The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024

Fishing sunglasses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays that can cause permanent damage to your vision, but they also provide a shield from the sharp hook you’re flinging through the air. No one wants to catch a streamer in the eye.

Many factors go into a good pair of shades, but it truly comes down to quality lenses that are comfortable to wear. A good polarized lens allows you to peer through the water in ways the naked eye can’t. Technology has come so far, leaving anglers with nearly limitless lens options for every kind of fishing.

The lead author of this guide is Aaron King, a northern California-based competitive angler. Aaron spends most weekends casting into promising pockets of California’s best bass lakes. In addition to expertise on the water, Aaron is a self-described gear nut who never stops tinkering with his trolling rig and accessories. After testing dozens of sunglasses, this list contains the tried-and-true standouts.

Scroll down for our recommendations for the shades that will suit you well on the water. Check out our comprehensive Buyer’s Guide and Frequently Asked Questions sections for helpful tips, and have a look at our Comparison Chart to steer your decision-making.

Editor’s Note: We updated this Buyer’s Guide on March 29, 2024, by adding the Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames as our top pick, and ensuring all products are current and up-to-date.

The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024

• Best Overall Fishing Sunglasses: Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames

• Best Budget Fishing Sunglasses: Goodr Sunglasses

• Runner-Up Best Fishing Sunglasses: Bajío Vega

• Best Lake Fishing Sunglasses: Smith Guide’s Choice

• Best Wraparound Fishing Sunglasses: Maui Jim Makoa

• Best Large Frame Fishing Sunglasses: Bajio Stiltsville

Best Overall Fishing Sunglasses

Costa Del Mar King Tide Frames

Specs

• Fit Wide – A larger lens front designed for those who prefer to cover a greater portion of the face. Available in 6 or 8-base

• Frame Materials Nylon & Propionate

• Lens Options Polarized glass. Many color options

• Special Features Rx available, adjustable nose pads

Pros

• Versatile – can go from bar to boat with ease

• Removable side-shields offer extra coverage

• Lightweight and comfortable enough for all-day wear

• Engineered to prevent fogging and manage sweat

• Anti-skid coating keeps frames from sliding around on any surface

Cons

• Lack of frame color options.

• Shark gill venting is not an aesthetic for everyone, but it’s subtle

• Pricey

Rachelle Schrute

Versatile, ventilated, and offering awesome coverage, the Costa Del Mar King Tides ($329-349) are arguably the most adaptable and downright performance-driven pair of fishing shades currently on the market.  Engineered to move seamlessly from boat to bar, these shades boast a range of features that will make them your go-to for sunny adventures.

These shades offer excellent coverage thanks to removable side shields built to block backside and peripheral light, and your choice of mid (King Tide 6) or full-wrap (King Tide 8) frames. Multiple ventilation ports and sweat channels woven within the frames keep perspiration in check so you can see what’s in front of you, while also ensuring glasses don’t fog over. And, because their performance glasses above all, they only come with Costa’s high-quality glass lenses. Choose from a variety of polarized color options, including mirrored and non-mirrored lenses.

An especially innovative feature we found helpful on bumpy boat rides and while bobbing out in the surf: the anti-skid coating on the frame that prevents the King Tides from sliding around on any surface, wet or dry. The lightweight, but strong frames and the adjustable nosepiece mean these high-performance shades are customizable to fit your face and comfy enough to wear all day.

Fashion-conscious anglers might find the shark-gill venting unappealing, however, Costa does its best to make it subtle. However, we wish there was a larger choice of frame colors. The high price may cause some to balk at paying over $300 for a pair of sunglasses, but if you spend a lot of days on the water, the King Tides are worth it.

Whether it’s a full-send trip offshore or a leisurely day of fishing on the stream, the King Tides offer all of the performance features you want out of your sunglasses, and then some. Equally killer for beach life, surf sessions, and regular casual wear, you won’t find a more versatile pair of shades for any and all endeavors. Versatile and loaded with performance features, if you’re an angler looking for a top-quality pair of shades that also doubles as a lifestyle staple, the King Tides are for you.

Dive deeper into the amazing King Tides by checking out our in-depth review.

$349 at AmazonCheck Price at Glasses USA

Best Budget Fishing Sunglasses

Goodr Sunglasses

Specs

• Fit Medium; a smaller to average-size head fits this frame

• Frame material Triacetate cellulose

• Lens options Polarized

Pros

• Affordable

• Simple

• No slip

• No bounce

• Warranty

Cons

• No lens options

• TAC frame is not as durable

Rachelle Schrute

Take your pick of any polarized pair of Goodr Sunglasses (around $30), and you likely won’t be disappointed.

Our reason is simple. We asked several fishing guides we know what sunglasses they were wearing. We made it a point to look at or ask which shades people were wearing on the river during the first big hatch of the year. Our ballpark estimate is that eight out of 10 fishermen we know or have spoken with have made the leap to Goodr.

Not everyone has the budget to spend hundreds on shades, and Goodr has become the go-to for many fishermen who need the performance without the investment. They have a long list of different frame styles and lens options, each for around $30.

Best of all, they have a killer warranty, particularly for a budget pair of shades.

Goodr really is the right buy for the broke fisherman in all of us.

$25 at REI$27 at Amazon

Runner-Up Best Fishing Sunglasses

Bajío Vega

Specs

• Fit Large — 8-base curvature for greater wrap and side coverage

• Frame material Bio-based nylon

• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available. Many color options

• Special features Integrated leash compatibility, readers available

Pros

• Great lens technology

• Versatile

• Several lens options

• Eco-conscious

Cons

• Expensive

Rachelle Schrute

The Bajío Vega ($209-259) is a very close runner-up to the Costa Del Mar King Tides. We gave the nod to Costa in this instance, as we have a little more experience with the brand in long-term testing. Bajío is making some serious waves, and as long as the shades hold up for the long run, we’ll likely be seeing the brand in the top ranks more and more often.

Where these shades truly stand out is clarity. Bajío focused on cutting blue light, resulting in wildly clear views. With lenses in an array of colors to fit your specific fishing environment, the Vega is a solid choice that’s more than worthy of the runner-up position.

Wide temples, full coverage, and a reasonably aggressive wrap make the Vega sunglasses a pair of performance fishing glasses capable of getting the job done.

The only notable drawback is size. The Bajío Vega is big. If you have a smaller face, you might want to look at something like the Palometa — same performance, smaller frame.

$209 at Bajio Sunglasses

Best Lake Fishing Sunglasses

Smith Guide’s Choice

Specs

• Fit Large — big lenses with a comfortable spring-assisted hinge for non-slip

• Frame material Bio-based nylon

• Lens options Polarized poly and glass with Chromapop — Many lens options

• Special features Rx available, integrated leash compatibility, small and XL options are now available in the Guide’s Choice

Pros

• Premium quality

• Integrated leash and hard case included

• Great warranty

• Versatile

Cons

• Expensive

• Can’t fully customize frame and lens color options

Rachelle Schrute

Smith Optics is one of the best eyewear manufacturers on the market. The Guide’s Choice ($215-289) could honestly fit in any category on this list with just a simple lens swap. These frames have an aggressive wrap that’s wide at the temples, offering you top-notch protection in any conditions.

Known for having phenomenal lenses, Smith uses Techlite polarized glass, which cuts glare and reduces eye fatigue. We used the Guide’s Choice on an exceptionally sunny day on the lake where surface glare was brutal, but the excellent broad lenses kept us fishing comfortably late into the day.

The brand’s website clearly outlines which lenses are best for which applications in an easy-to-follow chart, so don’t limit these sunglasses to lake fishing. The rose-colored Techlite Ignitor lens would make these an awesome pair for small mountain streams.

The standard Guide’s Choice is best for large faces, but be sure to check out Smith’s two new Small and Extra Large frame size options for just the right fit.

$225 at REICheck Price at Smith Optics

Best Wraparound Fishing Sunglasses

Maui Jim Makoa

Specs

• Fit Medium / large

• Frame Material Nylon

• Lens Options PolarizedPlus2 Glass

• Special Features RX available, slightly adjustable temple arms, spring hinges

Pros

• Premium quality

• Hard case included

• Great warranty

Cons

• Expensive

• Not many lens or frame options

Rachelle Schrute

The Maui Jim Makoa ($279) doesn’t look like a pair of traditional wraparounds, but they are. You get all the benefits of an aggressive wrap-style pair of sunglasses, with the retro look of an everyday pair of shades. Like many of the others on the list, they have customizable frames and lenses to suit your particular fishing environment.

The ultra-thin glass is incredibly scratch-resistant and offers a crisper view than most polycarbonate lenses. You add a bit of weight when you go with the glass option, but it is worth it if you’ll be in sunglasses for the majority of the day.

Maui Jim is also one of the best when it comes to incorporating prescription lenses. If you’ve got aging eyes that are struggling to see those tiny flies, the brand has you covered.

$279 at AmazonCheck Price at Scheels

Best Large-Frame Fishing Sunglasses

Bajío Stiltsville

Specs

• Fit Extra large — generous lens coverage with an 8-base lens curvature for better side protection

• Frame material Bio-based nylon

• Lens options Polarized polycarbonate or polarized glass

• Special features Superb lens clarity, flexible hinges

Pros

• Many lens options

• Great lens coverage

• Hard case included

Cons

• Expensive

• No integrated leash

Rachelle Schrute

The Stiltsville ($259) stands out in this collection as one of Banjo’s largest frames, designed to make a statement wherever your adventures take you. With an “Extra-Large” 8-base frame size, these sunglasses perfectly capture the essence of embracing challenges on the water and joyful celebrations off of it. Bajío has truly brought their A-game to the table with this rad pair of sunglasses.

What sets the Stiltsville apart is its sophisticated design. By incorporating vented temple tips and vented nose pads, these shades keep moisture off and contact points cool with improved airflow and fit. The edges of the frames feature a distinctive curvature, infusing a sense of cool and collected style while delivering exceptional coverage against direct and indirect sunlight. When you slip on the full-wrap Stiltsville sunglasses, you step into a world of possibilities, with a range of polycarbonate or glass lens options to choose from.

Also, check out the Las Rocas for another great extra-large frame option from Bajio. But for our favorite large-frames for fishing, we reach for the Stiltsville.

$209 at Bajio SunglassesCheck Price at Scheels

Best of the Rest

Smith Boomtown

Specs

• Fit Medium / large — Broad lens coverage with a lightweight frame. 6-base lens curvature

• Frame Material Bio-based nylon

• Lens Options Polarized Chromapop polycarbonate

• Special Features Spring hinges

Pros

• Lightweight

• "Active fit" — rarely slips

• Great lens coverage

Cons

• No included accessories

Rachelle Schrute

The Smith Boomtown ($175-215) sunglasses combine a retro design with a practical approach. Smith integrates its cutting-edge ChromaPop technology into these oversized lenses, delivering full-wrap coverage and top-notch clarity in a single offering. Consider this pair the boldest statement on this list — a fusion of style and substance.

Still, appearances can be deceiving. The Boomtown is crafted to handle every facet of your day, making it a true companion from dawn until dusk. Pair these frames with the right polarized lens, and they might just become your next go-to eyewear.

Our initial tryout of these sunglasses was an eye-opener. With their lightweight frame, we half-expected them to easily slip off with the lapping of a wave against the boat’s side. However, much to our surprise, they held firm. This remarkable grip is attributed to their MEGOL pads, which ensure a non-slip connection to the temples, even in challenging conditions.

The Boomtown not only embraces a nostalgic aesthetic but also embodies robust functionality, making it a versatile companion for both style-conscious adventurers and dedicated anglers alike.

Check Price at Smith OpticsCheck Price at Scheels

Bajío Cometa

Specs

• Fit Medium; a medium lens with an 6-base curvature for a more open design and flat side coverage

• Frame material Lightweight bio-based nylon material

• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate available — many color options

Pros

• Classic style

• Great lens technology

• Several lens options

• Eco-conscious

Cons

• Expensive

Rachelle Schrute

The Cometa ($209-259) from Bajío has a cool retro look and a comfortable fit. Most notably, they stay on a ball cap when we pop them up there. If you’re a person who often puts their shades on their head, you know how irritating it can be when they flop off and don’t stay put.

As far as performance, these are top-notch. The rose mirror lenses, in particular, are incredible on small waterways. They have a really nice balance for seeing through that top water reflection without blocking out too much light. Bajío uses LAPIS technology to cut 95% of blue light up to 445 nm, resulting in less eye fatigue and a crazy crisp view.

On top of that, they’re a fairly new company making pretty big waves in both the sunglass world and the conservation world. Check out our profile of Bajío and the work they’re doing.

$209 at Bajio Sunglasses

Wiley X P-17

Specs

• Fit Medium / large — fits the average angler well

• Frame material Triloid nylon

• Lens options Polarized

• Special features Rx available, ANSI Z87.1+ lens impact safety standards, integrated leash compatible

Pros

• Tried and true

• Affordable

• Durable

• Integrated leash included

Cons

• Might be a bit small for larger faces

Rachelle Schrute

The Wiley X P-17 ($185) features a low-profile frame with a lightweight, incredibly durable polycarbonate lens. These shades have been a favorite for years both for their sleek, athletic profile and because they meet ANSI Safety Standards for high-impact resistance. That’s right — these are fishing sunglasses that are also classified as safety glasses.

All that is to say, they are durable.

One of the major perks of such an aggressive wrap style is the ability to block out ambient light from your peripheral vision. That in itself makes it an awesome shallow-water pair of shades. No one needs all that crazy bright light reflecting in from the sides.

The polarized lenses are offered in multiple colors, all of which offer 100% UVA/UVB protection.

The P-17 is a solid choice for those bright fishing scenarios, or any performance fishing situation where durability and light management are important.

Check Price at Wiley XCheck Price at Amazon

Fin-Nor Tilloo

Specs

• Fit Medium — 6-base curvature with flatter-than-average coverage

• Frame material Bioresin

• Lens options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate

Photo/Fin Nor Sunglasses

Pros

• Stylish

• Comfortable

• Non-slip

Cons

• On the smaller side

Rachelle Schrute

Fin-Nor, known for building hardcore reels for heavy-duty fishing, released a new line of performance eyewear, and it does not disappoint. The Tilloo with a Blue Mirror lens ($209-259) is an offshore workhorse.

These shades give you the protection you need from both direct sunlight and indirect reflected light from the water’s surface. Available in polycarbonate and glass lenses, these new-to-market shades are sure to see a lot of time on the deep water.

Because they are new to the market, it’s tough to speak of durability. Our experience so far is that they seem to have a quality build. Only time will tell if the Fin-Nor line of shades will measure up to the existing competitors. At this point, we have high hopes.

Check Price at Fin-Nor

Costa Del Mar Lido Sunglasses

Specs

• Fit Large — designed to fit those with an average-sized head. 6-base curvature

• Frame Material Bioresin

• Lens Options Polarized glass and polarized polycarbonate

• Special Features Rx available, adjustable nose pads

Pros

• Great clarity

• Versatile

• Lens options

• Adjustable nose pads

Cons

• Expensive

• No integrated leash but Croakie compatible

Rachelle Schrute

Costa Del Mar has become one of the most well-known performance fishing sunglass manufacturers. The Lido Frame with a Green Mirror Lens (poly $224, glass $284) is a perfect pair of shades in an area with intense direct light, where you’ll likely be sight fishing. The Lido is an awesome addition to your gear pile whether you’re headed to the flats to chase bonefish or to the mountains to chase trout.

These shades have a classic look, with the added function of both top and side shields. The nose pieces are adjustable without protruding, giving you a more secure fit. They are comfortable and protective, and they perform.

Costa’s 580 lenses are known for their color-enhancement capability, making distinguishing fish from their surroundings so much easier. These are an asset when sight fishing in intense light, regardless of your target.

With the option of polycarbonate or glass lenses, you have the ability to tailor your weight and durability preferences.

$224 at AmazonCheck Price at Glasses USA

Hobie Mojo Float

Specs

• Fit Large — Generous lens coverage with an 8-base lens curvature

• Frame material Low-density nylon polymer for buoyancy

• Lens options Polarized polycarbonate

• Special features It floats!

Pros

• Affordable

• Durable

• Lightweight

• Floats

• Good clarity

• Case included

Cons

• Not many lens options

Rachelle Schrute

If you’ve ever experienced that heart-sinking moment of dropping something into the water while fishing, then you’ll truly appreciate the thinking behind Hobie Eyewear’s Mojo Float ($100). These sunglasses are not just a style statement, they’re a practical solution. Crafted with an ultra-lightweight yet durable frame, the Mojo Float is designed to defy gravity — staying afloat above the water’s surface. This innovation ensures you won’t have to bid farewell to your favorite shades in case of an accidental slip.

These sunglasses boast a full coverage frame paired with a durable polarized lens, showcasing Hobie’s HydroClean 360 technology. With this lens technology, you can count on superior visual clarity, a reduction in glare, and effective protection against harmful UV rays.

The Mojo Float sits perfectly at a price point that appeals to dedicated anglers who value quality without sacrificing their budget. These sunglasses offer not only an impressive feature set but also the peace of mind that comes with Hobie’s renowned Lifetime Warranty. Backed by their exceptional customer service, Hobie ensures that your investment is not only in a pair of sunglasses but in a commitment to enduring quality and performance.

Check Price at Hobie Eyewear

Maui Jim Alenuihaha

Specs

• Fit Medium/large — broad coverage with tighter wrapped 8-base curve

• Frame material Nylon

• Lens options PolarizedPlus2 Glass

• Special features Rx available, spring hinges

Pros

• Premium quality

• Hard case included

• Great warranty

Cons

• Expensive

• Not many lens or frame options

Rachelle Schrute

Thinking of the tropics? Check out Maui Jim’s Alenuihaha ($279) sunglasses. They blend a rectangular style with a reliable fit and top-notch lens clarity. We couldn’t resist taking them to the beach for some surf fishing. With Maui Jim’s new Hawaii Lava lens, we felt seriously cool in these shades. The PolarizedPlus2 technology made the views incredibly clear with a vibrant yet natural contrast.

The frame was just right — not too heavy, not too light — comfortable even after a long day at the beach. The lenses aren’t oversized, and folks with small to average faces can expect a solid fit. If you want magnification or prescription, the Alenuihahas have plentiful options. These should be on your radar when you’re shopping for your next sunnies.

check price at Cabela'sCHECK PRICE AT AMAZON

Costa Del Mar Waterwoman 2

Specs

• Fit Medium — Average coverage with open frame design

• Frame Material Bioresin

• Lens Options Polarized polycarbonate and polarized glass

• Special Features Rx available

Pros

• Premium Quality

• Unique Style

Cons

• Expensive

Rachelle Schrute

The Waterwoman 2 ($204-284) is a fashion-forward choice with nearly indestructible polarized lenses. They’ve been a hit with women on the water since the original version was released a few years back. The bold frame — with a wide temple and narrow fit — offers a touch of flair to a functional pair of performance fishing glasses.

These are the favorite sunnies of GearJunkie tester and former editor Nicole Qualtieri. For female anglers, they offer a silhouette that feels less bro-ey fishing guide, and more girl having fun on the water. Plus, the lenses are among the toughest we’ve ever worn. Here’s what Qualtieri has to say about them:

“I’m seriously hard on sunglasses. They don’t survive me. These didn’t either; they fell in the Gallatin River in a kayak accident, never to be seen again. But, after months of devoted wear and undevoted care, they didn’t have a scratch on them. By far, the best sunnies I’ve ever worn.”

Covered by Costa’s awesome warranty, the Waterwoman 2 is an excellent option for the ladies, or for the more fashionable gents.

$284 at AmazonCheck Price at Glasses USA

Oakley Holbrook

Specs

• Fit Medium / large — Average coverage with a flat 6-base curvature

• Frame Material Lightweight nylon composite

• Lens Options Polarized Prizm polycarbonate

• Special Features Rx available

Pros

• Very versatile

• Stylish

• Many variations

• Tried and true

Cons

• No glass lens option

Rachelle Schrute

Another pair of shades with classic styling with epic performance features, the Oakley Holbrook ($157-217) comes in nearly unlimited frame and lens combinations. You can really customize them exactly the way you want. From metal frame options to dozens of color options, the limits are few.

The Holbrook is a larger frame, lightweight, has a high nose bridge, and is a good choice for those with bigger heads, wider faces, and stronger nose builds. These are solid frames for the big dogs.

$157 at REI$167 at Amazon

Gatorz Delta Polarized Sunglasses

Specs

• Fit Large — excellent wrap and side coverage with an 8-base curvature

• Frame Material Anodized aluminum

• Lens Options Non-Polarized, polarized, OPZ (digital screen visibility), and ballistic (extra lens strength) — many color options

• Special Features Rx available, adjustable nose pads and frame

Pros

• Versatile

• Several lens options

• Durable

• Lifetime Warranty

• USA Made

Cons

• Some anglers find the aluminum frame uncomfortable

Rachelle Schrute

The Gatorz Delta Polarized Sunglasses ($215) are not explicitly designed for fishing, but they do the job well. This product line is designed more for shooting sports, but the lens quality and durability make it a great pair of fishing shades. The muted tones would be great for early season hunting and everyday wear, and still function well on the river. They aren’t your typical loud pair of fishing sunglasses.

The big difference between these sunglasses and the others on the list is construction. The frame is aluminum. It has a distinctly different feel than your typical pair of sunglasses, which you may love or hate.

They have adjustable nose pieces, which help the overall fit but also, the aluminum frame can be shaped to fit your face. They feel substantial in hand, and the durability is likely untouched.

A word of caution: If you’re going to leave these on the dash, make sure to do a quick temperature check before you scald your temples with sizzling aluminum. It should go without saying, metal gets hot in the sun.

$215 at Amazon

Fishing Sunglasses Comparison Chart

How We Tested Fishing Sunglasses

Just like most outdoorsy people, we live in sunglasses here at GearJunkie. No matter what kind of activity we’re doing we have a pair for the task.

Throughout our careers as outdoorsmen and outdoorswomen, we’ve learned a few things about what makes the right pair. Through rigorous and extensive on-the-water testing we narrowed down this list to some of our favorites.

Many experienced anglers contributed to this list, including our Hunt and Fish Editor Rachelle Schrutte and Aaron King — an experienced competitive sport fisherman based in California. The greater GearJunkie team has decades of collective experience on lakes, rivers, freshwater, and saltwater. Our testing process brought us to just about every teeming fishery under the sun — from Baja to Minnesota. Along the way, we assessed durability, shape and coverage, effectiveness, clarity, weight, and style.

While we did test some of the more popular models from major brands such as Maui Jim, Oakley, and Smith, we also checked out options from smaller more fishing-specific manufacturers.

As new fishing sunglasses hit the market, we’ll be sure to get our hands on them to ensure that our list includes the best of the best at any given time. And, if you’re interested in sunglasses for other outdoor adventures, check out our guide to the Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose Fishing Sunglasses

When shopping for fishing sunglasses, it’s important to consider your budget, style, activity, location, and personal comfort. This is easier said than done. Let’s break down a few of these key factors.

Fishing Disciplines

There are so many wonderful ways to fish. Some folks do it for work, others do it for fun, and some combine the two as professional sport fishermen. There are dozens of subdisciplines out there, but perhaps the most important distinction is freshwater vs. saltwater.

Freshwater

Freshwater fisheries include lakes, rivers, and ponds. Freshwater fishing is generally associated with tame water, fairly shallow water, and shady vegetated banks. Wide open lakes and reservoirs often come with sunny conditions and lots of surface glare. In such environments, a lens like the Costa King Tides that has side shields and offers a lot of protection will come in handy.

When fishing shallow water, a high-contrast lens can help identify movement while sight-fishing. We’re strong proponents of finding a single versatile pair of glasses like the Smith Guide’s Choice that can handle all of your fishing needs. Still, every day is a little different when fishing freshwater, and it’s wise to own a few pairs that you can switch in and out of depending on the day’s conditions.

Saltwater

Saltwater fishing means large waves, big swell, huge fish, possible storms, and relentless sun. Again, every fishery is different but it’s safe to assume that you’ll be out on the water with the sun beating down and reflecting all over the surface of the water.

If that’s the case, you’ll want a pair of those very bright lenses to protect your eyes while you’re out chasing your desired species. For these instances, give the Wiley X P-17 or the Fin-Nor Tilloo a shot. Getting familiar with common weather patterns in your fisheries can also be helpful when shopping for glasses.

Saltwater is hard on gear, and sunglasses are no exception. If you want your sunnies to last in marine environments, we recommend seeking out a durable pair and treating them to frequent freshwater rinses. And, if you’re considering a trip to the tropics, check out our complete guide to gear you need to bring.

Lens Types and Materials

Lenses are the most important component of sunglasses. There are endless different lenses on the market, and each offers slightly different features and characteristics. Recent technological advancements in optics, as we see in the Bajio Vega, have been incredible and the standards for lens quality have never been higher.

With that said, there are plenty of sub-par lenses on the market. Quality is number one, but it’s also crucial to pick a lens that matches the weather conditions and water depth where you’ll be fishing.

Lens Color

We anglers consider color when selecting our lures and flies. We want to do the same when it comes to our lenses. Our eyes are powerful, adaptable, and delicate — but most of all they are unique. Every person has a different experience of light and color. We can’t say for certain what will work for you, but we can give you an idea of what works for most folks. It will be up to you to do some trial and error.

If you’re heading out to a local lake during a bluebird day and won’t be doing much shallow-water fishing, you’ll likely want to grab some blue or green mirror lenses. If you’re going out to fly fish on a free-flowing river, we’d recommend a high-contrast lens like copper or copper-silver. Try some low-light rose or silver lenses for evening fishing and good topwater bite.

Owning a different pair of sunglasses for every kind of weather isn’t feasible for everyone. We recommend that you first start with a pair of “do-it-all’’ glasses and branch out from there. Most of the frames that we mentioned in this article can be matched up with a green mirror lens to form a versatile workhorse. Many brands offer free exchange options — especially if purchased through retailers or distributors.

Lens Material

The other key lens consideration is material. Most frames nowadays offer both polycarbonate and glass lens options, such as seen on the Costa Del Mar Lido. Don’t be fooled by these simple terms — most modern lenses aren’t made of a single solid material. Instead, lenses often consist of 10 or more layers of different hair-thin materials and treatments including hydrophobic coatings, anti-reflective coatings, and anti-scratch protection. Due to these variables, we can’t strictly say that glass or polycarbonate is always better.

Glass lenses are known for supreme scratch resistance due to their inherent hardness. It’s also said that glass lenses can offer better optical clarity. Typically, glass lenses also make for a heavier pair of glasses.

Polycarbonate lenses are a great choice if weight savings are a priority for you. Every brand has a bit of its own variation when it comes to the lens materials that it offers. Like with color, we encourage buyers to compare specific lenses to each other rather than broad categories like glass and polycarbonate.

Fit

Ideally, fishing sunglasses are comfortable enough to wear all day long. Comfort is a direct result of fit. Finding the right fit for you takes time, but it’s a worthwhile process. Don’t compromise on this.

On the practical side, the right fit helps prevent sunlight from sneaking in from the sides, maximizing your eye protection. Features like adjustable nose pads and temple tips help provide a snug yet comfortable grip.

Many fishing sunglasses like the Bajio Stiltsville have large frames to maximize coverage and protection. This works well for those with large faces, but it can be an issue for everyone else. Refer to our comparison to get a better sense of the fit of all of our recommended glasses.

Durability

Along with advancements in lens technology, there has been a notable shift toward innovative frame materials in recent years. Many of the brands highlighted on this list have moved beyond conventional steel, aluminum, or other metal frames. Instead, leading brands have embraced alternative materials that offer performance enhancements and/or environmental benefits.

Current trends lean toward frames crafted from robust and heat-resistant nylon or acetate-based materials. Furthermore, there’s now a strong emphasis on sustainability. Many frames utilize biodegradable plastics or recycled plastics retrieved from our oceans, reducing the environmental impact in case a pair goes missing in the great outdoors.

Durability is a huge concern when it comes to small hardware and added features like nose pads and temple pads. When we fish, we put our gear through the wringer. We want glasses that don’t fall apart after a single season. We’re confident in the durability of the sunglasses on this list, but to best protect your investment, look for a pair of sunglasses with a decent warranty.

Bonus Tip

Buy Croakies. And if you don’t know what Croakies are, they’re corded keepers for your glasses. If you take a digger and end up face down in the river, they’ll keep your glasses from leaving your body. Some of them float, which is a bonus if you’re fishing deep water.

Seriously, buy them. You won’t regret it.

FAQ

How do polarized lenses work?

Polarized lenses absorb horizontal light. Because the light source is coming from above and typically reflecting from a flat surface below, the majority of glare is horizontal light.

By removing that incoming light with a polarized lens, you’re left with only vertical light. The result is the ability to look through the surface of the water with far less reflecting light interfering with your view.

Think of it as being able to utilize the ambient light under the water without a light shining down on it and flashing back into your eyes

The increased visibility makes sight fishing possible, even in bright conditions. It allows you to see underwater landscape features you may have otherwise not known were there.

What color lens is best?

When choosing a lens color, it’s essential to understand which colors work best in which scenarios. Costa does a great job explaining the best lens color for your activity.

Each manufacturer will have slightly different recommendations based on the colors/finishes they offer.

Adding a mirror finish to any color lens will help reflect even more light, giving you increased visibility in bright situations.

Sunglasses

The Best Sunglasses for the Outdoors in 2024

Go beyond style with sunglasses that combine classic good looks with next-level technology and design.

Sunglasses

The Best Driving Sunglasses of 2023

What’s the best pair of driving sunglasses that leaves you free to enjoy your drive? The answers are here.

The post The Best Fishing Sunglasses of 2024 appeared first on GearJunkie.