Have you ever heard of polarized fishing sunglasses, the famous sharpened glasses of fishermen? In addition to the fishing rod and lures, this is the major equipment not to neglect to spend an unforgettable fishing trip.
Indeed, wearing polarized sunglasses for fly fishing or other techniques provides many benefits to the fisherman. First, this type of sunglasses can block the reflection of the sun on the surface of the water to better identify the fish. You can follow the fish that you want to capture without being dazzled by the sun’s rays.
These fishing sunglasses also have the advantage of being very comfortable. In addition to minimizing glare, they consolidate contrasts by suppressing violet radiation.
Moreover, safety is also another reason why it is best to wear polarized fishing sunglasses. They offer good protection of the eyes by reducing the most dangerous radiation while avoiding to hurt the eyes against a hook or a lure.
Right now, we will list the best fishing sunglasses, I think you might like one of them. For more of our suggestions on choosing to buy fishing gear, take a look at the popular links: Fishing Kayaks, Underwater Fishing Cameras, Bass Fishing Lures, Fish Finders.
Quick Answer: The 7 Best Fishing Sunglasses For 2023
- Costa Del Mar Fantail Fishing Sunglasses
- Smith Optics Dockside Fishing Sunglasses
- Costa Del Mar Blackfin Fishing Sunglasses
- Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Fishing Sunglasses
- Kaenon Unisex Burnet Fishing Sunglasses
- Duco Carbon Fiber Fishing Sunglasses
- Flying Fisherman Maverick Fishing Sunglasses
Here is an overview of the features of our top 3 choices. Our guide and comparison table of top fishing sunglasses will help you find the best choice for yourself.
Best Fishing Sunglasses
| Costa Del Mar Fantail Fishing Sunglasses | Smith Optics Dockside Fishing Sunglasses | Costa Del Mar Blackfin Fishing Sunglasses | |
|---|---|---|---|
 |  |  |
|
| Frame: | Nylon | Howler Matte Tortoise Evolve | Resin frame |
| Lens: | Costa's 580 Polycarbonate | Impact-Resistant ChromaPop | Crystal lens |
| Other: | 20% thinner and 22% lighter thanh average polarized glass | Designed around the Lst ChromaPop lenses available | Polarized, flexible and boasting a Hydrolite co-injected lining |
 | | |
Fishing Sunglasses Reviews
#1 Costa Del Mar Fantail Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Costa Del Mar Fantail:
- Multiple colors to choose
- 100% UV blockage
- Polarized glass (580)
- Impact- and scratch-resistance
These fishing sunglasses are incredibly stylish and effective at the same time. Its 100% polarized lenses prevent glare, improve vision and have a unique color technology. The frame is made of nylon to adapt perfectly to the size of any head with stainless steel hinges, quite resistant.
They are light and resistant fishing glasses. Green Mirror polarized glass glass lenses block yellow light while red, green and blue lights increase. It is a technique that improves contrast and definition. The Blue Mirror lens is another solution for highly reflective open water fishing.
#2 Smith Optics Dockside Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Smith Optics Docside:
- Evolve™ Eco-Frame Construction
- Tapered Lens Technology
- Anti-Reflective Coating
- ChromaPop® polarized lenses
Few sunglasses have the elegance of the Smiths, a great choice for fishing or for everyday use, depending on the color of the lenses you choose. Polarized glasses elegant, resistant and effective for fishing. Polarized lenses are made of mineral glass reinforced with the patented ChromaPop technology.
These sunglasses have all the best features in an elegant and comfortable design. In addition to being light and scratch-resistant, Smith Optics lenses are water and oil resistant. The frame covers most of the face and the lenses are large enough to provide good peripheral vision. Stainless steel components are used to resist corrosion, even if they are exposed to the salt air of the sea.
#3 Costa Del Mar Blackfin Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Costa Del Mar Blackfin:
- Polarized Glass (580) lens
- Lens width: 61.5 millimeters
- Lens height: 40.5mm millimeters
- Anti-Reflective Coating coating
Costa gives us a much nicer look, thanks to the conservative styling of the entire Blackfin lineup. There are dozens of different styles to choose from, each consisting of the same co-injected nylon frame construction. These soft and comfortable frames are matched with super-polarized lenses, equipped to completely deflect any reflections from the water’s surface. When they actually rest on your eyes, you get much better light spatial coverage than competing sunglasses.
Costa Del Mar has brought their reputation to our attention, and part of that comes from their limited lifetime warranty. It doesn’t matter that you’ve had their best fishing sunglasses for ten years, they want to help you if it takes a long time for a problem to arise. You’ve been a customer before, but you’re part of their family for life. Our handy guide to the best aviator glasses showcases even more great products like this one.
#4 Oakley Flak 2.0 XL Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Oakley Flak 2.0 XL:
- Prizm Lenses
- Enhanced lens coverage
- O-Matter stress resistant frame
- Unobtanium earsocks and nosepad for increased grip
These Oakleys are not very cheap, but quality is indisputable. It is also a half-open model, as are many others in the Flak range. The frame in O-Matter, a special plastic compound from Oakley, in semi-glossy black is not showy and combined with lenses like the Black Iridium makes them inconspicuous glasses.
Another gem is the ends of the temples coated in rubber material, known as Unobtainium (Oakley likes to give exotic names to their patents), even the nose pads are of the same material and in the package there are two spare ones. The terminals are made of hypoallergenic silicone, so once put on the ears comfort is guaranteed. Oakley original Prizm lenses provide optimal protection.
#5 Kaenon Unisex Burnet Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Kaenon Unisex Burnet:
- Bridge: 19 millimeters
- Mirror Coating coating
- Lens width: 57 millimeters
- Lens height: 38 millimeters
Number five on our list, the Kaenon costs more, but a style that will please anyone. In a classic tortoiseshell style, these shades provide extreme polarization without fading or discolouring. These glasses come with a number of comfort features, like the Variflex nose pads, which give you unparalleled comfort when wearing your sunglasses.
Remember that the margin of deviation and color will vary depending on the sexy style you choose from among their six styles. The fully corrosion-resistant metal hinges and lightweight frame keep it as light as a feather. No drag, no headaches when you take them off after eight hours a day on the lake, just a great fit with clear, top color properties. Also, check out our guide to the best safety glasses.
#6 Duco Carbon Fiber Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Duco Carbon Fiber:
- Alloy and Carbon Fiber frame
- Available in many colors
- Triacetate lens
- Rectangular shape design
Duco is a recognized manufacturer for its eyewear collections with an original design. The Duco Carbon Fiber are a really good pair of polarized glasses of the moment. They have a filter that prevents the wearer from being dazzled by the sun’s reflection on flat surfaces that interfere with vision. There is no better item to protect your eyes from the harmful effects of the sun.
Versatile in nature, these glasses are ideal for outdoor sports, water sports, especially fishing. And if you like to draw attention to you, these glasses are sure to captivate the eyes of your loved ones.
The Duco Carbon Fiber are of a very special design. Their frame is made of an alloy of aluminum and magnesium. This makes them more robust, but lighter than conventional metal frames. The TAC lenses of these glasses offer 100% UV protection. They are also able to resist shocks and scratches.
#7 Flying Fisherman Maverick Fishing Sunglasses
Highlights of Flying Fisherman Maverick:
- Arm: 132 millimeters
- Lens width: 72 millimeters
- Lens height: 44 millimeters
- Scratch Resistant Coating coating
Flying Fisherman makes a pair of high-end fishing sunglasses at a low price. Before you start, note that they only block up to 95% of UVA and UVB rays. What does this mean exactly? Think of the streaks of light through the darkness. They are polarized to reduce glare from the water, but won’t work if you’re looking up at the sky. However, you’ll save a dime if you’re with them. Don’t bring them if you’re planning all-day fishing trips.
They give you a one-year limited warranty, which is more than what you’ll find on other similarly priced fishing sunglasses. The golden brown helps reduce the penetration of blue light and produces a slight yellow tint when viewed through them. Lightweight frames, covering the entire bridge of the nose, comfortable, flexible fit. If you’re here on a budget, Flying Fisherman has you covered. Be sure to also check out our list of the best sunglasses for fishing for more great pieces like these.
Fishing Sunglasses Comparison Table
| Fishing Sunglasses: | Frame: | Lens: | Other: | Rating: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Del Mar Fantail |  | Nylon | Costa's 580 Polycarbonate | 20% thinner and 22% lighter thanh average polarized glass | 4.6/5.0 |
| Smith Optics Dockside |  | Composite | ChromaPop | Anti-reflective and Hydroleophobic lens coatings | 4.5/5.0 |
| Costa Del Mar Blackfin |  | Resin frame | Crystal lens | Polarized, flexible and boasting a Hydrolite co-injected lining | 4.7/5.0 |
| Oakley Flak 2.0 XL |  | Plastic frame | PRIZM™ Field | Block 100% UVA, UVB, and UVC light | 4.5/5.0 |
| Kaenon Unisex Burnet |  | TR90 frame | SR-91 lens | Hypoallergenic recessed Variflex™ nose pads | 4.4/5.0 |
| Duco Carbon Fiber |  | Al-Mg Alloy and Carbon Fiber | Triacetate | Block 100% UVB and UVA rays | 4.3/5.0 |
| Flying Fisherman Maverick |  | Plastic frame | Plastic lens | AcuTint Polarized Lens System blocks 100% of UVA and UVB rays | 4.2/5.0 |
How to Choose the Best Fishing Sunglasses
The modern market is filled with goods of this type – to failure. The first thing that needs to be understood and understood by the consumer is that sunglasses are simply darkened lenses. And anti-glare optics are special lenses made of a puff type of several plates of ordinary glass or plastic, between which a special film responsible for polarization is integrated. Regular glasses can be turned into polarized ones using a thing like a sun clip.
In order to answer the question how to buy a polarized fishing sunglasses with a better price-performance ratio, we recommend that you review this buying guide for the best polarized fishing sunglasses.
The type of glasses
In the market for sunglasses, there are both glass lenses and lighter plastic ones, each material has its own advantages and disadvantages.
The main advantages of glass lenses include good wear resistance (when using glasses for fishing, this is important) and, accordingly, a longer service life. The technology for the production of polarized glass lenses is as follows: between the two layers of glass there is a polarizing filter film, respectively, the polarizing filter is protected and the entire life of the sunglasses will work, unlike some plastic lenses where often the polarizing film is located on top of the lens itself and over time the filter stops working properly.
The main disadvantages of glass lenses include a low level of security, when destroyed, the glass lens breaks into fragments that can damage the eye, in some countries of the world it is forbidden to install glass lenses in glasses for children. Also, the disadvantages of using glass lenses include more weight, which, moreover, is likely to put pressure on your nose compared to a plastic lens, the latter being more popular with fishing enthusiasts. With a larger weight of the lens, there is a high probability of discomfort when wearing, if you feel discomfort from sliding down the bridge of the nose due to the weight of the glass lenses or from the pressure of the glasses, then this fact will most likely distract you, so why do you need such glasses?
The biggest advantage of polarizing lenses made of plastic, or rather polycarbonate, since most optical manufacturers make plastic lenses made of polycarbonate, is the ability to give the lens shape almost any curvature, which contributes to a good panoramic view, which is very important when fishing. Polycarbonate lenses are much lighter than their glass versions and allow manufacturers to make sunglasses virtually weightless and nothing will distract you from the peaceful observation of the swaying float on the wave. The technology for the production of polycarbonate polarization lenses largely depends on the technology and know-how of the lens manufacturer, some manufacturers make a special polarization filter in the form of a film located on the surface of a polycarbonate lens, more serious manufacturers achieve a polarization effect due to the special molecular properties of the lens material, with this approach The polarizing filter will work the entire life of the sunglasses. There are legends about the safety of polycarbonate lenses, but it’s enough to know that Oakley polycarbonate lenses have proven their worth and are used by Americans in war.
The disadvantages of polarization lenses made of polycarbonate include the fact that it is still plastic and does not have such resistance to abrasives (sand, dust, etc.) that are found in abundance when fishing like glass lenses, but today most manufacturers manufacture lenses capable of adequately cope with difficult fishing conditions. When choosing sunglasses for fishing, it is not recommended to buy glasses that the manufacturer recommends using on snowy slopes for skiing, they may not have enough abrasion resistance, and this is understandable, because the probability of getting into a dust storm in an alpine resort is quite small.
Choosing fishing sunglasses is required solely taking into account your comfort, and not with an eye on the materials from which they are made, most manufacturers with a worldwide reputation care about their reputation and simply will not let out products that damage you. Today, technology allows you to make fairly strong glass lenses and very good eye protection made of polycarbonate, but long-term wearing comfort is the only factor that is individual.
The color of the filter
The color of the filter is the element that distinguishes polarized glasses from simple sunglasses. They do not just look good and look cool, but their main goal is to eliminate dangerous, oblique rays that can affect vision. Branded polarized glasses have the following nameplate:
- Yellow-brown – suitable for wear on sunny days, as well as in cloudy weather with clearings. Excellent contrast. Universal color.
- Grays are ideal for a very bright sun. They preserve color reproduction as accurately as possible without dimming the colors.
- Pink or pale yellow glasses – worn in the evening or in very cloudy weather. Slightly change the hue of the world, but only for the better. A look at everything through pink glasses – sets up for positive
- Ginger-colored glasses are good for viewing the bottom topography near the shore and examining shallow water for fish. They increase contrast, vision with them sharper and sharper.
- Blue and mirror glasses – an option for sea fishing, and very large ponds
You will choose your polarized sunglasses according to the light conditions or simply according to your activities. The ideal is of course to try this product before looking where to buy a new polarized bezel.
What color should the lens for fishing sunglasses be?
Oddly enough, but most often for polarizing glasses, the gray color of the lenses is more common to meet than, for example, pink. Indeed, a gray lens works very effectively in high light conditions in sunny weather and, moreover, practically does not distort the color of objects, which is why the gray color of lenses is so popular. Sunglasses with gray lenses are ideal for everyday wear, so to say weatherproof, with a polarization coefficient of approximately 99%.
It will be nice if you allow yourself to buy several polarizing sunglasses with different lens colors, but we’ll talk about this in more detail.
Copper-colored lenses make objects more contrasting, dull the blue color and, as it were, enhance visual acuity, are excellent for fishing in sunny weather, the polarization coefficient is approximately 99%.
Brown lenses, according to many fishing enthusiasts, are optimal, because they combine perfect contrast and, like gray lenses, they convey the true colors of objects well. It is recommended to wear brown polarized lenses both in bright sun and in low cloud, the polarization coefficient is approximately 99%.
Amber lenses are less popular among anglers but have a unique feature. On cloudy days, the amber color of the lenses is optimal, as well as those who like brook trout fishing (they have an optimal transmission spectrum for visual detection of this fish), the polarization coefficient is approximately 95%.
Pink lenses are very rare both on sale and on the faces of fishing enthusiasts. The main advantage of these lenses is fishing in the evening with weak natural, artificial or mixed lighting, in pond farms or urban ponds. Recognition of the float, executed in red-orange tones, is made more clear and contrast, the polarization coefficient is approximately 50%.
The choice of the mount
The choice of the mount is the next step. Again, if the glasses are too heavy and uncomfortable, you will not wear them. Several criteria must be taken into account:
The form: there are two main forms, mask or glasses. While the glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, the mask will rather rest on the cheekbones. In fact, the latter is much more covering, it offers a better vision and the weight of the whole is better distributed. However, frames often have a very sporty look, less aesthetic (but it really depends on the tastes). For my part I really prefer the masks for fishing (and I do not care (a little) of aesthetics). In terms of branch material, I do not really have any advice at this level, nylon is often lighter and relatively strong.
Size and ergonomics: beware, not all models exist in all sizes. Make sure that the model you like is in the right size, it is fundamental for ergonomics. Similarly, when you test your glasses, check that they do not slip from your nose, that they hold well if you shake your head, that they hold well when you wear them on the skull, that there are good quality non-slip pads, etc.
Aesthetics: that’s your problem!
The style
It is true that the polarizing bezel for fishing is primarily a functional accessory that ensures the protection of the eyes of the fisherman and his comfort, but it remains a fashion article that must stick with the style of his wearer.
Rest assured, there are not many choices, as manufacturers offer fishermen a wide variety of shapes and colors of polarized fishing sunglasses.
Price
The cost of glasses with a polarizing filter varies greatly: from 4 to 200 US dollars.
- Low price category – up to 30 US dollars. The glasses are coated on top with a thin polarizing film, which is subject to rapid wear. It may be a good design and a convenient frame, but for fishing these are disposable glasses that are not suitable for the conditions of loads and activity.
- The average price category is from 30 to 100 US dollars. The most popular category, which includes the main models for anglers. Most lenses are plastic, with a good degree of protection, designed for several seasons.
- Expensive price range – from $ 100. Lenses are made of extremely durable plastic or glass. Performance is the highest. A wide range of additional options. The frame is adjusted to the shape of the face, the lenses can be with diopters.
How to take care of polarized fishing sunglasses
In order for anti-glare glasses for fishing to be able to perform their immediate functions for a long time, it is necessary to provide them with proper care. This element of fishing equipment is considered the most lost item. To avoid this situation, use a lace or elastic band that attaches to the daisies.
To care for the lenses, you need to purchase a special solution that can be selected along with accessories. Such formulations are used to clean lenses and also to prevent fogging.
Checking anti-glare glasses is carried out by viewing through them on a calculator or a liquid crystal screen of a computer or telephone.
Polarized glasses should be stored and transported in a special case that protects them from mechanical damage and contamination. In order to effectively protect your equipment from various external damage that could damage it during transport, you can use a case. You can also protect your equipment from shocks and contact with your belongings if you put them in a bag. High-end polarized glasses are often delivered with their leatherette protective case. Both design and practical, they accompany you effectively in your various activities.
FAQs About Fishing Sunglasses
Do I need fishing sunglasses?
You can fish without them, but you’ll have a hard time. Polarized lenses are the main appeal of fishing sunglasses. They help you see clearly through the water while reducing glare caused by reflections of the sun on the surface of a lake or ocean. In short, you absolutely must have fishing sunglasses.
But just reading the title of a product that says “Fishing Sunglasses” isn’t enough. This is the color of color shades and their UV resistance. Part of the damage caused by fishing is due to ultraviolet rays and the damage they cause. Most anglers using standard sunglasses don’t realize that they do more harm than good. They amplify the sun’s rays and accelerate the growth of cancer and tumors.
Not to mention the natural blue light that comes from the sun. We know that blue light from LED and LCD screens is harmful to our eyes. It has been shown that it can reduce your visual acuity by 17% to 22%. While these statistics are based on your screen exposure for more than five hours a day, consider how much time you spend in the sun on the fishing grounds. Maybe in four to five hours, right? It’s disastrous.
Fishing sunglasses not only help you see better in the water, but also give you peace of mind by protecting your eyes. Plus, you’ll feel less tired or “too tired” when you get home, which can help you feel great throughout the day.
Can polarized sunglasses help see things underwater?
Right. Their main advantage lies in the way they reflect light. We’ll go into a little more detail in the next section, but that’s why polarized sunglasses are better than prescription sunglasses. Whether you’re at the end of a dock, at the edge of a boat, or on a lake, the waters are difficult to cross. Polarized lens help.
By reflection, you can see through the refraction of light at the surface of the water. This allows you to see much lower than the naked eye, giving you a greater range of action on active fishing grounds. It’s also a way to look down and see if the bite at the end of your line is really worth pulling up or just letting it slip away. Are polarized lenses the best for fishing?
One of the biggest challenges when fishing is glare from the water. Polarized lenses keep you going throughout the day. When the sun starts to hit its head above the horizon (if you like early morning fishing) you have to face the corners of the sunrise until you decide to leave. This creates its own set of challenges, especially if you’re still hanging around midday. In short, these are not only the best for fishing, but they are essential.
Do I need a prescription for fishing sunglasses?
This is not the case. Do they exist? Yes, but it’s not necessary when you have polarized lenses. Prescription sunglasses are usually non-polarized, and even if you have slightly better visibility in good lighting, it will be harder for you to spot fish.
Prescription sunglasses magnify so you get a changing image of the water. When you look across the water, everything changes. There is something called a Snell window, where we see light through water while underwater, due to the way light passes through it (at an angle of exactly 96 degrees). When you’re on the water, that doesn’t happen. Light reflects and works against us.
Ultimately, your prescription sunglasses won’t help you spot fish or use your fishing sunglasses the way they should. Polarized lenses are what you want.
Final Thoughts
Ideal for protecting the eyes from glare and reverberation caused by light rays, polarized fishing sunglasses will be your best allies in the summer. The purchase of this type of equipment represents a certain investment and must not be done blindly. Make sure that the color of the filter, the type of glasses and the aesthetics of the glasses are perfectly adapted to your needs.
I hope you have found the best fishing sunglasses for yourself after this tutorial. If you would like to comment, notice that the article content has not been updated in time, or suggest fishing sunglasses I have not included, please use our contact form to stay in touch.
Good luck on your next fishing trip!
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