Bozeman, Mont. is the setting of the classic novel "A River Runs Through It," the humble abode of Simms Fishing Products and the homeland of some of the world's best trout-filled rivers. The area screams fly-fishing haven. If you can't hear the screams, you'll certainly see the many fly-fishing reminders around town, from the wader-clad Santa Claus in the store window to the titles of local coffee brews like Dry Fly Blend. In Bozeman, fly-fishing is more than a way of life; it's a calling. Unfortunately while I lived there, I was too busy pursuing all the other outdoor activities to learn how to throw out line.

On the flip side, I am fortunate enough to work for a company that promotes hunting and fishing and was bestowed with a Cabela's-sponsored fly-fishing trip. It was then that I learned how to hook everything around me, including the surrounding shrubbery and my coworker's hand. After that trip, I was eager to return to my beloved Bozeman to give my newly acquired skills a whirl.

It was late November and the snow gods had bestowed a beautiful dusting upon the town with biting temperatures barely reaching 30°. No matter how cold the waters were, I would have dared anyone to tempt me out of finally getting to fish there. On this particular visit, I returned armed with a little knowledge, a box full of flies, Cabela's Women's Cimarron Dry-Plus® Bootfoot Waders and a scheduled play date with my fly-fishing friend and guide, Chad Brindle.

I'd say the words "Dry" and "Plus" are worthy of the wader's brand name considering I stayed dry, which led to the plus, like enjoying the day without being wet and cold. That's a mandate while wading frigid waters. Dry-Plus® is a Cabela's design and an impenetrable material that wards off wind and water. At the same time it breathes, so you can wear them in the dead heat of summer and it still allows for perspiration's escape.

If I could sing my praises for a product's features, I'd sing loudly for their nonslip felt soles. They performed beautifully despite having to break through crunchy snowbanks and maneuver across slick ice. Like the famous Paul Simon song, I thought I'd be "Slip Slidin' Away," but they had enough grip to keep me upward and mobile. I was also impressed that although they're made of lightweight nylon-stretch material, I stayed plenty warm. Of course, it didn't hurt that I wore thick thermal layers underneath.

Other features that kept me dry were the nonattached wading belt that cinched securely around my waist, an elastic drawstring that cinched closed, and tape-sealed seams, all which worked in unison with one goal in mind. I also appreciated the rough-and-tumble knee reinforcements, should I decide to hobnob with sharp rocks, and the zippered internal pocket where I stored my fishing license. Also noteworthy are the adjustable suspenders and quick-release buckles for easy on and off. The only downfall is the long length. However, I'm more vertically challenged than most.

So all you women anglers out there, if you're looking for your first pair of all-around performance waders, I'd put my dollars down on Cabela's Cimarron Dry-Plus® Bootfoot Waders. The comfort they afford will help make the fly-fishing learning curve more enjoyable.

Click this link to purchase: Cabela's Women's Cimarron Dry-Plus® Bootfoot Waders