Now that the busy holiday season has passed, the new year is that time of the year for both looking forward and reflecting on the past year. Although it has been quite mild here at our winter location in Kansas, I think back to the not-so-mild fall weather at camp…the amazing, early, abundant snow at camp set up the unusual challenge of putting camp to sleep with knee-deep white stuff and freezing pipes.
Dressing for performing the necessary work under these conditions was a delicate balance of staying dry and warm, not to mention being able to move around freely. If you spend time outdoors, you are all too familiar with the strategy of dressing in layers. Then throw into the mix the safety aspect of “flying solo” at the end of the season with around a 40°F lake, paired with blustery, snowy, northerly winds. It serves to amplify the mantra of work smart!
Still being able to grab ahold of tools and other things (like a fishing pole at times!) was key for me from both a safety and practicality standpoint. Being that I never shy away from a problem-solving opportunity, I devised a viable solution of layering to keeping my hands reasonably warm, dry and mobile.
Layer 1: 8-mil nitrile gloves
The nitrile glove acted similarly to a scuba wet suit, trapping heat while protecting the hands from the cold wind and water constantly attempting direct-contact with the skin.
Layer 2: PVC-impregnated fine, knit glove
The outer glove added thickness to cut the wind as well.
Basically, the key to the system was that two gloves slip on, and the exposed nylon mesh outer-glove backing provided toughness with enough dexterity that I was able to tie on my lures. With this system of hand protection, I was able to work AND catch fish. Just ask this 40-inch pike I caught in mid-October!
A 40-inch Pike on the line amidst the October snow and wind
I hope this system helps you all get through your outdoor winter work and play, as well as helping our guests when the fish are biting during some of that cold and rainy weather during the season.