The 7 Best Insulated Waterproof Fishing Jackets of 2022
Even though many of us are grabbing our bows and rifles and getting ready for hunting season, most of us know that fishing season is never really over.
I know I get at least one fishing trip in every month of the year, and I know many of you who read this blog do too.
All sportsman activities are ingrained in our DNA and we know that if you prepare correctly and engage the craft, none of the seasons ever really end in our minds.
Fishing fortunately is open year round, and cold weather fishing is one of my most productive fishing seasons. I have caught several bass over 5lbs in my life and over half of them were between the months of October and February.
Of course it goes without saying that trout and salmon are great cold weather species, as are pike and muskie.
With all this great sport and game fish activity during the colder months, you’ll really be missing out if you don’t pursue these awesome fish. To do so you’ll want to be geared up properly.
Adding the element of cold weather makes risks to your health and survival more serious. If you are 300ft from your car on the pier this may be less of an immediate concern, but if you are trekking into the backcountry to fish for trout in a mountain lake it is something you must concern yourself with.
Either way, I think it’s safe to assume that you’ll want to be as comfortable as possible and that’s what I am here to help with.
What Should You Wear for Cold Weather Fishing?
To start you’re going to want comfortable undergarments, and I prefer wool socks due to their relentless insulative quality when wet. Your base-layer will be something to consider along with the underwear and socks.
I prefer a synthetic base-layer that wicks moisture, however I know some folks personally who cannot wear synthetics because of skin irritation. Wool, either in long-john or union suit format is always a great alternative.
Once again, wool will still provide insulation when it is wet, and since we are cold weather fishing, we are putting ourselves in the prime situation where that feature will be handy.
Next you will want some sort of middle garment. This can really depend on the level of cold you’re in and your personal acuity to the conditions. Perhaps a simple shirt is all you need, and if so I would recommend something quick dry.
Perhaps you need a flannel or a fleece, either way your focus should be on resilience to cold and moisture.
Pants, once again, are a matter of what your mission is. If you are standing on the shoreline, maybe you just need some heavy duty waterproof pants; whereas the guy going upstream for winter trout may be in insulated waders.
The same goes for boots, if I’m casting from a dock or set up on the ice I may just need my 400 gram insulated hunting boots. Or if I’m trekking through wilderness and water I may need muck boots or waders.
Situational requirements will often dictate your needs. The one thing that cold weather fishing dictates to everyone regardless of if you’re shore fishing, boat fishing, or wading is a high quality, warm waterproof jacket.
Wind over water is quite often much colder than regular air temperature, especially over open water, but also through the stream valleys of rivers and creeks.
Whether you are in, on, or beside the water you will want to fish longer and be happier doing it if you invest wisely in a waterproof fishing jacket.
Cold weather fishing requires some basic tenets to be covered but can vary according to your situation.
If you are fishing off a pier or shoreline and can maybe even see your vehicle from your spot, then you’ll require a bit different set of duds than someone who is trekking up the river or down a creek for bass or salmon, and different still, if you’re in northern Minnesota doing some ice fishing.
Are Waterproof Jackets REALLY Waterproof?
Simply put, YES. If a product claims “waterproof”, and is made from quality waterproof material, it will repel water and keep you dry. It is important for you to note a significant difference between waterproof and water resistant.
If a product says water resistant, it will not keep you dry in a downpour. It is meant to offer some water-repellency, but whatever material it may be made from is not capable of withstanding a continual onslaught of water.
I have tested all of my waterproof materials extensively and in all seasons. My cold weather waterproof jacket has kept me bone dry in some of the heaviest 37 degree downpours you’ll ever see.
For cold weather fishing you always want waterproof, because even when the rain lets up, waterproof material tends to add a significant amount of insulation.
The bottom line is, nothing can keep all water from possibly finding its way up your sleeve or in at the neck.
However, I can assure you there are options on our list today that will surprise you with just how effectively they deny large amounts of rain, or tidal and rapids spray, even in those vulnerable areas.
What is the Warmest Waterproof Fishing Jacket?
If you are looking for the warmest waterproof fishing jacket then there are a few basic factors that need to be in place. First, the waterproof exterior, or shell. Second, and most importantly, insulation.
If you are looking for maximum warmth, perhaps for that northern Minnesota or Michigan ice fishing, then you are probably well aware of how crucial proper insulation is for keeping the cold and more importantly, the wind off of your core.
If you acquire a quality-made jacket that has a waterproof exterior and natural or synthetic insulation then you will be warm.
Third, how much jacket do you need? If you are ice fishing you may require a bit more weight and a bit heavier gram insulation rating than if you’re on the pacific coast.
These three factors however, if properly assessed and met, will ensure you wind up with a jacket that will actually keep you dry and warm.
Below are The 7 Best Insulated Waterproof Fishing Jackets of 2022.
I have made sure to include very heavy duty jackets, lightweight jackets, and some jackets in between, and as such I will not be ranking them against one another.
They are all quality jackets in their respective situational purpose.
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The 7 Best Insulated Waterproof Fishing Jackets: A 2022 Buyer’s Guide
Helly Hansen Men’s Moss Hooded Insulated Waterproof Windproof Raincoat
“The Ole Veteran Sailor”
Even though I’m not ranking this list, I figured I would get my bias out of the way early.
I am a huge fan of Helly Hansen and their legend in the fishing-wear industry should give you a good idea why.
This company has been outfitting Norwegian fishermen since 1877, which shows you they absolutely deliver the goods when it comes to keeping a fisherman dry and warm.
I personally own this jacket and can attest to its effectiveness in cold and wet environments.
The HELLY-HANSEN MOSS MEN’S HOODED INSULATED RAINCOAT has everything you need and can even be adapted to function in warmer seasons due to it’s removable pile fleece jacket inside the shell.
The shell is constructed of PFC free PU material and is very durable. I wear this jacket into heavy brush on occasion and have never had a rip. In case of a rip or wear at a pocket corner this coat comes with a PU repair kit.
The HELLY HANSEN MOSS MEN’S HOODED INSULATED RAINCOAT is available in “essential yellow” and “navy”, I have the navy blue coat because I like it’s subtlety but if you are looking to mitigate safety concerns by being high vis, you can’t go wrong with the essential yellow.
You can’t go wrong with this jacket!
FEATURES & SPECS:
Snap closures
YKK Vislon zipper on front
Snap out, PFC-free pile fleece lining for multi-seasonal use
Back ventilation
Welded seams
PU repair kit included with jacket
100% Waterproof
100% Windproof (with pile fleece lining in)
Habit Men’s Insulated Waterproof Bomber Jacket
“The Multi-sportsman”
The second jacket I am suggesting is another that I have owned for a while. This jacket, albeit an older version, was one of the first hunting jackets I bought for myself.
I wanted to feature it because not only does it check off all our needs for this list, but it is incredibly affordable and can cover multiple sports. Since we are talking about winter fishing, I figured I would include an option for guys like me who will wear camo fishing, hunting, black tie gala, you name it.
It’s also a no brainer to pick up a reliable and warm waterproof jacket that can be worn through multiple sporting occasions for less than $70. The HABIT MEN’S INSULATED WATERPROOF BOMBER JACKET does all of that.
The features on this jacket are pretty standard, and HABIT makes a good apparel product.
What I would say is this jacket’s strongest feature is its reliable performance and durability (had mine for about a decade now).
It’s cuffed at the waist and wrists with elastic which has held up and helps lock out cold air. I have worn this jacket fishing many times and it’s breathability makes it truly versatile for the constant activity of casting. To find breathability and insulation in the same jacket is a gem.
Throw in the fact that it is also windproof, equipped with scent blocking technology, and has the popular and versatile RealTree Edge pattern, I think it’s safe to say the HABIT MEN’S INSULATED WATERPROOF BOMBER JACKET has a lot more jacket than you are paying for!
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% Rain-Factor waterproofing technology
100% Windproof
Very breathable
Two hand pockets, 1 Chest pocket, all three zippered
High-Standing hood with zipper guard
Elastic waist and wrist cuffs to lock out wind and moisture
RealTree Edge Pattern
Scent-Factor scent inhibitor
Huk Men’s Grand Banks Heavy Duty Rain Jacket
“The Winter Tournament Jacket”
There may not be another jacket on this list more specifically and perfectly designed to be out on the water and fishing during cold and wet weather.
Huk has certainly made their presence known in the fishing apparel industry over the last decade and this jacket speaks to why they’ve had such success.
This jacket offers multi-layer protection with a waterproof shell that also sports a water repellent finish.
The front is closed by a zipper and protected with a storm flap, and the hood, hem and cuffs are fully adjustable.
The HUK MEN’S GRAND BANKS HEAVY DUTY RAIN JACKET is rated at 10 out of 10 on both waterproofing and breathability.
The armpit zippers are crucial for breathability in milder cold weather, and the middle layer membrane provides both an additional moisture barrier and a porous breathability that lets perspiration escape.
Also, this three layer design makes this jacket 100% windproof as well; which if you have spent much time sporting in the cold, you know is among the most important features you’ll require.
This is the kind of product we’ve come to expect from HUK and you will not be disappointed with the GRAND BANKS HEAVY DUTY RAIN JACKET.
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% Polyester
Fully adjustable hood, hem, and cuffs
Zippered front closure, hand pockets, and chest pocket
Storm flap
Fully taped seams
100% Waterproof with water repellent outer shell
100% Windproof
3-layer jacket with middle moisture wicking layer
Armpit zippers for ventilation
Simms Pro Dry Jacket Boulder
“The Ultimate”
If you are looking to be able to go from the great lakes to the inside passage and on to the sub-artic in one fishing jacket, I think we’ve reeled in your catch.
Simms really probably needs no introduction if you follow fishing, much like some of our previous brands.
Simms has garnered a reputation however as being a cut above everyone else when it comes to fishing apparel.
The SIMMS PRO DRY JACKET BOULDER is a little showcase of what gives Simms that success.
The 3 layer Gore-Tex finish on the exterior provides that dependable waterproofing, and covers a fabric that breathes and wicks moisture incredibly well.
The 3-point adjustable hood is capable of being positioned in a variety of different ways to combat everything from moving at 60mph in a boat to sideways rain to just wanting to comfortably wear a hat underneath, and the oversized collar provides excellent element protection.
Two watertight chest pockets and one interior pocket allow for you to keep a multitool or phone dry and on your person. The hand pockets are fleece lined and designed to warm you up quickly!
My favorite feature of this jacket is the no-catch watertight cuff. I have these cuffs on my favorite hunting parka, and I prefer these cuffs in general when sporting in a cold environment. Nothing quite keeps out the cold and moisture like watertight cuffs.
The SIMMS PRO DRY JACKET BOULDER does have reflective material on the sleeves. I like this feature because an accident in cold weather leads to a bit more serious rescue situation than summer time in my neck of the woods, and presumably for you as well since a person can become hypothermic in 30-50 degrees and even into the 60-70 degree range with extended exposures.
Invest in your comfort and invest in your safety at the same time!
FEATURES & SPECS:
3-Layer GORE-TEX provides outstanding 100% waterproofing
100% Nylon
Articulated sleeves with reflective hits
No-catch watertight cuffs
3-Point adjustable hood with extra large collar to shield from elements
Zippered front with storm flap
Cinchable hem
Extreme breathability
Watertight chest pockets and fleece lined zippered hand pockets for expedient warmth
3-Layers provide 100% windproofing
Ice Armor Men’s Edge Cold Weather Parka
“The Arctic Blast Defense”
As you can probably tell by the company name, the ICE ARMOR MEN’S EDGE COLD WEATHER PARKA is designed to keep you warm in the coldest environments.
If you are ice fishing in Minnesota, then this may be your lead candidate.
When ice fishing, safety becomes a bit more paramount than in a lot of lower 48 situations, and this jacket sports Scotchlite reflective elements and rapid draining features.
The 300D waterproof and windproof shell is as reliable as it gets and the inner lining is fleece to keep you comfortably warm.
The zippered pockets and front closure is YKK and the storm flap is magnetic. The shell also provides breathability and the chest vent system combines to ensure you don’t overheat on those slightly warmer frigid days.
The hood is fleece lined and removable and the chest has two rings for gloves or other tools.
The ICE ARMOR MEN’S EDGE COLD WEATHER PARKA doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles of our last couple jackets, but it is equal in quality because of how much overhead is put into the effectiveness and durability.
At this price point, you are getting a high-performance steal!
FEATURES & SPECS:
300D 100% Waterproof, windproof, and breathable shell
Vent System zippered on chest
Zippered hand warming pockets
3M Scotchlite reflective elements and rapid draining system for safety
YKK Zippers
2-Way front zipper
Magnetic storm flap
Fleece lining with removable fleece lined hood
Helly Hansen Men’s Svalbard Hooded Waterproof Winter Parka
“The Tundra Companion”
We may be bordering on too heavy for fishing, but I wanted to include a parka that can withstand the harshest elements.
Perhaps you’ve been reading this and wondering if the jackets listed thus far can stand up to Patagonia or north of the Arctic Circle.
The HELLY HANSEN MEN’S SVALBARD HOODED WATERPROOF WINTER PARKA is that jacket.
My favorite feature of this parka, aside from the articulated sleeves and wrist gaiters, is the insulation distribution. At 133g/M of PrimaLoft on the core and 100g/M in the sleeves this parka doesn’t just put in vents, it’s very construction is designed to keep your body properly regulated.
The dual polyester and polyurethane shell is 100% waterproof, windproof, and breathable and treated with a DWR (durable water repellency).
The zippers are YKK and the Helly Hansen logo on the chest and sleeve are reflective.
The hood is trimmed with a detachable faux fur, and is fully adjustable.
One of this parka’s features that ranks high up on my list, and it will probably crack you up, is that this bad boy is machine washable.
Usually parkas have to be taken to the dry cleaners or hand scrubbed and hung out to dry, but Helly Hansen has made the SVALBARD WINTER PARKA a cinch to freshen up.
Bottom line, if you are in very cold environments, or you are cold natured this jacket needs to be a serious contender.
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% Polyester front
100% Polyurethane back
100% Waterproof, windproof and breathable
Full seam sealed construction
DWR (durable water repellency) applied to exterior
Articulated arms and wrist gaiters seal out wind and elements
Zippered closure with zippered chest pocket
Adjustable hood with detachable faux fur
PrimaLoft insulation 133g/M on core, 100g/M in sleeves
Machine Washable
Striker Men’s Climate Fishing Jacket
“Mr. Versatility”
I saved this jacket for last, not because of any rank or preference as I said earlier.
I thought it was appropriate to save for last because this jacket can do just about everything that every other jacket on this list all wrapped up into one!
Whether you’re Ice Fishing in 40 below or cruising the great lakes in 52 degree weather looking for an 8lb smallmouth, the STRIKER MEN’S CLIMATE FISHING JACKET has you covered.
The G2 softshell jacket liner is extra warm and can be removed and worn on it’s own allowing this jacket to have that multi-season versatility.
The Hydropore waterproofing has a 5,000mm rating and the breathability rating is 5,000g; this material is designed to withstand the harshest elements and take the punishment an expedition can inflict.
This jacket has all the bells and whistles of our previous entries such as: venting for temperature regulation, hand warmer pockets, magnetic storm flap closure, and fast drain sleeves and hem.
My favorite feature of the STRIKER MEN’S CLIMATE FISHING JACKET is the SUREFLOAT assistance. Let me be clear, this jacket does not serve as replacement for a USCG approved life preserver or floatation device.
However, Striker has included some technology that can help keep an average sized person afloat for up to 2 hours!
This is a tremendous added safety feature considering we are fishing, and when you add it to the quality of performance that this jacket brings; you’ll be asking yourself why you don’t already own it.
FEATURES & SPECS:
100% Hydropore 5,000mm waterproofing
5,000g breathability rating
Durable Hydropore material is tough and expedition ready
Removable G2 softshell jacket liner for year round use
Detachable hood
Cross-Flow venting system
Hand warmer pockets
Magnetic storm flap
Hem and sleeve cuffs designed to fast drain for added safety
Surefloat Technology (not a substitute for standard USCS approved floatation) - can help average sized person stay afloat for up to 2 hours
“How few are aware that in winter, when the earth is covered in snow and ice...the sunset is double. The winter is coming when I shall walk the sky.”
—Henry David Thoreau
Get yourself the proper equipment and gear to stay safe and alive when going out into a cold environment.
Hypothermic conditions can come on so quickly and in surprisingly high temperatures, so be aware and be careful. Make sure you have some survival essentials to generate and conserve heat.
When all your needs are met, it really makes the time you spend out there on the water and in the wilderness much more enjoyable.
Tight lines my friends!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ryan Smith is an avid angler and outdoorsman based in central Kentucky.
Ryan spends between 60 and 110 days fishing each year.
He is a carpenter by trade.
ABOUT
