Performance Fishing Gear (PFG), Do I Need Them?

Aston Douglas (PFG Aficionado)

Performance Fishing Gear or more commonly known as PFG is a list of apparel used to protect an angler from the elements of nature (rain, sun and insects).

-Article by Aston Douglas-


Basic PFG, includes UV resistant shirts that are quick dry, light and water resistant.

Pants that share the same properties as the PFG Shirts.

UV Resistant Buffs to protect one's face from the glare of the sun and also used as a protection against bugs such as mosquitoes.
UV Resistant Arm Sleeves that share the same properties and uses, as the UV Resistant Buff.

Other PFG include fishing gloves, this varies to many different types such as half cut, full covered,stab/knife proof gloves (for when handling fish with spines and spikes).

Apart from that, an important PFG to have is a good pair quick dry, water draining shoes with good grip and preferably light.
These are important when wadding across rivers and climbing over rocks. A good set of shoe must fit your leg's well and be as comfortable as possible. A loose fitting or not snugly fit shoe could cause you sore foot, or a potential injury.

Waders

There are of course waders next.
These are important when wading into waist high rivers and lakes, where some times the targeted species is not always by the bank. These are usually made frm 100% waterproof material.

Leech Proof Socks

Another important PFG includes leech proof socks
Leech socks are relatively cheap and extremely important especially when wading into lakes and ponds and trekking in the jungle.
The best leech proof socks are called Deluxe Leech Socks and are available for from RM40 - RM60
These leech sock normally have gutters on the top. Once you put them on, they can be tied to prevent the leeches from sneaking in. Of-course leech proof is not due to the special materials, but a simple act of tightening the loose ends or limiting access.
They are socks with gutters ( like on our track suit). So you put them on and tie the gutters up. And they are very long, up to your knees.

And lastly PFG caps and hats
PFG caps are also UV Protected and waterproof to protect anglers from rain or shine.
They are normally fitted and made from a mixture of UV cotton and spandex on the inside to hold tight to your head during windy conditions..
They are quick dry and extremely comfortable.

So, we have identified the tremendous line up of PFG apparel. But are they required in most cases. Is there any justifications in purchasing them?

Well, as the old adage goes, good stuff ain't cheap. Same goes to PFG. They are definitely not cheap. But they add a level of safety and precaution to our precious sports. As important as our rods and reels, where we spend hundreds if not thousands of ringgit, it makes sense to spend a bit for the protection they offer us from elements. Safety from the weather and harmful insects such as mosquitoes and leeches are very important.

Imagine your deep in a jungle trek, fishing, and find out that you're bleeding profusely from leech bites. The top most priority is to reach the nearest hospital or clinic to get them checked out and stop the bleeding. So, you have to trek back, and hopefully you brought company to ensure you reach the hospital safely. And pray that you dont faint. As if you brought a friend with you, he's probably muttering and mucking by now due to your imprecations. And, if he were to carry you, it aint gonna sound pretty to the ears. As it is, you guy's are not fishing by then...

But is there a cheaper viable option?

For shirt and pant's, i can't recommend anything else then Columbia PFG. Maybe other brand's such as Regatta or Karimor, carries similar stuff's, but i haven't test them personally.

Camel Active Barras

Shoes, I've been using the Camel Active Barras, they have held up quite well so far. They are a fraction of the price (RM 180). That's a possible route you may look into. Wading shoes, SIMMS comes to mind.

The BUFF

BUFF, in my personal opinion, Buff by THE BUFF is still the best. And they carry the UV variant as well. They cost around RM 99. The UV variant. The normal variants should be around RM 70 plus or so.

Wader's, there are multiple choice's here. But, i would suggest to get the best you could afford. The lesser material's could cause you to feel uncomfortable. As the lesser material's may not be breathable.

Cap's and  head-wear, go with whats comfortable. UV protected is a plus in my opinion.

Leech proof socks... Get them if you trek or fish the wilds. Don't Skimp on these...