What Makes a Fishing Shirt Special?
So what makes a fishing shirt special?
If you frequently fish, a fishing shirt is more important than you think.
Fishing shirts are more than just a piece of clothing. They’re an essential part of the fishing experience.
How so?
It has a lot of benefits:
- Fish longer under the sun without overheating
- Keeps you cool from the blazing heat of summer
- Protects the largest organ in the human body (your skin)
- It can also help reduce glare
- No Mosquito bites
But what makes them so special?
From UV protection to moisture-wicking technology, many benefits make wearing a fishing shirt worthwhile for your next trip out on the water.
I’ll discuss these features and more as we explore what is so special about a fishing shirt and how you can choose one that fits your needs best.
Let’s dive in and discover why having the right gear matters when making sure you have a successful day on the lake or ocean.
What Makes a Fishing Shirt Special?
Fishing shirts are designed to provide protection from the sun and other elements while out on the water.
They come in various styles, colors, and designs that can make them both fashionable and functional.
But what makes a fishing shirt special?
Here we’ll look at three key features that set fishing shirts apart from regular t-shirts:
- UV protection
- Moisture-wicking technology
- Comfort and fit features.
UV Protection
Fishing shirts offer UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings of 30 or higher, much higher than regular t-shirts. This means they block out more of the sun’s harmful rays, so you don’t have to worry about getting burned outdoors without having to re-apply sunblock every 30 minutes.
But lighter ratings, such as some of the hoodies from Free Fly, offer slightly lower UPF ratings for those looking for the perfect blend of comfort and protection for shorter fishing trips.
The fabric also helps protect against windburn and provides additional warmth when driving your boat early in the morning.
Moisture Wicking Technology
Fishing shirts are designed with advanced fabrics that help draw sweat away from your body, so you stay cool even during hot days on the water.
These fabrics also help keep you dry by quickly evaporating any moisture before it has a chance to settle into your clothing or skin, causing discomfort or irritation.
They’re very comfortable on the skin. It’s so comfortable that many prefer wearing them over regular cotton long-sleeve shirts.
Comfort & Fit Features
Fishing shirts often feature mesh panels for ventilation and ergonomic seams for improved mobility when casting or reeling in fish.
Many brands also include adjustable cuffs, collars, hems, pockets, hoods, built-in face masks, and cooling technology, allowing you to customize your shirt for maximum comfort no matter how active you get while fishing.
They are durable due to their construction materials, such as nylon or polyester blends, which make them resistant against wear-and-tear over time, even after multiple washes.
You don’t even need to fish to wear them, really.
They are highly versatile since they can easily transition between activities like:
- Camping
- Hiking
- Kayaking
Making them perfect for those who enjoy spending time outdoors doing various activities throughout the year, regardless of the season.
Whether you are fishing for hours in the sun or just enjoying a casual day out on the lake, wearing a fishing shirt can provide protection from the elements and comfort while allowing you to stay cool.
With so many different types of shirts available, it is easy to find one that fits your needs perfectly.
It’s an often overlooked apparel but crucial for those in the elements.
Types of Fishing Shirts Available
When it comes to fishing, the right clothing is essential. The type of shirt you choose can make a big difference in your comfort and success while out on the water. There are three main types of shirts for anglers: long sleeve shirts, short sleeve shirts, and performance fishing shirts.
Long Sleeve Shirts
Long-sleeve fishing shirts are great for providing protection from sunburns and other elements such as wind or rain. They also provide an extra layer of warmth when temperatures drop during early morning or late evening trips.
Look for lightweight materials that won’t weigh you down but will keep you comfortable throughout the day. Quick-drying fabrics are ideal since they won’t get heavy with sweat or moisture from splashes or waves.
This is my preferred fishing shirt because it shields my arms from the sun.
Short Sleeve Shirts
Short sleeve fishing shirts offer more breathability than their long-sleeved counterparts but still provide some protection against UV rays and other elements like wind or rain.
Look for lightweight materials that wick away moisture quickly, so you stay dry even when working up a sweat while reeling in fish all day long. If you don’t fish often or rarely go out in the sun.
This might be the better option for you since it still gives you a little protection from the sun with the added benefit of moisture-wicking.
Features to Look for in a Fishing Shirt
Fishing shirts are designed specifically for anglers and provide protection from the sun, wind, and other elements while out on the water. Here are some features to look for when choosing a fishing shirt:
UPF Rating and Sun Protection
A UPF rating indicates how much UV radiation a fabric blocks; the higher the number, the better protected you’ll be from harmful rays. Look for shirts with high UPF ratings that will keep you safe from sunburns and skin damage caused by prolonged exposure to sunlight.
Moisture Wicking Technology
Moisture-wicking technology helps draw sweat away from your body so that it evaporates quickly instead of sticking to your skin or clothes. This helps keep you cool even in hot weather conditions while preventing chafing or discomfort due to wetness.
Cooling Technology
Some fishing shirts will also have a cooling technology that regulates your body temperature as the day gets hotter.
Comfort
No matter how great the shirt is with all the benefits, it’s not worth a lick if it ain’t comfortable for you.
Comfort should always be at the top of your priority list when selecting any clothing item, especially when looking for a fishing shirt, since it needs to fit properly over layers such as life jackets or waders without feeling too tight or restrictive.
Look for features like adjustable cuffs, mesh panels, vented backs, and stretch fabrics which all help ensure comfort during long days spent outdoors on the water.
How to Choose the Right Fishing Shirt for You
A quality fishing shirt can make all the difference in comfort and performance. Fishing shirts are designed with special features that provide sun protection, breathability, and durability for long days on the water.
Consider Your Climate and Activity Level
You should consider your climate and activity level when choosing a fishing shirt. For example, if you’re spending time outdoors in hot weather or engaging in strenuous activities like kayaking or fly fishing, look for a lightweight material that will keep you cool while providing adequate sun protection.
On the other hand, if you’ll be out on cooler days or doing less active activities such as trolling or bait casting, opt for a heavier fabric that will keep you warm without weighing you down too much.
Think About Style, Color & Design Options
Fishing shirts come in various styles, including long-sleeve and short-sleeve options specifically designed for anglers who need extra protection from wind and rain while still allowing them to move freely when casting their line.
You also have plenty of color choices, so choose one that suits your style and helps protect against UV rays by reflecting sunlight away from your skin.
Check Care Instructions For Your Shirt
It’s important to check its care instructions so that it lasts longer over time.
This goes double for items made specifically for outdoor use, like fishing shirts.
Look at labels carefully before purchasing to know how best to wash and dry your new garment without prematurely damaging it due to incorrect handling methods (e.g., using bleach).
After each use, give your shirt a good rinse off with cold water, then hang it dry indoors away from direct sunlight.
Avoid tumble drying unless necessary because high heat settings can quickly damage fabrics.
If washing machine laundering is required, always select gentle cycle settings with mild detergent – no harsh chemicals.
Never leave wet clothes lying inside closed spaces such as cars where they could develop mold or mildew due to dampness buildup within confined areas; instead, air dry outside whenever possible after rinsing off saltwater residue.
When it comes to fishing, the right clothing can make all the difference. Wearing a fishing shirt is essential to stay comfortable and protected while on the water. Fishing shirts are designed with sun protection, breathability, comfort, durability, and versatility in mind.
FAQs
What is the point of a fishing shirt?
It helps protect the skin from sunburn, insect bites, and other outdoor elements while providing comfort and mobility. Fishing shirts are typically made of lightweight materials that are breathable and quick-drying to keep you cool in hot weather.
They often feature long sleeves with roll-up tabs for added protection when needed and pockets for storing tackle or small items like a phone or wallet.
Most performance fishing shirts have built-in UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) ratings to help block harmful UV rays from the sun. With all these features combined, a fishing shirt is an invaluable asset on any trip outdoors.
Why are fishing shirts so big?
Fishing shirts are designed to be loose-fitting and comfortable to provide protection from the sun, wind, and other elements.
The extra fabric also allows for more movement when casting a line or reeling in a fish.
Fishing shirts often feature multiple pockets that can store tackle boxes, lures, bait, and other items needed while on the water.
All of these features make fishing shirts larger than traditional t-shirts or polos.
Why do fishermen wear long sleeve shirts?
Fishermen wear long sleeve shirts for a variety of reasons.
They provide protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays and can help to prevent sunburns.
Long sleeves also protect against insect bites and stings and scratches from thorns or other sharp objects in nature.
They also offer warmth on cooler days when temperatures drop unexpectedly while out fishing.
Many fishermen wear long-sleeved shirts with pockets which are useful for storing tackle boxes, bait containers, lures, and other essential items needed during a day of fishing.
Why do fishing shirts have a flap?
Fishing shirts often feature a flap at the back of the shirt, usually near the neckline.
This flap protects your neck from sunburn and other elements while fishing.
The fabric used for this flap is typically lightweight and breathable, allowing air to circulate around your neck area while still providing protection from the sun’s rays.
Some flaps may also have features such as insect repellent or moisture-wicking technology built in to help keep you comfortable during long days on the water.
Before You Go
Before you leave check out my other fishing related resources to make your an all-around better angler:
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