Fly Fishing Pants & Shorts

About

Pants & Shorts Quick Picks Best All-Around: Simms Guide Pant - For anglers who want one technical pant that works for wet wading, hiking, and boat days. Quick-dry stretch fabric plus drain-friendly pocketing makes it feel purpose-built for fishing, not just “outdoor.” Best for Hot Weather: Simms Skiff Shorts - For skiff decks, drift boats, and flats trips when you need airflow and fast dry times. A dedicated thigh pocket and drain details keep essentials secure when things get wet. Best for Wet Wading: Simms Driftless Wading Pants - For anglers who spend a lot of time knee-deep and want a pant that moves like activewear. Stretch construction and wading-focused pocket drainage help you stay comfortable in-and-out of the water. Best Under-Wader Layer: Orvis Pro LT Under Wader Pant - For shoulder-season days when you want warmth without bulky bunching inside waders. A tapered lower leg and stirrups help keep the layer in place through long walks and repeated wader on/off. Best Alternative to Chest Waders: Patagonia Swiftcurrent Wading Pants - For travel, warm climates, and situations where you don’t need deep wading coverage. Waterproof/breathable wading-pant protection is a nice middle ground between wet wading and full waders. How to Choose Fly Fishing Pants & Shorts Pick your “job”: wet wading vs. boat vs. hiking Action: Start by deciding where the pants/shorts will spend most of the day: in the water, on a boat, or on the trail. Wet wading focus: Look for quick-dry fabrics, stretch, and pockets that won’t hold water (mesh-lined or drain ports help). A gusseted crotch and articulated knees matter more than you’d think when you’re stepping over boulders. Boat/flats focus: Prioritize sun coverage, lightweight comfort, and secure pockets for a phone/keys/permit. Shorts are great in heat, but long pants can be the move when sun, bugs, or mangroves are in the mix. Hike-to-fish focus: Go for abrasion resistance and mobility. If your approach includes bushwhacking,