The Kurrent

Lens Types and Their Best Uses for fishing

Different conditions call for different lens colors and technologies. Here’s a breakdown to help you choose the best option:

• Gray Lenses – Best for bright, sunny days and open water. They reduce overall brightness without distorting color.
• Copper/Brown Lenses – These lenses enhance contrast and depth perception. They’re ideal for sight fishing in shallow water or variable light conditions. I personally opt for this lens type more often than not.
• Green Mirror Lenses – A great choice for inshore and freshwater anglers. They enhance contrast and cut glare effectively. These are my second choice, especially when cloud cover is minimal.
• Blue Mirror Lenses – Designed for offshore fishing, where intense sunlight and open water require maximum glare reduction.
• Yellow/Amber Lenses – Great for low-light conditions such as early morning or cloudy days, offering excellent visibility in shadows. Finally, I leave a pair of amber lenses in my boat at all times for this exact situation!

For the best possible clarity and contrast, consider high-performance lens technologies like Smith ChromaPop, Costa 580G, and Bajio LAPIS. Smith’s ChromaPop enhances natural colors, making fish and underwater structures pop with clarity. Costa’s 580G glass lenses are known for superior polarization and scratch resistance, reducing glare while enhancing reds, greens, and blues. Bajio’s LAPIS lens technology filters out blue light, reducing eye strain and improving long-term visibility in harsh sunlight.

Key Frame Features for Fishing Sunglasses

When selecting the right sunglasses for fishing, frame quality is just as important as lens technology. Here are the top features to consider:

• Fit & Comfort – A snug but comfortable fit is essential for all-day wear. Look for frames with rubberized nose pads. Ensure they have temple grips. These features keep them secure, even when sweating or moving around the boat.
• Wraparound Design – Frames that wrap around your face help block peripheral glare. They provide better eye protection from wind, spray, and sunlight.
• Lightweight & Durable Materials – Nylon or bio-resin frames are strong and lightweight. They are resistant to warping in hot or humid conditions. This makes them perfect for extended fishing trips.
• Ventilation & Anti-Fog Features – Some frames include venting to prevent fogging. This is especially important in humid conditions or when transitioning between temperatures.
• Floating Frames (Optional) – If you fish from a kayak, boat, or wade in the water, use floating frames. A retainer strap can also prevent accidental losses.

Top Polarized Sunglasses for Fishing by Budget

Premium Picks ($150+)

1. Smith Optics Embark – A high-performance option with ChromaPop lenses, excellent polarization, and a durable frame. Buy from Backcountry.com
2. Costa Del Mar Rincon 2 – Known for superior clarity, 580G lenses, and technical yet stylish frame. Buy from Costadelmar.com
3. Bajio Nato – Cutting-edge LAPIS lens technology for enhanced contrast and reduced eye fatigue. Buy from bajiosunglasses.com

Mid-Range ($75-$150)

1. Smith Optics Lowdown – Stylish yet functional, these sunglasses offer excellent polarization in a versatile frame. Buy from SmithOptics.com
2. Costa Del Mar Rincon – A solid choice with 580P polycarbonate lenses for high performance and durability. Buy from Costadelmar.com
3. Hobie Cove Float – A budget-friendly option that floats, making them perfect for kayak and boat anglers. Buy from hobieeyewear.com

Budget-Friendly ($40-$75)

1. Flying Fisherman Fowie – A well-rounded option with a classic look and polarized lenses to boot. Buy from Walmart.com
2. Suncloud Mayor – A solid, budget-friendly pick from Smith’s sub-brand, offering great performance for the cost. Buy from Backcountry.com
3. Native Eyewear Badlands – High-wrap polarized sunglasses with durable & lightweight frames and nonslip grips at an affordable price. Buy from Basspro.com

As someone who has tested multiple brands and styles with years on the water putting them to use, these are my personal favorites for different fishing scenarios:

• Smith Optics Embark – My go-to for intense sunlight and high-performance fishing. The wrap-around design and ChromaPop lenses give me the best clarity and comfort. Buy from Backcountry.com
• Smith Optics Lowdown – A great all-around pair that I use for casual fishing trips, driving, and everyday wear. Buy from Smithoptics.com
• Smith Optics Barra – Excellent for long days on the water, providing a perfect balance of comfort and performance. Buy from Backcountry.com

Final Thoughts

A quality pair of polarized sunglasses is a must-have for any serious angler. Whether you’re looking for a premium investment or a budget-friendly option, there’s a great pair out there for you. Consider your typical fishing conditions and budget, and make sure to choose a lens color that best suits your needs.