Fishing Sunglasses: A Complete Guide to Choosing the Best Pair for Every Angler

Fishing sunglasses are a must-have for anglers of all levels, providing protection from the sun’s intense glare and enhancing visibility on the water. Choosing the right pair can make a big difference in your fishing experience, from spotting fish more easily to avoiding the fatigue that comes from prolonged sun exposure. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about selecting the best fishing sunglasses to elevate your time on the water.

Why Are Fishing Sunglasses Essential?

Fishing sunglasses serve a dual purpose: they shield your eyes from harmful UV rays and help reduce the glare on the water’s surface. This glare can be extremely harsh, especially on sunny days or reflective bodies of water. Reducing glare allows you to see more clearly beneath the water’s surface, which is particularly helpful when looking for fish or assessing underwater structures.

Here are some primary benefits of wearing fishing sunglasses:

• UV Protection: The sun’s rays can be harmful to your eyes, potentially causing damage over time. A quality pair of fishing sunglasses should block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
• Enhanced Vision: Polarized fishing sunglasses reduce glare, enabling you to see below the surface. This is essential for anglers aiming to spot fish or underwater vegetation.
• Reduced Eye Strain: Constant squinting in the sun can cause fatigue and headaches. Sunglasses reduce eye strain, making long fishing sessions more comfortable.
• Safety from Debris: Fishing sunglasses act as a barrier against windblown debris, water splashes, and even fishing hooks, providing an extra layer of safety.

What to Look for in the Best Fishing Sunglasses

When selecting fishing sunglasses, there are several factors to consider to ensure you choose a pair that matches your needs.

1. Polarization

One of the most important features in fishing sunglasses is polarization. Polarized lenses reduce glare by filtering out horizontal light waves that reflect off surfaces like water. With polarized lenses, you’ll be able to see fish and underwater structures much more clearly. It’s generally recommended that all fishing sunglasses have polarized lenses, as this feature is almost essential for an effective fishing experience.

2. UV Protection

The primary purpose of sunglasses is to protect your eyes from UV rays. Look for sunglasses labeled with “100% UV protection” or “UV400,” which ensures they block both UVA and UVB rays. Exposure to UV rays can lead to various eye health issues, including cataracts and macular degeneration, so this is a non-negotiable feature.

3. Lens Color and Tint

Fishing sunglasses come in various lens colors, each suited to different environments and lighting conditions:

• Gray: Versatile and suitable for bright, sunny conditions, gray lenses reduce overall brightness without distorting colors. They are great for deep-sea fishing or open water.
• Brown or Amber: These lenses enhance contrast and depth perception, making them excellent for fishing in varying light conditions, like during cloudy days or when there’s partial sunlight.
• Green: Green-tinted lenses reduce glare and improve contrast, making them ideal for freshwater environments like rivers and lakes.
• Blue Mirror: Best for offshore or saltwater fishing in bright, open environments. Blue mirror lenses excel in reducing harsh sunlight glare.

4. Frame Material

Fishing sunglasses are often exposed to harsh conditions, including water, sun, and potentially rough handling. Opt for durable, lightweight frames that can withstand these elements:

• Plastic Frames: Lightweight and affordable, plastic frames are ideal for anglers who prioritize comfort. Look for high-quality plastic materials like polycarbonate for added durability.
• Nylon Frames: Resistant to temperature changes and highly durable, nylon frames are a popular choice for active anglers.
• Metal Frames: While they look stylish, metal frames may not be as durable for active fishing environments as they are prone to bending and corrosion.

5. Comfort and Fit

Fishing requires prolonged periods of wear, so comfort is essential. Look for sunglasses with adjustable nose pads and temple tips for a snug, customized fit. Wrap-around styles offer better coverage and protection by preventing sunlight from entering at the sides, which also improves peripheral vision.

6. Lens Coatings

Certain lens coatings can add value to your fishing sunglasses:

• Hydrophobic Coating: This repels water and keeps lenses clear even when splashes occur.
• Anti-Reflective Coating: Reduces reflections from the back surface of the lenses, enhancing clarity and reducing eye strain.
• Scratch-Resistant Coating: Increases the durability of the lenses, making them less susceptible to scratches.

Types of Fishing Sunglasses for Different Environments

Fishing environments vary, and so should your sunglasses. Here are some recommendations based on common fishing settings.

Inshore and Freshwater Fishing

Inshore fishing often involves lakes, rivers, and other freshwater environments with variable lighting conditions. Brown or amber lenses are ideal for enhancing contrast and depth perception in these settings. Green lenses also work well to reduce glare in freshwater environments, making it easier to spot fish and structures underwater.

Offshore and Saltwater Fishing

For open-water or deep-sea fishing, glare reduction is a priority due to the intense sunlight reflecting off the water’s surface. Blue mirror lenses offer optimal glare reduction in these bright, reflective settings, helping you see clearly in challenging light conditions. Look for sunglasses with high UV protection and durable frames that can withstand saltwater exposure.

Low-Light Fishing (Dawn or Dusk)

In low-light conditions, such as early morning or late evening, you’ll need lenses that can enhance visibility without darkening your vision too much. Yellow or amber lenses work well in these settings, as they increase contrast and enhance visibility in dim lighting.

Top Brands for Fishing Sunglasses

Several brands are renowned for producing high-quality fishing sunglasses. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Costa Del Mar: Known for their superior polarization and lens clarity, Costa Del Mar offers a wide range of lenses specifically designed for fishing. Their 580 lens technology is highly regarded among anglers.
• Oakley: With innovative lens technologies like Prizm, Oakley sunglasses enhance color contrast and clarity, making them a popular choice for fishing.
• Maui Jim: Maui Jim’s polarized lenses are ideal for bright conditions, and their glasses are known for comfort and durability.
• Smith Optics: Known for their ChromaPop lenses, Smith Optics offers enhanced clarity and color contrast, helping anglers see underwater features more clearly.

How to Care for Your Fishing Sunglasses

Proper care can prolong the life of your fishing sunglasses, ensuring optimal performance. Here are some tips to keep them in top shape:

1. Rinse After Use: After fishing, especially in saltwater, rinse your sunglasses with fresh water to remove salt and debris.
2. Use a Soft Cloth: Always clean lenses with a microfiber cloth to avoid scratches.
3. Store in a Case: When not in use, keep your sunglasses in a protective case to prevent accidental damage.
4. Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use lens-safe cleaners, as certain chemicals can damage lens coatings.

Conclusion

Fishing sunglasses are an essential tool for any angler, helping protect your eyes, reduce glare, and improve visibility on the water. By choosing the right lenses, frames, and coatings, you can enhance your fishing experience in any environment, whether it’s a sunny offshore trip or a quiet morning on the lake. With the right care, a good pair of fishing sunglasses will serve you well for many trips to come, letting you focus on the thrill of the catch without worrying about the sun’s glare.