Welcome fellow fishing enthusiasts! Your friendly, sunscreen-savvy pals are here to help you find the perfect sunscreen to keep you protected during your fishing adventures.
We’ve hooked and reeled in the best sunscreens for you, each tested and reviewed to ensure they meet our high standards.
So, sit back, relax, and let us guide you to the perfect sunscreen for your fishing needs. Dive in and let’s tackle the sun together!
Best Sunscreen for Fishing
1. Safe Sea Anti-Jellyfish Sting Sunscreen
Safe Sea Jellyfish Sting-Blocking Sunscreen
- Guards against jellyfish sting, sea lice, swimmers itch and UV radiation
- Paraben-free, hypoallergenic, non-irritating, and moisturizing body and face sunscreen
- Biodegradable, reef-safe, and contains no oxybenzone or octinoxate
About: While we’re all too familiar with the perils of sun exposure during outdoor activities, fishing brings its own set of ocean-related hazards, like jellyfish stings. Safe Sea Anti-Jellyfish Sting Protective Lotion not only offers sun protection, but also comes with a unique built-in defense against jellyfish encounters.
This patented and clinically proven formula can provide peace of mind when you’re casting your lines in jellyfish-prone areas.
Features:
- High SPF. Boasts a broad spectrum SPF 50 rating.
- Jellyfish Sting Defense: The patented and clinically proven formula provides a built-in defense against jellyfish encounters, giving you peace of mind when fishing in jellyfish-prone areas.
- Eco-Friendly Formula. In lab tests, this sunscreen was shown to be completly biodegradable and to not release active ingredients into water, making it safe for aquatic life.
- Water-Resistant: The lotion is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great sunscreen for swimming and surfing, along with other water sports. However, reapplication is necessary after swimming or excessive sweating.
- Hypoallergenic. Designed to be hypoallergenic and not clog pores. Plus, it includes vitamins B and E, allowing it to keep skin hydrated with minimal skin irritation.
Pros
- Built-in protection against jellyfish stings (and sea lice bites)
Cons
- Lotion can be a bit cumbersome to apply when you’re dealing with reels, lines, and other fishing gear with lotion-covered hands.
2. Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion
Solimo Sport Sunscreen
An affordable, no nonsense chemical sunscreen for the body
- SPF 50 and broad spectrum sun lotion
- Reef-friendly as its octinoxate and oxybenzone-fre
- An Amazon brand (so pretty cheap on Amazon)
About: Solimo Sport Sunscreen Lotion is another great choice for fishing enthusiasts, offering high SPF and reef-friendly protection, all at an affordable price (since this is a brand developed by Amazon, it’s often quite on Amazon). It’s a solid pick for long fishing trips and provides reliable sun protection while out on the water.
Features:
- Broad Spectrum SPF 50 Protection: This sunscreen offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection with an SPF of 50, ensuring your skin is shielded from harmful rays.
- Reef-Friendly Formula: The formula is free from octinoxate and oxybenzone, making it a reef-safe sunscreen that plays nice with marine life and coral reefs.
- Water-Resistant for 80 Minutes: It is water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, perfect for fishing while standing in water, or when you need a quick swim break to cool off mid cast.
Pros
- A safe, reliable, affordable sunscreen that should work well for full body coverage during fishing trips.
- Chemical sunscreens like this one won’t leave a white cast -(unlike some physical mineral sunscreens).
Cons
- Includes avobenzone, which may irritate some sensitive skin folks.
3. Badger Sport Reef Safe Sunscreen
Badger Sport SPF40 Sunscreen
An ultra-clean mineral sunscreen that's reef-safe and woman-owned
- SPF 40 and broad spectrum mineral sunscreen
- Made with just four ingredients: zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax & vitamin E
- Hypoallergenic & non-comedogenic -- gentle on sensitive skin
- 80 minutes sweat & water resistance
- Reef-safe formula that's Mexico and Hawaii approved.
- No synthetic ingredients, cruelty-free, and in 50% PCR tubes.
About: Badger Sport Reef Safe Sunscreen is one of the best options out there for eco-fans who want a reliable sunscreen that’s good for the environment too. It’s just the thing for those with sensitive skin, and it’s reef-safe too so that what’s good for you is good for mother nature as well!
Features:
- 40 SPF Broad-Spectrum Protection: This mineral sunscreen provides 40 SPF broad-spectrum UVA and UVB protection, preventing sunburn and skin damage.
- Hypoallergenic and Non-Comedogenic: Hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic composition, making it suitable for sensitive skin types.
- Reef-Safe and Eco-Friendly: Formulated without harmful ingredients that can harm coral reefs, making it environmentally-friendly and a great sunscreen for the ocean too. It’s Mexico and Hawaii approved travel sunscreen too, so fishing trips abroad won’t be an issue.
- Physical Mineral-Based: Made with a clear mineral zinc oxide that’s gentle on the skin and doesn’t contain nanoparticles.
- Water Resistant: It’s water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, making it a great pick for when you’re be dunking your head in after a long day of fishing.
- Natural and Organic Ingredients: Badger’s formula is made with only four simple ingredients, zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax & vitamin E. It’s gluten-free and non-GMO
- Sustainable: Badger mineral sunscreens have no synthetic ingredients, are cruelty free, and come in 50% PCR tubes
- Made in the USA. Sunscreen is formulated and manufactured in this woman-owned business’s 100% solar-powered facility in rural New Hampshire.
Pros
- Ultra simple ingredient list and gentle ingredients, designed to work well for those with sensitive skin.
- Eco-friendly both in terms of being a reef-safe sunscreen and in regards to the product design.
Cons
- A bit pricier than other lotion sunscreens.
4. BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen
A trusted, fan-favorite mineral sunscreen that's easy on sensitive skin
- SPF 50 and broad-spectrum mineral sunscreen
- Reef-friendly with no oxybenzone or octinoxate
- Paraben-free & fragrance-free -- ideal for sensitive skin
- Sweat and water resistant (80 minutes)
About: BLUE LIZARD Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen is a reliable go-to sun guardian during your fishing trips. With its high SPF and mineral-based zinc oxide sunscreen formula, your skin is well-protected against harmful rays.
Features:
- Reef-Friendly Formula. Since this sunscreen does not contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, this reef-safe sunscreen doesn’t harm marine life.
- Mineral Sunscreen. It uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad spectrum protection.
- Smart Bottle Technology. The bottle changes color when exposed to harmful UV rays, reminding you to reapply.
- Water-Resistant. Offers 80 minutes of sweat and water resistance, making it a great sunscreen for swimming as well as fishing.
Pros
- Mineral composition is easy on sensitive skin
- Relatively affordable
Cons
- Might leave a white cast on the skin
5. Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+
Neutrogena Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+
- SPF 70 and broad spectrum protection
- Sweatproof and waterproof, designed for outdoor sport activity
- Facial sunscreen featuring electrolytes
- Formula contains no oxybenzone -- uses avobenzone instead
About: Neutrogena’s Sport Face Sunscreen SPF 70+ is a premium choice for outdoor enthusiasts like fisherman and anglers. Designed specifically for sports, it provides superior sun protection with added resistance to sweat and water.
Features:
- High SPF Protection. The Broad Spectrum SPF 70+ provides comprehensive protection.
- Sport-proof Formula. This sunscreen is water-resistant and sweat-resistant for maximum endurance.
- Oil-free and Non-comedogenic. It won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts.
Pros
- Designed specifically for face use, with high SPF and a gentle formula
Cons
- May sting if it gets in the eyes
- Doesn’t contain oxybenzone, but still contains chemical filter avobenzone (which can still irritate the super sensitive)
6. Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Spray
Coppertone Sport Sunscreen Spray
- Chemical sunscreen with SPF 30 broad spectrum protection
- Spray has continuous sprayer, making it easy to apply
- Water resistant up to 80 minutes
- Free of oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, phthalates, & dyes
About: Coppertone SPORT Sunscreen Spray SPF 30 provides reliable, sweat-resistant sun protection in a convenient spray form. It’s perfect for fishing enthusiasts who need a quick and easy application.
Features:
- Easy Application. When it comes to ease of application, it doesn’t get much easier than spray sunscreen. The continuous sprayer ensures full and even coverage without making a lotion-covered mess.
- Sweat and Water-resistant. The formula resists wear-off from sweat and water for up to 80 minutes.
- Free of Harmful Ingredients. This sunscreen is free from harmful ingredients like oxybenzone, octinoxate, PABA, phthalates, and dyes.
Pros
- Spray is often much easier and faster to apply and reapply than lotion
- Affordable and lightweight container
Cons
- When using sunscreen spray, it’s easy to not apply enough for full coverage
- Aerosol spray has also been known to result in a slippery boat deck and can even damage boat upholstery
7. Banana Boat Sport Roll On Sunscreen
Banana Boat Sport Roll On Sunscreen
Handy, travel-friendly roll-on sunscreen
- SPF 60 broad spectrum roll-on chemical filter sunscreen
- Sweat and water resistant for sports and swimming
- Handy travel size that's easy to apply
- Great for getting through TSA
About: Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 60 Roll On Sunscreen is a compact and convenient sun protection solution for fisherman who want to spend the whole day out on the boat! The roll-on applicator and travel-friendly size make it perfect for fishing trips.
You can safely apply and re-apply without making a mess!
Features:
- Water and Sweat Proof. This sunscreen offers superior endurance against sweat and water.
- Travel-friendly Size. The 2.5-ounce container is compact and leak-proof, perfect for on-the-go application.
- Mild Formula. Despite being a chemical sunscreen, it’s still free from harmful chemicals like phthalates, parabens, oxybenzone, and octinoxate.
- Roll-On Applicator. The roll-on applicator is quick and easy, so that applying sunscreen isn’t a chore and you can get back to nabbing those fishes!
Pros
- Small, roll-on format is easy to pack and apply without making a mess
Cons
- Similar with sprays, it may be hard to get full, appropriate coverage with a roller.
- Contains avobenzone chemical filter, which doesn’t always work with super sensitive skin
8. Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick
Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick
A face stick sunscreen that goes on clear and smooth
- SPF 30 + broad spectrum coverage with roll-on design
- Waterproof and sweatproof for 80 minutes
- Oil-free, as well as oxybenzone, octinoxate, gluten, and paraben-free
About: Sun Bum Original SPF 30 Sunscreen Face Stick is a pocket-sized sun guardian. Its moisturizing formula enriched with Vitamin E provides both sun protection and nourishment for your skin.
Features:
- SPF 30 Sun Protection. This sunscreen offers you SPF 30, broad spectrum protection for those long, lazy fishing afternoons.
- Moisturizing Formula. Enriched with Vitamin E to nourish your skin while protecting it.
- Compact and Easy to Apply. The stick format provides easy application and the compact size makes it travel-friendly, making it easy to have on hand even when you’re packing light.
Pros
- A moisturizing sunscreen formula with Vitamin E
- Super compact and easy to apply
Cons
- Probably not the easiest option for full body coverage
What to Look for in a Sunscreen for Fishermen?
- Waterproof. First off, you’re going to want a sunscreen that’s waterproof. You’re most likely going to be wading in water or at least getting your hands wet while fishing, right? So the last thing you need is your sunscreen washing off — a quality waterproof sunscreen will continue to provide protection, even when you’re waist-deep in water.
- Easy to Apply (and Reapply). You’re going to need to reapply every couple of hours, so you’ll want a sunscreen that’s as easy to apply. Opt for sunscreens that are non-greasy and absorb quickly. Think of it as fast-bait for your skin!
- Physical vs Chemical: It Really Depends. When it comes to sunscreen formulas, you’ll mainly encounter physical mineral vs chemical sunscreens. Think of physical sunscreens as your hard-hitting, heavy-duty fishing gear. They contain ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide that reflect UV rays. But beware, they might leave you looking a bit ghostly. On the flip side, chemical sunscreens are like your lightweight, easy-to-use fishing rod. They absorb UV rays and often have a lightweight, invisible finish. They’re ideal for those who don’t want a white cast on their skin — but be ware they are more likely to cause irritation if you have sensitive skin.
- Face vs Body Sunscreen. Consider having separate sunscreens for your face and body. Just like you wouldn’t use the same bait for all fish, different parts of your body may need different types of protection. Face sunscreens are often formulated for more sensitive facial skin, and using separate products can help prevent irritation or breakouts.
- Be a Friend to the Fish. As a fan of the fishies, you’ll want to choose a sunscreen that’s kind to marine life so there will be more fish to catch another day! Opt for reef-safe, ocean-safe sunscreens that don’t contain harmful chemicals or nano particles.
- Sun Protective Clothing is Another Catch to Consider. High-quality UPF sun protective clothes, hats, and gloves can significantly reduce the amount of sunscreen you need to apply. It’s like having a trusty fishing buddy who’s got your back – or in this case, your skin.
Other Safety Tips for Fishermen
Hey there, fishing buddies! While we’re all about that big catch, let’s not forget to shield our skin while we’re out in the sun. Here are some essential safety tips to keep your skin as healthy as your catch.
- Beware the Skin Cancer – This is a catch you don’t want! Prolonged exposure to sunlight during fishing trips can increase your risk of skin cancer. And, with long hours spent in the sun and with the additional reflective UV rays from the water, fisherman are especially susceptible to the dangers of skin cancer (the preference for outdoor activities like fishing may be one of the reasons that men are more prone to skin cancer than woman). So let’s keep our skin safe and stay informed about the risks.
- Don’t Forget a Hat – There are tons of great sun-protective clothing for fishing, and we’d highly recommend combining some of those UV clothing items with sunscreen. Make sure to opt for a hat with at least a 3-inch brim (we personally love the straw sun hat look). Plus, those wraparound sunglasses aren’t just a fashion statement; they’re your eyes’ secret weapon against harmful UV exposure from water reflections.
- Reapply Like Your Life Depends on It (Because it Does) — Grab a golf-ball-size amount of your trusty SPF 30 sunscreen and slather it on every two hours. It’s like changing bait; you have to keep doing it to get results.
- Cover All Bases – Or in this case, all body parts. It’s easy to overlook certain areas while applying sunscreen, but we’ve got you covered. Make sure to cover tops of feet, backs of hands, and ears for thorough sun protection.
Stay safe and sunburn-free, fishing friends, and may your catches be as plentiful as your sunscreen applications. Remember, a great day of fishing starts with taking care of ourselves!
Sunscreen for Fishing FAQs
Need some quick answers to your burning (pun intended) questions? We’ve got you covered!
What sunblock do dermatologists recommend for outdoor activities like fishing?
Dermatologists highly recommend broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF (sun protection factor) of at least 30 for outdoor activities like fishing. Look for products containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, as they provide the most effective protection against both UVA rays and UVB rays. Also, go for water-resistant formulas when you’ll be in or around water!
Which sunscreen offers the most protection for men during fishing?
Sunscreen isn’t gender-specific. Any top-rated sunscreen that meets our suggestions for outdoor activities will work for men, women, and anyone else during fishing trips. Just remember to apply enough sunscreen and reapply every 2 hours or after swimming or sweating!
What is the top-rated sunscreen for face and body use during fishing?
There are plenty of fish in the sea, and thankfully plenty of sunscreens too! For face sunscreens, we’d usually recommend sticking to physical mineral sunscreen to avoid irritation.
For body use, mineral or chemical sunscreens work. Chemical sunscreens tend to absorb easier and don’t leave a white cast, and since body skin isn’t usually as sensitive, chemical sunscreens can work great for those less-sensitive areas. Just make sure its water-resistant if you’ll be taking a dip!
Which spray sunscreens work best for sensitive skin and fishing?
Spray sunscreens are convenient for quick reapplication during outdoor activities like fishing.
For sensitive skin, we recommend hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and mineral-based formulas (which, unfortunately, discounts sprays, since most spray sunscreens are chemical formulas). Remember to apply generously when spraying for the best coverage — it’s notoriously hard to get good coverage with spray sunscreens!
And there you have it, folks! We hope our sunscreen round-up helps you find the perfect sunscreen for your fishing adventures. Remember, while we can’t control the fish biting, we can control the sun biting.
