This review dives into the Bassdash Neoprene Waders, examining their comfort, durability, and overall performance in the field. We put these waders to the test in a familiar creek, navigating varied water levels and terrain to assess their practicality for creek fishing. From the ease of donning the integrated boot system to the quiet flexibility of the neoprene material, we explore every aspect of the wader's design and functionality. Our experience covers everything from initial setup and comfort to performance in the water and the overall wear experience.This detailed assessment covers not only the positives, including the superior warmth, excellent traction, and comfortable fit, but also addresses a common criticism: the oversized boots. We provide a balanced perspective, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses to help anglers make an informed decision. Ultimately, we determine whether the Bassdash Neoprene Waders live up to their promise and represent a worthwhile investment for serious anglers.
Read more: Top 5 Fishing Waders of 2024
Putting on the Bassdash Waders
The Bassdash waders are designed with an integrated boot system, similar to a fireman's uniform. This makes putting them on surprisingly easy. You simply stand the waders up, step in, and pull them up. I found the buckle straps easier to adjust unbuckled than trying to reach them after the waders are on.
The instructions suggest leaving the straps buckled, but I prefer to adjust them after I'm in the waders due to limited shoulder mobility. The high-quality, long socks are essential for comfort. I ordered extra-long socks specifically for these waders to avoid chafing.
Overall, the process of donning the Bassdash waders is efficient and straightforward, thanks to their clever design.
Creek Fishing Experience
I chose a creek I fished as a child with my grandfather for this review. Unfortunately, the water levels are much lower than they used to be. Despite the lower water levels, I still found some deeper spots that held fish.
I started by using a hellgrammite as bait. It is a very effective bait in this creek, often used when fishing with my grandfather for minnows. I found evidence of other baitfish in the creek, suggesting a healthy population of larger fish.
The fishing itself was successful. I landed several fish despite the challenging conditions, showing the suitability of these waders for varied creek fishing scenarios.
Wader Performance and Comfort
The neoprene material of the Bassdash waders is surprisingly quiet when moving around in the water. The flexibility allows for a natural range of motion unlike stiff rubber waders, making them perfect for navigating rocks and uneven terrain.
Even in late September in Middle Tennessee, the waders provided sufficient warmth. The boots have exceptional tread which helps to prevent slipping on slick rocks. The comfort was exceptional, even during extended periods of wear.
The fit is snug but not restrictive, allowing for freedom of movement. The long socks are key to maintaining comfort and preventing chafing.
Overall Conclusion and Recommendations
The Bassdash Neoprene Waders exceed expectations in comfort, durability, and performance. The integrated boot system, quiet neoprene material, and excellent traction make them ideal for creek fishing. The warmth provided in moderate temperatures is impressive.
One significant drawback is the oversized boots. This is a common complaint among reviewers, and it affects sizing. The boots run significantly larger than the wader size, requiring careful consideration during purchase.
Despite the oversized boots, the Bassdash waders are a strong contender in the market. The combination of comfort, durability, and performance makes them worth considering for anglers seeking reliable waders for various conditions.