Fly Fishing Gear | Waders

Great question! Here at Tom’s we have a wading system that will hopefully fill all your needs, whether you're jumping into a trout stream for the first time, off on an adventure on a tropical flat or launching your boat on the lake for the fiftieth time this season!

There are three main factors to consider when selecting your waders and wading boots. The first is what type of water will you need waders for?

Generally, for Australian use you’ll want waders for colder water. This could mean high country rivers, like those we have in Kosciuszko National Park, or cold tailwater rivers like the Tumut, Swampy-plains, Mitta-Mitta or the Goulburn. In these cold-water environments waders will help you stay in the water longer and fish more effectively. Especially early and late in the trout season when you can have cold water combined with cold weather.

Almost any lake fishing is made more comfortable with a pair of waders. You might be stalking the shores of a small dam or wandering the flats on a large lake, but eventually you will come across a situation where you need to be just a bit further out to effectively fish (or net that fish that’s tangled just out of reach). Waders on Australian lakes not only help keep you dry but also keep you out of the mud that often develops on our rich lake shores when our dam levels fluctuate, not only keeping you dry, but clean too!

Waders are also extremely useful for launching and use on boats in lakes, especially in the colder months. Even if you don’t plan to wade you can start your day dry, not having gotten wet launching, and stay warm and dry through wind, rain, snow or boat-spray (always wear a life jacket on any boat, waders or not!)

Waders use in Australia aren’t just limited to freshwater either, they’re perfect for wading cold saltwater, like south-coast flats and estuaries.

Fly fishing waders are also packable and can be taken to most places around the world with proper cleaning and care. Always check regulations on how to properly clean waders for travel.

All our waders require wading boots and what boots or waders you need all depends on how you are going to use them.

If you're wondering How long will flyfishing waders last? you need to keep a few things in mind.

Generally, the more layers the more durable and warm your waders will be and the heavier your wading boots are the longer they will last. We have waders that run from three layers right up five-layered models that even have in-built knee pads. Our boots match by going from ultralight to heavy-duty.

If you are going to be wading frequently, in rough terrain, then going up to the most layers and the strongest wading boots you can afford is the best option. If you are going to use your waders infrequently and in clear terrain, then you can save on layers if you need to and keep your wading boots lighter.

All waders and boots will of course eventually wear and/or need repairs, which is a very straightforward process. Most of our waders come with emergency patch kits, we also sell all the required gear to patch and repair waders.

It is important to consider safety when purchasing a pair of waders and boots. Wader safety depends on personal ability and conditions, although can be improved with a few safety accessories.

Wading belts prevent water from entering the lower part of the waders if only submerged for a short time, they can also be useful for holding gear like landing nets. For wading boots you can purchase various types of studs to improve grip and safety that fit all our brands of boots. Wading staffs or walking sticks are probably the best aid for wading safely, providing not only stability but an excellent gauge to measure depth before you enter the water, or to fend off snakes and other anglers...

For most of the Australian trout season or saltwater fly fishing you can wet wade if you prefer. With our warmer temperatures you’ll dry quickly enough to not be uncomfortable. Wet wading is perfect for summertime fishing, especially if you are hiking or biking a long distance as wearing waders in summer can be too warm.

Having a good pair of wading socks to fill out your wading boots correctly will comfortably let you wet wade; these are especially handy for hiking or riding longer distances.

If you have a particular pair of waders in mind but would appreciate some additional advice. Simply get in touch with our friendly sales team – they’re always up for a chat. You can contact us by calling our Tumut store on (02) 6947 4062 or by email.