You could wear any comfortable pair of shorts while fishing, but why not wear the best? The best fishing shorts are designed with anglers in mind, and more importantly, they offer protection from the sun’s harmful UV rays.
Long days out on the water and under the sun can have dangerous effects, so it’s best to protect your skin. Find the best fishing shorts for you so you can be comfortable and safe on your next fishing trip!
Top 10 Shorts for Fishing
The best fishing shorts offer UPF protection to save your skin from sun damage. These high quality fishing shorts all have UPF protection, as well as other features made for anglers, like extra pockets, durable materials, and more. Choose from the best fishing shorts so you can be at peak performance out on the water.
These are the Best Fishing Shorts:
- Huk NXTLVL 10.5″ Men’s Short
- Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts
- Tormenter Waterman 5 Pocket Boardshorts
- Mossy Oak Men’s All Outdoor Flex Short
- Columbia Men’s PFG Backcast III Water Short
- AFTCO Men’s Original Fishing Short
- Under Armor Men’s Fish Hunter Cargo Shorts
- Grundéns Gaff Fishing Shorts
- Columbia Men’s Grander Marlin II Offshore Shorts
- AFTCO Tactical Fishing Shorts
Huk NXTLVL 10.5” Men’s Short
The Huk NXTLVL Men’s Shorts are one of the best pairs of shorts for fishing available today. These shorts have a UPF 30+ rating, so they will block the majority of UV rays from burning the skin covered. Aside from their UV protection, Huk NXTLVL Men’s Shorts are anti-microbial, so they kill the growth of odor-causing microorganisms. They are also stain resistant, so any fishing stains will easily wash out.
Huk NXTLVL 10.5” Men’s Shorts are perfect for fishing. They are high stretch, quick drying, and have an adjustable waistband for a comfortable fit. These shorts are extremely breathable, made from a mix of cotton, polyester, and spandex, with a perforated rear yoke and a drain hole in the back pocket. These shorts are lightweight and movable, and come in over 10 colors.
Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts
Columbia is a well-known brand for fishing apparel, and the Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts are perfect for fishing. These shorts have Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection – the highest possible UPF rating, blocking out 98% of the sun’s harmful rays. They are made from 100% nylon ripstop, so they are both lightweight and extremely durable.
Advanced Omni-Wick technology makes the Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts extra breathable and comfortable for long days of fishing. These cargo shorts also have extra storage, with a zip-closed security pocket, standard hand pockets, and extra mesh pocket bags. The Columbia Men’s Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts come in a classic fit and six colors.
Tormenter Waterman 5 Pocket Boardshorts
With added storage space, the Tormenter Waterman 5 Pocket Boardshorts are great for keeping all your gear close while fishing. The Tormenter shorts have UPF 35 protection, so most of the sun’s rays will be blocked to prevent sunburn or worse skin damage. Their five pocket design includes a fishing pliers pocket, small terminal tackle pockets, cargo pockets and extra deep pockets for maximum storage.
Aside from storage, the Tormenter Waterman 5 Pocket Boardshorts are quick drying and durable, made from 100% polyester. They are breathable as well as saltwater resistant, so these shorts will last. These shorts come in twelve colors and patterns, all made with the highest quality components.
Mossy Oak Men’s All Outdoor Flex Short
Mossy Oak Men’s All Outdoor Flex Shorts are perfect for fishing, with cooling technology for breathability and comfort. These shorts have a UPF 50+ rating, so they offer the best possible sun protection. They are made with Coolcore Technology, creating a natural cooling effect that offers up to 30% reduction in body surface temperature. They are also moisture wicking and quick drying.
The Mossy Oak Men’s All Outdoor Flex Short is made with 92% polyester, 8% elastane blended stretch material, so they are movable and comfortably stretchy. They have nine pockets in total, so they can store tools, terminal tackle, and much more. These high performance compression shorts come in three colors.
Columbia Men’s PFG Backcast III Water Short
Another great choice from Columbia, the PFG Backcast III Water Short is great for fishing. They offer UPF 50 sun protection, so your legs are totally protected from harmful UV rays. These shorts are made with 100% textured nylon poplin, for enhanced comfort, flexibility, and durability. The high quality materials are extremely moisture wicking.
Columbia Men’s PFG Backcast III Water Shorts are also quick drying, with a mesh brief and elastic waistband and belt loops, so they’re comfortable to wear over long fishing trips. These shorts have side pockets, a right pocket, and a zippered rear pocket for valuable items. The Columbia Men’s PFG Backcast III Water Short is available in multiple sizes and over 20 colors.
AFTCO Men’s Original Fishing Short
AFTCO is a highly regarded fishing brand, and the AFTCO Men’s Original Fishing Shorts are a tried and true classic. The Original Fishing Shorts from AFTCO have UPF 50+ sun protection, guarding 98% of the sun’s rays to prevent sun damage. These shorts are made with Dupont Supplex 3-ply nylon, so they are extremely durable.
The AFTCO Original Fishing shorts have a stain-resistant finish, so any fishing stains will easily wash right out. They have a comfortable fit, with an elastic waistband and belt loops so you can tailor the fit to your body. With seven functional pockets, these shorts can carry all of your needs out on the water in a handy location. The AFTCO Original Fishing shorts come in 16 colors.
Under Armor Men’s Fish Hunter Cargo Shorts
Under Armor is known for quality sporting goods, and their Men’s Fish Hunter Cargo Shorts do not disappoint. These shorts are made with 95% nylon and 5% elastane, so they are flexible but durable. They have UPF 30+ protection, so most UV rays will be blocked, preventing sun damage. Made with UA Storm Technology, these shorts repel water without sacrificing breathability.
Under Armor Men’s Fish Hunter Cargo shorts are saltwater and chlorine resistant, so they resist fade and wear and tear. They have antimicrobial odor technology that prevents odors and odor-causing microbes. Ample pocket space allows you to carry the gear you need close on hand. These flexible shorts come in 10 colors.
Grundéns Gaff Fishing Shorts
Grundéns Gaff Fishing Shorts are top-rated by angers everywhere. These shorts offer UPF 50 sun protection, so your skin is safe from sunburn or further sun damage. They are made with a cotton, polyester, and spandex blend that makes them incredibly lightweight, breathable and flexible. They are also durable, so they are built to last.
Grundéns Gaff Fishing Shorts have a durable water repellent finish, so you’ll stay dry as moisture will be wicked away. They have a ceramic armor plated SuperFabric tool pocket, as well as mesh-vent hand pockets, mesh-vent back pockets, and a zippered cargo pocket to keep goods safe. These shorts have four-way stretch perfect for the outdoors, and they come in 5 colors.
Columbia Men’s Grander Marlin II Offshore Shorts
These flexible fishing shorts are another top choice from Columbia. The Columbia Men’s Grander Marlin II Offshore shorts are made from 88% polyester and 12% elastane, so they are breathable and flexible. Both lightweight and durable, these shorts are perfect for fishing. Omni-Shade UPF 50 protection ensures that you are safe from the elements.
A classic fit with quick drying fabrics, these shorts will repel splashes, rain, and sweat. Omni-Shield Protection helps them stay both dry and stain-free. These shorts are extremely comfortable, although they lack in extra storage space. Columbia Men’s Grander Marlin II Offshore Shorts come in a range of 14 colors.
AFTCO Tactical Fishing Shorts
Another top-rated pair of shorts from AFTCO, the AFTCO Tactical Fishing Shorts are great for long days out on the water. These shorts are made with 95% polyester and 5% elastane, for breathability and flexibility like many other fishing shorts. They have an AFTCO durable water resistant finish, so they repel water and wick away sweat and other moisture.
AFTCO Tactical Fishing Shorts have plier pockets, so your fishing pliers are right on hand when you make a catch. They are equipped with other pockets as well, so you can carry your gear and tackle. These shorts are high quality and come in three camouflage shades.
How To Choose Fishing Shorts
Picking a pair of fishing shorts can be difficult if you don’t know what factors to look for. Choose fishing shorts on our recommended list, or look for shorts with the following factors:
UV Protection
Even on cooler or overcast days, the sun can cause serious damage to your skin. Fishing shorts made with UPF will keep the skin under your shorts protected from the sun’s harmful rays. The best possible UPF factor is 50+, but anything over 30 will do a decent job of keeping out the sun’s rays. You should also invest in a fishing shirt with UV protection, and always wear a fishing hat to protect your face and neck.
Moisture Wicking, Quick Drying Materials
Most fishing shorts will be made from either polyester or nylon, or a combination of a few fabrics. Many shorts are a blend of one of these and elastane, which allows for more flexibility and movability. Whatever material you prefer for your fishing shorts, look for one that is lightweight and breathable. Fishing shorts don’t have to be totally waterproof boardshorts, but they should wick away moisture and dry quickly so that you are comfortable.
Storage
Most fishing shorts include extra storage space for holding tools out on the water. Look for shorts with extra pockets, or specialized pockets for certain tools. Some fishing shorts will have a pocket for pliers, so you can quickly unhook a catch. Others may have a zippered pocket that is safe from the elements, so you can hold a phone or wallet. Pick shorts based on how much you want to carry – if you’re wearing a fishing vest or fishing backpack as well, you may not need as much storage.
Comfort and Fit
Last but certainly not least, your shorts should fit comfortable. Long days of fishing will require that you’re comfortable so that you can have a pleasant experience. Find shorts that fit you well and allow room for sizing – elastic waist bands and belt loops can help fit the shorts to your waist best.
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