Tired of tossing and turning during your nights on the bank? After your bedchair, the best fishing sleeping bags are one of the most essential pieces of gear— yet they are often overlooked by anglers until they find themselves in less-than-ideal conditions, feeling the full effects of the weather.
The UK weather can be unpredictable at the best of times and if you are to fish to the best of your ability and enjoy your session, you need to stay comfortable. Getting too hot or too cold on the bank can have dire consequences for your health, let alone your angling ability, so if you enjoy fishing longer sessions, investing in one of the best fishing sleeping bags will pay for itself over and over again.
Best fishing sleeping bags at a glance
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Best Fishing Sleeping Bag: Trakker 365 Sleeping Bag - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
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Best Budget Fishing Sleeping Bag: Avid Revolve Sleeping Bag - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
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Best Beginner Fishing Sleeping Bag: Trakker Big Snooze+ Sleeping Bag - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
In this article, we'll explore the best fishing sleeping bags on the market, considering factors such as warmth, comfort, durability, and portability. Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, finding the right sleeping bag can significantly enhance your overall enjoyment whilst on the bank...
Best budget sleeping bag
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The Avid Revolve Sleeping Bag is a perfect blend of comfort, warmth, and compactness, ideal for spring, summer, and autumn fishing. Their water-resistant outer material eliminates the need for a separate waterproof cover, while the luxurious hollow-fill inner provides exceptional warmth without adding bulk. The lightweight and compact design makes them easy to transport and store.
Key features include a soft polyester inner for maximum comfort, draught baffles, a hooded top and bottom to secure to a bedchair and high-quality crash zips. Available in standard and XL sizes, the Avid Revolve Sleeping Bags are perfect for nights on the bank.
Pros
- 3 Season rated
- Water resistant with 20,000mm hydrostatic head
Cons
- Not really suitable for cold winter nights, need additional cover
Best winter fishing sleeping bag
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Designed to withstand the harshest winter conditions, the Fox Flatliner 5-Season Sleeping Bag offers unparalleled warmth and comfort. Featuring a premium 7 Core Hollow Fibre filling, this sleeping bag provides exceptional insulation and retains its shape even in the coldest temperatures.
Designed to attach securely to 6 or 8 leg bed chairs, with a full length non snag zip for ease of getting in and out of the bag, supplied with a stuff sack for easy storage. The thermal inner bag can be removed for those milder days giving a versatile sleeping bag suitable for all conditions.
Pros
- Removable thermal inner
- Sherpa fleece is soft and comfortable
Cons
- The sleeping bag is not waterproof
Best Fishing Sleeping Bag
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Offering comfort and warmth, the Trakker 365 Sleeping Bag features a multi-layered design with advanced Q7 hollowfibre insulation, ensuring optimal warmth and protection in any weather conditions.
The Q7 hollowfibre technology traps more air for superior insulation, while the Aquatexx® fabric provides reliable protection against the elements. The removable inner liner allows you to transform the sleeping bag from a 5-season to a 3-season option, with the choice of either soft fleece or smooth polyester for added comfort.
This versatile design is compatible with both standard 6-leg and wide 8-leg beds, and the improved base design ensures a more integrated fit and a comfortable night’s sleep. Also available in camo.
Pros
- Incorporates technology that traps air for additional warmth
- Integrates seamlessly with trakker bed chairs but also will fit other brands
Cons
- Designed to suite Trakkers Levelite & RLX beds, therefore may not suit other bedchairs
Best summer fishing sleeping bag
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Designed for use in warmer months and hot climates, the Fox Duralite 1 Season Sleeping Bag offers a comfortable and breathable sleep without sacrificing durability. This lightweight sleeping bag features a reduced amount of 7 Core Hollow Fibre filling, providing optimal warmth while eliminating the risk of you overheating.
The breathable polyester lining and offset panel stitching allows for airflow, ensuring a comfortable night's sleep even in warmer temperatures. The durable construction and high-quality materials guarantee long-lasting performance.
Pros
- Perfect for summer nights
- Breathable with increased airflow to reduce overheating
Cons
- Not the best if the temperature begin to plummet
Best 5 season fishing sleeping bag
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Experience comfort and warmth with the Fox Ventec All-Season Sleeping Bag. This versatile sleeping bag offers exceptional insulation and adaptability, making it ideal for long sessions in any weather conditions.
The Fox Ventec features a removable inner bag, allowing you to transform it from a comfortable 3-season sleeping bag into a remarkably warm 5-season option. The inner bag offers a choice of comfort options, including a microfleece base layer and a sherpa fleece upper layer.
The sleeping bag's outer layer is made of Ventec water-resistant fabric, ensuring protection against the harshest of elements. The polyester mid-section and microfleece head and foot sections provide added warmth and comfort. Available in L & XL sizes.
Pros
- All in one sleep system that suitable all year round
- Reversible inner bag with different materials on outer and inner to suit your preferences
Cons
- Because of insulation and padding it is heavier than other bags on the market
Best beginner fishing sleeping bag
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Trakker Big Snooze+ Sleeping Bag is an ultra-lightweight bag, designed to provide exceptional insulation and breathability, making it ideal for fishing trips in various seasons.
The Trakker Big Snooze+ features a warm fleece lining for added comfort and a highly-breathable ripstop material for optimal airflow. The quick-release zips on both sides with webbing prevents snagging, ensuring easy entry and exit, preventing you getting stuck should you get a run in the night.
Designed for versatility, the Trakker Big Snooze+ is available in three sizes to accommodate different bedchair configurations.
Pros
- Available in three sizes to find the perfect fit
- Ultra lightweight less than 3Kg
Cons
- Zips are not full length of the sleeping bag
Best compact fishing sleeping bag
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The Gardner Carp Duvet Compact sleeping bag is designed to provide optimal insulation and protection to anglers who enjoy fishing all year round.
Featuring a multi-layered design, including a removable inner sheet, the Carp Duvet allows you to transform it from a comfortable 4-season sleeping bag into a remarkably warm 5-season option, Ideal if you fish 12 months of the year.
The breathable and water-resistant DPM shell ensures protection against the elements, while the 190D rip stop Taffeta lining provides a smooth and comfortable surface.
Additional features include shoulder and zip baffles, a draw cord on the hood, and a compact size that fits snugly on standard-sized bedchairs to prevent it slipping off during use.
Pros
- Removable inner for extra insulation
- Breathable and waterproof
Cons
- May not be adequate for XL bed chairs
Best lightweight fishing sleeping bag
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A lightweight yet warm sleeping bag, the Wychwood Comforter Sleeping Bag offers comfortable and restful sleep and is most suitable for spring, summer and autumn sessions.
The Comforter Sleeping Bag features a breathable 240T Rip Stop fabric, allowing for optimal airflow to keep you cool and prevent uncomfortable sweating. The soft fleece lining provides added warmth and comfort, while the 4 Chamber hollow fill ensures effective insulation. Large crash zips and elasticated hoods offer convenience and security, and the bed fixing strap keeps the sleeping bag in place.
Pros
- Light weight and portable
- Large zips making it easy to unzip and exit
Cons
- Unsuitable for cold winter use, however an additional cover is available for extreme temperatures
What to look for in a fishing sleeping bag
When choosing the best fishing sleeping bag, it’s important to consider key aspects such as insulation, water resistance, breathability, comfort, and durability. Be sure to look for high-quality insulation, whether down or synthetic, to ensure warmth in various weather conditions.
A water-resistant outer layer is crucial for keeping you dry and comfortable during wet weather. Most sleeping bags come with a seasonal rating, typically 3, 4, or 5 seasons. A 3-season sleeping bag is lighter, more breathable, and has less insulation, making it ideal for warmer conditions during spring, summer, and autumn. In contrast, 4- or 5-season sleeping bags often feature a removable layer that provides extra warmth and insulation for colder weather.
It’s essential to consider the rating and choose a sleeping bag that suits the conditions you’ll be facing while fishing. Opt for a bag made from breathable materials to prevent condensation and ensure a comfortable night’s sleep. Portability is another important factor, especially if you need to travel light or carry your gear over long distances to reach your fishing spot. Look for a sleeping bag with a comfortable shape and soft materials to guarantee a restful night’s sleep. Finally, invest in a durable, well-constructed bag that can withstand the rigours of outdoor use.
Glossary
Down: A natural insulation material made from feathers, known for its warmth and compressibility.
Synthetic Insulation: Man-made materials such as polyester or nylon, often used as a more affordable alternative to down.
Ripstop Material: A fabric reinforced with additional threads to prevent tearing.
Water-Resistant: A coating or treatment that repels water.
Breathable: Allows moisture to escape, preventing condensation.
Hollow Fibre: A type of insulation with hollow fibres that trap air for warmth.
Hood: A covering for the head to keep you warm.
Zipper Baffles: Prevent drafts from entering through the zipper.
Stuff Sack: A bag used to compress and store the sleeping bag.
3-Season: Designed for spring, summer, and autumn temperatures.
4-Season: Suitable for a wider range of temperatures, including colder conditions.
5-Season: Designed for extreme cold weather conditions.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best type of insulation for a fishing sleeping bag?
While down insulation is highly effective, synthetic insulation offers a more affordable and often water-resistant option, making it suitable for various weather conditions.
How do I choose the right size fishing sleeping bag?
Consider your height and width, as well as the size of your bedchair. A sleeping bag that's too small can be uncomfortable, while one that's too large can be bulky and unnecessary.
What is the difference between a 3-season, 4-season, and 5-season sleeping bag?
3-season sleeping bags are suitable for spring, summer, and autumn temperatures. 4-season sleeping bags are designed for a wider range of temperatures, including colder conditions. 5-season sleeping bags are ideal for extreme cold weather.
How do I keep my sleeping bag dry during wet weather?
Use a waterproof sleeping bag cover or choose a sleeping bag with a water-resistant outer layer.
How do I clean and maintain my fishing sleeping bag?
Check the manufacturer's care instructions for specific cleaning recommendations. Air it out regularly to prevent odours and mould forming. Store the sleeping bag in a cool, dry place when not in use.
Can I use a regular sleeping bag for fishing?
While you can use a regular sleeping bag for fishing, a fishing-specific sleeping bag may offer better insulation, durability, and features designed for outdoor use.
What is the best way to pack a sleeping bag for a fishing trip?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for packing the sleeping bag. Consider using a compression sack to reduce the size and weight of your sleeping bag.
How often should I replace my fishing sleeping bag?
The lifespan of a sleeping bag depends on its materials, usage, and care. Generally, you can expect a well-made sleeping bag to last for several years with proper care.
What are some additional features to look for in a fishing sleeping bag?
Hoods, zipper baffles, stuff sacks, and other features can enhance your comfort and convenience while on the bank.
Author Jonathan Longden, is an experienced angler. With over 20 years experience in the tackle trade specialising in match and coarse fishing he has an extensive practical knowledge of the latest equipment and the specific needs of anglers. He currently occupies the role of digital content writer at Angling Times.