A Tackle Shop Guide to Sun Protection Gear
A day on the water can be cut short by a nasty sunburn. This guide will walk you through the different types of sun protection we stock and explain the specific, real-world features that anglers need to look for, from "angler-friendly" sun cream to hats and shelters.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"After having a sun spot cut from my face that was determined as pre-cancerous, I'm now religious about sun protection. The most-missed spots are always the neck, ears, and the 'V' of your chest, where the sun reflects straight up from the water.
I don't just stop at sun screen I won't fish without a sun scarf (neck gaiter) and a good wide brim straw hat. It's not just about comfort on the day; it's about making sure you're sun smart to avoid something that could be deadly down the track."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop
Choosing the Right Sun Cream for Fishing
Not all sunscreens are suited for fishing. An angler's sun cream needs to perform two jobs: protect your skin and not repel the fish.
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Non-Greasy & Unscented Formulas: This is the most important feature for an angler. Greasy formulas make your hands slippery, affecting your grip on your rod and reel. Strong scents can also transfer to your baits and lures, which can repel wary fish.
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High Water Resistance: There is no such thing as "waterproof" sun cream. The official rating is often for 40 or 80 minutes of water resistance. For anglers who are wading, handling wet fish, or sweating, a longer rated cream is a much better choice.
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"Reef Safe" Formulas: As anglers, protecting the environment we fish in is vital. "Reef Safe" sun creams are made without chemicals like oxybenzone, which have been shown to harm coral reefs and aquatic life. It's a responsible choice for the health of our waterways.
Sun Scarves (Neck Gaiters)
Once seen as a specialty item, sun scarves (or neck gaiters) are now a standard piece of gear for most experienced anglers. They offer total, reliable protection for the most-missed spots: your neck, ears, and lower face. Unlike sun cream, a physical barrier like a sun scarf won't sweat off or need re-application.
Beach Tents & Sun Shelters
For any angler who is land-based and staying in one spot for a long time, a beach tent or shelter is a smart move. It provides an all-day "base camp" that offers a reliable patch of shade, which is not only for you but also for protecting your gear, your tackle, and keeping your esky cool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will the scent from my sunscreen stop fish from biting?
Yes, it absolutely can. Fish have a strong sense of smell, and the chemical odours or oils from a standard sunscreen can transfer from your hands to your bait or lure, which may deter fish from biting. We recommend using a non-greasy, unscented "angler-friendly" formula. If you're concerned, you can also use a fishing scent to mask any remaining human odours.
Won't wearing a sun scarf or neck gaiter make me hotter in summer?
This is a common myth. Modern sun scarves are made from high-tech, moisture-wicking microfibre. This material actually pulls sweat away from your skin. When the fabric gets damp (from sweat or a quick dip in the water), any breeze will create an evaporative cooling effect, which can make you feel cooler than wearing nothing at all.
Why do I need a sun scarf if I'm already wearing a hat?
A hat only blocks the sun from above. The biggest problem for anglers is the "reflection factor"—intense UV rays bouncing up from the water. A sun scarf protects your neck, ears, and face from all that reflected glare, which is why it's so common to see pro anglers wearing them.
