It's hot out there, but the fish are still biting if you're willing to endure a little warmth while fishing. One of the benefits of our current times is that the clothing we wear outside has dramatically improved, helping to keep us cool and comfortable while protecting our skin from the sun's dangers. Here's a roundup of some great clothing items to keep you fishing your best all summer.
Shorts and Pants
One thing to consider is whether to wear shorts or pants. Shorts offer outstanding comfort, but they can also leave a bunch of skin vulnerable to the sun and in need of sunscreen. Pants can protect more of that skin, and even though they are lightweight and breathable, they are still a little warmer than just wearing shorts. Both are good choices, and these are proven items that do the job with some great features mixed in.
Huk Icon Shorts - $70
Huk makes some great gear with fishermen in mind, and the Icon Shorts are no exception. They are very comfortable and have pockets in the right places. They are also made of a lightweight UPF 50+ material that keeps you comfortable, and they are quick to dry in case you want to take a quick dip in the lake, or you're caught in a pop-up summer rainstorm.
AFTCO Deckhand Pants - $99
AFTCO also makes some excellent fishing clothing, and the Deckhand Pants protect the back of your legs from the sun. They are light, cool, and very comfortable due to the stretch fabric they use. These pants look great and have plenty of pockets for all your tools or whatever else you have as you fish.
Sunshirts
There are plenty of great options for sun shirts, and the hooded versions have become the go-to for many anglers who want to protect the back of their neck and a portion of their face from sun damage. Many great options have neat features, including built-in face masks and more.
Bassdash Long Sleeve Hunting Hoodie with Mask - $34.95
Don't let the hunting in the name of this shirt fool you; it's still great for fishing. They come in unique camouflage patterns, but the built-in face mask is the best feature, aside from the low price. This is handy when you want to wear a sun mask made of mesh material, allowing you to breathe easily, and your sunglasses won't fog up.
AFTCO Jason Christie Hooded Performance Shirt -$49
The AFTCO sun shirts are great and very comfortable, but the Jason Christie version is an excellent choice due to its added features. The shirt features a zippered front pocket, and you can also zip the hood up above your neck, allowing you to adjust the fit for more face coverage. This also allows you to drive the boat at full speed without your hat blowing off.
Sunglasses
Good sunglasses are a must any time of year, even when the sun isn't shining, but they become crucial during the summer heat. Some great brands exist, but Bajío and Smith Optics are worth a good look. While frame styles often come down to personal preference and fit, these two sunglasses are unique and an excellent choice for bass anglers.
Smith Optics Outrigger -$217 and up
The Smith name is well known in the western states, especially among fly anglers, but they should get more attention in the bass world because of their crisp and clear lenses. They use their ChromaPop technology, which is very clear in the glass and polycarbonate lenses. The Outrigger frames have great side coverage and protect your eyes on the water.
Bajío Bales Beach - $269
Bajío has something for everyone, with plenty of frames to choose from, but one thing that separates them is their unique lens colors. They have classic finishes and mirrored lenses, but their rose mirror tint is unique. It's a light-colored lens that's great for low light but works well in bright sunshine. The Bales Beach frames are a large fit and offer good coverage, but they also come in smaller and larger head sizes.
Gloves and Sun Masks
Protecting the top of your hands and face from the sun is also a great idea during summer fishing trips, and there are plenty of choices for sun masks and gloves, including these two.
Simms SolarFlex SunGlove - $39.95
Simms is well-known for its great clothing and rain gear, and it also makes excellent gloves. The SolarFlex gloves protect your skin while remaining very thin and breathable. Since they have half fingers and an exposed palm, you can fish just like you weren't wearing gloves, and you don't lose any sensitivity or ability to work lures.
AFTCO Bass Sun Mask - $20
Protecting your face with a neck gaiter is a smart move to prevent sunburn on your face. Once you get used to wearing one, it's easy, and your skin feels much better after a long day on the water. This version from AFTCO comes in a cool bass camo pattern and has a breathable face section to allow for easy breathing while protecting your skin from sunburn.
Like layering and dressing appropriately for cold weather fishing, selecting the proper clothing and accessories is vital for summertime fishing. Choosing the right gear will keep you cool and comfortable, preventing sunburn, which can cause immediate pain and severe long-term risks. The products listed above all fit that category and are worth a look as you prepare for a summer of bass fishing.
