December 12, 2011
By Lance Egan
Dry waders are something we fly fishers aren't proud of. It is best to keep them wet (for obvious reasons). In today's world it is important to protect against aquatic invasive species (AIS). The best way to accomplish this is to check, clean and dry all tackle or clothing that has been in contact with a river or lake. Switching from felt to rubber soled boots doesn't do any good if you don't clean and dry your boots before visiting another waterway. This subject is worthy of a lengthy article, but today you'll have to settle for a quick tip:
At days end, as you remove your waders turn them inside out for the ride home. In the warmth of the car/truck/suv the insides of your waders are likely to be dry by the time you get home. Once dry, turn them right side out to allow the waders to dry completely. This not only helps control the spread of invasive species but also keeps the inside of your waders from smelling like a public restroom...
Another fringe benefit is that if you toss your waders into a gear bag you have the driest side of the waders (the inside) contacting the other contents of the bag for the ride home which will keep your expensive gear from being soiled.
Think of all the glares you will no longer get when your friends don't have to suffer through stinky wet wader smells the entire ride home...
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