How Your Clothes Can Protect You from the Sun While Fishing

We all love the thrill of chasing down a bug catch, but spending long hours on the water exposes anglers to harsh sun rays, making sun protection a must. Whether you're fishing on the shore, in a boat, or wading through a stream, proper sun protection should always be part of your gear.

Before diving into the how, it's crucial to understand the why. The sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays are more powerful than many people realize. Prolonged exposure can lead to short-term discomfort like sunburn, but more seriously, it increases the risk of skin cancer and premature skin aging. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, up to 90% of visible skin aging is caused by sun damage, and fishermen are particularly at risk due to the reflective surfaces of water, which can amplify the sun's impact.

Beyond skin damage, too much sun exposure can lead to heat exhaustion, dehydration, and even sunstroke. These conditions can quickly turn a relaxing day on the water into a health emergency. Protecting yourself from the sun is essential not only for long-term health but also for staying safe and comfortable during your fishing trips.

The good news is that today’s fishing apparel has evolved significantly, with technology and material advancements that make sun protection easier and more effective than ever. Here’s a look at some of the most important sun-protection clothing technologies and materials designed to keep you safe:

Just like SPF for sunscreen, UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) measures the level of protection a fabric provides against UV rays. A UPF rating of 50+ is considered excellent, blocking out 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. Many fishing shirts, pants, and hats are now designed with UPF-rated fabric, providing a first line of defense that doesn’t wear off like sunscreen.

When you’re out on the water, it’s not just the sun you need to worry about—staying cool is also key. Fabrics that are moisture-wicking pull sweat away from your body, allowing it to evaporate and cool you down. Combined with breathable materials like polyester or nylon, moisture-wicking clothing ensures that your body stays dry and cool while you're reeling in your catch, without compromising your sun protection.

A proper hat is one of the simplest and most effective ways to protect yourself from the sun. A baseball cap does offer some minimal protection. The better choice for optimal protection it to opt for wide-brimmed hats that shield your face, neck, and ears—areas that often get overlooked when applying sunscreen. Face shields or gaiters made from UPF-rated materials can also protect your face from direct sunlight, as well as wind and water spray.

In addition to fabric technology, other factors like the color, fit, and coverage of your garments play a major role in their sun-protective capabilities.

The color of your clothing can have a significant effect on its ability to protect you from the sun. Darker colors tend to absorb more UV rays than lighter ones, offering better protection. Fabrics in colors like black, navy, or deep green provide more sun protection than pale colors like white or pastels. However, these darker colors can also absorb more heat, so it’s essential to find a balance between sun protection and staying cool. 

The fit of your clothing can also impact your sun protection. Loose-fitting garments are often better for sun safety because they create a small air buffer between your skin and the fabric, reducing the chances of UV rays penetrating through. Additionally, a looser fit won't cause the fibers to stretch out the way a tight fit does. Stretching the fabrics causes gabs between the fibers to open up and allow the UV rays to penetrate through. Finally, looser fits tend to be more comfortable in hot weather, allowing for better air circulation.

Full coverage is crucial—long-sleeved shirts, will offer more protection than short sleeves. Look for garments that provide full skin coverage but are still lightweight and breathable, so you won’t overheat. It's also a great idea to plan your clothing needs allowing you to adjust your coverage as the sun's intensity changes throughout the day. 

Layering can also be an effective way to add protection. While wearing more layers may seem counterintuitive in the heat, lightweight options made from breathable, quick-drying materials allow you to add a second layer without discomfort. This is particularly useful for early morning or evening fishing sessions when the weather may be cooler, but UV rays are still present.

Sunscreen Is Still Important: While clothing can do a lot, sunscreen is still essential for exposed areas like your hands and neck. Choose a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher and reapply it every two hours, or more often if you’re sweating or getting wet.

Polarized Sunglasses: Not only do polarized sunglasses reduce the glare off the water, making it easier to spot fish, but they also protect your eyes from UV rays. Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause cataracts and other vision problems, so don’t forget your eyewear.

Stay Hydrated: It may not seem directly related to sun protection, but staying hydrated is crucial. Dehydration makes you more susceptible to heat exhaustion and can lower your body’s ability to regulate temperature. Make sure to drink plenty of water while you’re out fishing.

Fishing should be an enjoyable experience, not one that leaves you sunburned, overheated, or dehydrated. By choosing the right clothing and gear—and paying attention to factors like color, fit, and coverage—you can protect yourself while still enjoying the sport. The latest innovations in fishing apparel are designed to keep you cool, comfortable, and most importantly, safe from the sun’s harmful effects.

Next time you head out to fish, be sure to gear up with UPF-rated clothing, loose-fitting garments in darker colors, a wide-brimmed hat, and proper sun protection. Your skin will thank you for it, both now and in the long run.