backcountry Archives

Why convertible breathable fishing waders are the best choice for backcountry fishing trips

Posted on April 10, 2025April 10, 2025 by Nick Satushek — Leave a comment

Do you like to fish places where you might not see another angler all day long? If the answer is yes, then you may want to consider the benefits of backcountry angling.

We’re really into the backcountry style of fishing, and are going to discuss why breathable fishing waders, and specifically the convertible wader style, provide several advantages for backcountry anglers, making them essential gear for your next backcountry fishing trip.

What are convertible top fishing waders?

Convertible waders are simply where the upper portion of the wader is constructed on a sliding system, to be able to be unsnapped from the top end position and pushed down to the users waist. Usually they incorporate snaps or buckles, to allow the top to be secured in the upper position. Our new Session Lite Convertible Waders use a magnetic snap to make this function effortless.

Session Lite Convertible Breathable fishing waders being used in the backcountry

Convertible waders increase mobility and comfort through breathability and function

Advantages of convertible straps and stockingfoot wader design

Waders with a convertible style top will increase your comfort by allowing you to drop the top when you’re warm and hiking, and pull it back up if you get cool or need to cross a deep stretch of water. Waders designed with an easy snap method, like the magnetic snaps on the Session Lite Convertible waders, are a necessity. We recommend a stockingfoot design for active fishing, as you can wear wading boots designed for hiking that will be comfortable all day long. Also, lightweight stockingfoot waders will roll up and fit in a backpack for a long hike in.

High quality fishing wader neoprene stockingfeet

How do breathable fishing waders actually work?
Breathable fishing waders are constructed of a multi layer fabric that allows air, but not water, to pass through. A waterproof membrane is sandwiched between layers of durable fabric, giving the fabrics the ability to pass air through but keep water out. This is a huge advantage to any active angler, and most quality waders are built using this technology now.

Benefits of breathable material
The main benefits to breathable fishing waders is that it helps prevent overheating and sweating. Keep in mind that getting hot and sweating can still happen while wearing them! It just significantly helps compared to older styles of non breathable waders.

Comfort and mobility of waders designed for backcountry fishing
The importance of using the proper waders for backcountry angling cannot be stressed enough. If you want to enjoy your day, be comfortable and mobile then you will want to use the right waders. Lightweight, breathable, and convertible systems will help make the most of your trip.

We hope you enjoyed these tips, and hope you enjoy lots of happy and comfortable fishing this season!

Fill it up and go fishing. The BKCNTRY Waterproof Fishing Backpack by DRYFT

Posted on May 16, 2019October 19, 2020 by Nick Satushek — Leave a comment

Step 1: Fill it up. Step 2: Go fishing.

Backcountry Steelheading photo journal

Posted on April 18, 2019December 23, 2024 by Nick Satushek — Leave a comment

When the backcountry calls you better answer. This spring we had the opportunity to hike away from civilization and experience true wilderness. We only saw one other person over the three days we were there, and saw almost no signs of other people at all. No garbage. No development. Nothing. After fishing downstream all day it was more surprising to see an actual human boot print in the sand than more elk, bear, deer, or coyote tracks.

We could have asked for better fishing conditions, but there were a few fish around. With low and clear water the fish we did see were spooky and not much inclined to play with us.

If you’re in need of a re-set from the hectic day-to-day of modern life then consider unplugging from the stresses of the work week, stuffing a backpack and hitting the trail.

I call this plugging into nature.

words & photos by Nick Satushek

That’s a happy face if I’ve ever seen one.

Fall PNW backcountry walk ‘n wade – Exploring new water

Posted on October 18, 2018December 23, 2024 by Nick Satushek — Leave a comment

Fall fishing in the PNW backcountry has a lot to offer.

Getting remote and exploring streams and rivers in the mountain regions can pay off big. Recently Nick and Sam went out on a quick overnight mission to explore some new water.

Upon arriving to the area we’d be exploring we were greeted by multiple signs warning of an aggressive bear ransacking occupied campsites. “Camping not advised’ warned one of the signs. Good thing we forgot the bear spray at home.

Well in the end we survived the night without a bear attack. 🙂

Fishing turned out to be tough, but the scenery sure was easy on the eyes. This was a perfect way to step back and get grounded before the busy fall season picks up. Here are some photos from the trip.