Fishing in Any Weather: 2023’s Best All-Weather Fishing Pants

When it comes to fishing, having the right pair of pants matters. You need the flexibility to wrestle a rod and a fighting fish, comfort that lasts for long days and sitting stints, and the ability to withstand all kinds of weather – sometimes on the same day! Fishing pants should be breathable, lightweight, and moisture-wicking if you want versatility. It’s an important choice that can quickly lead to analysis paralysis. 

Fortunately, we’ve done the hard part for you. Read on to learn more about the best breathable fishing pants 2023 has to offer. 

1. Simms Vapor Elite Fishing Pant

The Simms Vapor Elite Pant is made from a lightweight and stretchy 3-layer GORE-TEX fabric, giving you both waterproof protection and breathability. Both the knees and the seats are reinforced, making the Simms Vapor Elite Pant ideal for long-sitting stints in rough terrain. Added comfort comes from an adjustable waistband and ankle cuffs, making them easy to customize to your preferred fit.

The Simms Vapor Elite Pant is an excellent choice for anglers who want comfortable and durable pants that can withstand the toughest fishing conditions.

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2. Patagonia Men’s Tough Puff Pants

The Patagonia Men’s Tough Puff Pants are for anglers who brave wet and windy conditions. The polyester pants have a DWR (durable water-repellent) finish so they’re water-resistant and quick-drying. If you’re sitting on a rocky or rough shore, The Tough Puff Pants reinforced seat and knees will keep you comfortable. The waistband and cuffs are both adjustable, making a custom fit possible in a matter of minutes. =

3. Columbia Men’s PFG Blood and Guts III Convertible Pant

For anglers heading into warmer climates, the versatile and durable Columbia Men’s PFG Blood and Guts III Convertible Pant is the way to go. A nylon and polyester blend keeps you dry with excellent moisture-wicking along with great breathability. A UPF 50 sun protection rating protects from harmful UV rays as well. 

Finally, as the name implies, they’re convertible, easily changing to shorts with a convenient zip-off feature.

Regardless of the conditions you’re fishing in, if it’s a warmer climate with rough terrain, you can’t go wrong with The Columbia Men’s PFG Blood and Guts III Convertible Pant.

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4. Orvis Men’s Ultralight Convertible Wader Pant

The Orvis Men’s Ultralight Convertible Wader Pant is a versatile and breathable option for anglers who fish knee-deep in the water. They’re made from a lightweight and stretchy 100% nylon fabric that is breathable but still has quick-drying capabilities. A zip-off feature allows you to convert the Ultralight Convertible Wader Pant into shorts for added versatility. Comfort is all but guaranteed thanks to an adjustable waistband and ankle cuffs. 

5. Huk Men’s Next Level 7″ Short

If you simply prefer shorts over pants, consider The Huk Men’s Next Level 7″ Short.  These polyester and spandex blend shorts will keep you dry thanks to their excellent breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities, not to mention the durable water-repellent (DWR) finish. An adjustable waistband makes The Huk Men’s Next Level 7″ Short a comfortable, easy option. 

Click here to read about Fishing in Any Weather: 2023’s Best All-Weather Fishing Pants

6. AFTCO M01 Original Fishing Shorts

The AFTCO M01 Original Fishing Shorts are a classic design made from a lightweight and quick-drying 100% nylon fabric. They’re breathable and keep you dry with moisture-wicking ability. The UPF 50 sun protection makes The AFTCO M01 Original Fishing Shorts perfect for hot and sunny fishing days. Multiple pockets make them handy and an adjustable waistband guarantees comfort.

Fishing shorts are about more than style. They ultimately have to be functional as well. That means they’re breathable, and keep you dry and comfortable even after long hours on the water.

We hope this guide helps you narrow down the choices to the one that’s right for you. Happy fishing!