A Guide to Fishing Clothing

As the weather starts to warm around the country our thoughts move beyond the four walls that confined us all winter and into the great outdoors. One of the most enjoyable ways to get away from it all and take advantage of all that nature has to offer is by going fishing. Whether you choose to cast your reel from a boat, dock, or beach it's important to dress appropriately. What does this mean to your average fisherman (or woman)? Come along as I walk you through the essentials.

Start at the top. Since you will be in the sun all day it's important to protect your head. Although any hat will do the best choice is something that has a wide brim and is made of a breathable material such as woven straw.

Shield your eyes. The reflective nature of water makes the sun that much harder on your eyes. Protect them with a sturdy pair of sun glasses. Look for something that offers protections from UVA, UVB, and UVC light. Since they will be used for fishing they should also be polarized to block glare and allow you to see through the water.

A place for your stuff. If you enjoy fly fishing you can't very well bring your tackle box into the water with you. Essential to your success is a good, lightweight fishing vest. Choose something with a lot of pockets and zippers and everything you need will be right at hand.

Keep the bugs away. Technology is amazing and believe it or not clothing can now be made with bug repelling properties built right in. You will still need the bug spray for areas not covered in clothing but with these ingenious items of clothing in your wardrobe you can add another layer of protection to your arsenal.

Get a handle on the situation. How many times have you tried to wrestle a slipper fish into the boat only to have it slip away? Or wound up with your hands bloodied as a result of a spiny catch. Well, no more. Get yourself a pair of fish handling gloves and take the upper hand.

Get a leg up on fashion. Fishing pants are not only lightweight but they offer zip away bottoms for the most in weather versatility. And they dry fast!

Now that you are dressed right it's time to hit the open water and catch some fish!