A Tackle Shop Guide to Ugly Fish Sunglasses
Ugly Fish has a special place on our sunglasses rack. They are the go-to choice for anglers who need a pair of polarised sunnies that are, first and foremost, tough and affordable. While they don't have the high-end glass lenses of premium brands, they deliver where it counts: effective glare reduction and incredible durability. This guide will help you understand their practical value.
A Note From Our Local Experts
"In my physical and online store, Ugly Fish sunglasses are the brand I recommend for any angler looking for an affordable yet reliable pair of sunnies. They're a brand of sunnies you can throw in the back of the ute or in your tackle bag without being too precious about them. The frames on many models are incredibly flexible, especially their range of indestructible models; you can practically bend them in half, and they'll bounce back.
I’ve been dealing with Ugly Fish (piranha eyewear) since their beginnings in 2003, and being a local to us in the Illawarra, we are proud to support a local brand.
With a range of unisex options for sale for Men, Women, Tweens, and Kids, there’s an option for anyone in your family."
- Ben Czulowski, Owner, Fishing Tackle Shop (Ocean Storm | Authorised stockist for 20+ years
Why Ugly Fish is a Smart Choice for Anglers
The appeal of Ugly Fish sunglasses comes down to a simple, honest focus on what matters for everyday Aussie anglers:
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Maximum Durability: This is their core strength. Ugly Fish uses a range of tough frame materials, from flexible TPEE on their "unbreakable" models to TR-90 and lightweight metals. The focus is always on creating frames that can withstand the inevitable drops and impacts of a fishing trip.
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Effective Polarised Lenses: The lenses are built to cut through Australian glare. While they are typically made from polycarbonate for impact resistance, the polarisation is highly effective at reducing surface glare, helping you spot fish and structure without the premium price tag.
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Outstanding Value for Money: Ugly Fish proves that you don't need to spend a fortune to get a tough, functional pair of fishing sunglasses. They offer reliable performance and durability at a price that makes them an accessible choice for every angler.
A Fit for the Whole Family
One of the biggest challenges for many anglers is finding a pair of high-quality polarised sunglasses that actually fit properly. Ugly Fish solves this problem by offering one of the most comprehensive size ranges on the market, ensuring a comfortable, secure fit for everyone:
- Men's & Women's Fit: A huge range of unisex adult frames designed to fit a wide variety of face shapes.
- Tween Fit: A unique size category that's perfect for teenagers or adults with smaller or narrower head frames who often find standard sunglasses too large.
- Kids Fit: A dedicated range of tough, smaller frames designed to provide full protection and a comfortable fit for young, aspiring anglers.
Pro-Tips for Your Ugly Fish Sunglasses
- Choose the Right Lens Colour: For most Australian conditions, the two most versatile lens colours are Smoke and Brown (Amber). A **Smoke (grey)** lens is best for bright, open-sun conditions as it reduces the most glare with true-to-life colour. A **Brown or Amber** lens is a high-contrast option, perfect for sight-fishing in the variable light of estuaries and rivers.
- The "Peace of Mind" Backup Pair: This is an expert tip for anglers who own expensive glass sunglasses. The biggest advantage of an Ugly Fish is its toughness and affordability, making it the perfect 'backup' or 'knockabout' pair. Keep a pair in your boat's console or your tackle bag. This means you're never without quality polarisation if you forget or damage your main pair, and you can wear them in high-risk situations (like kayak fishing or lending them to a mate) without the stress.
- Simple Cleaning: To make your lenses last, always rinse them with fresh water after a day on the salt to remove corrosive crystals before wiping them clean with a microfibre cloth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are Ugly Fish sunglasses so affordable? Are the polarised lenses any good?
Ugly Fish delivers incredible value by focusing on what matters for the everyday angler. Instead of using expensive glass, they use high-quality polycarbonate lenses that are tough, lightweight, and offer excellent polarisation. This smart design means you get a functional pair of sunnies that are perfect for fishing, driving, or any outdoor activity, without the premium price tag.
What makes Ugly Fish sunglasses so tough?
Their reputation for durability comes from the materials they use in their frames. Many models use TR-90, a flexible and lightweight thermoplastic, while others use TPEE, which is so flexible it's marketed as "unbreakable." This focus on impact-resistant materials means they can handle being dropped or knocked around much better than a standard pair of sunglasses.
How do Ugly Fish compare to a premium brand like Mako or Spotters?
It's a clear choice based on priorities. Premium brands like Mako and Spotters use expensive glass lenses for the ultimate in optical clarity and scratch resistance. Ugly Fish focuses on providing unbeatable durability and value for money, using tough polycarbonate lenses and flexible frames. They are the perfect "less precious" choice for anglers who are tough on their gear.
Are Ugly Fish sunglasses suitable for saltwater?
Yes, absolutely. They are designed for the harsh Australian environment. The durable frame materials and polycarbonate lenses can handle constant exposure to saltwater spray. Like any good pair of fishing sunnies, a quick rinse in fresh water after use is the best way to ensure their longevity.
