The Best Rain Gear for Fishing of 2025, Tested and Reviewed

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

Quality rain gear for fishing is worth its weight in gold. Just ask anyone who’s been on a hot bite during a downpour wearing a leaky model and forced to decide whether to keep going and risk hypothermia or call it a day. The choice is not as easy as it sounds. A soaking rain can chill you to the bone even on a warm day.

Decades ago, when I started fishing seriously, the rain gear choices were limited. Most leaked. Now, we have many great options designed specifically for anglers’ peculiar motions and preferences. The good news is that most of them don’t leak — at least not at first. The bad news is that water can get into every possible space. If you bend over in the wrong way, lift your arm the wrong way, or forget to zip it up completely, moisture will find its way inside. Even with wicking innerwear, it has a hard time leaving once it’s there.

I recall seeing someone wearing the original Cabela’s Guidewear in the early 1990s. I wondered who could afford such pricey garments. Today I know that if you fish seriously, you can’t afford not to get the best. Still, different options have different benefits, as I’ll describe below.

• Best for Tournament Anglers: AFTCO Fortress Jacket and Bibs
• Best Lightweight: FXR Adventure Lite Jacket and Bibs
• Best Looking: Huk Pro Series Jacket and Bibs
• Best Budget: Frogg Toggs All-Sport Jacket and Pants
• Best for Stealth and Maximum Features: Forloh Airalite Jacket and Pants
• Best for Women: Gill Women’s Coastal
• Best for Trips: Columbia PFG Force Jacket and Bibs
• Best Budget Rain Gear for Tournament Anglers: Bass Pro Shops Guidewear Pro Qualifier Jacket with BONE-DRY Gold
• Best for Wading: Grundens Vector Wading Jacket
• Best for Fly Fishing: Simms Challenger

How We Tested the Best Rain Gear

I take rain gear every time I go fishing. In fact, I’ve been known to pack extras in my boat or in my tow vehicle, in case one gets ripped or my fishing partner forgets his. I even tote waterproof clothing on trips when I don’t expect any rain — like Panama or Mexico in the dry seasons. First of all, not bringing it is a recipe for disaster and likely monsoons. Second, even if it doesn’t rain, it protects against spray, sun, and wind. The best jackets become my everyday outerwear. I like to be able to layer them when it’s cold, but also want versions that won’t stifle me in oppressive heat. I want to be able to wear them straight from the truck or plane onto the boat without missing a beat or getting uncomfortable.

I’m also rough on most clothing. Once they’re no longer needed for the day, I tend to crumple them up and stuff ‘em in a storage compartment or backpack. I rarely wash them until they start to lose their waterproofness, at which point it’s too late for some of them. They literally get rode hard and put away wet and I expect a lot out of them, from Africa to Alabama to Alaska. I tried all of these suits in various climates to see how they’d stack up.

The Best Fishing Rainsuits: Reviews and Recommendations

Best for Tournament Anglers: AFTCO Fortress Jacket and Bibs

Buy the Jacket

Buy the Bibs

Pros

• Hood can be worn at high speeds
• Double cuffs to prevent water from getting up a sleeve
• Very breathable

Cons

• Limited color options
• Not inexpensive

---

Key Features

• 
  Toray 100% nylon membrane

• 
  SpeedVent adjustable hood

• 
  Internal cinch adjustments

• 
  Price:

  
  $549

I’ve worn various AFTCO rainsuits in recent years, including the Hydronaut and the Barricade, but if I had to choose one to keep in my bass boat, the Fortress would be it. As the name suggests, it’s built to withstand an outward assault. You may be put off by the fact that it only comes in plain old black, but that just attests to its workmanlike nature. AFTCO had made it both lightweight and wind-resistant at the same time, so I’ve used it in 90-degree temperatures and at times when it was below freezing (with layers underneath). I liked the fact that it gave me a full range of motion and simply did not let water inside. The high zipper on the front and the double cuffs shore up potential weak spots, as do the quality zippers. The bibs have just the right number of pockets, including one for pliers, and the straps keep them up without pulling on your shoulders. The suit is far from inexpensive, but if you can swing the price it’ll treat you well cross a wide range of conditions.

Read Next: Best Boat Shoes

Best Lightweight: FXR Adventure Lite Jacket and Bibs

See It

Pros

• Lightweight but sturdy
• Precurved knees for range of motion
• Vented hood

Cons

• Needs to be ordered big enough for layering if worn in cold weather

---

Key Features

• 
  D-Ring on the bibs has a line cutter

• 
  Three solid colors available

• 
  Packable into built-in pockets

• 
  Sizes up to 3XL

• 
  Price:

  
  $230 (Jacket)

FXR has its heritage in the motorsports arena, and more recently made a splash on the pro fishing scene. I’ve been wearing this super-lightweight rainsuit for a while, in temperatures down to about 45 degrees. My typical size “L” is a little bit tighter than some other suits, but that’s not a hindrance in this case — it’s made to maximize movement, and it feels like it’s built to the contours of my body. While it’s lightweight and packable (into itself), FXR didn’t skimp on any features. There are reflective logos, adjustable hems, tether retention D-rings, and high-quality components throughout, including YKK zippers. Bassmaster pro Bryan New told me that he lives in his – even when it’s not going to rain, he wears the bibs and jacket for blast off and runs back to the ramp that get a little bit sporty. I really liked the fact that they take up almost no space (great in a suitcase or carry-on), yet blossom into full-fledged performance gear in an instant.

Best Looking: Huk Pro Series Jacket and Bibs

Buy the Jacket

Buy the Bibs

Pros

• Lots of pockets and accessories, but few places for line or rod butts to inadvertently catch
• Incredibly breathable
• Sealed seems prevent any water intrusion

Cons

• Not inexpensive

---

Key Features

• 
  Sizes up to 3XL

• 
  Abrasion-resistant panels

• 
  Handwarmer pockets

• 
  Adjustable suspenders with swivel buckles

• 
  Price: $500

While it doesn’t make it any more waterproof, this jacket’s styling makes it one that I reach for, whether I’m on the lake, heading out to sea, or just going out to dinner in horrific rainy conditions. The “Volcanic Ash” suit with key accents is incredibly sharp, and by matching the two pieces, plus Huk waterproof shoes, you show up looking like you’re prepared. If they only looked good, that would be meaningless, but this suit has guided me through some of the roughest spring and late winter storms I’ve encountered, and I never get wet. In the past, that kind of performance required heavy weight, but it’s remarkably light for its quality and feature-rich nature. The pockets are plentiful and well-positioned (as well as waterproof), and yet nothing seems to catch on them at inopportune moments. It’s not inexpensive, but you’re investing in performance.

Read Next: Best Boat Covers

Best Budget: Frogg Toggs All-Sport Jacket and Pants

See It

Pros

• Multiple color options, including camo patterns
• Remarkably inexpensive
• Long sizes available 

Cons

• No bibs available for those who prefer them

---

Key Features

• 
  Full hood with draw cord

• 
  Elasticized waist

• 
  Storm flap under front zipper

• 
  Two-ply fabric

• 
  Price:

  
  $60

Several top pros rely on Frogg Toggs for their daily adventures. They wouldn’t do it if they weren’t up to the task, so while I was dubious they could match some of the other suits in this survey, I was hopeful. At a fraction of the others’ cost, they might not be as feature-rich, but they’re surprisingly serviceable. Yes, a little bit of water got into the elasticized cuff when I raised my arm, and the zippers aren’t as beefy as some others, but if this is your price point, you can be confident in wearing them all day. They’re lightweight and remarkably functional. I got much more than I expected. They were comfortable and allowed a wide range of motion without getting soaked. I tend to prefer bibs to pants, but I feel really good about keeping these in the boat for sudden summer squalls, or packing them to Mexico or the tropics. They’re “budget” in price only.

Best for Stealth and Maximum Features: Forloh Airalite Jacket and Pants

See It

Pros

• Not as “noisy” as other rainsuits
• Multiple color options including various camos
• Lightweight yet overbuilt

Cons

• Pants may not be ideal for those who prefer bibs

---

• 
  Searchable RECCO technology

• 
  Horizontal zippered back vent

• 
  Military grade ripstop nylon with Airadigm three-layer shell

Unlike many fishing rain suits, which have a slick outer coating, this option from Forloh is soft, almost cottony. I didn’t know why until halfway through the first day of wearing it, when I realized something was missing – the “swoosh” noise as I cast or as my legs rubbed together. It’s quiet, and while it doesn’t bead water like some others, nothing got through. I’ve historically been a “bibs guy,” but these pants, either alone or with something under them, are stylish and functional not just for fishing, but also for hiking, hunting and other outdoor endeavors. I liked the fact that no one else on my home river had this suit – I got lots of questions about it and was proud to show off the various pockets, zippers, and vents that made it so comfortable. It’s also 100% American made, so at a time when patriotism and consumerism may merge under the threat of tariffs, that’s a huge plus. 

Best for Women: Gill Women’s Coastal

See It

Pros

• Built specifically for female body shapes
• XPel stain-resistant technology
• Wide range of sizes

Cons

• Bibs only available in graphite color

---

Key Features

• 
  XPLORE two-layer fabric construction

• 
  Hi-Viz hood with two-way adjustment system

• 
  Jacket available in Ocean Blue or bright red

For decades women who wanted premium angling rain gear had to buy products tailored to a generic male physique. Gradually, that’s changed, and Gill has led the way with this high-quality trouser and parka set made specifically for female bodies. These aren’t just generic rain gear that fit women well, they’re one of the best rain gear for fishing—highly water-repellent, stain-resistant, and breathable. My wife, who’d worn ill-fitting male-centric gear for years, was thrilled with her Gill gear, and literally cried when it disappeared on a trip. It meant that much to her ability to withstand the elements. Fortunately, she quickly got another Gill suit, and while it’s not inexpensive, it still cost less than many comparable suits—many of which do not block out the elements nearly as well.

Best for Trips: Columbia PFG Force Jacket and Bibs

See It

Pros

• Bibs rise high on the chest for maximum protection
• Two-way zipper for quick adjustments
• Matte fabric

Cons

• Limited to one color option

---

Key Features

• 
  OutDry Extreme construction

• 
  Partial elastic waist for secure and comfortable fit

• 
  Adjustable neoprene cuffs

Some “serious” anglers are wary of Columbia, viewing it as an everyman’s brand, but all doubters need to try out this suit, which matches the best of the best from the niche fishing brands. They’ve built a ton of features into it aimed at keeping you dry and comfortable no matter what Mother Nature throws at you. I particularly liked the droptail hem for extra coverage when bend over or sit on a wet boat seat, as well as the various means of adjusting and tightening key points for an ideal fit. They spared no expense when choosing each feature – from the D-Ring to the zippers to the reflective details – and they did it at a remarkably reasonable price point. I’ve worn this one about town, but it’s found a nearly permanent home in my “go bag” the one that I have more or less packed and ready to travel on a moment’s notice – whether that be to Alaska or Belize – because I know that it’ll keep me both dry in tropical downpours and comfortable on long boat rides near the Arctic. If you haven’t considered Columbia before, this one should change your mind.

Best Budget Rain Gear for Tournament Anglers: Bass Pro Shops Guidewear Pro Qualifier Jacket with BONE-DRY Gold

See It

Pros

• Excellent price for a product of this quality
• Adjustable three-piece hood with rain bill
• Stuff sack included

Cons

• Bass Pro Shops does have a more feature-rich option – if you’re willing to pay more

---

Key Features

• 
  100 percent recycled polyester

• 
  Multiple D-ring attachment points

• 
  Taped seams

• 
  Price:

  
  $190

The first high-end rainsuit I ever purchased was a Cabela’s (now under the Bass Pro Shops umbrella) Guidewear suit. I wore it for the better part of a decade, until it finally showed its age, and then I invested in another, which lasted even longer. Those suits were virtually bulletproof, but they were HEAVY. This iteration has all of the waterproof goodness of its predecessors, but it’s feather light. I like the fact that it has features like elastic cuffs and chest pockets, but they don’t get in the way. Everything about this jacket is smooth, and with a few layers underneath it can guide you through some remarkably cold or otherwise nasty weather. I kept one crumpled up in a boat storage compartment for weeks, brought it out into a slushy storm, and stayed warm and dry, with no odors to speak of. I like the basic black, but if you’re looking for something more colorful, it also comes in various two-tone patterns.

Best for Wading: Grundens Vector Wading Jacket

See It

Pros

• Large pockets for fly boxes and other gear
• Inner arm cuff to prevent leakage
• Lightweight but sturdy

Cons

• A little more expensive than some premium rain gear 

---

Key Features

• 
  Fleece-lined handwarmer pockets with drains

• 
  Zippered pockets capable of holding four large fly boxes

• 
  100% nylon breathable shell

When I think of Grundens, I think of the heavy-duty, nearly impermeable rain bibs made for commercial anglers in the Bering Sea, so this jacket aimed at fly anglers was a pleasant surprise. Even if you use conventional gear, this is the jacket for you if you’ll be wading or simply like a waist-length fit. It’s made to withstand heavy rain and wind, but the jacket itself is lightweight. I like the way that the pocket zippers are both vertical and behind waterproof flaps, just another set of safeguards against water intrusion, and they spiced it up with just a hint of color.  Those same pockets are high up, so if some water does indeed come over the tops of your waders you won’t be in any danger of your gear getting wet. That’s something of a redundancy because the quality zippers and seams are unlikely to fail. Everything about this is made to withstand the commercial fishing lifestyle that made Grundens famous, but in a more stylish and breathable option that fits active recreational lifestyles, too.

Best for Fly Fishing: Simms Challenger

See It

Pros

• Lightweight
• Ample pockets
• Comfortable, breathable 
• Fit nicely over waders
• Jacket shell fully recycled material

Cons

• Not fully sealed
• Not heavy duty

---

Key Features

• 
  Durable two-layerTorayshell with DWR finish

• 
  Shell made offully recycled material

• 
  Waterproof, breathable

• 
  Comfortable polyester lining

• 
  Adjustable storm hood rolls up behind collar

• 
  Zippered chest pocket with interior sunglasses chamois

• 
  Drawcord bottom hem with kill switch D-ring attachment

It can be a challenge to find rain gear that fits properly over waders, provides day long insulation, and is also comfortable. The Challenger rain gear from Simms checks all those boxes, at a relatively reasonable price point. Simms has had this line of rain gear for several years but it recently underwent an overhaul that includes using fully recycled material in the outer shell. While this could lead to some speculation about performance, I didn’t notice a difference throughout an entire season of heavy use. The fact that this rain gear is both sustainable and performs is impressive. 

The Challenger jacket is also surprisingly warm for being so light, and it kept me warm throughout long days on the water. The fleece-lined pockets are one of my favorite features and gave my numb digits relief while fishing in sub-freezing temperatures. Unfortunately, the pocket interiors are not fully waterproof, so be careful not to have them zipped down during heavy rainfall. 

The Challenger jacket shines when wading or fly fishing off a raft or drift boat. Its extra length and numerous adjustment points provide for a solid upper shell over waders while being lightweight and agile enough to cast and move about comfortably. 

The Challenger Rain Suit is an excellent option for anglers looking for comfort and warmth without extra bulk. While I wouldn’t recommend it for bushwhacking into a remote creek, it’s the perfect rain gear for an everyday angler who wants to stay dry and comfortable without being weighed down or dropping a fortune. If you need a durable and extremely waterproof rain suit, check out the Simms CX. —Kevin Hughes

Things to Consider Before Buying Rain Gear for Fishing

The best rain gear for fishing is gear you’ll have for a long time, so consider the options carefully and choose wisely. Here are some factors consider when making your choice.

Pants vs. Bibs

I strongly believe that all other things being equal, bibs will keep you drier than pants and that makes them an obvious choice for most situations. However, I also get that they’re harder to get on and off, they make it harder to relieve yourself, and they tend to be bulkier. Don’t sacrifice breathability or dryness, but figure out which you’ll want to keep on through the rain.

Jacket vs. Parka

A parka will hang lower across your back, which means your butt won’t get wet if you sit on a damp seat, but again, it’s typically heavier and a bit more restrictive.

Price Point

What can you afford to spend? Sometimes it doesn’t pay to be pennywise and pound foolish. Believe me, early in my fishing life I bought a bargain basement, untested rain suit, and quickly found out that it wasn’t much better than having nothing at all. It was a sunk cost, and it’s long been relegated to the dustbin of history and replaced by better gear.

What Features Matter

If you use a GoPro or another action camera, a proper mounting point may be critical, but if you don’t it may just get in the way. In cold weather, fleece-lined hand warming pockets are essential but maybe not so much if you live in Florida. Most of these features cannot be ordered a la carte, so find the one that has all of your “must haves” and fewer of your “don’t needs.”

FAQs

Q: What rain gear do fishermen use?

Anglers use a wide range of rain gear for fishing, but the most common are bibs and jackets made from goretex or rubber. Top brands are Simms, Grundens, and frogg toggs. 

Q: How much does rain gear for fishing cost?

Rain gear for fishing can cost between $50 to $1,000 for a bib and jacket set. More expensive rain gear fits better, keeps you dry longer, and is more durable. Inexpensive rain gear works well for emergencies or occasional use. 

Q: What is the best warm weather rain gear for fishing?

The best warm weather rain gear is lightweight and breathable. Consider the frogg toggs Ultra-Lite or the Grundens Tourney for warm weather rain protection. 

Final Thoughts

You could send me on a fishing trip to the desert in the dry season, and I’d still take one along a rainsuit. Squalls seemingly have a way of popping up when they’re least expected, and even if it’s not cold you can quickly get uncomfortable. In a worst-case scenario, you could suffer from hypothermia. So, invest in the best rain gear for fishing and you’ll never have to worry about rain ruining your day. 

The post The Best Rain Gear for Fishing of 2025, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Outdoor Life.

Source: https://www.outdoorlife.com/gear/best-rain-gear-for-fishing/