Which are the best fishing pants on the market? Read our guide to find out.
When planning an outdoor experience, you ought to have the best waterproof fishing pants at your disposal. There’s a range of fishing pants on the market that’s why getting a perfect one is usually an uphill task. The main purpose of waterproof fishing pants is to prevent you from getting wet as it helps keep the legs dry.
However, the features and technology behind these pants are nowhere near basic. You are likely to come across terms like DWR, waterproof and breathable in the event that you check the aisle with rain gear at the store in your locality.
There are different waterproof pants since others are usually more superior in terms of performance than their counterparts.
Best Fishing Pants
Here’s a round-up of some of the best fishing pants on the market for a better experience on your next adventure or trip:
1. Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Columbia is a renowned brand when it comes to making top tier outdoor apparel and the Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pants is no exception. These business-like pants are available in a range of colors for wardrobe versatility and are made of polyester. Polyester is not only a durable fabric but also flexible, ideal for outdoor use. The best thing about this fishing pant is that it also works well for other different activities including camping and hiking. They are equally lightweight for ease of movement.
Pros
- Available in 16 different colors
- This pair of fishing pants is sun proof and equally flexible
- It’s made with a moisture wicking fabric to help absorb perspiration and keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day
- If features six different storage pockets to hold your essentials
- These fishing pants are lightweight to allow you move with ease
Cons
- The sizing of the Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pants is relatively small
Verdict
Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pants features an elastic waistband for ease of putting on and taking it off. It’s equally lightweight to allow users to move freely without feeling restricted. The omni-wick technology used in these fishing pants work perfectly well to keep you dry and comfortable throughout the day.
This pair of fishing pants typically speeds up evaporation and lock out moisture. What’s more, they feature UPF 50 sunproof protection to protect your legs from sunburns. By blocking the UVB and UVA sun rays, they help prevent development of any skin problems on the legs.
Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Pants additionally features six different pockets on the sides and back to hold your essentials securely. However, you might want to go up a size in both width and length to get a perfect fit since these pants fit a size smaller.
2. Jessie Kidden Quick Dry Convertible Lightweight Fishing Work Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Jessie Kidden Quick Dry Convertible Lightweight Fishing Work Pants, just as the name suggests can be easily converted into a pair of shorts. It comes in a range of colors including jungle green, black, grey and beige for wardrobe versatility. You can wear this versatile fishing pants at the beach, when hiking and fishing. Putting on these pants feel like wearing swim trunks, it’s no doubt one of the best fishing pants on the market.
You can convert this pair of fishing pants into shorts by simply zipping off the lower part of the legs. These nylon fishing pants are equally breathable, versatile and have a loose fit. Plus, they are lightweight and flexible.
Pros
- Are convertible into shorts, ideal for those hot and humid weather conditions
- These fishing pants are sun proof
- They are flexible
- Help wick moisture away from the legs to keep you dry and comfortable all day long
Cons
- Have small pockets
Verdict
Jessie Kidden Quick Dry Convertible Lightweight Fishing Work Pants are sun proof which means they help protect your legs from dangerous UV rays. These pants are made of nylon fabric that is not only breathable but also water-resistant.
What’s more, just as in the name, the pair of shorts tend to dry quickly as it wicks moisture away to restore the to the original state. The only drawback is that these pants have smaller pockets which technically means limited space for holding your phone and other essentials.
3. TBMPOY Men’s Outdoor Lightweight Waterproof Fishing Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
TMBPOY Men’s Outdoor Lightweight Waterproof Fishing Pants is available in eight different colors. It’s simply designed without any gimmicks. This pair of fishing pants has it all and does its job perfectly well in terms of performance.
These fishing pants are made of polyester fiber and spandex fabric blend for breathability and a little bit of stretch. Generally, they are elastic and flexible fishing pants that are super comfortable to wear. What’s more, they have a relaxed fit to allow for a range of motion without making you feel restricted.
Pros
- Are sun proof
- These fishing pants are lightweight and flexible
- These fishing pants are available in eight different colors for wardrobe versatility
Cons
- Are not waterproof
Verdict
TMBPOY Men’s Outdoor Lightweight Waterproof Fishing Pants are flexible, breathable and lightweight. They are equally quick drying and the fabric has breathability and moisture-wicking properties to keep you cool and dry all day long without compromising on comfort.
The best thing about these pants is that they keep you warm inside especially in cooler outdoor activities such as fishing in the river or lake. The belt and the stretchable waistline are also extremely comfortable.
You can wear these pants when fishing, hiking, camping, skiing and mountain biking. Plus, they guarantee to keep you cool in hot and humid conditions. The only drawback is these fishing pants are not waterproof as the brand claims since water tends to penetrate through them although they dry quickly. Don’t go for this pair of fishing pants if you are looking to stay dry while going about your business.
4. CQR Men’s Tactical Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
CQR Men’s Tactical Pants are the best fishing pants on the market. If you are looking for an extremely comfortable yet unrestrictive fishing pants, then this is your best bet. These pair of fishing pants are made from a material that doesn’t stain easily and is equally durable. It features dependable zippers and buttons that will come in handy during your trip or fishing adventure.
Pros
- Offers long-lasting durability thanks to the manufacturer’s choice of fabric
- These fishing pants are extremely comfortable
- The fabric doesn’t stain easily keeping the pants clean for an extended period since it tends to repel grime and dirt
Cons
- Have small pockets as compared to its counterparts
Verdict
CQR Men’s Tactical Pants are super comfortable making them ideal for fishing. It almost resembles military pants especially in terms of design.
These pair of fishing pants are made from Duratex material known to provide long-lasting durability among other benefits. The best thing about the fabric is that it usually repels grime and dirt meaning that this pair of pants will stay clean for an extended period. You can comfortably wear these fishing pants with ease and move freely without feeling restricted.
5. Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pant
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pant can double up as a pair of shorts when you remove the lower part. The pants are available in three different colors; dark green, khaki and grey. The best thing about these fishing pants is that they are water- and sun-proof so you can have fun without any disruptions.
The fishing pants are made with a nylon taslon material that helps shield the legs from harmful UV rays. The omni-wick technology is quite handy as it pulls moisture away from the fabric to keep you cool and comfortable throughout the day as you go about your business.
Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pant are the best bet for those looking for versatility.
Pros
- Is sun proof to protect your legs from harmful UV rays
- This pair of fishing pants is flexible
- The pants are convertible into a pair of shorts ideal when the temperatures run high
- This pair of fishing pants are available in a range of sizes and feature six different handy pockets
Verdict
Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pant features side pockets, mesh pocket and a zippered pocket to hold your phone and other essentials. The six different pockets give anglers plenty of options when it comes to what to carry for the fishing adventure.
These fishing pants are durable and flexible to allow for a range of motion without making you feel restricted. It has an elastic waistband for enhanced comfort and a gusseted crotch to give you enough space down there.
Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pant is easy to wear and take off thanks to the elastic waistband. You can wear these pants for fishing and travelling among other outdoor activities. What’s more, they work well and have a perfect fit.
6. Columbia Men’s Backcast Convertible Pant
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Columbia Men’s Backcast Convertible Pant is the best fishing pants on the market. They have a more casual look and can be converted into a pair of shorts when the temperatures run high. They come in a range of colors including grey, blue, olive and off-white for wardrobe versatility.
Pros
- Is sun proof to protect your legs from harmful UV rays and also prevent skin damage
- This pair of fishing pants is flexible
- You can easily convert these fishing pants into a pair of shorts on hot and humid conditions
- They are made with a moisture wicking material to help pull away perspiration
Cons
- Can easily get de-pantsed
Verdict
Columbia Men’s Backcast Convertible Pant is sun proof, UPF 50 meaning it helps protect your legs from harmful UV rays to prevent sunburns. The protection also prevents any skin damage on the legs. These fishing pants additionally feature ceramic reflectors and a tight weave construction to block UVB and UVA rays. Plus, the fabric has moisture wicking capabilities and is equally quick drying to keep you cool and comfortable all day long.
This pair of fishing pants doesn’t have a fly which some users find troubling. They resemble sweatpants in terms of wearing and taking them off. You might need a belt to help keep it securely in place.
7. Redinton Men’s I/O Fleece Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Redinton Men’s I/O Fleece Pants are black fleece fishing pants that are super comfortable perfect for when the temperatures run low. The best thing about this pair of fishing pants is that they are reasonably priced since they always fall on the lower side of the pricing spectrum. The pants come in an extensive range of sizes with a perfect fit which makes them the best fishing pants on the market.
Pros
- Are super warm and comfortable ideal for cold weather fishing
- This pair of fishing pants has a perfect fit around the torso and features a zip fly for ease of wearing and taking it off
- It typically stays dry even with moisture around the air
- These fleece fishing pants can hold and absorb heat from the body for an extended period compared to its counterparts made with thinner materials
- It features on-seam pockets on the sides and lock zip pocket for safety and security
Cons
- Only have three pockets
- This pair of fishing pants only comes in black
- The Lycra stirrup holes are relatively small
Verdict
Redinton Men’s I/O Fleece Pants are ideal for cold weather fishing. However, you’ll also need a pair of warm gloves and a waterproof jacket when the temperatures run low for added comfort and to avoid hypothermia. These fleece fishing pants help retain body heat for longer and also helps keep you dry and comfortable even with moisture on the air.
The fishing pants additionally feature an elastic waistband and Lycra stirrups to help keep the pants securely in place as you go about your business. The pants have two pockets on the sides for ease of storage and accessibility and an additional zippered pocket to hold your essentials.
8. Simms Vapor Elite Rain Pants
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Simms Vapor Elite Rain Pants typically seals out wind, rain and wave splash in warm climates. It’s compact and fairly lightweight, this pair of fishing pants helps keep you dry and comfortable all day long without additional bulk. It also doesn’t compromise on breathability in hot and humid climatic conditions. It features an elastic midsection and flexible sleeves to allow for a range of motion and transitions.
The pants made with Toray fabric technology specially designed for waders. It additionally features ventilation pockets on the sides for ease of access to the pants or shorts underneath.
Pros
- Made with Toray fabric technology that’s waterproof and offers breathable protection
- This pair of fishing pants has a fly zipper and zips on the sides for ease of access the shorts and pants underneath
- It features an adjustable cuff that helps lock out water
- It has an elastic waistband for ease of wearing and taking off
- Have a gusseted crotch to allow you to move freely
Cons
- Are not true to size
Verdict
Simms Vapor Elite Rain Pants features a 3-layer Toray laminate that’s waterproof and offers breathable protection. This feature makes it one of the best fishing pants on the market as it guarantees a convenient and better fishing experience.
The elastic waistband provides a perfect fit as it accommodates waders in different sizes without compromising on comfort. The zips on the sides and the fly zipper holds essential items that you might need on your fishing adventure.
The pants also feature and adjustable cuff that typically keeps out water to ensure you are dry and comfortable throughout the day. This will also increase your productivity in terms of performance as you’ll be more focused on the fishing process as opposed to worrying about water seeping through.
9. Mandal Waterproof Pants from Helly Hansen
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Helly Hansen is a renowned manufacturer of waterproof pants and the Mandal Waterproof Pants from Helly Hansen is no exception. This pair of fishing pants is made with premium quality materials and is equally well-made.
What’s more, they have a higher tear strength and are mildew-resistant which makes them one of the best fishing pants on the market. They are practical, ideal for outdoor use even when the temperatures run high as it features PVC coating.
Pros
- Mandal Waterproof Pants from Helly Hansen is trustworthy
- It features an inner zippered chest pocket to help keep your essentials safe and secure
- It has a push button hem adjustment
- It’s mildew-resistant
- This pair of fishing pants comes with adjustable elastic suspenders
- It’s machine washable for ease and convenience of clean up
Cons
- The bib snaps on the pants are not reliable
Verdict
Mandal Waterproof Pants from Helly Hansen are adjustable and keep water out which makes them quite effective and efficient regardless of the weather condition. Plus, it offers long-lasting durability which is why the brand is trusted by both rookies and professionals for sea life.
The best thing about this pair of fishing pants is that it comes with adjustable suspenders and inner storage chest pockets.
10. Columbia Men’s Rapid Rivers Pant
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Columbia Men’s Rapid Rivers Pants are versatile since they work well in the city and the lake alike owing to their stylish design. It’s made with omni-shade technology to help block UVB and UVA rays to protect your skin from any sun causing damage including sunburns.
Pros
- Versatile
- A secure fit and is extremely comfortable
- Have two pockets on the sides that are quite handy
- Come in a range of sizes and shapes
- Feature a stylish design that works well on the side of the lake and the sunny city alike
Cons
- Has smaller pockets
- Not true to size. So, you might need to order a size up to get a perfect fit
Verdict
Columbia Men’s Rapid Rivers Pant features UV absorbent yarns and a tight weave construction that offer ultimate protection against harmful rays of the sun and guarantee long-lasting durability. Your skin will be well protected when wearing this pair of fishing pants on sunny conditions.
They are equally comfortable and the fabric feels great on the skin ideal for everyday wear. The best thing about these fishing pants is that they are available in a range of sizes and shapes.
11. Caddis 2 Tone Taupe High Waist Waders
AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Caddis 2 Tone Taupe High Waist Waders is one of the best fishing pants on the market. It’s the best bet for waders looking for perfect fishing pants with breathability capabilities for any kind of weather. This pair of fishing pants is equally comfortable and good looking.
Pros
- Are super comfortable and easy to fit
- Good looking and modern design
- The pants feature double taped feet for maximum safety and long-lasting durability
- Women sizes are also available
- Come with a 1-year warranty
Cons
- Feature boot hooks that are too tight which makes attaching them difficult
Verdict
Caddis 2 Tone Taupe High Waist Waders is made from premium quality materials, is extremely comfortable, breathable and comes with gravel guards attached on it. This pair of fishing pants is uniquely designed to make them ideal for different types of weather.
The pants have great perspiration and airflow owing to the CaddisDry technology which not only makes these pants breathable but also waterproof. This typically means that you’ll be more productive in terms of performance during the fishing process instead of worrying about water getting in.
What it Means When We Say the Fabric is Waterproof- Breathable
The idea behind this technology is that your skin will remain dry while the waterproof breathable fabric wicks moisture away from the body to keep you cool and comfortable as you go about your business. You don’t want to walk around soaked in sweat especially when the temperatures run high.
The technology behind waterproof breathability sounds a bit complicated but that’s not the case. Waterproof-breathable fishing pants are usually categorized into three:
- 3-layer construction
- 5-layer construction
- 2-layer construction
You might think that your waterproof-breathable pants only have a layer. You couldn’t be more wrong because the lean fabric is usually multiple layers that are pressed together. The confront fabric, which is the outer layer in layman terms helps prevent water from seeping through the fabric which can cause the pants to become heavy.
The waterproof membrane typically exists on the second layer. You cannot see this layer since its under the face layer and is the actual waterproof-breathable layer. Things get a little distinctive when it comes to the third layer in terms of waterproof pants. Waterproof-breathable fishing pants with 3- and 2.5-layer construction feature an inner layer that helps prevent the middle waterproof-breathable layer from getting clogged by sweat. This means that body grease can interfere with the technology if it clogs the breathable holes on the pants.
Waterproof-breathable fishing pants with a three-layer construction usually use polyutherane backing known to provide long-lasting durability. Their counterparts with 2.5-layer construction use a thinner laminate painted on. It’s essentially referred to as half a layer since its so lean. Fishing pants with a 2-layer construction use a mesh hanging layer that’s not lightweight and successful as their 2.5- and 3-layer construction counterparts.
Professional fishers and the novice alike need the best fishing pants to see them through the fishing process since they’ll be at the river, lake or sea for an extended period under different weather conditions.
How to Choose the Best Fishing Pants on the Market
- Comfort
- Fabric
- Fit
- Breathability and moisture wicking properties
- Waterproof
Conclusion
Flygaga Convertible Lightweight Fishing Zip Off Cargo Work Pants stands out among the rest which makes it the best fishing pant on our list. This pair of fishing pant has it all. They have a perfect fit, a lightweight and offer ultimate protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays.
What’s more, they have a number of pockets that are neither too large nor too small and are equally quick drying. The best thing about these fishing pants is that they have a secure fit around the body and also come in a range of sizes.