Sun Protection for Outdoor Anglers274

Spending a day on the water fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the outdoors. However, it's important to take precautions to protect your skin from the sun's harmful rays. Sun exposure can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself from the sun while you're fishing.1. Wear sunscreen
Sunscreen is the most important part of any sun protection plan. It helps to block the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can damage your skin. Choose a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher. Apply it liberally to all exposed skin, including your face, ears, neck, and hands. Reapply every two hours, or more often if you're swimming or sweating.
2. Wear protective clothing
Clothing can also help to protect your skin from the sun. Choose lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from tightly woven fabrics. Look for clothing that has a UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) rating of 30 or higher. UPF ratings indicate how well a fabric blocks UV rays. A UPF rating of 30 means that the fabric blocks 97% of UV rays.
3. Wear a hat
A hat is a great way to protect your face, ears, and neck from the sun. Choose a hat with a wide brim that shades your face and neck. Look for hats made from tightly woven fabrics, such as cotton or canvas.
4. Wear sunglasses
Sunglasses help to protect your eyes from the sun's UV rays. Choose sunglasses that block 99% or more of UVA and UVB rays. Look for sunglasses that fit snugly and have wide lenses that wrap around your face.
5. Seek shade
If you're going to be fishing for extended periods of time, seek out shade whenever possible. Sit under a tree, umbrella, or canopy. You can also create your own shade by using a tarp or beach blanket.
6. Take breaks
If you're starting to feel sunburned, take a break from fishing and head indoors or into the shade. Cool down with a cold drink or swim in the water.
7. Stay hydrated
Staying hydrated is important for overall health, but it's also important for sun protection. When you're dehydrated, your skin is more likely to burn. Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, sports drinks, or juice.
8. Be aware of the time of day
The sun's UV rays are strongest between 10am and 4pm. If possible, avoid fishing during these hours. If you must fish during these hours, take extra precautions to protect yourself from the sun.
9. Be aware of your surroundings
Pay attention to the weather forecast and the UV index. If the UV index is high, take extra precautions to protect yourself from the sun. You can check the UV index on the National Weather Service website or on a UV index app.
10. Be aware of your skin
If you have fair skin, you're more likely to sunburn than someone with darker skin. You may need to take extra precautions to protect yourself from the sun.
By following these tips, you can protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays and enjoy your fishing trip.