Apparel
Best Fishing Hats Available in 2024
We’ve put together a list of the best fishing hats available on the market in 2024. Check out our top picks to find the perfect hat for your needs!
Top Hats For Fishing In Any Weather
There are two types of fisherman in this world. The first is the casual fisherman, someone who enjoys hanging out on the boat or pier, soaking up some sun, and casually casting their line in the water.
The second is the more serious fisherman, someone who takes their fishing seriously, whether it’s for sport or business.
No matter what type of angler you are, you need to have a high-quality fishing hat to protect you from the sun’s harmful UVB rays.
Top 10 Best Fishing Hats
We’ve done the grueling work for you and tested dozens of hats to find the most effective fishing hats on the market.
Check out our top picks below to help you select the right fishing hat for your needs.
Top Overall Pick
Tilley T4MO-1 Hikers Hat
Looking for a hat that will keep you cool and protected while you’re out fishing? Look no further than the Tilley T4MO-1 Hikers Hat.
While we wouldn’t fault you for thinking the Hikers Hat was meant for hiking, we think Tilley must have just gotten a little confused when naming the hat because this wide brimmed hat is the perfect hat for all your outdoor adventures, especially when you’re fishing and the heat is on.
This Tilley hat is made out of a breathable cotton and spandex blend, that includes polyester mesh air vents, Hydrofil sweat wicking band, and HyperKewl evaporation inserts. All of this together keeps you cool even on the hottest days.
A water repellent finish helps keep the water out in the event it rains. The adjustable wind chin cord keeps the hat in place even if the wind picks up.
Rated at the highest SPF 50+ rating, this wide brim hat provides excellent sun protection. With its 3.5 inch front and back brim and the 2.5 inch brim along the sides the hat is an ideal choice for anyone looking for superior protection from the sun.
The Hikers Hat is made from buoyant materials that allow it to float, even if it accidentally falls into the lake.
The T4MO-1 is available in a full range of sizes and multiple different colors to get the right look for you.
Finally, the Hikers Hat comes with Tilley’s lifetime guarantee, that extends beyond the warranties that other brands offer, and even covers normal wear and tear. So if your hat starts to look shabby, simply call Tilley’s up and take them up on their lifetime guarantee.
All in all, the Tilley T4MO-1 Hikers Hat is our favorite summer time wide brimmed boonie hat. We’ve used it deep sea fishing, bass fishing, fly fishing, you name it, we’ve done it in this hat and we love it!
Baseball Cap
Columbia PFG Mesh Snap Back Fish Flag Ball Cap
Tired of your old, stuffy fishing hats? Ready to make a fashion statement out on the water? Or maybe you’re just looking for a comfortable option to keep your head cool in the summer heat.
Whatever your reasons, the Columbia PFG Mesh Snap Back Fish Flag Ball Cap is an excellent option!
This hat is made of lightweight, breathable mesh material, making it comfortable for hot summer days spent fishing. The adjustable snap back ensures a comfortable, custom fit, and the bold American flag design is sure to turn heads.
Columbia’s PFG line is known for quality, performance, and comfort, and this hat is no exception.
So, whether you’re looking for a new fishing hat or just a patriotic summertime option, the Columbia PFG Fish Flag hat is a smart
Shop Online for the Columbia PFG Mesh Fish Flag Ball Cap
Under Armour Blitzing 3.0 Cap
Under Armour makes high-quality gear for people who lead active lifestyles.
While not specifically a “fishing hat” the Under Armour Blitzing 3.0 Cap works well for any outdoor activity we threw at it. Fishing, hiking, camping, and running errands, the baseball hat performed well.
The Blitzing 3.0 Cap is made from UA’s Threadborne Microthread fabric, a 100% polyester proprietary blend that was specially engineered for stretch and breathability. The lightweight material conforms easily to the head and is comfortable to wear even in the summer heat.
The hat features UA’s HeatGear, a built in sweat band, that’s designed to pull the moisture away from your head to keep you feeling cool.
The visor comes pre-curved and does a good job at blocking out the sun and provides enough space for a pair of sunglasses.
Overall, the Under Armour Blitzing 3.0 Cap is a comfortable hat that blocks out the sun rays and shades the eyes well.
Shop Online for the Under Armour Blitzing 3.0 Cap
Neck sun protection
Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
Looking for the perfect hat to keep you cool and protected while you’re out fishing? Look no further than the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat!
This lightweight nylon hat is UPF 50+, meaning it will block out 98% of harmful UV rays. It also has huge ventilating panels on the side to keep you cool and comfortable all day long.
Similar in design to a bucket hat. It features a 3.5″ down sloping brim to protect your eyes from the sun, and a chinstrap to keep the hat in place even on windy days. Plus, the 7.5″ neck flap can be easily folded up when you don’t need it.
Whether you’re fishing in the ocean, a lake, or fly fishing, the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat will work amazingly. It keeps you cool, comfortable, and protected from the sun. It comes in a variety of colors to choose from so you can find the exact look to match your fishing gear.
Check out the Sunday Afternoon Adventure Hat today, you won’t be disappointed!
Shop Online for the Sunday Afternoons Adventure Hat
Visor
Costa Del Mar Visor
Don’t want a full hat, but still looking for some additional eye protection from the sun?
Look no further than the Costa Del Mar Visor! The 3-inch pre-curved brim provides excellent sun protection and the dark underbrim helps to reduce glare.
This visor is lined with Aegis on the sweatband, which allows for moisture wicking and odor resistance. The 100% cotton fabric is comfortable and breathable and doesn’t cause your forehead to overheat like some other hats do.
The Velcro fastener allows for easy adjustments so you can get the correct fit regardless of the size of your head.
Maintaining a sleek appearance and available in a variety of colors, the product is a suitable option for anyone looking for a fashionable and practical visor.
Whether you are fishing for fun or for competition, the Costa Del Mar Visor works wonders.
Shop Online for the Costa Cotton Visor
Winter Cap
The Original Stormy Kromer Cap
The Original Stormy Kromer Cap is an American-made wool cap that is well-suited for cold weather fishing.
This hat is guaranteed for life and is made out of a high-quality wool blend that will keep your head warm in freezing temperatures. The cotton flannel inner lining is soft and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The adjustable ear band easily lowers to provide additional ear protection for those windy cold days out on the water or ice.
The Stormy Kromer has a unique traditional look, with a variety of color options, making it a stylish addition to any fishing outfit.
Exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail make this one of the finest cold weather fishing hats on the market.
All in all, the Stormy Kromer Cap is a must-have piece of gear for any serious fisherman.
Shop Online for the Stormy Kromer Original Cap
Carhartt Akron Hat
Looking for a beanie that will keep you warm all winter long? Look no further than the Akron Hat!
The Akron is made out of a highly insulating acrylic fabric with a built in Sherpa polyester lining. It is designed with an oval like shape on the sides that extends down to cover the ears. As a result of this combination of protection, the Akron is extremely warm and comfortable.
It comes in a “one size fits most” design and is available in black and dark brown.
While we’ve gotten some comments from some friends that it kind of makes you look a little like an old English peasant, we say they just don’t appreciate proper style when they see it. Plus, they were probably just jealous because we were warm, and they were not.
If you’re going to be extra active and heavily sweating, you may want to find a hat that has better moisture management. The Akron is designed to keep the heat in and lacks breathability that would allow the sweat to properly evaporate.
Despite this, we think the Carhartt Akron is a highly effective winter hat for fishing, hiking, or other outdoor activities in the cold.
Shop Online for the Carhartt Akron Hat
Carhartt Fleece
Carhartt’s Fleece Hat is the perfect addition to your fishing gear! This hat is crafted of a high-quality fleece material that will keep you warm in even the coldest weather.
It features a comfortable fit that makes it easy to wear all day long. The stretchy fabric ensures a comfortable, snug fit that will stay in place no matter how much you move around. And, of course, the fleece material is exceptionally soft and warm, making it ideal for chilly days.
We found the one size fit most design to fit well, though if you have an extra large head, you will probably want to stretch it out a bit before wearing it for an extended period of time or you may end up with a compression headache.
Fishing can be a tough sport and the Carhartt Fleece hat is designed for those long days spent out on the water. Whether you’re out on the open water or in the middle of a cold stream, this beanie will keep you comfortable and protected from the cold.
So don’t let the cold weather stop you from enjoying your favorite hobby – pick up a Carhartt Fleece Hat today!
Shop Online for the Carhartt Akron Hat
Brimmed Hat
Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat
Wearing the Bora Bora Booney Hat is the right way to enjoy a day fishing.
The Booney II is constructed out of a specially designed Omni-Shade textured nylon that is light and extremely comfortable to wear. It’s light and airy, with a mesh top that helps keep your head cool, and a wide brim that blocks out the sun.
It has multiple straps built into the hat that are easily adjustable to guarantee a secure fit. The adjustable chin strap keeps it in place, even on windy days or when you’re cruising on the boat or in the back country fly fishing.
The Bora Bora Booney II is also UPF 50 rated, so you know you’re getting effective sun protection.
Wherever your day takes you, be sure to pack Columbia’s Bora Bora Booney II! Especially if fishing is on the agenda.
Shop Online for the Columbia Bora Bora Booney II Hat
Sunday Afternoons Cruiser Hat
Maintaining a cool and protected head from the sun all day long is easy with a hat like the Sunday Afternoons Cruiser Hat. Look no further than the Cruiser Hat!
This stylish and practical hat is a must-have for just about any outdoor occasion, whether you’re hitting the beach, hiking the trails, or just enjoying a day fishing in the sun.
The extended protection of the Cruiser Hat with its UPF 50 sun protection rating will keep your skin safe from harmful UV rays. In addition, the lightweight and breathable fabric will keep you feeling cool and comfortable all day long.
The adjustable shock cord sizing system ensures a secure fit, and the integrated moisture-wicking liner will keep your head dry.
The Cruiser is one of the finest fishing hats around. It is lightweight, has a large brim to protect from the sun, and comes with a chin strap to keep it in place on windy days.
So don’t go another day without checking out the Sunday Afternoons Cruiser Hat!
Shop Online for the Sunday Afternoons Cruiser Hat
Waterproof Hat
Simms GORE-TEX Rain Cap for Fishing
Looking for a high performance rain cap?
Look no further than the Simms GORE-TEX Rain Cap!
This cap is made with a lightweight Gore-TEX fabric that is designed to repel water, while still allowing air and water vapors to pass through, making it effective for fishing regardless of the weather conditions.
The moisture-wicking sweatband adds an additional level of comfort by pulling the sweat away from your head and allowing it to evaporate.
Bear in mind this hat is fitted, with the S/M designed for heads 21.25” to 22.75” and the L/XL for heads 22” to 23.5” in size.
Whether you’re out on the boat or hiking in the woods, the GORE-TEX Rain Cap is a practical selection for any outdoor enthusiast.
Next time you’re in the market for a new rain cap, be sure to give the Simms GORE-TEX Rain Cap a try!
Shop Online for the Simms GORETEX Rain Cap
How To Select The Best Fishing Hat
While many anglers may not give it a second thought, the type of hat you choose to wear while fishing can make a big difference in your overall comfort while out on the water.
The sun’s harmful rays can be brutal, especially during the summer months, so it’s imperative to choose a hat that will provide ample shade and ventilation.
There are many different styles and materials to choose from, so it’s wise to select a hat that will fit your specific needs.
Below, we’ll discuss some of the factors to consider when selecting the right fishing hat.
The Different Types Of Fishing Hats
There are many different types of fishing hats to choose from. The type you select should be based on the kind of fishing you plan to do, as well as the climate you’ll be fishing in. Here’s a quick rundown of the different types of fishing hats available:
Brimmed Fishing Hat
Brimmed hats are designed to keep the sun out of your eyes and off your neck. They also help protect your face, head and neck from the glare of the water when you sport fish. You can find a variety of brimmed fishing hats, including boonies, Panama hats and more.
Brimmed hats are a very popular option for fishing due to their general versatility. Besides providing effective UV protection for your face, they also provide protection for your ears and neck.
Baseball Cap
For many anglers, the basic ball cap is their go to hat for fishing. These hats are made to provide sun protection for your face and eyes, though they do leave your neck unprotected. They are relatively inexpensive to purchase.
The most popular baseball caps are mesh back caps, although solid back caps are also popular.
Caped Hat
Capes are a highly effective option if you’re looking for the most sun protection in a hat for fishing. These hats provide great sun protection for your head and neck.
Caped hats may have a brimmed or cap like style. However, the main difference is that they have a neck flap, which is a fabric cape that flows from the back of the hat to cover the neck. They are generally light and provide some of the best sun protection available in a fishing hat. The neck flap protects your neck from sunburn. Overall, caped hats are well-suited for long days on the water.
Visor
Visors are popular among anglers that fish in sunny climates and or enjoy plenty of time on the water. Visors are designed to keep your face shaded and protect your eyes from the sun.
The main downside of a visor is that they don’t protect the top of your head.
Winter Hat
Winter hats are designed with a variety of different materials and styles. These hats provide excellent heat retention.
However, they also tend to be heavier and provide less sun protection. The most popular types of winter fishing hats are made of fleece.
Beanie
Beanies provide a practical way for anglers to stay warm without wearing a winter hat and having to pack a heavier cap into their fishing bag.
Beanies are generally made from fleece and provide effective heat retention. They are also a convenient option for anglers that are looking to keep their head warm in cold climates but don’t want the bulk of a winter hat.
Sun Hat
Sun hats are designed with a brimmed style to provide maximum sun protection for your neck and face. These hats are ideal for fishing in sunny climates. They are generally made from a light and breathable material to keep you cool on hot days.
Rain Hat
Rain hats are made from waterproof material. These hats are designed to keep your head dry in the rain. They are a great option for anglers that are fishing in wet conditions such as a Louisiana, for example.
How To Measure Your Head
To find your hat size, simply measure your head with a tape measure. Start at the center of your forehead and wrap the tape around your head, just above your ears. Make sure the tape is level all the way around.
Once you have your measurement, refer to the sizing chart of the hat you’re interested in to find your perfect fit.
What Hat Features To Look For
Once you know your hat size, you can start looking at different hat styles. When choosing a hat, it’s a good idea to opt for a hat that has features that meet your needs.
For example, if you’re shopping for a sun hat, make sure the hat has a wide brim to provide plenty of sun protection.
If you’re looking for a winter hat, make sure the hat is made from a material that will keep you warm.
Additional features that can be helpful:
- Hook keeper
- Hidden pocket
- Ability to float
- Head size straps
- Under the chin wind straps
- Water resistant
- UPF (Ultraviolet
- Protection Factor) rating
- Breathability
- Room for sunglasses
- Ear protection
Guide To Different Materials
Cotton
Cotton is an excellent fabric for a summer fishing hat.
Not only is cotton inexpensive and easy to find, but it’s also great for staying cool during the hotter months of the year.
Cotton is not only soft and lightweight, but also breathable and absorbent. This makes it a great material for anglers who want to stay cool by allowing heat to escape from their bodies.
Cotton blends can also be found which possess different properties. For example, cotton wrinkles relatively easily, but a cotton-polyester blend will help to resist this.
There are a few drawbacks to be aware of though, such as its absorbency of sweat which can cause it to become heavy and wet, or the fact that light-colored cotton might show moisture stains.
Despite these drawbacks, for many anglers, cotton is one of the preferred choices for a summer fishing hat due to its comfort and ability to keep you cool.
Polyester
When it comes to fishing hats, polyester is a reliable all-around fabric.
Polyester is a man-made fabric that is constructed from long-lasting plastic fibers.
The ability of polyester to wick sweat away from the skin better than other fabrics, such as cotton, makes it a popular fabric for fishing hats.
Manufacturers have been able to improve polyester’s water-resistance by using sophisticated thread structures, allowing it to draw moisture away from the skin and out toward the fabric surface.
A polyester fishing hat’s quick drying time and resistance to moisture make it a practical preference for those who enjoy spending time in the sun. The material’s durability makes it a solid pick for anglers as well.
Despite the fact that polyester is an overall comfortable fabric that keeps you cool in the heat, keep in mind that its plastic threads are created by mixing petroleum-based substances, which can be irritating to sensitive skin.
Nylon
One of the most popular materials for fishing hats is nylon.
Nylon is a synthetic fabric that is lightweight and often used in athletic wear.
Nylon’s sweat-wicking properties make it a top choice of fabric to wear in hot and humid weather. The stretchy, light fabric of nylon is perfect for fishing hats that will keep you cool in the heat.
The main downside of nylon is that it’s not as durable as other fabrics, such as polyester.
Nylon is also less breathable than cotton, which means it won’t allow your head to cool as effectively.
Despite these drawbacks, nylon is used in many fishing hats due to its lightweight feel and sweat-wicking properties.
Wool
While it’s not very likely that you’ll find a warm weather wool hat, wool is one of the most popular options for winter fishing apparel and hats.
Wool is a natural fiber that is derived from sheep and other animals.
Wool is a superior insulator and will keep you warm in colder climates. Wool is a very special fabric because it contains air pockets, which provide natural insulation.
Wool is also a breathable fabric, which allows your body’s natural perspiration to evaporate more easily. Despite its breathability, it is naturally water-resistant, which makes it ideal for inclement weather like rain or snow.
On top of all of this, wool it quite lightweight, but also quite durable and long-lasting, making it a decent material for outdoor use.
The main downside to wool is it is generally quite expensive.
Despite this, wool is a good material for fishing hats due to its ability to insulate and breath.
Fleece
Fleece is one of the most popular materials for winter fishing hats.
Fleece is a synthetic material that was intended to imitate the properties of wool. It is lightweight, soft and very warm, making it ideal for a winter fishing hat.
Fleece is also very breathable, which helps to prevent overheating. It is also quick-drying, which is a handy feature for those wet winters.
The only real downside to fleece is that it can be prone to pilling, which is when the fabric starts to form small balls of fibers on the surface.
Linen
Linen isn’t a very common material when it comes to fishing hats, though you may run across one occasionally as it’s a very popular fabric for summer time.
When it comes to linen fishing hats, you’ll find that this fabric is excellent for keeping you cool in hot weather conditions.
This is due to linen’s ability to absorb a high amount of moisture and then dry quickly, keeping the wearer cool and dry.
While linen may be stiff, that actually works in its favor as it won’t stick to your body like some other materials might.
Another thing to consider is that linen wrinkles frequently, but many people enjoy this trait as it adds to the fabric’s style and appearance.
All in all, linen is an excellent choice for a summer fishing hat.
Rayon
A fairly uncommon material for fishing hats, rayon is a less expensive substitute for silk.
Rayon’s comfort and cooling properties make it an excellent fabric for sportswear and summer dresses. Though it is an excellent fabric to wear in hot weather, rayon is known to shrink when laundered in warm water. Rayon can be hand washed in cold water, but it is recommended to dry clean in order to avoid shrinkage or damage.
Despite its drawbacks, rayon is still a reliable option for a summer fishing hat due to its ability to keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather.
Denim
Denim is a cotton twill fabric that is durable and strong. It is also breathable and absorbent. Denim is relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
One drawback of denim is that it can be heavy and hot in the summer months. In addition, denim hats can also be less comfortable than other fabrics due to the stiffness of the fabric.
Despite these drawbacks, denim is a reasonable alternative for an everyday fishing hat because it is durable and can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Micromodal
Not a very common material found in fishing hats. Micromodal is a fabric derived from rayon which is sourced from hardwood trees.
This renders the fabric semi-synthetic, and as a result it is soft to the touch and light in weight.
Micromodal is a suitable alternative to cotton for summer fabrics because it is cooler to the touch, making it more comfortable to wear on hot days.
It is also shrink-resistant and easy to clean, making it a low-maintenance fabric.
One drawback of Micromodal is that it is not as absorbent as cotton, so it might not be the most advisable material type for those who sweat a lot.
How To Care For Your Fishing Hat
Once you’ve found the perfect fishing hat, it’s helpful to know how to care for it so that it will last for many fishing trips to come.
Most fishing hats are made from durable materials that can stand up to a lot of wear and tear. However, it’s still important to take care of it to ensure it has a long lifespan.
Here are a few tips for caring for your fishing hat:
- Wash your hat regularly. Depending on how often you wear your fishing hat, you should wash it every few weeks to keep it clean.
- Use a mild detergent. When washing your fishing hat, use a mild detergent. This will help to prolong the life of your hat.
- Hang dry your hat. After washing your fishing hat, hang it up to dry. Do not put it in the dryer, as this can damage the material.
- Store your hat in a cool, dry place. When you’re not wearing your fishing hat, store it in a cool, dry place. This will help to prevent the material from deteriorating.
Conclusion
Fishing hats are an essential piece of gear for anglers. They provide sun protection, keep you warm in cold weather, and help to keep your head dry in wet conditions. When selecting a fishing hat, it’s important to choose one that is the right size, has the features you need, and is made from a durable material.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Best Tackle Boxes, Bags and Fishing Backpacks
Are you tired of sifting through a mess of hooks, lines, and sinkers? There’s a better way. Get ready to hook the big one with our look at the top 10 fishing tackle solutions, meticulously tailored to accommodate your angling needs. Set sail on a journey through an ocean of options; from tackle boxes of varying sizes to compartment setups that keep your fishing gears organized and within easy reach.
Abu Garcia Ike Signature Power Rod Review
The Abu Garcia Ike Signature Power Casting Rod is a great choice for anglers looking for a sensitive and powerful casting rod. The high modulus graphite blank is extremely sensitive and the 36-ton construction ensures the rod is durable. The purple color is eye-catching and the split rear grip with the Fuji ACS reel seat provides great comfort and control while casting. The Ike Signature Power Casting Rod is a great choice if you’re looking for a sensitive, powerful, and versatile casting rod.
How To Fish With A Chatterbait Lure
Boost your bass fishing success with chatterbaits – the revolutionary bait that mimics real-life baitfish movements. Learn the versatile techniques and optimal fishing conditions for using chatterbaits to entice bass strikes. Find out how to choose the right gear and tackle for maximum effectiveness. Discover solutions to common challenges and the importance of responsible angling. Read now to elevate your bass fishing strategies with chatterbaits!