Grundens
Heading down to the Gulf of America for a fishing trip in December, it is really hard to know what conditions you will run into. This year, for my second annual trip out of Venice, Louisiana, I decided to go with some serious gear so that I would be prepared for any situation. Figuring a company with the slogan “We Are Fishing” must know what they are doing, Grundens seemed like the right choice. The hardest part was deciphering their extensive lineup to decide what to pack for the flight. After some consultation, the following products provided all the comfort and protection I needed for a great trip with great friends and out of this world fishing.
Wanting to ensure warmth for the mad rush out in the morning and some insurance if a front blew in, the Turbulence Insulated Hoodie fit the bill. While all the items in this review performed flawlessly, the Insulated Hoodie surprised me the most. I think calling it a hoodie does not do justice to how warm it actually is. It performed more like a coat than a hoodie.
The 320D nylon shell did well to block the wind and resist stray spray while motoring to our honey holes. The G-LOFT Eco Plus insulation stole the show. While I can attest to how warm it kept me, it is advertised to retain maximum heat even in soggy conditions. This is due in part to the G-LOFT fibers being engineered not to absorb moisture.
A couple of the other notable features that made it even better are what I would call an athletic fit that is not bulky and the stretch snug fit cuffs.
Knowing that blue skies can quickly turn on you and welcome a downpour, I wanted something I knew would be 100 percent waterproof. I had invested the time and money to fly all the way down there, and I was not about to let the rain stop me.
The Neptune Jacket, made from polyurethane coated polyester fabric, was the easy choice. Fully waterproof with welded seams and a button down zipper flap, I had no worries should a rogue wave douse the boat or a steady drizzle set in for the day. I was able to layer underneath but still cast without restriction. I wore the Neptune Jacket extensively when cruising due to its ability to block wind.
Probably the hardest clothing choice I had to make was selecting which bibs to wear. Knowing the temperatures could fluctuate and even reach 70 degrees, I wanted something that would be breathable yet waterproof. Grundens happened to offer that combination in the Full Share Bibs. They also provided great wind protection.
I have noticed on many of my saltwater trips that the captains generally wear bibs, and honestly now I kind of know why. On top of the obvious waterproofing, they do a great job of keeping the foul smelling aspects of a fishing trip off of you. Keeping fish and shrimp guts off my underclothes was a great secondary advantage of wearing the Full Share Bibs.
TThe hidden gem of the outfit was the Gaff Pants. Comfortable and versatile describe them best. They were perfect under my bibs but also ideal for wearing to the marina for supper and around the cabin.
With plenty of pockets to keep necessities on my person, they were lightweight and quick drying. They gave a casual look but were beyond functional. I wore them every day of the trip, and they will be my go to for future fishing and hunting camps.
Grundens hits the mark with fishing clothing. Everything is purpose built and versatile enough to get you through cold, warm, wet, dry, and casual situations. I am a little disappointed I had not stocked up sooner.
