How to Choose the Right Sun Protection Fishing Gear for Your Needs?

Fishing is a fun hobby that lets you spend time outdoors in nature. Excessive sun exposure without protection can pose risks. Many anglers report experiencing sunburn while fishing. The risks of sun exposure go beyond mere sunburn.

According to a recent study, more than two people die of skin cancer in the U.S. every hour. Nobody wants such an unfortunate turn of events out of a recreational activity. So it is crucial to pick the right clothing and gear to block UV rays for staying safe on the water all day. Here are tips for choosing effective sun protection fishing gear based on your needs:

The Dangers of Sun Exposure During Fishing

Spending long hours fishing under direct sunlight puts you at high risk for sunburns, premature aging of the skin, and skin cancer. These dangers stem from ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can penetrate and harm unprotected skin. Fishing poses particular risks due to the following factors:

• Sunlight reflects off the water, increasing UV exposure.
• Cool temperatures from water and wind make sunburns less noticeable.
• Eyes strain to see through the sun’s glare, which can increase the damage caused by UV rays.
• Hands are constantly exposed when casting and handling gear.
• Ears, necks, and balding heads get intense direct sunlight.

Without proper protection, a day of fishing can damage your skin and eyes. Choosing gear to block UV radiation is crucial.

Understanding UPF Ratings for Fishing Clothes

UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) indicates how effective fabrics are at blocking UV rays. For example:

• UPF 15 blocks 93% of UV rays
• UPF 30 blocks 97%
• UPF 50 blocks 98% (recommended minimum for fishing)

When gearing up for your fishing adventures, it’s crucial to include sun protection clothing for fishing with a UPF rating of 50 or higher. Opting for lightweight shirts and pants crafted from UPF 50+ materials ensures you stay shielded from up to 98% UV rays, a recommended minimum for a day by the water. Don’t forget about essentials like hats, gloves, and sunglasses, all with UPF 50+ ratings, to ensure comprehensive sun safety during your outdoor activities.

Key Features to Look for in Sun Protective Fishing Apparel

When choosing sun-protective fishing apparel, look for:

• Opt for hats with mesh vents, wide brims, or flaps for neck protection, and ensure they stay in place with chin straps on windy days.
• Long sleeve shirts with UPF 50+, vents to prevent overheating, and hoods for extra coverage.
• Lightweight sun gloves to protect vulnerable hands while still preserving dexterity.
• Face masks to shield cheeks, nose, and lips that are prone to sun damage.
• Tightly woven pants and sun sleeves if you need extra coverage.
• Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare. Neck gaiters or buffs to shield the neck.
• Rash guards or sun protective shirts made with UPF 50+ fabric.

Choosing the right sun-protective fishing apparel for your needs helps ensure you stay safe on the water this season. Take your time with sun exposure and UV damage.

Hats Are Essential

A good sun-protective fishing hat shades your face, ears, and neck. It’s one of the easiest ways to prevent direct sun damage in key areas. Consider your needs when choosing a fishing hat:

A wide-brim hat is ideal for shore casting, as it provides shade for your face, ears, and neck, blocking the sun from all angles. If you mainly fish from a boat, consider a cap with flaps, which can shield the back of your neck and ears when facing forward.

Look for moisture-wicking fabric that allows sweat to evaporate, keeping your head dry. Chin straps also come in handy for keeping hats secure in windy conditions. Insect-repellent treatments repel mosquitoes and bugs buzzing around your head. Waterproof materials shed rain and won’t sink if accidentally dropped overboard.

Fishing Shirts Are a Must

A long-sleeved fishing shirt in lightweight fabric can provide full coverage from the sun. Look for:

A long-sleeved fishing shirt in lightweight, breathable fabric that can provide full coverage from the sun’s rays. Useful features to look for include

UV protective fabric with a tight weave and UPF 50+ rating blocks 98% of harmful UV rays. A hood gives added coverage for your neck and parts of your face. Vents allow airflow for cooling. A zip front lets you adjust ventilation. Mesh backing enhances breathability if worn in hot weather. A sun flap collar protects the back of your neck when facing forward.

UV Face Masks Are Handy

Face masks that protect cheeks, nose, lips, etc. from sun damage. Pick:

Face masks protect vulnerable areas like cheeks, nose, and lips from sun damage. Pick lightweight, breathable masks for comfort during all-day wear. A UPF 50+ rating ensures good sun protection. Neck flaps shield your neck from all angles. Cooling performance fabric helps prevent overheating on hot sunny days.

Sunglasses Reduce Eye Strain

Sunglasses make spotting fish and tackle easier. Features to look for:

Polarized Lenses: Cut glare off water for clearer vision.

100% UV Protection: Block UVA and UVB rays.

Color Tint: Lens color enhances visibility depending on conditions.

Straps/Cord: Prevent losing glasses overboard.

Anti-Fog: Prevents fogging in temperature changes.

Sun Protective Gloves Help Hands

Fingerless or full-finger fishing gloves, made of lightweight, breathable fabrics, shield your hands from sun exposure while preserving dexterity. Look for UPF 50+ protection against UV rays. A textured grip helps hold onto slippery fish. The quick-dry fabric dries fast if wet.

Other Essential Gear

When selecting other gear, be sure to look for sun-protective features:

• Rash guard shirts – Tight weave UPF 50+ fabric prevents skin damage.
• Sun sleeves – Worn under shirts to shield just arms.
• Sun masks – Protect lips and lower face.
• Sunscreen – Water resistant SPF 30+ for exposed skin.

Choosing the appropriate sun-protective fishing apparel and gear tailored to your needs ensures your safety throughout the season. Don’t take chances with sun exposure.

Final Thoughts

Selecting sun-protective fishing apparel that you’ll actually wear is crucial. Look for lightweight, breathable fabrics that don’t cause overheating. Prioritize coverage for the most vulnerable areas like your face, neck, and hands. Appropriate gear customized to your needs ensures day-long protection while doing what you love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best hats for sun protection when fly fishing?

For fly fishing, a bucket hat or cap with flaps in the back to cover your neck works great. Look for UPF materials, mesh panels for ventilation, and chin straps to keep them secured in the wind.

Do UV-protective gloves work for saltwater fishing?

Yes, you can find UPF gloves designed for saltwater fishing. Seek lightweight, tightly woven fabrics that dry quickly. Focus on coverage for the tops of hands and knuckles that get the most sun. Gloves with textured palms also aid in gripping slippery fish.

What rating do I need for UV protection in sunglasses lenses?

For sufficient UV protection while fishing, search for sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. They should have a UV protection rating of 400. Polarized lenses also help reduce glare off the water.