Many anglers fish straight through the winter. There are plenty of “off-season” opportunities to chase fish and enjoy the outdoors in the coldest months. But if other hobbies or the comforts of home keep you off the water until springtime, there is no reason to be ashamed.
If that is your preference: more power to you. Just be sure to take care of your equipment while it is being set aside. Especially your waders.
Many anglers and hunters complain that the waders that were in great shape at the end of last season have surprise leaks on their first return trip after months of rest. Even the best brands can fail. But your waders shouldn’t die when they’re not being used. The streamside fall or the ill-advised barbed wire fence limbo is a much more dignified end to fishing gear.
Here are five things to think about when storing your waders and boots to keep them safe when they’re not being used.
All Gear
If you’re going to be storing gear for a few months, you should clean everything and allow it to dry. This could be as simple as brushing dried mud off your boot soles or as involved as washing your waders according to the manufacturer’s directions. Now is the time to look at boot laces, sole integrity, and seal tape on waterproof gear. It isn’t a bad idea to check any pockets for granola bars, jerky, and strike indicators, too. If possible, a dry, bug-free, off-the-ground location is best. That not work for you, but that is what the best case scenario looks like.
Waders
Storing your waders is not complicated. The most important thing, after ensuring they’re clean and dry, is to avoid creases and stress points. Stress is put on waders if they’re hung from their suspenders or some kind of “locker loop” for too long. This is ultimately a consequence of the lighter, breathable fabrics used in waders. The best option is to double over your waders and put them on a hanger. This also keeps them away from critters. Just like you’d ensure a pair of slacks isn’t creased, avoid creasing your waders before they’re stored. If you buy cheap hangers, duct tape two together to get a little more strength.
Boots
Like waders, you want your boots off the floor so as to be a less enticing snack and/or home for rodents. A dryer sheet in each boot will help, as will keeping them on a shelf. Taking the soles out and getting as much debris as possible is another wise move. If you have studs or cleats, you’ll want to ensure they aren’t sitting on something like concrete to avoid rust.
Boot-foot Waders
Having taken up waterfowl hunting a few years ago, boot-foot waders are back in my rotation. The first place these waders usually fail for people is where the waders meet the boots – around the ankles. If you simply set your waders on the ground, the waders will fold sharply at the ankles and create a crease that exacerbates wear. The best option is a wall-mounted boot hook, so they can be hung upside down. A cheaper alternative is to assist your boot-foot waders by putting the boots on the ground and looping the chest or straps over a hanger.
Long-term Storage
If you have gear that gets used infrequently, or space prohibits the options above, it is even more vital to clean and dry gear. If waders, boots, or any other equipment is going to go into a tote it needs to be free of opportunities for bugs and mold. Ventilation, even a cracked lid, is a good idea. Then, think about how your waders were stored before they came to you. Instead of folding your waders, roll them up.
A little bit of prevention and upfront work will extend the life of your gear. It is easier to throw wet waders in the corner of the garage. But with some planning that same corner can be what preserves your equipment.