Lengthy periods of time spent by the ocean, lake or river requires patience that fishermen, in particular, have developed over the length of their hobby. To be able to withstand the elements all sorts of gear like warm clothes, waterproof hats and sunglasses are needed to give you the stamina to see through the whole day waiting for the next bite. Whether you’re a casual angler or hoping for a big catch, sunglasses are an important component for an enjoyable and successful day out fishing.
Keep in mind that fishing sunglasses doesn’t solve the need for the ability to see far distances or targets. The use of digital camera binoculars will greatly help you to achieve that result, you can view comprehensive reviews about it on OuterOptics.
The best quality fishing sunglasses will invariably have polarized lenses, they remove glare and allow you to see down into the water or avoid stressing your eyes by squinting while you sit back. There’s also the question of darker lenses with mirrored effects for offshore fishing to reflect light bouncing off the ocean. Inshore fishing requires a lighter lens to adapt to rivers, lakes or streams where the light is less straining, lightly tinted lenses help in this environment, copper shades, rose and amber all serve to illuminate the setting giving better clarity of vision.
Frames are another consideration for how effective your glasses will be. Wraparound glasses give the optimal light-blocking effect, but some people are put off by their aesthetic.
If you want to be more creative, then you may want to learn a few fishing style tips to add a fashion edge to your fishing expiditions.
1. Costa Del Mar Fantail
A tried and tested piece of many fishermen’s arsenal. The reviews say it all coming in at 4.6 stars over a massive 500 reviews. If the ratings weren’t enough to lure you in the price certainly will. Usually coming in at less than $100 and boasting full UV range protection and polarization. There’s no real need to read on if you’re looking to balance the budget with brilliance but there are still others to compare.
Pros
They look good and can be taken anywhere
Polarized lenses for glare reduction
Field tested and reviewed positively by the majority of Amazon customers
Different frames and lenses to suit your most regular fishing environment
Sleeker and more lightweight than most polarized glasses
Stainless steel hinges to avoid rusting
Cons
The medium size only production means they won’t fit larger or smaller heads
2. Costa Del Mar Blackfin
Another heavy hitter from Costa Del Mar’s line of outstanding fishing sunglasses. It has all the features of its little brother but comes in at a higher price, however, the higher cost is
justified by its handmade manufacturing process which comes with a lifetime guarantee.
Pros
Polarizing lens
Durable plastic frames using Hydrolite™ material for better grip on nose and temples
Block blue and yellow light for better clarity
Offers different materials for lenses
580 technology eliminates glare
Comfortable wraparound design
Cons
Price can get quite high when you want higher performing lenses
3. Ocean Waves Sunglasses Molokai Sunglasses
Ocean Waves aren’t resting on their laurels with the Molokai range of sunglasses. It comes in black or shiny tortoise frame colors and has options of loose, normal and tight fits to suit different size of faces. One of the best features of these glasses is they offer specific lenses such as “offshore blue mirror” or “backwater green mirror” so you don’t have to do the legwork of breaking down what you need.
Pros
Wraparound frame without the intense wraparound look
Choice of site-specific lenses
Mirrored lenses
Lifetime warranty on frames
Cons
High price
4. Oakley Men’s OO9096 Fuel Cell Rectangular Sunglasses
Oakley’s are a well-known and desirable brand of general sunglasses and the same goes for their highly-regarded Fuel Cell sunglasses which received glowing reviews from satisfied customers.
Pros
Stress resistant frames that are lightweight, durable and flexible
Frame built to withstand shifting or deforming over time
Great look and recognizable brand
Polarized lenses that block UVA, UVB, UVC, and blue light up to 400mm
Ideal for offshore fishing
Designed to enhance the vividness of color
Cons
Might not suit someone with a smaller face
Grips missing rubber for extra grip
Price can be quite high compared to other glasses
5. Flying Fisherman Buchanan Polarized Sunglasses with AcuTint UV Blocker for Fishing and Outdoor Sports
Flying Fishermen, as the names suggests are tailored for fishermen’s needs. Their attempt to break into a well-established and competitive market is helped by letting the product speak for itself, and these glasses have all the technical specifications to see through many fishing seasons. They’re reflective, durable, and a lot of thought has been put into crafting and marketing their trademarked lenses.
Pros
Different lens options that all filter 100% of the UV spectrum
Exceeds EU standards for general purpose eyewear
Larger frame allows for bigger lenses and field of vision
Frame is strengthened for greater resilience
Detailed breakdown of features
Cons
The large frames might not suit everyone
Not widely or positively reviewed on Amazon
Product doesn’t include casing and it’s not a standard fit for generic sunglass cases