10 Best Fishing Hats for Sun Protection – Buying Guide with Reviews 2024

They say “Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and he buys a silly hat for a lifetime!” Well, we don’t mind being silly (why so serious, right?). But we want that your fishing hat is really good at guarding your head from the elements so you can catch fish with total peace of mind.

That’s why we shortlisted today’s most popular hats, caps, and beanies for all types of avid fishermen and fisherwomen. See which one suits you best. The fish may don’t care what you wear, but we do!

10 Best Fishing Hats Reviews

01 Columbia Unisex Bora Bora Booney (Best for Sun Protection)

Why it Stands Out To Us

Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear specializes in manufacturing outerwear, sportswear, and camping equipment with industry-leading technologies. The Bora Bora Booney deserves a permanent place in your fishing arsenal for its absolute sun protection and sweatproof features.

This booney is extremely efficient in keeping the sun off your head, neck, and face. The sweatband and mesh venting complement each other to keep you cool all day long. Just give it a try and you’ll soon realize how extraordinary it is –  the very reason this is so popular in the fishing community.

Our Experience with the Columbia Bora Bora Booney

• The wide brim ensures optimum sun protection and it folds neatly to fit into any bag or your backpocket.
• The weight is negligible when compared to other similar types of boonies. You won’t have to fight with sweaty hair even after you have spent the entire day under the sun.
• In case you get caught in the rain, the hat dries off quickly although the brim is likely to become droopy and obstruct your vision for a while.
• The OMNI-WICK technology shows its magic even in unbearably hot and humid conditions
• It comes in one size but an adjustable string is positioned inside to secure the best fit. There’s also an additional string to keep your head covered in case the breeze gets too stiff.
• The earth tone colors compliment nearly all types of fishing clothing and the dark underbrim helps look deeper into the water.
• This hat is built to last. We sat on it, got it soaking wet, then tossed it in a duffle. Yet, when we took it out, it seemed totally immune to all kinds of abuse.
• If bugs and mosquitoes dare to spoil your day, you can easily fit a mosquito head net to keep them at bay.

What We Didn’t Like

The brim wasn’t that stiff to our liking, especially when it got wet. After the hat dries off, it tends to become a little crinkly.

What Could Be Improved and Why

• The underbrim could have been darker for some of the colors
• The strap didn’t seem suited for heavy-duty use but it held up nonetheless. We would not advise you to pull the strap forcefully.

Our Recommendations

Since this is a full brim hat, don’t wear it with large backpacks

Specifications

Pros

• Superior sun & sweat protection
• Quick drying material
• Lightweight- Similar to traditional baseball hats
• Durable- No crease detected in our crush test
• Mosquito head net attachable
• Value for money

Cons

• Droopy brims when wet and floppy when dry

02 FROGG TOGGS Waterproof Breathable Boonie Hat (Best for Rain)

Why it Stands Out To Us

FROGG TOGGS is famous worldwide for their excellent rainwear, footwear, and other outdoor accessories at affordable prices. The breathable Boonie hat is one of their most renowned products. No need to think about an umbrella, just throw it in your backpack and you will be saved on time.

In fact, you can crumple it in your pocket! The proprietary material from FROGG TOGGS resists water better than what you may have expected. The rain beater – that’s what you call this amazing beanie.

Our experience with the FROGG TOGGS Waterproof Breathable Boonie Hat

• From moderate drizzle to heavy downpour, this hat keeps your head dry with unbeatable consistency.
• Made of 90% polypropylene and 10% polyester, this may look flimsy at a first glance but you may put it through the rinser and see how tough it really is.
• We went overboard with the crushing and scrunching to see if the brand’s claim holds water. Somehow, the hat came back to its shape every single time.
• The wide brim protects well from the sun. When it’s neither pouring nor sunny, you can pull the hat behind with the chin strap.
• If you are fussy about the perfect fit, the two adjustable straps will definitely come in handy. You can tighten under the chin with one and use the other at the base of the hat.
• Weighing less than 2.5 ounces, the hat never felt like a burden when it rained, be it on the head or in the backpack.
• The camouflage color options may be appealing to hunting enthusiasts but we liked them anyway.

What We Didn’t Like

• Makes noise while brushing against branches and leaves

What Could be Improved

• The seam around the top needs better stitching because a small part of it leaked after a few days of use

Specifications

Pros

• Excellent protection from rain
• Chinstrap for windy days
• Great ventilation despite the lack of air hole vents
• Lightweight
• Crushable for storing in pockets
• Camo colors

Cons

• No insulation to avert cold wind sensation

03 Ddyoutdoor 07-281 (Best to Stay Cool)

Why it Stands Out To Us

Our next contender is the Ddyoutdoor 07-281 Fashion and Sun Protection Fishing Cap that fits super well and provides great protection from the sun with the brim, mask, and back flaps. Grab one of these for fishing, camping, boating, hiking, or any other outdoor activity and you will be safe throughout the day.

Our Experience with the Ddyoutdoor 07-281

• 100% nylon, Ddyoutdoor 07-281 felt comfortable with our glasses on and the mesh netting on the mask didn’t gather moisture after hour-long usage. The lightweight back flap never felt like a burden on the neck.
• The cap is so lightweight that you won’t feel anything on your head unless you tighten up the elastic strap to your chin. The strap is made from a cloth cord and can be adjusted for a tight fit when it’s windy or loosen up for a casual walk. What you may not like is the brim flipping in high wind.
• With ventilation mesh netting on top, it’s not exactly waterproof. However, it does a good job at resisting water and dries up quickly.
• The army green, gray, and khaki colors suit everyone from teenagers to veterans. The rose red is a good option for ladies.
• The ventilation around the top keeps your head cool. If you need better air circulation while the sun heat is low, just unsnap the back flap and mask and you will be fine.
• The stitching quality is up to par- smooth and finished with matching threads. The brim has a few couples of stitching lines all around that look great and probably will last long.
• The face mask includes a mash part for air ventilation and still protects from sunlight
• The back flap features five buckles to nicely cover the neck and head
• Tackles sweat great and dries up in minutes
• Mashed brass eyelets give a nice touch to the design
• Foldable for easy backpacking
• Floats on water for some time

What We Didn’t Like

The brim isn’t great at dealing with high winds. This can be a problem when fishing in the open sea.

What Could Be Improved and Why

The velcro attachments on the face mask need better positioning to prevent poking on the head

Specifications

Pros

• Stylish design
• Heads up to size eight fits comfortably
• Eyeglasses don’t fog up from breathing
• No need to use sun lotion
• Supports quick wash and dry

Cons

• Brim can’t deal with high wind
• Not suitable for cold wind protection

04 Carhartt Men’s Knit Cuffed Beanie (Best to Stay Warm)

Why it Stands Out To Us

Carhartt’s 100+ year legacy is known worldwide and they do amazing things with their products to meet the ever-changing demands. Starting with just two sewing machines and five workers, they surely have come a long way.

A good example of their professionalism is the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie – a great option for head and neck protection when hitting the waters.

Our Experience with the Carhartt Knit Cuffed Beanie

• The 100% acrylic fabric is the perfect weapon against cold windy weather and low temperature. The acrylic beanie holds sweat better than wool and is easier to maintain. The brand logo knitted on the front also gives a premium look to it. The thick knitting also gives an extra layer of protection to the head during the slippery ice condition, which is great.
• The stretchable material fits all head sizes. Even if you frequently pull it down to cover your head, it will still fit comfortably without wearing out.
• Carhartt lets you choose from 33 different colors for the knit-cuffed beanie. Perhaps you can pick different colors for your fishing buddies and send them over!
• Not made for wind protection but is still highly effective against strong wind. The extra double knit over front is a plus point for keeping the forehead warm.
• No stimulation of wrinkle or flexure from folding in hand or backpacking. The only visible crease is at the bottom of the lip – probably done by ironing in the production line.
• Though sold for men, women can also use it for fishing in chilly weather
• Lip isn’t sewn to the beanie – easy to pull down for forehead coverage

What We DIdn’t Like

• Lacks fleece lining

What Could Be Improved and Why

• It felt itchy the first time we tried it out. A proper wash before shipping may help

Specifications

Pros

• Suitable for both men and women
• Fits big heads
• No sign of wrinkles
• Rollable for packing
• A variety of colors
• Embroidery is possible

Cons

• Can be itchy sometimes even after wash
• Does not fit children

05 Safari Hat (Best for Bug Protection)

Why it Stands Out To Us

We chose the Safari sun and fishing hat for fishing in summer in water bodies full of bugs. This multipurpose hat is easy to carry in your backpack and keeps you protected from the annoying bugs. Despite the safety material, you get to enjoy good air circulation.

Our Experience with the Safari Hat

• The nylon material resists water like a champ but it won’t help from keeping the hat dry for a long time. The polyester mesh netting ensures optimum bug protection while the chin strap keeps the hat tight. There are a few couples of stitching lines around the brim – a nice touch for enhanced durability.
• The lightweight outfit is easy to carry or wear around for long hours. The crown is deep enough to fit any head size so you don’t have to stress about it. Still, if you find yourself in a windy situation, just keep the chinstrap tight. The hat and mesh netting won’t flip anymore.
• The Safari doesn’t claim to be “UV-protected” but surely provides optimal sun protection.
• Comfortable for long hours of tour, fishing, and hiking. You won’t feel the weight unless you tie up the chin cord. The sun protection deserves another compliment for comfort.
• Although the outfit comes in one size, the deep crown will fit your whole head real nice.
• The mesh liner has enough room for air circulation while inhibiting bugs. The open flaps on the top ensure proper air circulation
• A lot of thought was given when designing the polyester mesh netting. It’s long enough to fall on your shoulder so you don’t have to worry about gaps that bugs may find. The netting is permanently sewn to the edge of the hat – you will find a cord at the bottom line to keep it tight to your neck. We tied the mesh netting on the top of the hat with the cord until stepping into the lake. The face netting didn’t impede the view either.
• We liked the smooth, parallel stitchings around the brim, it gives a nice look to the exterior. The sewn between the net and brim means you won’t lose it in high wind or during a long trip.
• The chin cord helped keep the hat tight to the head throughout the fishing trip. We pulled the chin cord to keep the hat tight throughout the fishing time. The cord at the bottom of the net also helped to tie it up to the neck.
• Solid brim that won’t flap around
• The mesh net does not have odor
• Easy to breathe through the net

What We Didn’t Like

• Lacks weight down the netting to keep it stable in place

What Could Be Improved and Why

• Brighter head netting could allow better visibility

Specifications

Pros

• Superb protection from insects and extreme sun
• Suits all head sizes
• Stitching is smooth
• Great design for outdoor use
• Foldability and lightweight allows for easy carrying
• Multipurpose Use: Inhibits bug and protects from the sun
• Colors blend well with natural surrounds

Cons

• The back of the net pulls up a few inches if you look down

06 Columbia Unisex-Adult PFG Snap Back Fish Flag Ballcap (Best Ballcap)

Why it Stands Out To Us

Finally, a really stylish hat for the fishing enthusiasts out there. This cool, versatile, and comfortable hat keeps you comfy in hot summer days. Some hardcore fan rightfully said – “The only problem is that you can’t land any more fish with this cap.”

Our Experience with the Columbia PFG Snap Back Fish Flag Ballcap

• Mostly made of cotton – the soft fabric feels so comfortable on the head. The form fitting setup means it will sit on your head firmly so you don’t have to adjust the cap every time you wear it.
• We used this versatile cap on 90° F hot summer days and it kept our heads cool all day long. The blim is rightly shaped for effective sun shading and you can choose bright color blims for better heat absorption.
• It virtually weighs nothing. You can keep it on for hours and still won’t feel any extra weight. But you don’t want to make it wet since the soaked fabric will be heavy and take time to dry up.
• The ventilated back half is suitable for optimal airflow.
• Not a pre-curved ha
• Stretches a bit for a better fit

What We DIdn’t Like

• Some didn’t get their perfect size although they followed Columbia’s size chart

What Could Be Improved and Why

• Could be waterproof – a must for the avid fishermen

Specifications

Pros

• Great design
• Dozens of different colors
• Two different sizes for the best fit
• Backside mesh for good ventilation
• Sturdy

Cons

• Those with large heads may not feel comfy even with the last tab

07 Women’s UV Protection Wide Brim Sun Hats (Top Women’s Choice)

Why it Stands Out To Us

Here’s good news for those female anglers who don’t like to compromise on their fashion statement even when on a fishing trip. This stylish sun hat provides you top-level UV protection while keeping you cool for long hours. You’re bound to buy more for your family and friends once you give it a try!

Our Experience with the Women’s UV Protection Wide Brim Sun Hats

• This waterproof hat has mesh on the top surrounding that actually matches the hat for a  cute and fashionable look. There’s a chin cord to tackle wind while the back cord helps tighten the hat for a better fit. We used it in the rain and it kept our heads dry – no doubt the waterproof fabric works like a charm.
• The UPF 50+ certification already gives the assurance of protecting yourself from the summer heat. The super wide brim and comfortable fabric keep you safe from the heat while keeping the head cool.
• Fits even big heads and stretches a bit with wear.
• The mesh net on the top panels gives space for breathing inside. Although it was a sweaty, sunny day, our teammate was fine with the hat on. In fact, she had more trouble with the hat off and didn’t bother to take it off during the fishing trip at the lake.
• The stitching looks smooth. You won’t notice the bright color stitches until you look carefully.
• Although a free size hat, there is a cord behind inside the ponytail hole to facilitate better fitting. But that didn’t not make much difference in our case.
• Large brim actually looks better on bigger heads
• The brim doesn’t flap in high wind
• The mesh net has no odor
• Highly durable material and stitching

What We DIdn’t Like

• The bright colors may attract dirt

What Could Be Improved and Why

• The brim needs to be higher for better visibility

Specifications

Pros

• Suits different outdoor occasions
• Mesh fabric for air circulation
• Stiff brim
• UV protection at the best level
• Mesh netting on top
• Ponytail hole for tangle-free wearing
• Beautiful colors
• Easy to wash and clean
• Serves well on rainy days

Cons

• There could be wrinkles but will fade away soon

08 GearTOP UPF 50+ Wide Brim Sun Hat

Why it Stands Out To Us

The GearTOP wide brim sun hat keeps you cool with its clever mesh panel design. Although bigger than your baseball hats it provides better protection on hot summer days. Who knows this could be your best fishing companion

Our Experience with the GearTOP UPF 50+ Wide Brim Sun Hat

• Made from 100% polyester, the fishing provides the best protection from UV threats. We found the material soft and comfy for the head. We also appreciate the thought of surround mesh panels
• This is a UPF 50+ hat so you don’t need to bother about sunscreen lotion for fishing trips. The wide brim also protects your eyes and skin from sun damage
• The lightweight design means you can carry it inside your backpack without feeling a thing
• The GearTOP hat comes in five different colors, and all of them blend well with nature. Try the gray, khaki, or army colors if you want less attention from others. For deflecting sun heat, you’ll do better with light gray and beige
• The mesh panel does a fantastic job of transferring air into the forehead so you have less trouble with sweat
• There is flat stitching for extra comfort and the parallel stitches around the brim gives a nice vibe
• The polyester material isn’t waterproof but dries up pretty fast
• It facilitates hour-long fishing and doesn’t hold moisture or heat
• The floppy brim is comparatively wider

What We Didn’t Like

• Wider brim in the back than the front when chined up

What Could Be Improved and Why

• Needs a stiffer brim to stop flopping

Specifications

Pros

• Quick dry material
• Breathable mesh for surviving hot and humid days
• Lightweight and instant packing
• Dries within a minute or two
• Chin cord for fastening in the wind
• Back cord on the panel for a better fit

Cons

• The mesh may not help prevent forehead burn from too much heat

09 EINSKEY Sun Hat for Men/Women

Why it Stands Out To Us

Our next contestant provides excellent sun protection to your eyes and ears with its downward pointed brims. The combination of fine fabric, embroidery, and style makes this a superb accessory for fishing enthusiasts.

Our Experience with the EINSKEY Sun Hat for Men/Women

• The polyester material feels hefty and keeps the original shape. Keep it in your backpack for long fishing trips and it will still look awesome
• The visible side mesh panel – also incorporated beneath the polyester fabric on top – is there to provide air ventilation. It does a better job at ventilating than any baseball caps
• The water resistance capability is impeccable and the only thing you may find is droplets that might disappear with a few flicks
• A sweatband is sealed around the interior to inhibit sweat leaks, which is so much needed for fishing trips. Keep it in your backpack half-folded and you’re ready to go
• The 3.7-inch wide brim perfectly protects your eyes and the forehead.
• Be cautious to keep your head down though since it exposes your neck to the heat from the sun
• It’s a lightweight headpiece made of polyester with a brim. You can barely feel anything on your head unless the lake water spits on the hat and damps your hair.
• The EINSKEY sun hat comes in a single size and covers head circumferences of 22” to 24 inches. You don’t have to fight hard to put it on and can keep it tight with the chin cord on the back
• The stitching is satisfying and smoothly done. The quality of the sewing looks high and doesn’t rip off with decent use
• EINSKEY offers 16 different colors for this hat so you can tell the fishing has got some style! This is a great advantage for the people who want to stay trendy on fishing trips
• The chin cord is a good addition to the hat for protection against the wind. It’s solid and keeps the hat stuck to the head no matter how windy the weather is.
• Side seams allow easy folding
• The top area provides ventilation beneath the polyester material
• The buckle snap version allows you to pull out your ponytail
• Ties are included inside the sweatband to hang up the hat

What We DIdn’t Like

• Not completely waterproof – you may face trouble in the rain

What Could Be Improved and Why

• A stiffer structure could make the brimless floppy

Specifications

Pros

• Floats in water
• Certified sun protection level
• Easily foldable
• Lightweight

Cons

• Floppy brim

10 Home Prefer Mens UPF 50+ Sun Protection Cap

Why it Stands Out To Us

The Home Prefer Sun Protection Hat may not have a unique design. But it does its job well and you can always rely on it. The lightweight, foldable design promotes versatility that is commonly praised by fishing wizards.

The neck flap is an added bonus that ensures even better protection when compared to those without it.

Our Experience with the Home Prefer Mens UPF 50+ Sun Protection Cap

• Made of 100% polyester, the Home Prefer stands on the top tier of our fishing cap preferences for comfort and portability. You may find the shape a bit silly but it’s well worth the sunburn protection
• You can wear the cap without any pressure or force on your head. The chin cord facilitates tight fitting against high wind with its solid stitch
• The 4” wide brim does a fantastic job of keeping your eyes and forehead protected from the sun. But word shape of the brim gives it a bonnet-like look that may not be your cup of tea
• With mesh vents on the crown and on the back flap, Home Prefer has gone in the right direction for air circulation.
• Keep the back flap tucked into the hat when not in use
• Rinse the hat and it will dry up pretty quick
• The wide brim won’t block your view
• There’s a seam on the crown from front to back for quick folding

What We DIdn’t Like

• The short neck flap causes sunburn on the lower neck when bending down

What Could Be Improved and Why

• Needs a wider brim to cover both ears at once

Specifications

Pros

• Head circumference adjustable
• Does not hold moisture or swear
• Dries up quickly after wash
• Plenty of colors to choose from
• Ergonomic crown design
• Sufficient air ventilation

Cons

• Floppy brim

Best Fishing Hats: A Comprehensive Buying Guide

That being said, we will now lay proper emphasis on the things to consider when purchasing a bucket hat from the store. There are several factors to keep in mind and they’ve all been briefly explained in this section. In essence, this will help you become well-learned in the various things that must be considered before buying a hat.

• Type

There are quite a number of different types of fishing hats in stores including wide-brimmed caped hats, boonie hats or even baseball caps. There are also funny models with lures on them designed for kids and youths alike. Boys with a knack for fishing like them a lot.

Also, you’ll find brimless beanie models with LED light for night fishing. Just make sure to go for the type that fits the head and the weather condition simultaneously.

• Ventilation

Since most of our body heat is emitted through the head, a fishing hat that does not possess sufficient ventilation can result in overheating or risk heat stroke.

• Hat size

Fishing hats come in a wide variety of sizes so you might want to ensure that you get one that isn’t too tight to cause discomfort or too loose to get blown off by the wind. If you are a big guy, try XXL size instead of squeezing your head in a smaller size. We suggest a free size for old men.

• Material

Most modern fishing hats are made of a combination of cotton and polyester which ensure flexibility and overall comfort. One that is prevalently cotton favours moisture absorption while the polyester provides greater flexibility and general comfort to the head. There are leather models out there with higher price tags.

• Cool factor

The style of hat that you intend to purchase should be chosen based on many factors such as your face’s shape and your preferred style. People prefer camo designs for hunting purposes.

• Adjustability

While fishing, make sure you fasten the strap properly so you dont drop your hat into the water. This is only possible when your model is featured with an adjustable strap to increase the balance on the head.

• Retention method

This factor merely emphasizes the fishing-hook-retention method. It is a method for forming a system used to secure items like fishing hooks. It’s an interesting way to support retaining and storing fishing equipment.

• Color

Color plays a great role here. White and light colors are great for bright sunny days. Camo designs are good for bowfishing and hunting. Bright colors like yellow, pink, rainbow, red, light blue, camouflage army green, radium green, orange, or tie-dye designs should be worn when fishing in low light for better visibility.

For ice-fishing, choose something dark or black. Also, you can match it with the color of your wader if you want.

• Fade Resistance

Considering the long period you could be out there fishing whether, in the sun or rain, you wouldn’t want to use your hard-earned money to purchase a hat that will fade over a short time.

• Waterproof Outer Shell

The rain could fall mildly or in cats and dogs, however, you are always prepared for the worst-case scenario having equipped a waterproof bucket hat. The waterproof feature simply protects your head from being soaked and getting sick.

• Adjustable Chin Strap

Strong sea breezes pose a great impact in losing a nice fishing hat. Perhaps, you stay in a windy environment with lots of trees and other factors that promote strong winds. Be sure to get a hat with a simple, adjustable chin strap to keep it firm on your head without worrying about the hat displacing every now and then.

• Sun protection

When the heat radiating from the sun keeps baking you while you are fishing, you become prone to damages caused by UV rays and heatstroke. There are nifty hats that are designed to prevent the sun rays from affecting your head during the activity.

• Wide brim

The wide brim typically enhances protection from the sun rays by covering the user’s facial area in a bid to provide better comfort. Try not to go for one that is too wide for your head’s shape else you might have difficulty detecting fish properly.

• A multitude of Design

Fishing hats come with plenty of designs and styles. You can get units with a stitched or embroidered tuna, coal fish, cod, yeti redfish, flies, blobfish, tarpon, snook, manta ray, fishbone, Rebel Lure, San Francisco 49ers’s logo or striped bass on it (like the ones seen in Sandlot film).

Some may read Gone Fishing, Newfie Mom, Shut Up and Fish, Magellan, Salt Life and other humorous sayings.

People also like low profile Quint hats, felt hats, koi fish berets and fishing fedoras for casual trips, and for fly fishing Grateful Dead Bright Green hats are also getting popular.

Why You Need a Fishing Hat

Fishing Hats, also classified under Bucket Hats, are headgears worn by individuals when going fishing (not the ones with a fish logo on top of it). The hat is typically made from heavy-duty cotton fabric like denim or canvas in form of a wide, downward-sloping brim.

A fishing hat can be worn for various reasons as a protective measure against hostile weather conditions. Let’s look at some instances that may give you a better insight into the importance of buying this gear.

• Protection from cold: The best fishing hats of the market are designed to keep the head warm and comfortable in chilly weather. In essence, they make sure that the body does not lose much heat.
• UV protection: Direct contact with the sun’s ultraviolet light rays can be fatal for our naked skin and the head. These UV rays cause skin cancer and sunburn. One of the most effective ways to avoid sunburn or related skin diseases from the sun while fishing is by equipping a hat.
• Hair protection: The hair could get damaged under harsh conditions if not protected. Dire weather conditions can also affect your health if the right protection is avoided. The head cap is one important gear to reduce such damages.

Considering the health benefits of hats, it is now clear that they are more than just fashionable headwears. If you’re wondering on how to get awesome fishing hats to suit your preference then never worry as we’ve got you completely covered. Our article includes how one can choose the best hats for fishing for individual needs.

Wrapping It Up