Wondering what to wear deep sea fishing? In this post, we share everything you need for a successful outing!
Deep sea fishing is a bucket list item for so many people! If you consider yourself a fashionista, this could be an activity that is difficult to know how to dress for style yet comfort and practicability.
In this post, we will discuss what to wear deep sea fishing, from skincare to clothing as well as accessories and other items to bring, so that we can be king of the mackerel!
Or, at least, we’ll have a great time out on the boat while deep sea fishing without worrying about the weather, our comfort, or our skin because we have you covered. These 17 items to pack and consider are precisely what you need to wear deep sea fishing to have the best day on your deep sea fishing adventure.
This post is all about what to wear deep sea fishing.
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Clothing & Accessories:
1. Long sleeve shirt
If know, I know, if it’s mid-August on the Gulf of Mexico, and this is where you’re fishing, you may wonder why you’d need a long-sleeved shirt.? The reality is that the ocean breeze can be chilly, the sun can feel too bright reflecting off the water, and long sleeves protect your arms from wind chill and sunburn. I love this button-down shirt! It’s technically a swim cover-up, but it can be worn for daily wear as well!
2. Rain Jacket
A waterproof jacket is a great idea to pack because the weather can change unexpectedly and rain showers can roll in unannounced. Or, if the wind is extra breezy, or the waves extra choppy, a rain jacket will help keep you dry from the ocean spray! If a rain jacket can be stylish, this is the cutest one we’ve found.
3. Long pants
Long pants are a great way to avoid contact with fish slime (gross, I know) so you can be more excited about catching king mackerel and less worried about the grime that comes along with deep sea fishing. These are the cutest quick-dry pants we could find! I mean, this is definitely one of those fashion pieces that are more practical than fashionable.
4. Sandals or boat shoes with a grippy sole
Having shoes with a sole that does not slide is going to be a very important item to wear on a fishing boat. You have to bring sandals or shoes that have good traction!
You’ll likely be standing for a good portion (or all) of the charter trip, and between the ocean spray and the fish you catch, the deck will get wet and slippery!
There will also be waves that cause motion, so it’s important to have your footing for the trip! I’ve had my chacos for years, I take them on any vacation and wear them anytime I get in the ocean. They are a staple in my wardrobe!
5. Hat
TBH, I think you should wear a hat anytime you are in the sun and protect your face! I 1000% believe it is one of the best anti-aging items you can own! But, let’s get back to the boat!
Most likely, there will not be a lot of shade, so you want to wear a hat on the boat, to avoid getting sunburned on your scalp, back of your neck, forehead, and ears. It’s also a great idea to have a hat just in case there is a pop-up rain shower! My favorite sun hat is this bora bora booney one with an all-around brim, like the back-in-style bucket hat!
6. Sunglasses
I don’t know about y’all but I am always looking for any reason to buy a new pair of sunglasses. But, with regard to going out on the ocean, sunglasses are a must because that bright sun will bounce back to you when it refracts against the deep open water. Sun glare is no joke and you’ll want to protect your eyes—how else will you look for your favorite type of fish?! I’ll always come back to my tried and true favorites these raybans. I love them because they are perfect for a narrow face.
Skincare:
7. Lip balm
Skincare is another absolute must when it comes to your deep sea fishing trip. Believe it or not, the saltwater from the ocean can really dry out your skin! And, in my experience, my lips were the first to feel it! You definitely want to have your chapstick, lip balm, lip oil -whatever your preference. Something moisturizing for your lips is a great thing to have on hand. Between the wind and the sun, you’ll want a little extra balm! Lip Balm with SPF is a great idea too.
8. Hand sanitizer
Not the most glamorous activity, deep sea fishing can be dirty work, but having hand sanitizer on hand will keep you clean and fresh! Personally, I like the spray kind because it seems to rub in a bit more quickly, but YOUR favorite kind is the best choice. It will come in handy if you get any fish blood on your hands! Eww, I know.
9. Spf Protection
In addition to your sun hat and sunglasses, you should also wear and bring extra sunscreen. Sun protection is key as you can count on a lack of shade. My absolute favorite is this mineral-based sunscreen from ISDIN. I am obsessed (this is my everyday SPF).
Additional Important items:
10. Fishing license
Believe it or not, I didn’t even think about this the first time I went deep sea fishing! And, apparently, this is common! Not everyone remembers to pack their fishing license when they get together their fishing gear. Check your county, state, or country if this is a necessity. And, it’s a good idea to keep important documents like these in a dry bag so they stay dry on the boat.
11. First aid kit
It’s always a great time until someone needs a bandaid…which is why you should always pack first aid kits to be prepared in case of any type of incident. You’ll want to have a first aid kit that has gauze, bandaids, antibacterial ointment, and hydrogen peroxide or some type of cleaning solution to rinse any cuts. Typically a small first aid kit will have all of these items!
12. Fishing gear
When you go on a fishing charter, the charter boats will have a captain and a mate to help you, plus all the gear you need. But, if you are fortunate enough to have your own charter boat, you’ll want to bring your own gear, such as rods, fishing line, and even your own hook and lures if you have a preference.
13. Waterproof bag
Waterproof bags are great to use instead of a purse because they’re waterproof! You’ll want to have one for your phone, keys, wallet, and maybe another larger one to use as a wet bag for any clothes or towels that get wet.
14. Seasickness medication
If you’re not used to being on a boat you could have some sea sickness. If you’re prone to this, try taking Dramamine or other seasickness medication a little before your deep sea fishing charter starts. Another great thing to have on hand for seasickness is anti-nausea seasickness bands, and just wear them on your wrist while on the boat!
15. Water and snacks
Of course, lots of water to keep you hydrated and your favorite snacks are totally a must!! Fresh fruits and veggies are great because you can cut them up ahead of time, and I personally like goldfish crackers, pretzels, or a variety of chips for that salty-crunchy combo to pair with fruit!
16. Money for gratuity
If you’re chartering a boat for the first time, you may not be sure whether to tip or not. The answer is, yes, bring a tip! You’ve hired a professional guide to take you out on the water and help you have a great day — and they bring the knowledge, skill, experience, equipment, and local history to make sure your deep sea fishing trip is the best it can be. An appropriate tip is 20% of the total cost of the charter to show your appreciation for all that your first mate and captain have done for your boat trip. This is a great article all about tipping/gratuity.
17. Be on time
Another way to be respectful and show appreciation for your fishing guides is to be on time. The guides will prepare for the trip ahead of time and arrive early to make sure everything is set for the excursion. They also know how the fish move, and their patterns. If you’re running late you’ll miss out on time spent fishing because they’ll have to regroup and reconsider where the fish will have gone, or where to go if another boat gets to the best spot before you. That’s why it’s important to be on time (or early!) for your boat trip.
Q&A:
What to wear deep sea fishing?
When it comes to what to wear for this fishing adventure — it’s all about layers. Of course, you’ll want comfortable sandals with good traction, but you’ll also want to bring long pants, a shirt with long sleeves, or a tank top, something for over your bathing suit. Think about light clothing with breathable material. You’ll want to dress for comfort and to protect yourself from the sun, wind, and any potential rain.
Should I wear pants for deep sea fishing?
You don’t have to, you can wear a bathing suit if you’d like. However, I would recommend bringing a pair of pants. This way you can protect yourself from sun, fish guts, and any errant fish hook that might accidentally fly your way.
What shoes should I wear deep sea fishing?
It’s important to wear shoes that are comfortable and that have good traction. Boat decks can become slippery with the ocean water that splashes up, and you’ll be on your feet for most of the day. I cannot recommend chaco’s enough. I have a pair, love them and have worn them on any charter boat trip, including deep sea fishing!
Can I wear flip flops deep sea fishing?
You can, but I would recommend a sandal with a strap on your heel. You will probally need your footing as the condidtions in the ocean can be choppy. And, if you do catch a big one, you’ll want to secure your footing while reeling it in.
IMO, It’s better to wear boat shoes or strappy sandals with a grippy sole than flip flops when deep sea fishing to protect your feet from blisters, sunburn, and any fish slime that might come up.
What to wear deep sea fishing for woman?
If you’ve never been offshore fishing or had a fishing experience in deeper waters, you may have wondered “what to wear deep sea fishing for a woman?” There’s no better time to enjoy the sun and water than on a boat, but you want to make sure you have many outer layers, sun protection, and important items for all weather conditions. We will cover which clothing and accessories to wear on your deep-sea fishing trip and extra items to bring in a waterproof bag so that you’re ready for anything and everything. You’ll have a great time in the deep waters saltwater fishing!
With this list of 15 items to bring for success on your fishing trip, you now know exactly what to wear when deep sea fishing. Prioritize comfort and protection so that you can enjoy your day and get the most out of your deep sea adventure. Fishing is not just a man’s sport, any woman can enjoy it (especially when she is feeling confident about what she’s bringing!). Anchors away friends!
This post was all about what to wear deep sea fishing.
