Best Fishing Shirts for Sun Protection (2024)
A long-sleeve performance fishing shirt does more than look the part — it provides UPF protection, moisture management, and quick-dry capability that makes a full day on the water significantly more comfortable. The sun shirts we wear fishing are actually cooler in summer than a T-shirt because they block radiant heat while the technical fabric moves sweat away from your skin. We've tested these through CT summer fishing seasons.
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Simms SolarFlex Crewneck
Best premium fishing sun shirtSimms makes the most thoughtful fishing-specific apparel available, and the SolarFlex crewneck is their core sun shirt. The stretch fabric doesn't restrict casting motion (a real limitation with stiffer sun shirts), the thumb holes prevent the sleeves from riding up while rigging, and the UPF 50 provides maximum sun protection. Worth every penny for CT summer saltwater fishing. Holds up to repeated washings without losing UPF properties.
Huk Waypoint Long Sleeve
Best mid-range fishing shirtHuk has built a strong presence in the saltwater fishing community through well-designed, reasonably priced gear. The Waypoint long sleeve balances performance and value effectively. The moisture-wicking quick-dry fabric handles CT summer heat on both boat and shore. UPF 30 is adequate protection for most fishing situations though UPF 50 is preferable for all-day exposure. Popular among CT inshore saltwater and bass tournament anglers.
Columbia PFG Terminal Tackle Long Sleeve
Best budget fishing sun shirtColumbia's PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) line is widely available and their Omni-Shade UPF 50 fabric is proven. The Terminal Tackle shirt provides full UPF 50 protection at roughly half the price of Simms or Huk. The trade-off is less stretch and fewer fishing-specific design elements (no thumb loops, slightly more modest moisture management). For the recreational angler who fishes occasionally and wants sun protection without premium investment, this is the right choice.
Buying Guide
**Why You Should Wear a Sun Shirt While Fishing**
**UV Exposure on the Water** Water reflects UV radiation — you receive UV from above AND from the reflective surface below. This means effective UV exposure while fishing can be up to 2x higher than land-based activities at the same time of day. Long-sleeve sun shirts aren't optional for serious time on the water.
**Sun Shirts vs. Sunscreen** Sunscreen needs reapplication every 2 hours; it washes off in sweat and water. Sun shirts don't. A UPF 50 sun shirt on your arms provides consistent protection for your entire fishing day without reapplication. Use sunscreen on face, neck, and any exposed areas; cover the rest with UPF clothing.
**UPF vs. Regular Fabric** Regular white cotton T-shirts provide approximately UPF 5 — essentially minimal protection. A wet white T-shirt drops to near UPF 1. Technical fabrics with UPF 50+ provide 98% UV blockage even when wet.
**Fit Considerations** For casting-specific use, look for shirts with: - Stretch fabric (allows full shoulder rotation for overhead and sidearm casts) - Longer back hem (prevents shirt riding up during casting) - Articulated (pre-curved) sleeves that don't restrict motion - Thumb loops to keep sleeves down when rigging
**Warmth Considerations** Technical sun shirts are cooling in summer (moisture-wicking, fast-drying) but provide minimal insulation in fall. For September–November CT fishing, layer a light fleece or windshell over your sun shirt for warmth.
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