Fishing is the perfect excuse to spend hours outside, whether you're waist-deep in a river, out on the open sea, or sitting quietly on the banks of a lake.
But while you're focused on the next bite, the elements are taking a toll on your skin. Water, wind, and relentless sun exposure make fishing one of the highest-risk outdoor activities for skin damage.
In fact, research published in Photodermatology, Photoimmunology & Photomedicine found that people who do a lot of water-based sports, including fishing, have a significantly higher risk of developing skin cancer due to prolonged UV exposure. Hours on hours of UV inevitably increase your risk.
For Skin Cancer Awareness Month, LifeJacket are pleased to have partnered with Orvis UK to help raise awareness of the risks of skin damage and both play our parts in helping people understand the science and facts when it comes to your short, medium and long term skin health. So, with that in mind, here's how to stay protected both during and before you cast off.
1. Understand the skin risks of fishing
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UV reflection: Water acts like a mirror, reflecting up to 100% of UV rays back at you. That means you’re getting hit from above and below.
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Long exposure: Fishing isn't a quick sport. Hours spent outdoors, often with little shade, significantly increase UV exposure.
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Wind and salt: If you’re fishing offshore, the combination of wind, salt, and sun can dry out your skin, leading to premature aging and irritation.
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Cloudy days still count: Overcast skies don’t mean you’re safe—up to 80% of UV rays penetrate clouds.
2. Wear high-performance sun protection
Your best defence? A multi-layered approach to sun protection.
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UPF 50+ clothing: The most effective way to block UV rays is with long-sleeved, UPF-rated tops like these from the Orvis range for men and women. UPF garments allow less than 2% of UV rays to penetrate, providing excellent protection. Designed to keep you cool, they avoid any risk of sunscreen being missed, forgotten about or rubbing off. We like to say that UPF clothing is the ultimate physical barrier from the sun.
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Wear a hat with a wide brim: Opt for a hat with a brim of at least three inches to shield your face, ears, and neck from UV rays.
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Use a neck gaiter or buff: A neck gaiter or buff can protect your neck and lower face from sun exposure. It's possible to find breathable options, offering an additional layer of protection.
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Polarised sunglasses: Not just for spotting fish—good shades protect your eyes and the delicate skin around them from UV rays and water glare.
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Wear fingerless gloves: Protecting the backs of your hands is worth considering, as they're often exposed to direct sunlight. Fingerless gloves provide UV protection while allowing dexterity for tasks like knot tying and handling equipment.
3. Use the right sunscreen
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Go for SPF 50+: Higher SPF means better protection. Choose a sweat- and water-resistant formula that won’t run into your eyes. Our SPF 50+ Sun Protection Spray is compact, mess-free, and ideal for quick reapplication and our SPF 50+ Sun Gel offers excellent non-greasy, non-sticky coverage. We also have a pocket-friendly stick for face and lips.
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Apply generously and often: Most people apply only half the amount they need. Cover all exposed areas, including ears, hands, and the back of your neck. Reapply every two hours, or more if you’re sweating or getting wet.
4. Wash off and repair your skin
At the end of a long day on the water, your skin needs a little care—nothing too onerous or expensive.
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Rinse off salt and sweat: A quick wash removes salt, sunscreen, and pollution, preventing breakouts and irritation.
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Hydrate and repair: Exposure to sun and wind can leave skin feeling tight and dry. A lightweight, soothing moisturiser like our Daily Repair Moisturiser helps restore hydration and calm any redness.
5. Make skin protection a habit
The best anglers know that preparation is key. Skin protection should be as routine as checking your tackle box. Cover up, apply sunscreen, and reapply often. Doing this means you can enjoy years of fishing without the damage that comes with it.
Final word
Fishing is about patience, skill, and the great outdoors. But don’t let it cost you your skin health. With the right protection, you can keep doing what you love for longer. So gear up, protect yourself, and enjoy the water—safely.
