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Here’s something I’ve learned the hard way, multiple times: No gear out there can make extended time in truly cold, miserable weather feel “comfortable.” Why do you think the Bahamas and Costa Rica are so popular? We know this, yet we suit up anyway. Because if you’re looking for comfort, the La-Z-Boy is right over there. Out on the water, even on those raw, bone-cutting days, is where the magic happens. Below is a collection of gear designed to make those crap weather days slightly more bearable—items that might buy you a few extra hours after everyone else calls it quits. Because sometimes, that’s all you need.
Simms ProDry Bib & Jacket
Simms has built its reputation on providing the top gear for the often-demanding fly-fishing crowd. The brand is now pushing that into the bluewater space. The ProDry line is designed for guides who live on the water, which makes it a natural fit for bluewater captains and elite crews. Gore-Tex Pro keeps you bone-dry in true offshore nastiness, while reinforced wear zones and intuitive storage show its fishing pedigree. This is a polished, no-compromise storm suit that performs at the highest level.
Pelagic Torrent Bib & Jacket
Built for crews who don’t wait for the weather window, the Torrent Bib and Jacket is Pelagic’s answer to rough-and-ready offshore days. The two-layer stretch shell, welded seams and reinforced knees shrug off spray and cockpit chaos, while the athletic fit moves with you when a fish lights up the spread. It’s a polished, high-performance essential for anglers who run hard and fish harder.
Gill Apex Bib & Jacket
Gill’s Apex system is designed for anglers who expect technical sailing-grade protection without the bulk. The three-layer XPLORE+ fabric, ocean-proven hood design and thoughtfully placed pockets create a foul-weather kit that feels tailored for big-game crews—light, sharp, and confidence-inspiring when the run home gets lumpy. This is premium gear for operators who need the highest quality protection from the marine elements.
AFTCO Stormbreaker Bib & Jacket
When you’ve been making fishing gear for nearly 70 years, you learn what actually works. The AFTCO Stormbreaker Bib and Jacket deliver waterproof protection without extra weight—ideal when you’re spinning on a fish or rigging baits at dawn. With its three-layer build, AquaGuard zips and athletic cut, it’s a reliable shell for crews who stay out no matter what the weather’s doing.
Stormline Bib & Jacket
I first ran into these on a trip to New Zealand last year, where I also ran into some of the roughest seas I’ve ever fished. Watching the crews work in that weather, it was clear why Stormline gear has such a following. The oilskins are built simply and sensibly—flexible PVC, welded seams, and a fit meant for getting things done without snagging or slowing you down. They aren’t trying to look pretty; they’re made for the days when the forecast turns ugly and you still have to fish.
AFTCO Helm Gloves and Warm Wool Fingerless Gloves
AFTCO delivers the perfect one-two punch for cold-weather fishing. The Helm gloves offer windproof warmth and precision control at the helm or during long bait cycles, while the merino fingerless pair adds classic comfort and knot-tying dexterity. Together, they’re a sharp, functional kit for anglers who demand feel and warmth without compromise.
XTRATUF Fleece-Lined Deck Boots
Xtratuf’s iconic deck boots get a cold-weather upgrade with a cozy fleece lining that turns winter mornings from miserable to manageable. Waterproof, grippy and surprisingly light, they’re built for captains and crews who don’t stop fishing when the mercury drops—a must-have comfort boost for long days on slick decks.
Gerbing 7V Heated Socks
I used heated socks for the first time on a recent hunting trip, and I have no clue why I waited so long. Gerbing’s 7V heated socks solve the oldest problem caused by extended time in the elements: cold feet. Their rechargeable Microwire system warms the full footbed without bulk, creating a surprisingly sleek, high-tech layer you’ll forget you’re wearing—until you realize you’re not freezing. These socks are a luxury comfort upgrade for anglers who fish (or do anything outside) through winter.
Grundéns Deviation Sherpa Ankle Boots
Warmth, traction and modern deck style come together in Grundéns’ Deviation Sherpa boots. While ruggedness comes standard with Grundéns’ commercial roots, the waterproof shell, soft fleece lining and cushy midsole make them an effortless all-day choice, from cold runs at gray light to dockside evenings. Tough yet refined, they’re the perfect blend of warmth and fish-ready performance.
Atlantic Rancher Trolling Fluid Pewter Flask
When the weather turns savage, your boots are like sponges, and you’re shivering hard enough to rattle the outriggers, there’s only one thing left to do: Warm up from the inside out. The Atlantic Rancher Trolling Fluid pewter flask—handcrafted in England and etched with a blue marlin design—is the elegant backup plan for those offshore days when even the best gear taps out.
