Being comfortable makes a huge difference to a day on the water. Felix Farm is open all year, and a bright July afternoon on the meadow bank feels very different from a frosty January morning in a boat. Here’s how to dress for fly fishing in every season, plus the two items you can’t fish without.
Mandatory at Felix Farm: hat and glasses
Our rules require headwear and protective glasses for every angler. A fly travels fast on the cast, and a gust of wind can put it where you least expect. We recommend:
- Polarised sunglasses: they protect your eyes and cut surface glare so you can spot fish and follow your line. Amber or yellow lenses are brilliant on dull days; grey or brown suit bright sun.
- A peaked cap or wide-brimmed hat: the peak shades your eyes and improves what you can see through polarised lenses. In winter, a warm hat with a peak does both jobs.
The layering system
British weather changes by the hour, so the best approach is layers you can add or remove.
Base layer
A merino wool or synthetic thermal top wicks sweat away from your skin. Avoid cotton next to the skin in cold weather: it stays damp and chills you.
Mid layer
A fleece or light insulated jacket traps warmth. Take a spare in the car during winter.
Outer layer
A breathable, waterproof jacket is the single most useful item of fishing clothing you can buy. Look for one with a hood, a high collar and chest pockets that sit above your waist, so you can reach your fly box easily.
Spring (March–May)
Mornings can be cold and afternoons warm. Wear a base layer, fleece and waterproof, and bring fingerless gloves. Spring is prime time, with trout feeding hard as the water warms and fly life increases.
Summer (June–August)
- Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts in muted colours keep the sun off without spooking fish.
- Sun cream on the backs of your hands and neck. Water reflects UV.
- Insect repellent for calm evenings.
- Plenty of water to drink.
Autumn (September–November)
Often the best fishing of the year, but the temperature drops quickly once the sun goes. Our autumn/winter hours run 08:00–16:20, so plan for chilly late afternoons. A packable insulated jacket is ideal.
Winter (December–February)
- Thermal base layer top and bottoms.
- Insulated, waterproof boots with warm socks. Cold feet end more winter sessions than anything else.
- Fingerless or fold-back mitts so you can still tie knots.
- A flask of something hot.
Footwear
Felix Farm is fished from grassy meadow banks, wooded platforms and boats, so waders aren’t necessary. Waterproof walking boots or wellies with good grip are perfect. Soft-soled footwear is best in the boats.
Fishing from a boat?
Our six Cormorant rowing boats (£10 per visit, max 2 people) get you out to fish you can’t reach from the bank. Out on the water it’s always a little colder and windier, so add a layer. Buoyancy aids are available and worn at the angler’s discretion; we recommend them, especially in winter.
Colour matters
Trout are wary of movement and bright shapes on the skyline. Choose olive, brown, grey or dark green clothing, especially when fishing from the open meadow bank.
Quick packing list
- Polarised glasses and a peaked hat (mandatory)
- Waterproof jacket
- Base layer and fleece
- Waterproof boots
- Gloves (autumn/winter)
- Sun cream and insect repellent (summer)
- Drinks and snacks
Once you’re kitted out, check our tickets and opening hours and come and fish. Not sure what tackle to bring? Read our beginner’s fly fishing gear guide.