Soft-Shell Season

For as long as I’ve been fishing, ice out means it’s time to bust out the rain gear and add lots of base layers. Having a literal shell around you of fabric that is impervious to wind is critical to actually enjoying your day on the water when it is cold. While rain gear is nice, let me tell you there is something better.

You might be wondering what a “soft-shell” is? Similar to the raingear it gives you a totally WIND PROOF shell however it also adds insulation and is overall just a lot more comfortable than rain gear. I’ve been wearing the Blackfish Gear soft-shell stuff for a while now and absolutely love it. I was slow to switch as I their rain gear is really nice. But one trip with the soft-shell technology and I was convinced it is the way to go in cold weather.

My favorite piece is the Zenith jacket and it’s Thermal Snare Technology that provides a barrier to wind/cold. This jacket doubles as an everyday wear piece in the spring/fall and even gets some time on the ice in winter. The soft-shell gear is water resistant so light rains are no problem however if you are fishing in an all-day soaker you’ll want to get your rain gear out.

You can complete the system with soft shell bibs and Arid waterproof gloves. If you use gloves for fishing in the cold the gloves are the deal. They are warm, waterproof, fit great, and you’ll have no problems throwing a baitcaster with them. I’m sure like every spring on the lakeshore it is going to be soft-shell season for a while and I’m not going to let the weather keep me from all the fun.