Spring on the Riverbank: Clothing and Kit for Spring Season Fishing

A New Season on the Water

It’s been a long winter for those of us who love being down by the river, so the first proper outing of the season always carries with it a hint of anticipation.
For me, that first cast into the water feels like things are finally starting to wake up again.

The rods have been dusted off, reels checked over, and paired with the milder mornings and longer days, it’s one of my favourite times of year to enjoy being back out.
It’s not quite summer yet, though- and that’s where you can get caught out.

Spring fishing brings its own set of challenges, and getting your clothing and kit right makes all the difference between a short trip and a full, comfortable day on the bank.

So, in this guide, I’ll walk through how to prepare properly for the spring season- from layering and waterproofs to the essential kit that every keen fishing enthusiast should have in their set-up. 

 

Understanding Spring’s Weather Challenges

Anything outdoors in Spring means the weather will probably be keeping you on your toes, and a day out on the riverbank can often mean cooler starts, a flash of hopeful sun for a coffee break and a grass bank that feels dry until you’re sat on it- catching even the most experienced fishers out (me included).

Agreed, you don’t need heavy winter gear anymore, but you definitely do need the right balance for the British weather’s unpredictability (and to avoid any consequential soggy seating situations.)

My checklist includes a good old layering system, including something breathable enough to move in, something warm enough for early mornings, and a lightweight waterproof for those surprise showers. We’re thinking practical, here too, so considering kit that dries quickly, keeps the wind off, and stays comfortable both on the move and while waiting for the fish to bite.

So, before the heavens open, let’s reel in my recommendations.

 

Top Picks: Essential Spring Fishing Clothing

When it comes to spring fishing, much like the sport, it’s all about being adaptable.  Here are a few of my top jackets that earn their place on the bank:

Jackets for Spring Conditions

• Ridgeline Torrent III Jacket
  
  
  
  Known for farming but also great for fishing, the Ridgeline Torrent III Jacket is fully waterproof with a longer cut for added coverage. I’ve found it’s ideal when you’re dealing with wet grass, drizzle, or sitting it out through a passing spring shower.
  
  
• Jack Pyke Rannock Waterproof Jacket
  
  
  
  Lightweight and easy to throw on, the Jack Pyke Rannock Waterproof Jacket is definitely a practical choice for spring. It packs down well, keeps the rain off, and won’t cook you like your freshly caught dinner when you’re moving between spots.
  
  
  
• Hoggs of Fife Struther Trilaminate Long Waterproof Smock
  
  
  
  It wouldn’t be a fishing blog without mentioning the Trilaminate Long Waterproof Smock from the best-selling Hogg's Struther range. Offering an excellent level of waterproof, windproof, and breathable protection, it’s a winner for keeping you comfortable (and covered) all day long.

 

Trousers for Spring Fishing

Lower-half comfort is often overlooked… until you’re kneeling on wet banks or walking through dew-soaked grass for half the morning.

Spring calls for trousers that keep you dry without restricting important movement, especially when you’re on the move or settling in for a longer session.

• Hoggs of Fife Green King II Waterproof Bib & Brace
  
  
  
  Built for full wet protection, the full bib design of the Green King II Waterproof Bib & Brace’s keeps water off on those damp banks and early morning setups.
  
  
  
• Percussion Tradition Trousers
  
  
  
  If you like a more traditional trouser option, the Percussion Tradition Trousers are a catch. They feature a water-repellent finish- and with six spacious pockets, including a dedicated knife pocket, you’ll have ample room to carry the essentials.
  
  
• Swazi Savannah Pants
  
  
  
  Fishing is for ladies too, and being lightweight, tough, and comfortable for milder days, the Swazi Savannah Pants make sure any proud female fishing enthusiasts are kitted out too.

 

Accessories for Spring Comfort

As I always say, the small things matter just as much as the big ones—and that goes for both the gear and the catch! Some of my go-tos are:

• Hoggs of Fife Struther Waterproof Baseball Cap
  
  
  
  
  Another from the Struther range, the Waterproof Baseball Cap is a simple but effective piece of kit that keeps rain out of your face during showers and cuts glare when the sun’s on the water.

• Jack Pyke Fleece Neck Gaiter
  
  
  
  Ideal for those colder starts, a Jack Pyke Neck Gaiter just takes the edge off- and can be easily stashed away into one of your Tradition Trouser’s many pockets once the day warms up.
  
  
  
• Seeland Hawker Waterproof Gloves
  
  
  
  Even in spring, gloves like the Seeland Hawker Waterproof Gloves are always useful when handling tackle, nets or fish without losing dexterity. 

 

Base Layers & Midlayers

This is where you really land a catch with your kit, a good base layer or mid-layer is a Spring essential:

• Swazi Men’s Climb Max Long Sleeve Polo Shirt
  
  
  
  My choice of a solid base layer. The Men’s Climb Long-Sleeve Polo is lightweight, breathable and quick-drying, which makes it ideal for managing temperature throughout the day.
  
  
  
• Jack Pyke Countryman Shirt, Fleece Jacket & Gilet
  
  
  
  A country classic combo for a reason, the Jack Pyke Countryman Shirt, Fleece Jacket, and Gilet make for a classic and dependable layering system. The shirt gives you a practical base, while the fleece or gilet adds warmth without too much bulk.
  
  
  
• Deerhunter Rogaland Fibre Pile Jacket
  
  
  
  Soft, insulating and comfortable, the Deerhunter Rogaland Pile Jacket is a warmer, trusty mid-layer for colder mornings or longer sessions where you seem to lose track of time….
  

 

Footwear for Spring Conditions

Finally, if there’s one thing that’ll ruin your first fish of Spring, it’s wet or cold feet. You need something that keeps you dry, grips well, and stays comfortable all day.

• Hoggs of Fife Field Sport 365 Wellingtons
  
  
  
  Always a favourite, the Field Sport 365 Wellingtons will be your dependable all-rounder for all-year use, complete with a removable EVA insole and high-performance Vibram outsoles.
  
  
• Hoggs of Fife Creagan Waterproof H-Tex Dealer Boots
  
  
  
  
  Again, a great option, especially if you’re covering a bit more ground. The Hoggs of Fife Creagan Waterproof H-Tex Dealer Boots are lighter and more flexible than wellies, they’re still fully waterproof, and make the perfect choice for a day moving spots.
  
  
• Percussion Rambouillet Full Zip Wellingtons
  
  
  
  Practical and easy to get on and off (a bonus if the banks muddy), the Percussion Rambouillet Full Zip Wellingtons are another wellie that’s worth a Spring shoutout for performance and comfort. 

 

Practical Tips for Spring Fishing Comfort

To round off the gear, here are a few small additions you can add to your kit if you want that extra bit of prep:

• Spare socks – worth their weight if you get caught out by a dip or a misstep at the edge (we’ve all been there.)
• Hand warmers – ideal for those fresher mornings when fingers don’t quite want to cooperate (and I’ve found you can always keep them in your boots if you’re camping out, too.)
• Compact waterproof – even if it stays in the bag, you’ll be glad to see it when spring turns up the showers.
• Fingerless gloves – a game-changer for keeping your hands warm while still allowing you to tie rigs and handle tackle easily.

It’s also easy to forget that the sun has strength in spring. A cap and a bit of UV protection go a long way on brighter days, and if you’re settling in for a while, a packable stool or waterproof mat will keep you off that cold, damp ground and look after that clothing, which you can read more on in our guide to [Caring for Technical Clothing].

 

Final Thoughts: Kit is Key

Spring fishing is about finding your rhythm again.

It’s the season of patience, and the right preparation can really make a difference, not just in what you catch, but in how much you enjoy the day.

Know-how, built over years on the bank, paired with modern kit that keeps you comfortable, dry and focused when conditions shift- get that balance right, and you’ll stay out longer, fish better, and make the most of every opportunity spring offers.

So, if you’re getting ready for the months ahead, take a look at our Fishing Collection and make sure your kit is ready for the season to come- and I’ll see you on the bank! 

 

Author

Matthew Holland

Matt Holland is passionate about sharing tips on enjoying the British countryside. From field sports to woodland walks, Matt is a proud enthusiast of all country pursuits, with a keen interest in country sports and the heritage, traditions, and tales they offer. Living and working in the beautiful Cheshire countryside, Matt combines his love for rural life with practical advice, helping others make the most of the seasons while embracing the thrill of country sports and the beauty of country life.