The days of seeing someone walking down a road with a stick, some string and a bucket of worms are as much a part of American culture as hot dogs, baseball and warm apple pie. Since that time, anglers now have many choices this summer, depending on where they’ll be fishing.
While selecting your gear is half the fun, set aside the rods, reels, jigs, rigs and tackle box, and don’t forget these equally important, but oft-overlooked items:
• Take and use sunscreen. Sun poisoning only has to happen once for you to understand the relationship between sun and water. While the water may be ice cold, and temperatures outside chilly, sun reflecting off the water will still give you a glow that you’d rather not have. A sweatproof sunscreen that won’t run and sting the eyes is ideal, as is one that won’t leave a greasy residue that could affect your grip.
• Wear a base layer. A thin T-shirt is a must-have as a base layer, better if it’s made of fabric that wicks away moisture. There are even some that are made to be water-repellent and stain-resistant with anti-odor properties for those in warmer climes. Since this layer is in direct contact with your skin, you want something that will allow moisture to escape as you warm up throughout the day.
• Find comfortable pants right for you. Summer days on the water are sublime, but are usually an all-day events and call for versatility in your clothing. To that end, pants that convert to shorts can be ideal. Like shirts, pants should be stain-resistant. If the pants have plenty of pockets (with zippers) to carry anything extra, so much the better. If you don’t have access to a boat or dock, extend your fishing range with a good pair of waders.
• Cover your head. For warmer temperatures, a wide-brimmed hat will guard against sunburn, overheating and overexposure.
