When choosing waterproof workwear, it’s always crucial to consider the location and the specific challenges the local climate presents.
If you’ll be working in the commercial fishing industry – or perhaps the sport and recreational sector – in British Columbia, you’ll definitely need specialist gear.
The Canadian province is famous for world-class fishing, but the climate in some areas and at some times of the year can be extremely wet, windy and cold. You need to be prepared for anything, which means choosing the right professional rain gear.
Read on for tips on features to look for, and recommendations on the best gear for both interior rivers and coastal fishing.
Essential features for BC fishing gear
| Feature | Best for BC | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Waterproofing | Min. 15,000mm | BC has cold, sustained rainfall, which can saturate low-rated gear |
| Breathability | 8,000 to 10,000g/m² | Active fishing can lead to overheating, sweating and discomfort without breathability |
| Seams | Fully taped/welded | Prevents seams from leaking under pressure |
| Hood | Adjustable/removable | Adjustability is essential for waterproofing, while a removable hood is a practical feature |
| Bib overalls or trousers | Bib overalls | Offers chest-high protection and prevents waist-level water penetration |
| Zipper | YKK reinforced and oversized | Easy to use in wet gloves, won’t fail after repeated use |
How waterproof does fishing gear need to be for BC weather?
Your rain gear needs to be as waterproof as possible when fishing in British Columbia. Rainfall in some parts of the province is much colder and longer-lasting than you may be used to – and compared to other parts of Canada and the US. A typical trip on the BC coast could mean several consecutive days of driving rain, with barely a dry window. This makes it essential to find fishing workwear that can withstand sustained saturation, not just gear that passes a spray test.
There’s also the wind to consider. Wind-driven cold rain is common in BC, and it can be seriously unpleasant if you’re not properly protected. It can even pose a safety risk, as it causes much faster heat loss than dry cold. So, gear that offers wind protection is a must.
A final consideration is the remoteness of the location you’re heading to. You may be 100+ miles from the nearest road or even out at sea, so there’s no driving back to change gear if you’re wet through.
Weather conditions are different on the coast and in the interior of British Columbia, so the priorities for your gear need to match this. Go for maximum waterproofing on the coast, and prioritise breathability for more active wading work on rivers in the interior.
Best professional fishing waterproofs for the BC coast
Top priority: waterproofing
Out at sea, wind and rain protection are the main factors to look for in rain gear. Breathability is a secondary factor, as your first priority is keeping out the driving rain and sea water.
Essential features:
- Fully taped/welded seams
- Minimum 15,000mm waterproof rating
- Freshly reapplied waterproof coating (best to do it before you set out)
Recommended gear:
- Crew 654 Foul Weather Heavy Duty Waterproof Fishing Bib and Brace Pants
- Stormtex 669HG Midweight PVC Rain Gear Bib and Brace Pants
- On top: Crew 211 Heavy Duty Foul Weather Jacket
You can see the full range in our marine oilskins collection.
Best professional rain gear for BC river fishing
Top priority: breathability
Breathability becomes more important if you’re fishing the rivers of the British Columbia interior. You’ll be doing more physically active fishing and wading, as well as potentially hiking between locations.
Waterproofing is important, but breathability is a must. You may choose heavy-duty waterproofs which keep the rain off, but without breathability you’ll still get wet – as you’ll be soaked with sweat. This can also lead to safety risks in cold temperatures.
Ideally, look to find a balance between the two.
Recommended gear:
- Stormtex-Air 203 Wet Weather Jacket (lined with nylon for breathability)
- Stormtex-Air 652 Wet Weather Bib and Brace
FAQs
Is weight important when choosing rain gear for BC fishing?
Yes, it might be if you need to fly between destinations, as some bush planes have per-person weight limits. Also, you don’t necessarily want to be carting overly heavy gear around with you, or be weighed down when fishing. It’s recommended to find a good balance between protection and weight.
What rain gear do you need for a multi-day fishing trip in British Columbia?
It’s recommended to get a heavy-duty, multi-layer waterproof rain suit with a minimum 15,000mm waterproof rating and fully sealed seams. Layers are important in case the weather changes, and you may need to have backup gear to wear while other clothing dries.
How do you maintain waterproof fishing gear?
Rinse garments off after each trip to remove mud and salt, and check the seams regularly for signs of wear. Only use manufacturer-recommended cleaning products and techniques, including water-repellent treatments.
Not sure which setup suits your operation? Get in touch and we’ll help you choose.