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Sure, you could wear any old T-shirt when fishing — but having the right fishing apparel makes the experience a lot better and a lot more comfortable, too. Fishing shirts typically have UPF protection and will keep you from overheating, as they're also designed to keep you ventilated (which is why some fishing shirts have that signature flap on the back). They're also designed to be airy and lightweight, so you can wear them for long periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.
They also have lots of different options that will reflect what you're most comfortable wearing — like a classic long sleeve option, a pullover, or a tank. We wanted to find shirts that are moisture-wicking, lightweight, will easily dry, and provide UV protection from the sun. Some are stain-resistant and antimicrobial, which are two much-needed assets for a serious angler. These women's fishing shirts are perfect for your next trip out on the water, so grab one before you head out this summer. For even more fishing gear, check out our round-ups best fishing jackets and fishing hoodies,
1. Our Top Pick
Columbia Women's Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt
Columbia Women's PFG Tamiami II UPF 40 Long Sleeve Fishing Shirt - Amazon, $37.50+
This Columbia shirt features UPF 40 fabric for maximum protection against the sun. It's also moisture-wicking, and will pull sweat away to keep you cool and dry. The roll-up sleeves and mesh back vent make this an incredibly airy shirt, and it also has antimicrobial properties, so it will control odors. There are two handy chest pockets for storing small essentials, too. This comes in so many different colorways, and is an ultra-light shirt — so it can be used for so many outdoor activities.
2. Our Pick for Long-Sleeve Shirt
HUK Women's Icon X Camo Long Sleeve Performance Fishing Shirt
HUK Women's Icon X Camo Long Sleeve Performance Fishing Shirt - Amazon, $49.99
This pullover shirt from HUK features UPF 50+ fabric construction and is great for sun protection and comfort while you're out on the water. It's also perfect for cooler days or brisk mornings. — and is machine-washable, too. Yep, no hand-washing! It's even stain-resistant, perfect for keeping fish guts off clothing, and easy to wash off if you do get dirty. The HUK shirt is described by reviewers as cool and comfy, but do size up if you don't want it to be fitted. It comes in a gorgeous array of colors and patterns.
3. The Best Hoodie
TBMPOY Women's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie
TBMPOY Women's UPF 50+ Sun Protection Hoodie - Amazon, $22.99+
This moisture-wicking hoodie is great for keeping you warmer during chillier days on the water. It features a UPF rating of 50 for sun protection, and the hood will help keep your face and neck protected. There are also low-profile thumbholes to keep sleeves in place, and it dries quickly. It comes in over 15 colors and is available in sizes XS-XXL — and reviewers love this shirt because they can use it for a variety of outdoor activities, like fishing and hiking.
4. A More Stylish Choice
Columbia Women's PFG Bahama Long Sleeve Shirt
Columbia Women's PFG Bahama II UPF 30 Long Sleeve Fishing Shirt - Amazon, $24.00+
With roll-up sleeves, UPF 30-rated fabric, and handy chest pockets, this is a great shirt for fishing — and any other outdoor occasion. The top is antimicrobial, so you'll stay dry — and it's machine-washable, too. We prefer the Tamiami shirt over this fishing top since UPF 40 is better than UPF 30 protection — but we added it to the list because the modern fit and the bright, on-trend colorways make it a more versatile shirt. It still comes equipped with a rod holder, pockets, and a mesh back flap. It's available in sizes XS-3X.
5. This Option With Short Sleeves
HABIT Women's Short Sleeve Fishing Guide Shirt
HABIT Women's Short Sleeve Fishing Guide Shirt - Amazon, $9.99+
Featuring a zippered chest pocket and comfortable, breezy short sleeves, this women's fishing shirt is perfect for hot days on the water. It's machine-washable and comes equipped with UPF 40+ protection, and while the shirt looks like it has buttons, they're actually snaps — making this an option that will keep you secure and comfortable. There's still the small mesh flap on the back, and reviewers love that it dries quickly and doesn't wrinkle easily. This is a more affordable option than a lot of the competitors, and while reviewers write that it's not as breathable as the Columbia or Huk brands, it's an absolute steal for the price. It comes in 10 colors and is available in sizes S-2X.
6. A Comfortable Tank Top
Mossy Oak Women's Fishing Shirt Racerback Tank
Mossy Oak Women's Fishing Shirt Racerback Tank - Amazon, $24.99
If you're not a fan of sleeves out on the water — consider this tank top from Mossy Oak. The lightweight tank is quick-drying and is super stretchy, so you'll be able to move easily in it while saltwater fishing. The machine-washable shirt has UPF 40+ sun protection and moisture-wicking, so you'll stay cool and comfy. One reviewer loves it because "It's longer so it covers your bottom, super soft, wicks sweat, and is bright in color!" This will be your favorite shirt for summertime fishing. Choose from six colors in sizes S-XXL.
This article was last updated on April 2, 2022. It has been updated with content by Allison Johnson.
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