Is there anything more relaxing than casting a line on a sunny day and soaking in the great outdoors? If you've already got your fishing gear ready, there's one more thing that can elevate your next trip—finding the perfect fishing hat. A well-chosen hat not only enhances your outdoor look but also provides essential protection and comfort. Here's what to look for when choosing the right fishing headwear.
What Makes a Great Fishing Hat?
When you're out fishing—whether from a boat, a pier, or the riverbank—your hat needs to work with the environment, not against it.
The best fishing hats combine comfort, utility, and durability. Keep an eye out for these key features:
- Water-resistant or waterproof material
- Built-in UV protection
- Packable design (crushable/foldable)
- Lightweight, breathable fabric
Fit Matters: Choose the Right Size
A great fishing hat should stay in place even in windy conditions. It should also sit comfortably for hours at a time. To find the ideal fit, use the size guide available in our Hat Sizing Help Center to measure your head circumference. From there, simply select the right size—many of our fishing hats come in men’s and women’s options.
Best Hats for Fishing: Styles That Work
Classic Fishing Hats (Bucket Hats & Outdoor Hats)
When most people picture a traditional fishing hat, they're thinking of a bucket hat. These timeless favorites have a wide, downward-sloping brim for all-around sun protection and are often the most affordable option. Looking for something more durable? Consider a boonie hat with an optional chin strap for windy days, or even a felt hat for cooler weather. Wool or hair felt is naturally water- and dirt-repellent and helps regulate temperature.
For summer fishing trips, a straw hat can be a lightweight and breathable option. Just keep in mind: straw hats aren’t ideal in wet conditions.
Classic bucket or boonie hats offer excellent weather protection and are a smart choice for serious anglers. Felt hats provide premium durability and style but may limit mobility and come at a higher price point.
Modern Fishing Caps: A Sporty Alternative
Fishing caps are gaining popularity—and for good reason. These sportier styles are lightweight and breathable, perfect for active outdoor use. Performance fishing caps often come with added features like moisture-wicking fabrics, sun protection, and even water resistance.
One downside? Most caps don’t cover your neck. But some styles include removable neck flaps to keep you shielded from the sun. On hot days, trucker caps with mesh back panels provide airflow and ventilation.
Whether you prefer a flat brim or curved brim, it’s a matter of personal style. However, curved brims typically offer better glare protection for your face and eyes.
Cold-Weather Fishing: Beanies for Anglers
Fish don’t hibernate, and neither do serious anglers. For fall and winter trips, fishing beanies are a go-to. They keep your head and ears warm and snug—perfect for long hours by the water. Though they don’t offer sun protection, you can easily pair them with polarized sunglasses when the sun’s low on the horizon.
When choosing a beanie for fishing, pay close attention to the material—opt for thermal or wool-blend fabrics for the best insulation.
Matching Your Hat with the Rest of Your Gear
A smart tip for styling your fishing outfit: repeat colors and patterns. If your bucket hat features a classic camouflage green, try matching it with similar shades in your jacket or vest. Neutral tones like beige, olive, brown, gray, and black are timeless choices for any outdoor wardrobe and help you blend into the environment—a win for both fashion and functionality.
Which Hat is Right for You?
While bucket hats are the go-to for many seasoned anglers, the line between performance gear and everyday style is blurring. These days, fishing caps dominate the sportfishing scene, while bucket hats have become a casual lifestyle trend.
No matter your preference—cap or hat—the key is to balance functionality with personal style. Whether you’re shielding your face from the sun, staying dry in the rain, or keeping warm in the cold, the right fishing hat can make all the difference on your next outdoor adventure.
Ready to gear up for your next fishing trip?
Explore our collection of performance fishing hats, bucket hats, and caps designed for both seasoned anglers and weekend adventurers.
