Fishing is supposed to be a relaxing outdoor activity no matter if you are a professional or occasional angler. However, you cannot relax if you sit for hours, in silence, in a non-comfortable shirt, especially during the summer.
Here are the best fishing shirts for hot weather (Apr 2024 Update):
- Best Overall (T-Shirts): Hanes Men's Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt UPF 50+
- Best For Avid Anglers (T-Shirts): Long Sleeve Fishing T-Shirt for Men and Women
- Best For Large Waist (T-Shirts): Vapor Apparel Men’s T-Shirt
- Best Overall (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt
- Quick Dry (Button Up Shirts): Jessie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Sun Protection Shirts
- Moisture-Wicking (Button Up Shirts): CAMEL CROWN Hiking Shirt Men Long Sleeve Outdoor Shirts
- Best Overall (T-Shirts): BALEAF Men's Quick Dry Short Sleeve T-Shirt
- Best For Layering (T-Shirts): Denali Performance Men’s UPF 50+ ProtectUV Short Sleeve T-Shirt
- Best For Tall Anglers (T-Shirts): Filthy Anglers Men's Active Fishing Filth Side Ultra T-Shirt
- Best Overall (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Bahama II Short Sleeve Shirt
- Stylish (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's PFG Super Bahama Short Sleeve Shirt
- Comfortable (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Bonehead Short Sleeve Shirt
| 12 Best Fishing Shirts For Hot Weather | ||
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Hanes Men's Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt UPF 50+
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Best For Avid Anglers | Long Sleeve Fishing T-Shirt for Men and Women
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Best For Large Waist | Vapor Apparel Men’s T-Shirt
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Best Overall | Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt
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Quick Dry | Jessie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Sun Protection Shirts
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Moisture-Wicking | CAMEL CROWN Hiking Shirt Men Long Sleeve Outdoor Shirts
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Best Overall | BALEAF Men's Quick Dry Short Sleeve T-Shirt
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Best For Layering | Denali Performance Men’s UPF 50+ ProtectUV Short Sleeve T-Shirt
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Best For Tall Anglers | Filthy Anglers Men's Active Fishing Filth Side Ultra T-Shirt
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Best Overall | Columbia Men's Bahama II Short Sleeve Shirt
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Stylish | Columbia Men's PFG Super Bahama Short Sleeve Shirt
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Comfortable | Columbia Men's Bonehead Short Sleeve Shirt
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Long Sleeve Fishing Shirts
In the realm of summer fishing shirts, there are two main options:
- Long-sleeve
- Short-sleeve
Your choice is based on the weather conditions of your fishing spots and the amount of shade. Long-sleeve fishing shirts are perfect if you go fishing in sunny spots because it provides extra sun protection and coverage to keep your skin against sunburn.
In this category, it is divided into t-shirts and button-up shirts.
T-Shirts
In comparison, t-shirts give you extra comfort and flexibility in movements than the button-up shirts as they’re commonly made of softer fabric.
Also because of that, it is easy and fast to dress/undress.
But take note that it delivers less protection and tends to stick to your perspiring skin. If these are just a minor flaw to you, this is a great choice.
Best Overall (T-Shirts): Hanes Men's Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt UPF 50+
- Lightweight, rapid-dry, and durable – made of 100% polyester
- Great sun protection – UPF 50+ rating
- Easy to style – plain design, printable fabric texture, and 14 color options
- Not hold up well (which is acceptable for the price)
Start with the most inexpensive option in this category but don’t worry, you’re going to love its soft, silk-like fabric hand-feel.
It is 100% polyester material added with UPF 50+ rating, which not only gives you phenomenal moisture-wicking properties but also ultimate sun protection. The whole design is super-minimalist but its fabric texture is printable if you want.
The size chart is diverse – from XS to 3XL, and there are 14 color options to choose from.
| Hanes Men's Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt UPF 50+ Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 4 oz. |
Material | 100% Polyester |
UV Protection Rating | 50+ UPF rating |
Highlight Features | made of 100% polyester; UPF 50+ rating; |
The simple-looking yet cool Hanes Men's Long Sleeve Cool Dri T-Shirt wins our Editors’ Choice award for the best overall option.
Best For Avid Anglers (T-Shirts): Long Sleeve Fishing T-Shirt for Men and Women
- Look cool and stylish – unique graphics and impressive design
- Perfect for all-year-round usage – 100% microfiber & Dri-fit wicking tech
- Dependable sun blockage - UPF 50+ rating, recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation
- A bit overpriced
- It gets heavy if submerged
- The inside tag-less print shows through the fabric.
This long-sleeved t-shirt from Southern Fin Apparel allows you to go fishing in style.
It has a total of 9 color and pattern options to consider, highlighting a huge, unique graphic on the back, brand name along one sleeve, and brand logo on the left chest. Quite easy to mix and match!
What’s worth talking about is its fabric quality, which is made entirely from microfiber with Dri-fit wicking tech for superior cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It doesn’t cause you to feel uncomfortable or overheated.
Additionally, it has a UPF 50+ rating and is recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation.
| Long Sleeve Fishing T-Shirt for Men and Women Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% microfiber |
UV Protection Rating | 50+ UPF |
Highlight Features | unique graphics; 100% microfiber & Dri-fit wicking tech; UPF 50+ rating, recommended by the Skin Cancer Foundation |
If you’re an avid angler who appreciates comfort when looking for the best summer fishing t-shirt, this fits the bill.
Best For Large Waist (T-Shirts): Vapor Apparel Men’s T-Shirt
- Give you myriad color options to choose from
- Low-maintenance – able to be hand-washed or machine-washed
- Ideal for heavy-sweat people - Anti-odor technology, PURE-tech moisture-wicking technology, and 100% Microfiber Polyester jersey
- Some stitching has come undone
- Some color options are faded fast than others
If the American standard fit size of clothing commonly doesn’t fit you well, especially in the waist, this might be a nice choice because it overcomes that issue.
The price ranges are a sweet spot between the two above, around $20 to $30, which (we think) is reachable for most people’s budgets. The biggest plus is there’s an avalanche of color options to consider.
What we like the most about this option is you can either hand-wash or machine-wash it, and the UPF 50+ rating properties will be enhanced after a couple of washes.
About the material, we’ve got no complaints. It’s soft, lightweight, rapid-dry, and airy. The best part is it prevents odors pretty well after a long day fishing.
| Vapor Apparel Men’s T-Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | .6oz. |
Material | 100% Microfiber Polyester |
Sleeve Length | 32” to 39.75” |
UV Protection Rating | 50+ |
Highlight Features | able to be hand-washed or machine-washed; Anti-odor technology, PURE-tech moisture-wicking technology, and 100% Microfiber Polyester jersey |
Specifically designed for large-waist anglers, the Vapor Apparel Men’s T-Shirt is our Best Buy award winner this year 2020.
Button Up Shirts
Now is the button-up shirt.
As stated above, this is a flawless selection for people whose priorities are more on the sun-protection and breathability side. As-built with stiffer form and a relaxed fit, it is not sticky at all if you sweat hard.
Best Overall (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt
- Fit anyone, really versatile – the size chart includes from XS to 6XL, and from Large Tall to 5X Large Tall
- Durable fabric - polyester ripstop
- Good ventilation – vented in the back & Omni-Wick Advanced Evaporation technology
- Antimicrobial & odor-free
- No horizontal openings below the shoulder blades
- The fit is a little on the slender side through the hips/stomach
Out of various candidates for this award, we find the Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt to be outstanding.
While giving lots of color choices and a super-wide size chart (from XS to 6XL, and from Large Tall to 5X Large Tall), it provides two spacious chest pockets with closure flaps and rod holders.
The fabric, on the other hand, is rather thick with UPF 40 rating but don’t fret, it is made purely from polyester ripstop, and there’s vented design in the back for good breathability.
A big bonus is the Omni-Wick Advanced Evaporation technology and Omni-Shade applications. Besides, it is antimicrobial to keep you always odor-free during the day.
| Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% Polyester Ripstop |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 40 |
Highlight Features | Diverse size chart; polyester ripstop; vented in the back & Omni-Wick Advanced Evaporation technology; Omni-Shade; odor-free |
We like nearly everything about the Columbia Men's Low Drag Offshore Long Sleeve Shirt, and decide to give it our Best Overall Choice award.
Quick Dry (Button Up Shirts): Jessie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Sun Protection Shirts
- Able to evaporate water within 10 seconds to keep dry - 100% high-grade polyester fabric
- Great breathability - horizontal vent on the shoulder blades
- Extra storage spaces - 4 pockets plus one hanger loop, one sunglasses hook, and one-rod holder
- Some buttonholes have fiber running through, making buttoning/unbuttoning awkward
At the price ranges of $10 to $25, you can’t beat this long-sleeved button-up shirt from Jessie Kidden.
It is made of 100% high-grade polyester fabric, known for top-notch rapid-dry properties that can quickly evaporate water within 10 seconds to keep dry. The horizontal vent on the shoulder blades is a huge bonus.
Its material, additionally, is also a permeability test for breathability levels.
Although this shirt is more on the slender side compared to the Columbia, it isn’t seen through and feels very soft.
A notable thing is it has 4 pockets plus one hanger loop, one sunglasses hook, and one-rod holder along with a widespread collar for extra coverage.
| Jessie Kidden Men’s Outdoor Sun Protection Shirts Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% Polyester |
Sleeve Length | 23.2” – 27.1” |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 50+ |
Highlight Features | 100% high-grade polyester fabric; the horizontal vent on the shoulder blades; 4 pockets plus one hanger loop, one sunglasses hook, and one-rod holder |
If your biggest concern when it comes to fishing shirts for hot weather is quick-dry properties, this shirt will never disappoint you.
Moisture-Wicking (Button Up Shirts): CAMEL CROWN Hiking Shirt Men Long Sleeve Outdoor Shirts
- Wick moisture well & dry fast – made of 100% nylon
- Airy - mesh-lined vent on the back
- The buttons sewing could be better
- Slightly overpriced
This long-sleeved button-up shirt from CAMEL CROWN is our last pick in this category, and it’s outstanding for top-notch moisture-wicking performance, thanks to the high-quality nylon material.
Compared to polyester fabric, it is lighter and more durable, meaning that it can hold up well against impacts, like scratching, and is not easy to pill.
For extra ventilation, it has a mesh-lined vent on the back.
| CAMEL CROWN Hiking Shirt Men Long Sleeve Outdoor Shirts Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% nylon |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 40+ |
Highlight Features | made of 100% nylon; the mesh-lined vent on the back |
Short-Sleeve Fishing Shirts
When is the best time to wear short-sleeve fishing shirts?
Good question!
Most pro anglers choose this shirt style on those days when the weather conditions aren’t too harsh, cloudy, or on those fishing spots that have plenty of big trees, a roof, or shade.
T-Shirts
Short-sleeved t-shirts are our recommendation if you want something easy to put on/take off, easy to pack without taking much space in your fishing backpack, or want to layer it.
It’s commonly the more inexpensive option than the button-up shirts.
But the big drawback is the lack of protection against impact and weather.
Best Overall (T-Shirts): BALEAF Men's Quick Dry Short Sleeve T-Shirt
- Deliver decent moisture-wicking properties, rapid-dry, and softness - 90% polyester and 10% spandex
- Enhance visibility when you go fishing in low-light condition - reflective logo and tapes
- Allow for extra freedom in movements - ergonomic seams
- No UPF rating
This short-sleeved t-shirt is made of a material blend, including 90% polyester and 10% spandex, known for decent moisture-wicking properties, rapid-dry, and softness.
It features raglan sleeves, high-visibility reflective logo and tapes, and ultra-long back hem for more coverage.
A big thumb-up for its ergonomic seams that offer extra freedom in movements so you can bend, lean towards, or backward with comfort.
For those who also care about styles, it comes with numerous color options.
| BALEAF Men's Quick Dry Short Sleeve T-Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 0.353 pounds |
Material | 90% Polyester / 10% Spandex |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 50+ |
Highlight Features | 90% polyester and 10% spandex; reflective logo and tapes; ergonomic seams |
The BALEAF Men's Quick Dry Short Sleeve T-Shirt remains among the most inexpensive with the highest overall performance. So, it’s our Editor’s Choice award winner in terms of the short-sleeved t-shirt category.
Best For Layering (T-Shirts): Denali Performance Men’s UPF 50+ ProtectUV Short Sleeve T-Shirt
- Good sun blockage - UPF 50+ rating, approved by MIF Seal & recommended by Melanoma International Foundation
- Fast water-evaporation capabilities - built-in WiKZ technology
- Not for tall anglers - Run a bit short
- Slightly tight in the chest and tight in the neck
Next up is a minimalist t-shirt from Denali.
It is a pure microfiber short-sleeved t-shirt with UPF 50+ rating that carries the rare MIF Seal of Approval, and is also highly suggested by Melanoma International Foundation.
Compared to similar counterparts, it stands out for the built-in WiKZ technology, which is known for superbly fast water-evaporation capabilities. That also means if you intend to wear it as a base layer, the apparel won’t be as sticky as others.
| Denali Performance Men’s UPF 50+ ProtectUV Short Sleeve T-Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% Microfiber |
Sleeve Length | 7 1/4" to 10" |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 50+ |
Highlight Features | UPF 50+ rating; built-in WiKZ technology |
Looking for the best fishing t-shirt for layering this summer? Try this!
Best For Tall Anglers (T-Shirts): Filthy Anglers Men's Active Fishing Filth Side Ultra T-Shirt
- Perfect for anglers with sensitive skin – soft, skin-friendly cotton fabric
- Ideal for tall people – extended length & available from size S to 3XL
- Not for people who aren’t a fan of big brand name printing
- Wish there were more color options
The last option in this category is specifically for tall anglers because of its extended length in the torso. Besides, it’s available from size S to 3XL.
Aside from style, it gives you two solid benefits – sun protection and soft skin-feel.
If you have sensitive skin that can’t withstand the roughness of other tough fabrics, this is a great try.
| Filthy Anglers Men's Active Fishing Filth Side Ultra T-Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Weight | 0.17 Kilograms |
Material | 90% cotton / 10% polyester |
Highlight Features | soft, skin-friendly cotton fabric; extended length & available from size S to 3XL |
Aside from comfort and moisture management, the Filthy Anglers Men's Active Fishing Filth Side Ultra T-Shirt is designed for tall anglers.
Button Up Shirts
Short-sleeved button-up shirts are completely contrasting to the t-shirts, with an emphasis on higher sunburn protection (because of its thicker and stiffer fabric), and enhanced ventilation.
If you don’t like the sticky feeling that happens to most t-shirts when you’re heavily sweated, this is a great selection.
Best Overall (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Bahama II Short Sleeve Shirt
- Breathable And Comfortable - Hidden Vents At The Back & Relaxed Fit decent Sun Protection - Tactel Nylon With Columbia's Signature Omni-shade Upf 30 Rating
- The sizing discrepancy
Columbia Men's Bahama II is Bestseller tagged on Amazon at the present.
Aside from various color options, its Tactel nylon has caught our attention. For those who don’t know, this fabric is famous for its decent sun protection that can keep your skin from sunburn and high heat.
Besides, it is breathable and comfortable. Combined with hidden vents at the back and relaxed fit, it feels super-airy.
| Columbia Men's Bahama II Short Sleeve Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% Tactel Nylon |
Sleeve Length | 32" to 37" |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 30 |
Highlight Features | hidden vents at the back & relaxed fit; Tactel nylon with Columbia's signature Omni-Shade UPF 30 rating |
In need of the best overall short-sleeved button-up shirt for summer fishing? This one is a perfect choice.
Stylish (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's PFG Super Bahama Short Sleeve Shirt
- Low-maintenance - machine washable
- Good sun blockage - Omni-shade UPF 30 rated
- Breathable and flexible in movements - a relaxed fit
- Provide extra storage space - two chest pockets with Velcro closure
- The hem is not straight
- Not wrinkle-resistant
You’ll like this button-up shirt if you’re seeking an Omni-shade UPF rated apparel made of pure nylon that is also machine washable.
It is endorsed by our expert testers for decent UV protection, especially UVA and UVB rays while saving your skin from getting burnt by high heat weather conditions. It also features a relaxed fit for enhanced breathability and flexible movements.
A great bonus is two chest pockets with Velcro closure. Aside from all that stuff, we believe it’s a great choice for those who are a fan of stylish multi-plaid patterns.
| Columbia Men's PFG Super Bahama Short Sleeve Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | Omni-Shade 100% nylon |
Sleeve Length | 31.5” to 36.5” |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 30 |
Highlight Features | machine washable; Omni-shade UPF 30 rated; two chest pockets with Velcro closure |
The Columbia Men's PFG Super Bahama Short Sleeve Shirt is our sure pick for anyone who needs not just a good sun-protection fishing shirt for summer use but also stylish looking.
Comfortable (Button Up Shirts): Columbia Men's Bonehead Short Sleeve Shirt
- Protect your skin against UV rays - signature UPF 30 protection
- Superbly comfortable – made of 100% cotton
- Deliver extra storage spaces – four chest pockets
- A bit pricey
The Columbia Men's Bonehead Short Sleeve Shirt is our pick for those anglers who focus more on the fabric’s comfort feeling.
It’s a pure cotton short-sleeved t-shirt featuring four chest pockets with closure flaps, vented in the back, and spread collar for extra coverage. The size chart is vast – available from Small to 4X-Large to choose from, and there are four color choices.
Like other Columbia relatives, it features signature UPF 30 protection that can block UVA and UVB rays.
| Columbia Men's Bonehead Short Sleeve Shirt Specifications | |
|---|---|
Material | 100% Cotton |
Sleeve Length | 31.5” to 36.5” |
UV Protection Rating | UPF 30 |
Highlight Features | signature UPF 30 protection; made of 100% cotton; four chest pockets |
Overall, if your top priority when finding the best fishing shirt for hot weather is comfort, try this.
How To Choose The Best Fishing Shirt For Hot Weather?
Material
When choosing clothing items for the hot weather, the first and foremost factor to consider is the material.
We will start by telling you not to go for cotton, one of the biggest reasons is that it soaks up moisture and gets heavy when it does. So, it’s not suitable to wear for a long time in the hot weather.
Nylon | Polyester | |
Highlight features | Derived from petroleum | Can be woven/knitted into the fabric |
Similarities | Waterproof Abrasion-resistant Resistant to mold and mildew Easy to clean | |
Pros | High elasticity Resilience Stain resistance Stronger | Dry quickly Resistant to shrinking and stretching Resistant to fading Can be dry-cleaned Recyclable |
Cons | Easy to fade under sunlight Not recyclable, not environment-friendly | Not breathable Risk of oil stains |
UPF Rating
When you go fishing, you will spend long hours outdoor, meaning the UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating is another crucial indicator when choosing a shirt for the hot weather.
The best rating is 50+, meaning 98+ percent of the sun rays are blocked from your skin.
But a 30-49 UPF rating offers protects your skin very well too.
Waterproof
The waterproof feature is a must when you pick clothes for fishing regardless of the weather. Therefore, always opt for a shirt that’s waterproof to wear on your fishing trips.
While nylon and polyester are the best material for fishing shirts that offer water resistance, an additional coating will increase this ability. You should look for a player of polyurethane that covers the fabric’s interior.
Which Brands Make The Best Fishing Shirt For Hot Weather?
Hanes
Founded in 1900, this brand has been offering comfortable clothes for consumers over the past 120 years. With Hanes, you will find the best products to keep you dry, fresh, and comfortable for long fishing hours.
Vapor Apparel
This brand focuses on making clothing products that help you withstand the heat in the hot weather. It offers high-performance, high quality, durability, and great protection from sun rays.
Columbia
Since 1924, Columbia has built its own reputation in making active lifestyle gear. If you need quality clothes for outdoor activities like fishing, this brand is a must-try.
CAMEL
With 15 years of experience in the industry, this brand offers clothing items for both casual and sports activities. Its products are trusted by sports fans and will surely keep you comfortable when going fishing.
BALEAF
Using its knowledge and expertise, BALEAF takes pride in optimizing outdoor activities for you. Not just quality, the brand also offers new technological features like airflow tech and compression to deliver the best experience.
Filthy Anglers
If you are looking for a fishing-centered brand, you must try Filthy Anglers. No matter what product you buy, a shirt or outerwear, it ensures the highest compatibility for fishing activities.
FAQs
How should fishing shirts fit?
Most anglers prefer a loose-fitting shirt, meaning the shirt should fit your body shape but not too tight, especially when you spend several hours in the hot weather.
A loose-fitting shirt lets the air move over your skin and allows for evaporation of your sweat, which helps you with temperature regulation.
Are all fishing shirts waterproof?
Yes, they are most likely waterproof. The reason is that fishing shirts are made of either nylon or polyester, both these materials are water-resistant.
What makes a great fishing shirt?
A great fishing shirt should meet the following criteria:
- Comfort
- Waterproof, high-quality material
- High UFP rating
What is the difference between UPF and SPF?
UPF is short for Ultraviolet Protection Factor, which indicates the amount of radiation reaching your skin.
For instance, a UPF 50 rating means 1/50 or 2% of the radiation will reach your skin, meaning 98% of the radiation is blocked.
Meanwhile, SPF (Sun Protection Factor) is based on how long it takes an area of skin exposed to UV radiation to turn red. Normally, your skin burns after 20 minutes, an SPF 15 rating means it takes 15 times that long for your skin to redden.
Is it better to wear long sleeves or short sleeves?
As long as your shirt is made of a comfortable material, it’s better to wear long sleeves as they keep you cooler, especially in the hot weather.
Conclusion
As of now, we hope that our comprehensive guide has helped you figured out what specifications to look for in the best fishing shirts for hot weather.
Remember that comfort is very important, so make sure your new fishing shirt is comfortable enough to wear throughout your fishing trips.
Good luck!
Bryan Listor
