Glasses and cap, even without the sun
It may seem unnecessary, but it's very important to always have a cap and goggles at the water's edge. After all these years of practice, I've lost count of the number of times a lure or branch has hit me in the face, or even in the lenses of my sunglasses.
The visor of a cap protects your face from the sun, but also from objects that could injure you. As you make your way along the riverbanks, you'll have noticed that a little protection from brambles and other prickly plants goes a long way. In the same way, glasses, whether prescription or sunglasses, offer extra protection. It's not uncommon for a lure or hook to come rushing back at you when you pull it and unhook. A hook in the eye would be a one-way ticket to the emergency room, but a simple pair of glasses can prevent that.
Jacket and pants
Except in summer, when you can go fishing in shorts and a t-shirt, most of the season is spent in pants and a jacket. Choosing the latter according to the day's program will bring you both comfort and safety. For fishing in open areas where a little agility may be required, choose comfortable, soft pants such as jogging suits.
On the contrary, if you're planning an expedition along a crowded shoreline, opt for jeans instead. The sturdy, low-stretch material of denim blocks the vast majority of quills and potential snags you might encounter on the water's edge. Similarly, if the weather requires you to wear a jacket, you can opt for a waterproof one, even without rain, ideal for crossing a bramble without even feeling it, since the material protects your body well.
Appropriate footwear
Crapaholing along a river or the sea is a lot more sporty than most people think. So it's important to choose your shoes wisely to avoid disappointment. Hiking boots, although they may seem justified, are best avoided. Their thick, hard sole protects the sole of the foot, but quickly becomes a handicap when the terrain is steep or slippery.
Soft soles are the most effective for gripping slippery, wet ground, and we often see sea anglers using simple little sneakers, ideal for being agile and sticking to rocks. As the sole is flexible, it offers a better contact surface with the ground and reduces the risk of slipping.
