When it comes to saltwater fishing, being properly dressed can make all the difference in ensuring an enjoyable and successful angling experience. With the sun beating down and the saltwater spray in the air, you need clothing that provides protection, comfort, and functionality. Must-have apparel for saltwater fishing includes long-sleeve performance shirts, quick-drying pants or shorts, a wide-brimmed hat for sun coverage, sunglasses, and boat-friendly footwear.
Lightweight UV-Protective Hoodies
A lightweight UV-protective hoodie is a versatile and essential piece of performance clothing for saltwater fishing. These hoodies are specifically designed to shield you from the sun's harmful UV rays while keeping you cool and comfortable. Look for hoodies with a high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating to ensure maximum sun protection. Lighter-colored shirts in greens and blues are recommended for saltwater fishing, as they reflect more sun, keeping you cooler, and blend in with the sky and water, giving you a little bit of camouflage in situations where it’s needed.
Performance Button-Down Shirts
Performance sport shirts feature a combination of style, comfort, and functionality, and they’re a fantastic choice for saltwater fishing. These shirts are made from moisture-wicking and quick-drying materials that help keep you dry and comfortable in even the hottest and most humid conditions. Look for shirts constructed of synthetic materials like nylon, designed to enhance breathability and prevent overheating. And the best sport shirts for saltwater fishing take functional design even further with the addition of stretch fabrics like spandex, which allow you to lay out long casts for redfish and reach over the rail to land a tuna, in comfort.
5-Pocket Pants
For anglers who fish all season, including on the chilliest days, the 5-pocket pants are an excellent choice. Made from lightweight cotton blended with stretchy materials, these pants will keep you cool and comfortable no matter where your saltwater adventures take you. With classic jeans-style pockets strategically placed, our 5-pocket pants keep your essentials within easy reach, whether it's extra tackle, a multitool, or your phone. Look for pants with five-way stretch, allowing uninhibited movement on the boat or when you’re hopping into the water to land that permit of a lifetime.
Waterside Tech Shorts
When the temperature rises and the sun is beating down, Waterside Tech Shorts become your best friend. These shorts are specifically designed for water-based activities, with features such as quick-drying fabrics, water resistance, and built-in sun protection. The lightweight and breathable material ensures comfort on even the hottest days, and the quick-drying properties prevent prolonged discomfort from wet clothes. Our Waterside Tech Shorts also come with zippered pockets to keep your valuables secure while you enjoy your fishing adventure.
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Whether you choose a trucker hat or baseball cap, or you go with a full-coverage straw or palm hat, covering your head with a wide-brimmed hat is imperative for proper sun protection while saltwater fishing. Any hat that will shield your face and neck from the sun will do, but make sure it provides full coverage.
Sunglasses
Like a hat, sunglasses are necessary to protect your eyes from the intense sun and glare coming off the ocean. Most charter operators suggest large frames and dark polarized lenses (the polarized coating on the lenses will block the glare off the water). Not only do sunglasses protect your eyes from the sun, but they also provide protection against hooks that may be flying around in the air or debris in the wind as you travel between spots.
Boat-Friendly Footwear
If you plan to stay on the boat or shore, then sneakers with a soft rubber sole are ideal for saltwater fishing. They’ll grip when wet and keep your feet comfortable over the course of a long day. If you plan to hop into and out of the boat, like on a flats trip, then you may spend much of your time in bare feet, so wear a pair of sandals that you can slip on and off, or a pair of flats booties, which provide grip and protection from anything sharp that might be in the sand.
When gearing up for saltwater fishing, it's important to choose the right apparel that offers protection, comfort, and functionality. By investing in these essential clothing items, you can fully enjoy your saltwater fishing experience while staying protected and stylish. So, gear up with the right saltwater clothing, hit the water, and drift off course.
