Winter yak fishing

[The Lost Navigator]

Hi fellow yakers. I've been fishing since I was about 8 and that was a long, long time ago. This past year I was introduced to yak fishing and am now hopelessly hooked. I need some insight for winter fishing. I know lots about the water, hypothermia, and navigation and think I'd know what to wear out there in 45 degree water with 15kt winds, but would like to get some ideas on upper torso outerwear. I have thermo waders, headgear, mittens, and a spare set of clothes. I'd like to know where I can find a good waterproof jacket without going to the moon on price. All responses appreciated.


Fishing: It's not the destination, it's the journey.

[Redfish12]

Welcome Bob! We've covered this one pretty extensively in the past on the site. I think the main options are waders/jacket, waders/dry top, and dry suit in order of least expense and least protection.

I prefer to use waist waders and a full dry top with a double layer on the bottom. One goes in the waders, one goes over the waders and it makes a nice seal. The arms and neck have latex gaskets and they protect me from water getting into my base layers. I pretty much only wear this top when the water is below 50 degrees, the air temp is very cold (usually go together), or I am going out in rough conditions/long distances. Otherwise, for comfort I use a semi dry top, which has elastic/neoprene gaskets on the wrists/neck. It is much more comfortable and not as warm.

To give you an idea of the tops (not to say these are the best and I certainly don't get a kickback)

Here's the semi - http://www.amazon.com/NRS-Mens-Endur...7&keywords=nrs

Here's the full one - http://www.ossystems.com/surface/amargosa-drytop/

As for winter fishing ideas, I think crappie/bass/catfish and maybe pickerel in your area should be on the list. There is also stocked trout in some of the lakes as well as the upcoming yellow perch season to think about. Again, welcome!

[ComeOnFish]

Ski mask is good for head

for Fingers and feet,
I like these gloves. Warm and waterproof. The gloves worked well when Ice foamed on the rod guides and spool. You can cast with the gloves on. If you don't own a Hobie. Don't buy gloves with open finger. Your gloves will be wet and your fingers will be very cold. I use chmical hand warmers inside stocking foot wader.

http://www.bobwards.com/products2.cf...FaGPPAodSWMAQQ

For rod and reel,
I am researching the line spray that prevent ice foaming on the guides and lines. You need the spray when the air drops below 30F. I will let you know when I found the spray. I found that spinning reel works better than baitcasting reel for casting and dropping when the ice foams on the spool/line. Also Mono line is better than superbraided when the ice foams


Joe

[The Lost Navigator]

Thanks for the information. Looks like I'm just in time for Christmas. I checked out the gloves and waterproof upper. I know of OS. They make great waterproof body suits. I also like the idea of the lighter weight upper for cool, yet not cold conditions. Now that the water temp is in the mid 40's at Point Lookout and the air temp is the same, it'll be nice to know I'll be comfortable.

The Lost Navigator

[The Lost Navigator]

Thanks. I checked out the golves and ordered a pair. I already have the winter face mask. The journey starts in mid January.

Bob
Hobie Pro Angler 14
Turbocharged!

[YaknBadBuoy]

Santa is still making his rounds, and I have waders on my list. Any recommendations ?
I got a great deal on a nearly brand new dry suit from a friend who moved south. I haven't had the opportunity to try them yet, but I'm still interested in a nice pair of waders.
For my head : I use a quick-dry face mask with a ski type hat on top when it's really cold/windy.
For my hands: NRS gloves with chemical packets ...... Don' know the NRS glove style.
Any personal reviews on Kokatat Nomad boots ?
Good luck on your winter yakin', and be safe out there.

[tufnik]

Been using these for 3 years. No problems. Comfortable. The front zipper makes it convenient.
http://www.bobwards.com/HODGMAN-Mens...le-Waders-9348