I’ll be honest with you…
I don’t always wear fishing shirts on the water. It’s not a must-have for my fishing gear arsenal as they can feel restricting at times. That being said, as I’ve gotten old I’ve started to use one to fend off the harmful sun, hot weather, and pesky bugs.
Comfort is a big factor in making your fishing trip more enjoyable. Along with comfort, sun (UV rays) protection is a must.
If you’re looking for the best fishing shirts, we’ve got you covered! Here are the best ones you can buy today:
When searching for the best UV-protection fishing shirts, we focused on comfort and protection.
Along with your shirt, make sure you wear your:
- Fishing hat
- Fishing mask
- Sunglasses
- and sunscreen
To ensure protection from the sun’s rays and the hot weather.
In this article, I am going to cover some top long sleeve fishing shirts and short sleeve fishing shirts. I’ll even cover some button-up shirts for those who like extra airflow.
Top Fishing Shirts
[amazon table=”86512″]
Best Fishing Shirts in 2023 Reviewed
1. Columbia Men’s PFG Bonehead
Best All-Around
[amazon box=”B077XHG3RK”]
Key Features:
- Made from 100 percent cotton
- Four hook and loop closure box pockets at the chest
- A rod holder loop at the left chest.
- Relaxed fit with utility loop
- Hook and loop on the collar tip
- Mesh-lined vent at center back for breathability
Pros:
- The material is very breathable and comfortable.
- Stays cool in very hot weather.
- Treated to be stain resistant.
The Columbia PFG bonehead is an all-in-one fishing shirt. It offers comfort and usability.
2. Huk Men’s Icon Camo 1/4 Zip
Best Long Sleeve
[amazon box=”B07GVNWMQ1″]
Key Features:
- Kryptek patterns
- Sun protection
- Superior breathability
- Mesh under-arm & side back
- Stain release
- Moisture transport
- Antimicrobial
- Sizing: S–3XL
- Body: 90 percent Polyester,10 percent Spandex
- Mesh back: 100 percent Polyester.
Pros:
- Very good sun protection.
- Stays cool and dry all day.
- Sizing is very accurate.
- Stylish and functional.
The Huk Icon is one of the most popular UV-protection fishing shirts available. When you wear this comfortable, rugged quarter zip, you’ll be wearing apparel that looks great.
They’re built from state-of-the-art fabrics. The durable poly-knit construction and materials protect you from the elements.
3. Izod Men’s Saltwater Easy Care Short Sleeve Fishing Shirt
Best Short-Sleeve Fly Fishing Shirt
[amazon box=”B07MK2RPD6″]
Key Features:
- Button closure that securely holds the Izod saltwater fishing shirt fastened
- Machine washable for easy cleaning
- Multi-functional chest pockets with button and velcro
- Mesh-lined back yoke
- Fly rod holder that keeps your hands free for tying the leader
This shirt is great for fly fishing great.
Cool caped mesh back ventilation with velcro closure means great breathability.
UPF sun protection protects you at any time during the day.
Pros:
- Very high quality.
- Comfortable and breathable.
- Dries fast when wet.
- Very affordable and high quality for the price.
This is a solid shirt that will get the job done for many seasons. Izod has been around for a while and dominates other sports. They bring this knowledge to fishing.
This shirt offers supreme comfort. Made of 53 percent cotton and 47 percent spandex, it gives the stretch you need.
4. AFTCO Jigfish Performance Long Sleeve Shirt
Best Sun Protection
[amazon box=”B06ZY9XLDK”]
Key Features:
- 100% Polyester
- Antimicrobial treatment for odor control
- AFCOOL quick dry
- Moisture-wicking
- AFGUARD stain release
- Thumbhole on sleeves
Pros:
- Very comfortable.
- Fits loose.
- Thumbhole in the sleeve for sliding hands in to protect bare hands.
- Stays cool
The AFTCO Jigfish Performance fishing shirt is the ultimate protection from the sun’s UV rays.
The 100% polyester long sleeve breathable stretch fabric is quick dry with a 50 UPF Rating.
This performance shirt features an AFTCO Marlin Puzzle logo.
I have a feeling this will be your go-to fishing shirt.
5. Columbia Men’s PFG Bahama II
Best Light-Weight
[amazon box=”B01GU7OHJ6″]
Key Features:
- Omni-Shade UPF 30 provides the greatest protection for long hours in the sun.
- Hidden shoulder vents add bonus breathability.
- The relaxed fit design is great for all-day comfort
Pros:
- It can be hand washed.
- Dries fast.
- Excellent quality for the price.
- Stretchable for extreme comfort.
Designed for the needs of anglers. This shirt is lightweight, durable nylon that dries fast with mesh-lined cape vents at the back shoulder to keep you cool and built-in UV protection.
Types of Fishing Shirts
Fishing shirts should offer UV and SPF protection from the sun. Another factor to consider is breathability and quick-dry material. These can not only provide protection but comfort as well.
Collars, Buttons, and More
Some anglers prefer collars on their shirts.
Others prefer a fishing tee-shirt that’s comfortable and easy to slip on.
Buttons types come in traditional buttons and snap styles. Depending on the brand, you can find either type of quality shirt.
Most shirts have at least one breast pocket, and others have two or more. These pockets can come in handy for storing items you want often.
Long-Sleeve or Short Sleeve
Long sleeve shirts provide sun protection to the arms that short-sleeved does not. Most anglers worry that they will get “too hot” in a long sleeve shirt.
Lightweight and breathable fabrics offer great protection without sacrificing comfort. Some fishermen say the long sleeve breathable shirts actually keep them cooler.
If you do decide to go with a short-sleeve shirt, it is very important to use plenty of sunscreen on your arms.
Roll Up Sleeves With a Button Holder
This style can be a great compromise on the question of long sleeves or short sleeves.
The sleeves can roll up when the sun is not in full force, and the button holder keeps them from coming down.
When you want the sleeves down, unbutton the holder strap.
Shirt With Rod Carrier
This style is a great choice when you have both hands full.
I’d recommend using a fishing backpack with a rod holder if you can instead of one of these shirts.
Yet, a shirt with a rod holder can also be handy to help you hold your rod while you tie lures.
Color and Design
Fishing shirts come in a wide variety of designs. This feature is up to the angler to what fits his or her personality.
Color can make a difference. For example, black or dark colors tend to draw heat, whereas white or lighter colors can help repel heat.
Things to Consider When Buying Fishing Shirts
What do you often wear when you go on a fishing trip? Professional anglers prefer the comfort and style of simple fishing shirts.
This type of top protects you from the sun’s harmful rays and bugs, and pests.
Fishing gear should be versatile, easy to use, and maintain. Having the right fit for your size gives you relief no matter where you prefer to catch fish.
Take note of the following factors listed below when buying apparel for your fishing activities:
Materials
There are many kinds of materials to make fishing garments. To know if it is easily torn, it is essential to distinguish which textiles were used.
Regular attire worn for day lake and river fishing trips is usually made of cotton or cotton blend fabrics.
Meanwhile, shirts produced for deep-sea fishing and extended fishing trips are usually made from waterproof and windproof materials like neoprene or polyester.
Comfort
Comfort goes hand in hand with the type of material, style, and shape you want. It would be best if you wear a comfortable shirt to avoid distractions from getting a good catch.
Similarly, the material must be soft, non-itchy, and moisture-wicking. Also, it should never restrict any part of your body, especially your arms and shoulders.
Fit
Just like shopping for any clothing, you need to select a shirt that fits well. A loose or tight-fitting shirt will only be a nuisance.
But a shirt that is too big won’t be able to shield you from UV rays and bugs. In addition, any loose clothing may become tangled in your gear.
On the other hand, constricting shirts or those too small for your size will only feel uncomfortable.
Protection
Again, fishing shirts should provide you with optimum protection from the sun as much as possible. Your choice must be long-sleeved shirts with tight collars and hems.
A lengthy covering for your arms is great for preventing bugs and insect bites commonly in lakes and still-water activities.
Breathability
Breathability is all about buying a shirt with the right material. Choose shirts that are made from fabrics like cotton and nylon.
These shirts will help absorb your sweat and keep moisture away from your body to improve comfort and prevent odors.
Water Resistance
In fishing, you are exposed to wet environments, whether you are waiting for a fish or catching one. It would help if you had a reliable shirt to protect you from getting wet and from the cold.
Water-resistant fabrics have improved over the years, offering more safeguards, especially when you’re fishing in freezing waters.
Personal Style
You can find many shirt styles available, depending on your type and preference. Also, you can wear fishing garments during and after fishing or for other hardcore water activities.
In addition, you can also match your shirts with hoodies if you like.
Frequently Asked Questions
SPF stands for Sun Protection Factor. It’s the rating you’re familiar with for sunscreens and other sun-protective products. It measures the amount of time it takes for sun-exposed skin to redden.
UPF measures the amount of UV radiation that penetrates a fabric and reaches the skin.
Huk stands for either a long fishing cast or Hunter/Killer.
Charleston SC.
There are a variety of online retailers that carry the Columbia brand. We recommend that you buy from Amazon since they have a great return policy.
You can buy fishing shirts at your local sporting goods retailers. We recommend Amazon since they have a great selection and an easy return policy.
A shirt specific for fishing. Made of water-resistant or quick-dry material. They also protect you against the sun while keeping you cool.
Performance apparel wicks (or pull) away the moisture from your skin. The moisture evaporates to leave you dry and cool while you perform.
Covering as much exposed skin as possible when in direct sunlight is always better.
It is advisable to wear a fishing shirt each time you go out to provide as much sun protection as possible. If you sweat, wash it so that it doesn’t develop a stench.
The more expensive the fishing shirts, in most cases, the better their quality and durability. But, many of the cheaper fishing shirts offer the same options as the more expensive brands.
Yes, with the dangers of sun exposure, it is advisable to wear a fishing shirt each time you go out fishing.
Conclusion
There are shirts with thicker fabrics and denser materials for fishing in chill waters. Then, there is clothing with lighter, moisture-wicking fabrics if you fish in warmer, tropical waters.
Above all, there is a shirt for every angler. Just remember these things as you shop for a shirt that is convenient and well-suited for you. It is best to select a shirt that matches your fishing needs.
Insider Advice
A good fishing shirt can provide all-day comfort. It’ll keep you cool and dry while providing protection from the sun’s UV rays.
With so many styles, designs, and options on the market, there is sure to be a fishing shirt to fit your taste.
If you don’t like the ones we selected, please kindly let us know in the comments below, and we’ll check them out.
Founder & Angler 
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