Fun In The Sun

Sometimes the ideal time to fish is when the sun is high. It makes spotting fish so much easier. Sometimes you just fish when you have the chance and there may not be a cloud in the sky. As most of us know, the sun is good for our health, but too much can cause serious problems.

There are plenty of sunscreens that help minimize damage to exposed skin. The instructions will tell you how to apply them. Typically they will need to be applied several times through the day. You'll also want some lip balm that has UV protection so you don't get burned lips.

Since I'm not a fan of sunscreen I use it only when there's no other choice. An option which I like better is to cover up with protective clothing. Pants, long sleeve shirts, waders, hats all will block sunlight. The tighter and heavier the weave the more it will block. You can buy fishing clothing that is light weight for staying cool and it has very tight weave for sun protection. Wide brim hats will cover your neck and ears. You can also tuck a handkerchief under your ball cap so that it drapes over your ears and neck. Sometimes you have to tuck it into your shirt so it does not spook close fish when it flaps in the wind. There is something called a sun mask made of light cloth that you can wear over you face and neck. There are also sun gloves. I'm sure there's more ways to cover up than I mentioned here. And don't forget sunglasses to protect your eyes.

If it is hot along with the sun you'll want to stay hydrated so you can go all day. I once got very sick from dehydration, only once. I didn't feel thirsty and it wasn't even that hot out. I can tell you it will never sneak up on me again. Drink plenty of water.

It's also a good idea to take periodic breaks. Find some shade if you can. Also don't forget to eat to keep your energy level up. You'll really be dragging butt by the end of the day and probably leave early if you don't refuel.

Another trick to stay cool is to dunk your hat in the water. The evaporation will help you bare the heat. You could dunk your whole body if your so inclined. I'm not so inclined myself, but it's something I've done by accident. You'll definitely be cooled off.

The longer you are out the better the protection you will need. Make sure you plan ahead, sunburn can sneak up on you. Don't wait until it's too late to cover up. A buddy of mine once had to wear a piece of paper tucked under his glasses and over his nose to protect the severe sunburn he got the day before. The rest of us thought he looked quite funny, but he wasn't laughing, especially with several more days of fishing ahead. Use these tips and a day in the blazing sun can be enjoyable without getting beat down.