It is ultra-lightweight (4 oz), UPF 50+, made of quick-drying AFCOOL fabric, and stain-resistant AFGUARD.
UPF 30+ protection, Internal Cooling Element (ICE) technology, 4-way stretch, and an affordable price tag.
UPF 50+ protection, 4-way stretch, moisture-wicking, vented back, and mesh panels
Are you tired of sweating buckets and getting sunburned on your fishing trips? We feel you.
Imagine staying cool, comfortable, and protected all day long while reeling in those big catches. That’s where the right fishing shirt comes in.
We’ve done the hard work for you and found the top 7 fishing shirts that will revolutionize the way you fish in 2024. Think UPF 50+ sun protection, moisture-wicking fabrics, and designs that keep you cool even when the sun is blazing.
Ready to take your fishing game to the next level? Let’s dive in.
What Are the Best Fishing Shirts in 2024?
You’ve got questions; we’ve got answers! We’ve sifted through countless fishing shirts to find the ones that truly make a difference. These aren’t just any shirts; these are the shirts that keep you cool, protect you from the sun, and let you focus on what really matters: reeling in those big catches.
1. AFTCO Samurai Sun Protection
This shirt is like your own personal forcefield against the sun but way more comfortable. It’s so light and airy you’ll forget you’re even wearing it. And trust me, it dries quicker than a spilled beer on a hot summer day.
Our Take
The AFTCO Samurai Sun Protection Shirt is the gold standard for fishing shirts. It's the best combination of performance, comfort, and style. It's my absolute favorite for long days on the water.
Key Benefits
- Unbeatable Sun Protection: Boasts a UPF 50+ rating, blocking 98% of those nasty UV rays.
- Lightning-Fast Drying: AFCOOL technology wicks away moisture and dries in a flash.
- Stain-Fighting Power: AFGUARD treatment repels stains like a champ.
- Fresher Than Fresh: Antimicrobial properties keep odor-causing bacteria at bay.
- Featherlight Comfort: 4-way stretch fabric and flatlock seams move with you, not against you.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $44.95
Pros
Cons
2. Simms SolarFlex Guide
This shirt is like a breathable suit of armor, keeping you cool and protected from the sun's wrath. It's tough as nails yet feels soft and comfortable against your skin. It's the kind of shirt that makes you feel invincible on the water.
Our Take
The Simms SolarFlex Guide Shirt is a high-performance fishing shirt that lives up to the hype. It's not the cheapest option out there, but it's worth every penny for its superior comfort, cooling technology, and sun protection. I highly recommend it for anglers who demand the best.
Key Benefits
- Sun Shield: UPF 50+ sun protection keeps you safe from harmful UV rays.
- Cool Comfort: COR3™ technology actively cools your body temperature.
- Moisture-Wicking: Pulls sweat away from your skin to keep you dry.
- Odor Control: Antimicrobial treatment prevents odor buildup.
- Durability: Built to withstand the harshest fishing conditions.
- Comfort: Flat seam construction eliminates chafing.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $41.65
Pros
Cons
3. Gillz Performance
This shirt feels like a cool breeze on a scorching day. It's incredibly lightweight, breathable, and dries faster than you can bait your hook. Plus, it's packed with features that make fishing a whole lot more enjoyable.
Our Take
The Gillz Performance Fishing Shirt is a fantastic all-arounder. It's lightweight, breathable, and packed with features that make it a pleasure to wear on the water.
Key Benefits
- Sun Shield: UPF 50+ protection shields you from 98% of the sun's harmful rays.
- Cool Factor: GillzVent™ technology makes you feel 20% cooler than other shirts.
- Quick Dry: Moisture-wicking fabric keeps you dry and comfortable.
- Odor Control: Antimicrobial treatment prevents odor buildup.
- Comfort: Microfiber polyester fabric feels soft and lightweight against your skin.
- Features: Built-in face mask for added sun protection.
Pricing
- Starting at: $19.00
Pros
Cons
4. Huk Waypoint
This shirt is like a high-performance sports car designed for speed and agility. It's slim, stylish, and packed with features that keep you comfortable and protected on the water. It's the kind of shirt that makes you feel like a pro angler.
Our Take
The Huk Waypoint Shirt is a great value option for anglers who want a stylish and functional fishing shirt without breaking the bank. It's perfect for casual anglers or those who are just starting.
Key Benefits
- Sun Blocker: UPF 30+ sun protection shields you from harmful rays.
- Stay-Dry Tech: Huk's Internal Cooling Element (I.C.E.) technology keeps you cool and dry.
- Anti-Odor: Antimicrobial treatment prevents odor buildup.
- Stretch & Move: 4-way stretch fabric allows for a full range of motion.
- Breathable: Lightweight and airy for all-day comfort.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $40.29
Pros
Cons
5. Columbia PFG Terminal Tackle
This shirt is like a reliable workhorse, always ready to get the job done. It's tough, packed, and durable, with features that make it a practical choice for any angler. It's the kind of shirt you'll wear season after season, knowing it will never let you down.
Our Take
The Columbia PFG Terminal Tackle Long Sleeve is a solid all-around fishing shirt that offers great value for the price. It's perfect for anglers who prioritize functionality and durability over fashion.
Key Benefits
- Sun Shield: Omni-Shade™ UPF 50 sun protection blocks UVA and UVB rays.
- Quick-Dry: Omni-Wick™ technology pulls moisture away from your body.
- Stain Resistant: Resists stains and dirt for easy cleaning.
- Vented: Back vents for added breathability.
- Anti-Odor: Antimicrobial treatment prevents odor buildup.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $26.08
Pros
Cons
6. Pelagic Exo-Tech Long Sleeve
This shirt is like a high-tech gadget packed with innovative features that make fishing more enjoyable. It's sleek, stylish, and designed to keep you cool and comfortable in even the most extreme conditions. It's the kind of shirt that makes you feel like you're on the cutting edge of fishing technology.
Our Take
The Pelagic Exo-Tech Long Sleeve Shirt is a premium fishing shirt that delivers on its promises. It's perfect for anglers who want the latest in fishing technology and are willing to pay for it.
Key Benefits
- Sun Protection: UPF 50+ fabric blocks harmful UV rays.
- Moisture Management: Moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabric keep you cool and dry.
- Odor Control: Antimicrobial treatment prevents odor buildup.
- Breathability: Vented back and mesh panels for maximum airflow.
- Comfort: Four-way stretch fabric allows for unrestricted movement.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $99.00
Pros
Cons
7. Grundens Weather Watch Full-Zip
This shirt is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It's soft, cozy, and designed to keep you warm in even the harshest weather conditions. It's the kind of shirt you'll reach for when the wind is howling and the rain is pouring.
Our Take
The Grundens Weather Watch Full-Zip Shirt is a reliable choice for anglers who fish in cold and wet conditions. It's not the most versatile option for all seasons, but it excels in keeping you warm and dry when the weather turns nasty.
Key Benefits
- Weather Protection: Water-resistant and windproof fabric keeps you dry and warm.
- Insulation: Fleece lining provides extra warmth in cold weather.
- Breathability: Allows moisture to escape to prevent overheating.
- Durability: Built to withstand the rigors of the outdoors.
- Comfort: Relaxed fit for all-day comfort.
Pricing
- Price: Starting at $89.99
Pros
Cons
How Can Fishing Shirts Benefit You?
A good men's fishing shirt can be a game-changer on your next bass boat outing. Here's why:
- Sun protection: Many fishing shirts offer UPF 50+ protection, which helps block harmful UV rays and prevent sunburn. This is especially important for long days spent outdoors on the water. For example, AFTCO fishing shirts are known for their excellent UV protection.
- Comfort and performance: Fishing shirts are designed with moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics, keeping you cool and dry even in hot and humid conditions. This can significantly improve your comfort and focus while fishing.
- Durability: High-quality fishing shirts are made to withstand the elements, including sun, saltwater, and abrasion. This means they'll last longer and look better even after repeated use and washes.
- Functionality: Many fishing shirts come with handy features like built-in rod holders, ventilation panels, and hidden pockets for storing essentials. These features can enhance your fishing experience and make you a more efficient angler.
Buyers Guide
When doing our research to find the best product, we determined using these factors:
- Pricing: We considered the price of each shirt to ensure we offered options for every budget. We wanted to find shirts that offered the best value for their price, balancing quality with affordability.
- Features: We looked at the features that set each shirt apart, such as UPF protection, moisture-wicking technology, breathability, and additional features like rod holders or crossover hoods. We prioritized shirts with features that would enhance your fishing experience and provide protection from the sun's harmful rays.
- Negatives: We didn't shy away from identifying the downsides of each shirt. This included aspects like fit, durability, and any missing features that might be important to some anglers. We believe in providing a balanced review so you can make an informed decision.
- Support or Refund: We investigated each brand's customer service and return policies. We wanted to ensure that you would have support if you encountered any issues with your purchase and could return the product if it wasn't the right fit.
- Fabric and Fit: We evaluated the fabric's weight, breathability, and feel against the skin. We also considered each shirt's fit, whether it was loose and comfortable or more fitted and athletic.
- Sun Protection: We prioritized shirts with high UPF ratings, understanding the importance of protecting your skin from skin cancer. We looked for shirts that offered full coverage and wouldn't leave any areas exposed to the sun's harmful rays.
- Weight and Breathability: We wanted to find shirts that were incredibly light and breathable, allowing for maximum comfort and airflow on hot days. We also considered how well each shirt would dry after getting wet.
- Style and Versatility: We looked at the overall style and design of each shirt, considering whether it would look good on and off the water. We also considered how versatile each shirt was, whether it could be dressed up or down for different occasions.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best fishing shirt isn't just about looking good; it's about staying comfortable, protected, and focused on the catch.
We've covered a range of shirts, from the high-tech Pelagic Exo-Tech to the durable Columbia PFG Terminal Tackle, each with unique features like thumb holes, stain resistance, and breathable fabrics that target underarm areas.
Remember to consider the climate in which you'll be fishing. If you're heading out in hot weather, prioritize breathability and moisture-wicking fabrics.
For colder conditions, consider a shirt with added insulation or even a full-zip option like the Grundens Weather Watch. And don't forget the importance of sun protection – long sleeves and a high UPF rating are essential for long days on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the key features to look for in men's fishing shirts?
When choosing a fishing shirt, prioritize sun protection (UPF rating), moisture-wicking fabric, breathability, and comfort. Look for features like vented panels, mesh lining, and flatlock seams for enhanced airflow and mobility. Additionally, consider quick-drying materials and features like a rod holder or crossover hood for added convenience.
What's the difference between UPF 30 and UPF 50 fishing shirts?
UPF stands for Ultraviolet Protection Factor. UPF 30 blocks 97% of the sun's rays, while UPF 50 blocks 98%. While both offer good protection, UPF 50 is the gold standard for extended sun exposure and is particularly beneficial for those with sensitive skin.
Can I wear a fishing shirt for other outdoor activities besides fishing?
Absolutely! Fishing shirts are versatile and can be worn for various outdoor activities like hiking, boating, kayaking, or even just relaxing at the beach. Their quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties make them ideal for any adventure.
How should I care for my fishing shirt to ensure its longevity?
Most fishing shirts are easy to care for. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the care label, but generally, they can be machine-washed in cold water and hung to dry. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the fabric's performance properties.
Are long-sleeved fishing shirts better than short-sleeved ones?
Long-sleeved fishing shirts offer superior sun protection and added warmth in cooler conditions. However, if you prefer more freedom of movement or plan to fish in hot weather, a short-sleeved option might be more comfortable. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal preference and the climate in which you'll be fishing.
