Fishing Jacket

When it comes to choosing the right fishing jacket, there are a lot of factors to consider. With so many different brands and styles on the market, how can you be sure you're making the right decision? This buyer's guide will help you sort through all of your options and find the perfect jacket for your needs. 

We'll discuss what to look for in a fishing jacket, as well as some of the best brands available today. So whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, read on to learn more about fishing jackets!

What is a fishing jacket?

Don't let the elements spoil your fishing adventure! Make sure you are well-prepared for all weather scenarios with a quality waterproof jacket. Different styles of jackets are designed to meet various needs, so choose wisely and stay dry on the water no matter what Mother Nature throws at you!

How do you pick a good waterproof jacket?

The type of fishing jacket you choose should be determined by the style of angling and the conditions you'll find yourself in. For those who enjoy occasional trips to chilly climates, a stiff hood combined with storm flaps and pockets for extra storage is recommended feature. 

On the other hand, avid fishermen can benefit from an even more robust design of a fishing jacket waterproof that fits comfortably while allowing adjustable cuffs/hems for maximum flexibility in choppy waters or during inclement weather conditions.

What to Look for in a Fishing Jacket

WATERPROOF FISHING JACKETS

Fishing can be quite the wet affair, so when selecting a fishing jacket to wear out on the lake or river it's essential that waterproofing is top-of-mind. After all, you don't want your adventures in nature ruined by an unexpected downpour! Investing in quality outerwear with proper protection from moisture will ensure that neither fish nor rain keeps you from reeling them both in.

When you need reliable protection from the elements during your fishing trips, it pays to take a closer look at jacket waterproofing. Opt for 100% waterproof coats which are designed with no permeability; these will keep you dry and comfortable in even heavy rain conditions - something water-resistant or water-repellent jackets can't guarantee!

You can tell how waterproof a jacket will be by its hydrostatic head rating / waterproof rating. This refers to the amount of water pressure that can be exerted on the clothing before it begins to leak. To be classed as waterproof, the fabric has to exceed a 1,000mm hydrostatic head which means it can completely prevent water saturating.

STYLE OF FISHING JACKET

With full-length jackets, you can fish from the bank or from the boat, while wading jackets are shorter and designed to be worn with waders, so you can wade deeper without getting soaked. Invest in a quality fishing jacket for plenty of protection and comfort, whether it is a puffa jacket, thermal fishing jacket or fishing winter jacket.

Look for styles that are long enough to cover your torso, with secure fastenings such as velcro or elastic at the wrists, hips and hood. This way you can be sure to enjoy all your time on the water without feeling exposed!

WEIGHT OF THE FISHING JACKET

For most fishing, a lightweight waterproof fishing jacket should do the job - unless you plan on ice fishing or need new sea fishing clothing. In colder climates and waters, heavier outerwear is a must along with plenty of layers underneath! The lighter the rain jacket, the more you can move so take this into consideration for your personal fishing style and tactics.

INSULATION OF A FISHING JACKET

Layer up with style for fishing! Jackets lined with thermal insulation provide total cold-weather protection, while those without serve as super-versatile waterproof shells such as packaway waterproof jackets are perfect for any climate. When it's not raining, or you need a sea fishing jacket, a softshell jacket and fleece jacket can be worn together as a windproof layer or as a layer underneath a waterproof jacket.

For more information on the perfect winter fishing jacket for fishing, read our Winter Clothing Guide for Anglers.

BREATHABILITY FOR FISHING CLOTHING

During summer, choose jackets with mesh lining or zippers under the arms for ventilation - perfect to stay cool and comfy. Or better yet, opt for one coated in breathable materials so you can step out looking sharp without breaking into a sweat.

FISHING JACKET POCKETS

Make the most of your fishing adventures with the right gear and apparel! To keep any valuables safe, look for outerwear featuring both inner and outer pockets. It's a simple way to ensure that nothing gets left behind at the bankside. Multi-pockets make particularly good when fly fishing jackets, so you can keep your fly fishing essentials close at hand.

FISHING JACKET ZIPS

When it comes to waterproofing a jacket, the zip is key. A wider and sturdier zip will stand up better against frequent use - plus if you want to make sure your coat remains watertight, then cover up those zips! In short: when selecting a waterproof fishing jacket, go for big and bold with the zipper department.

Many men's fishing jackets will have zips on the left, however, this does not prevent fishing jackets for men from being unisex or purchased as a fishing jacket for a woman.

Top Fishing Jacket Features

Fishing jackets come in a variety of different styles and prices, but what makes some better than others? We've jotted down key elements of the best waterproof fishing jackets to consider before making your fishing clothing purchase. Take a look at the diagram below for an informative overview, then we'll dive into further details!

The Best Way To Clean A Waterproof Fishing Jacket

Wet-weather fishing clothing can be ruined in the wash. Common detergents will break down protective coatings and conditioners clog up fabric pores, so always choose a cleaning product that's specifically made to tackle technical outerwear. Investing in specialised cleaners is an essential step for long-lasting waterproof protection when fishing.

Top 5 Jackets for Fishing

For an idea of the Best Fishing Jacket for anglers, we asked fishing guru, Phil Spinks to suggest 5 of his go-to fishing jackets. Read on for 5 great fishing jackets, a summary of them and reasons why we love them.

1. Fortis Marine Fishing Jacket DPM 

Nothing stands between you and your next catch with the Fortis Marine Jacket! Coated to protect against wind, cold, and wet weather conditions, its expertly-crafted design gives anglers complete coverage for their arms and torso - leaving nothing standing in the way of success.

2. Fortis SJ9 Snugpak

Stay dry and stylish on your next fishing expedition with Snugpak's DPM Jacket! Its superior insulation offers unbeatable warmth even in temperatures as low –15°C. Created from lightweight materials, this unique packaway jacket ensures you look good while being water resistant for those rainy days stalking the Norfolk Broads or chasing after the Northern Lights.

3.OMC Cubera Puffer Fishing Jacket

Designed by renowned fashion designer Ray Kelvin, this stylish and functional fishing coat from OMC features a unique Splash Camo design. This puffer coat is crafted from 100% water-repellent Teflon fabric with 650g recycled polyester puffer-filled insulation, you'll stay warm when temperatures drop -15 degrees.

4. Trakker Summit XP Jacket

Trakker Summit XP is the ultimate protection for any angler, no matter what weather comes their way. The 10,000mm hydrostatic head rating keeps you completely dry even in a deluge and its 5,000 breathability allows your skin to breathe as if it were sunny outside - so all of that energy spent baiting or landing won't leave you feeling sticky! This piece of carp fishing clothing features wind resistance too – this jacket will keep carp fishermen comfortable throughout sessions without compromising on performance or style.

5. Ridgemonkey APearel K2XP Waterproof Coat 

The RidgeMonkey APEarel Dropback K2XP Waterproof Coat in Camo gives anglers rugged protection so they can stay warm and dry, while its camo colour helps you stay concealed and avoid spooking your catch.

There are plenty more fishing jackets that could make the best waterproof fishing jacket in the UK, shop Daiwa fishing jackets, Fox jacket, Snugpak jackets and more in our fishing clothing selection.

Looking for a fishing bargain? You can shop all fishing jacket clearance and promotions in our fishing jacket sale.

Now that you know what to look for when purchasing a fishing jacket, it’s time to buy one! At Angling Direct, we have a wide variety of fishing jackets perfect for your needs. Whether you need something lightweight and packable for summer trips or a heavy-duty jacket for the coldest days of winter, we’ve got you covered. 

Shop the whole range of fishing jackets and fishing coats online, now and be ready to hit the water in style!

Don’t forget, we offer free UK delivery on orders over £25 so there’s no reason not to get kitted out with better fishing clothing today! 

Want to try a fishing jacket on? 

If you find an ideal fishing jacket on our online fishing tackle store, you can check which of our local stores stock the jacket, contact them and drive to the store to try one on! 

Equally, our customer service team are always on hand to answer questions about fishing jackets, including measurements. Find contact information, here.