Fly fishing sunglasses: everything you need to know

Without the right gear, it can be difficult to fully enjoy fly fishing. One important piece is a good pair of sunglasses. Not only do they protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, but they'll also help you see fish in the water, making it easier to catch them. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the different properties of fly fishing sunglasses, why they're important, and some tips for buying your first pair.

Properties of fly fishing sunglasses

When it comes to fly fishing sunglasses, there are a few key properties to look for.

Polarization: polarized lenses are a must for fly fishing sunglasses. They reduce glare on the water, making it easier to see below the surface and spot fish.

Light transmission: this refers to how much light passes through the lens. When fly fishing, you want to choose lenses with a lower light transmission to reduce glare and improve visibility in bright conditions.

Lens color: the color of your lenses can also affect visibility on the water. Yellow and amber lenses are great for low-light conditions, while copper and brown lenses are better for bright conditions.

Durability: it's important to choose sunglasses that are durable and able to withstand the elements. Especially if you for instance often fly fish the salt. Look for lenses that are scratch-resistant and frames that are made from a strong, lightweight material.

Why sunglasses are important when fly fishing

Sunglasses are an important piece of gear for fly fishing for a few reasons.

Protect your eyes: they protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays, reducing your risk of developing cataracts, macular degeneration, and other eye problems.

Improve visibility: polarized lenses reduce glare on the water, making it easier to see below the surface and spot fish.

Enhance your experience: by being able to see the fish in the water more clearly, you'll have a more enjoyable time fly fishing. You'll be able to cast more accurately and have a better chance of catching more fish. Secondly, because the glare on the water is significantly reduced, you have to squint much less resulting in an overall more relaxing experience.

Tips for buying your first pair of fly fishing sunglasses

Now that you know the importance of fly fishing sunglasses, here are a few tips to help you choose the right pair for you.

Try them on: it's important to try on different styles and brands of sunglasses to see which ones fit you best and provide the best visibility. When you try them on, ask if you can briefly try them outside. The indoor lighting of a store if not comparable to the outdoor light, or even less so light reflecting on the water.

Consider your budget: fly fishing sunglasses can range in price pretty significantly. Determine how much you're willing to spend and look for a pair that fits your budget. Note that all of the above mentioned properties do NOT mean that you have to spend a fortune!

Check the warranty: make sure you understand the warranty and return policy of the sunglasses you're considering. A good warranty can give you peace of mind and protect your investment.

Conclusion

Fly fishing sunglasses are an important piece of gear for any angler. With the right properties, they can help you see fish in the water more clearly, reduce glare, and protect your eyes from the sun's harmful UV rays. By following these tips, you'll be able to choose the perfect pair of fly fishing sunglasses for your next trip to the water. Happy fishing!