While most anglers focus on rods, reels, and bait, a good pair of fishing sunglasses is often overlooked. Not only are sunglasses important for your eye protection, but they can also help improve your performance out on the water. The right pair of sunglasses can even help you better spot fish. However, different fishing environments require specific features and lens characteristics to optimize your visual experience. This guide will help you understand the different types of fishing sunglasses available and how to choose sunglasses for different environments.
Types of Fishing Sunglasses
When selecting the right pair of sunglasses for fishing, you want to consider the type of lenses, frame, and polarization.
Lens Technology
The lenses of your sunglasses come in a variety of materials, including polycarbonate, plastic, and glass. Polycarbonate and plastic lenses are lighter and more durable than glass lenses, but they can also distort your vision, causing headaches and eyestrain. Glass lenses are the heaviest and most scratch-resistant, but they can be more expensive.
When it comes to lens color, brown lenses are great for fishing in sunny conditions, as they provide good contrast and reduce glare. Amber lenses are ideal for fishing in low-light conditions, as they provide enhanced clarity and improve visibility. Mirrored lenses are excellent for fishing in bright conditions, as they can reduce the amount of glare and help you spot fish in the water better.
Frame Technology
The frame of your fishing sunglasses is just as important as the lenses. The frames of fishing sunglasses are usually made of plastic or metal, and each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Plastic frames are lightweight and provide good coverage, but they can also be uncomfortable and less durable, whereas metal frames are durable, but can be heavier and more expensive.
When selecting the right frame for your fishing sunglasses, you want to consider the type of activity you’ll be doing. For example, if you’re fishing in saltwater, you’ll want to choose frames with corrosion-resistant material. You also want to make sure the frames are comfortable and secure on your face.
Polarization
Polarized lenses are a must-have for fishing sunglasses. They reduce glare, enhance visibility, and improve clarity. These lenses also block out 99.9% of UV rays, which can cause sunburns and other eye injuries.
When selecting polarized lenses, you want to make sure they have a good polarization level. The higher the polarization level, the better protection you’ll have from the sun’s harmful rays. You also want to make sure the lenses are made of a material that won’t scratch easily, such as polycarbonate.
Choosing the Right Fishing Sunglasses for Different Environments
Once you’ve determined the type of lenses, frame, and polarization you need, you can begin to narrow down your choices. Here are some tips for choosing the right fishing sunglasses for different environments.
Freshwater Fishing
Freshwater fishing encompasses rivers, lakes, and ponds, where anglers target a variety of species such as bass, trout, and pan fish. In these environments, copper or amber lenses enhance contrast and depth perception, making it easier to spot fish in freshwater conditions. Polarized lenses effectively eliminate glare from the water’s surface, enabling you to see beneath the surface and identify fish hiding spots or structures. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful sun rays during long days on the water.
Saltwater Fishing
Saltwater fishing encompasses coastal areas, estuaries, and open ocean fishing, targeting species like redfish, snook, tarpon, and offshore game fish. Gray lenses are a great choice for saltwater fishing, as it offer true color perception and reduce overall brightness, making them ideal for bright, sunny days on the water. Polarized lenses are essential for cutting through the intense glare caused by sunlight reflecting off the water’s surface, allowing you to see beneath the surface and spot fish, bait fish, or submerged structures. Saltwater environments can be harsh on gear, so look for sunglasses with scratch-resistant coatings or materials to ensure durability.
Fly Fishing
Fly fishing involves targeting fish species in rivers and streams using lightweight flies. The unique demands of fly fishing require amber or rose-tinted lenses to enhance contrast and improve visibility in variable lighting conditions encountered in rivers and streams. Wraparound styles with side shields provide additional protection against wind, debris, and peripheral glare, ensuring unobstructed vision during precise casting. Since fly-fishing often involves long hours on the water, opt for lightweight and comfortable sunglasses that won’t cause fatigue or discomfort.
Ice Fishing
Ice fishing takes place in freezing temperatures on frozen lakes or ponds, requiring specific eyewear considerations. Yellow or orange lenses enhance contrast and depth perception in low-light conditions, improving visibility through the ice and enhancing the detection of underwater movements. Cold temperatures can cause fogging on lenses. Look for fishing sunglasses with anti-fog coatings or ventilation systems to maintain clear vision. Choose sunglasses with larger frames or wraparound styles that offer extended coverage to protect your eyes from wind, snow, and ice particles.
Conclusion
To maximize your visual experience on the water, pick fishing sunglasses that are appropriate for your fishing environment. Understanding the particular features and lens qualities required for every site will considerably increase your ability to spot fish, improve your casting accuracy, and protect your eyes from dangerous factors whether you are freshwater, saltwater, fly fishing, or ice fishing. You’ll enjoy a safer, more comfortable, and more profitable fishing experience if you invest in a good pair of sunglasses that are specially designed for your needs.
