In spite of the snowy start to spring, this is the time of year when the majority of families begin thinking about fishing. And when it comes to fly fishing and country walking, the choice is there to make no attempt at all and schlep out with a box full of salmon flies in the style equivalent of a hessian sack, but why be the dullest thing there? If the bumping into an unexpected friend inspires the wish for the ground to swallow you up maybe it’s that point in time to tackle your fishing clobber.


As an alternative, dress in something practical and durable that too works in real life, for instance, undertaking the school run, having coffee with a pal, or dashing to the shops. Keep away from the need for numerous outfit changes. Neutral colors are also preferred at the river's edge to keep from spooking fish along the way.

A pair of strong boots and a high-quality coat is all you require from a practical approach, otherwise, there are a few looks to go for:

The Anti-Shabby Look

First, there is the anti-shabby approach which of the country styles is maybe the most easily to saunter out of the fishery and into the nearest pub for lunch. This is about colour, texture and layering: wear linen, cord or print skirts, numerous t-shirts in rich colour tones that can take the odd speck of dirt, denim jackets or a big, insulated yet lightweight tweed coat.

The Classic Look

Next, there’s the classic style that sits beautifully in a fishing location. Options here comprise recycling old summer skirts that don’t reasonably cut it any more and would otherwise be hurdled into a charity shop, or snapping up a few old flower-patterned finds.

Wrap a sheer floral scarf loosely around your neck and buy a thermal gilet to finish the look.

The Equestrian Look

At last, there’s the equestrian look that has an extensive lineage and can be tracked back to literary gardening prodigy Vita Sackville, she truly knew how to work a pair of jodhpurs and a string of pearls. This look is perfect for walking in the countryside with the dog and family and can easily be worn for afternoon lunch too. The look retains its favour in the modern world and is personified by Kate Middleton. To look like a countryside princess, make sure to rummage out those jodhpurs and a polar neck top, and buy a thermal quilt jacket to complete this favourable look.

Justin Christley is an outdoors writer who writes for John Norris of Penrith.

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