Summer angling can be a truly rewarding experience, but it's essential to protect yourself from the sun's harmful rays, and a well-chosen fishing hat is often overlooked but is crucial for any angler. Whether you're battling it out on a scorching hot day or facing unpredictable weather conditions, the right headwear can make a significant difference to your comfort and enjoyment.
Best summer fishing hats at a glance
• Best Sun Protection Summer Fishing Hat: Daiwa Bucket Camo Hat - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Best Ventilation Summer Fishing Hat: Nash Scope Mesh Snapback Cap - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Most Versatile Summer Fishing Hat: Fortis Reversible Bucket Hat - View offer on Total Fishing Tackle
• Best Value for Money Summer Fishing Hat: Preston Ventamesh HD Cap - View offer on Fishing Tackle & Bait
From classic bucket hats to ventilated mesh caps, the market offers a variety of fishing hats to suit every angler's style and needs, here are some of the best...
Best budget summer fishing hat
www.fishingtackleandbait.co.uk
Designed for match anglers, the Preston Ventamesh HD cap features a bright white colour that reflects sunlight to keep you cool. The breathable mesh back panel ensures maximum airflow to ensure your head doesn't become hot and uncomfortable, allowing you to wear it all day without, regardless of conditions.
With adjustable Velcro fastening, you'll find the perfect fit every time. The iconic Preston branding adds a touch of quality and completes the look. Perfect for long days on the bank.
Pros
- White colour reflects sunlight, keeping you cool
- Breathable mesh
Cons
- Prone to getting dirty and staining
Most stylish summer fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Featuring a bold, modern print design, The Matrix Hex Print Baseball Cap is very stylish and is available in a choice of white, grey, or black, the cap is as robust as it is fashionable.
Stay cool and comfortable with eyelet vents and a soft, 100% polyester fabric. The adjustable hook-and-eye closure with a grimy-resistant rubber puller ensures a perfect fit every time. Whether you're on the bank or out and about, this cap is the perfect accessory.
Pros
- Stylish and modern design
- Eyelets and vents offers breathability
Cons
- Maybe a bit bold for some anglers
Best baseball cap summer fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
The Guru Trucker Cap is available in both stylish white and grey designs, both of which feature a classic trucker style with a solid front and peak for a clean look.
The breathable mesh sides and back allow maximum airflow, keeping you refreshed even on the hottest days. With an adjustable fit, this one-size-fits-all cap guarantees perfect comfort.
Pros
- Breathable to stay cool in hot weather
- Robust, solid design
Cons
- The darker colour can get hotter than other brands, but it doesn't stain as easily
Best sun protection fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Shielding you from the sun in style with its unique camo pattern, the Daiwa Bucket Camo Hat is a one-size-fits-all hat perfect for anglers seeking both comfort and protection.
The subtle Daiwa branding complements the hat's sleek design, while the semi-rigid brim provides excellent shade for your face and eyes. Experience ultimate comfort and sun protection with this essential fishing accessory.
Pros
- Semi rigid brim offers great sun protection
- Stylish pattern
Cons
- Not waterproof
Best ventilation summer fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
Designed for the modern angler, the Nash Scope Mesh Snapback Cap has a unique blend of stripped-back camo and the iconic Scope compass.
The vented rear panels provide maximum airflow, keeping you cool and refreshed during those long summer sessions. The snapback closure ensures a perfect fit, every time.
Pros
- Popular camo design
- Lightweight and comfortable
Cons
- Snapback closure may not be to everyones taste
Most versatile summer fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
The Fortis Reversible Bucket Hat has the versatility of two styles in one hat, olive green and is reversible with camo effect.
This practical accessory offers full sun protection and features handy elasticated sunglasses retainers to keep your shades secure.
Available in two sizes to ensure the perfect fit, this hat is a must-have for any angling enthusiast
Pros
- Reversible design gives two hats in one
- Elasticated retainers for your sunglasses
Cons
- Bucket hat style may not suit some anglers
Best bucket style summer fishing hat
www.total-fishing-tackle.com
The classic, wide-brimmed Korda Waterproof Boonie Hat is designed to keep you protected from the sun and rain, making it the perfect companion for unpredictable fishing days.
Available in Digi Camo and Olive, this lightweight hat features an adjustable cord for a perfect fit. Every purchase helps support the Lennox Children’s Cancer Trust, making this hat more than just a headwear essential.
Pros
- Every hat supports Lennox Children Cancer Trust
- Waterproof
Cons
- Not as rigid as some other bucket hats available
Best waterproof summer fishing hat
www.omctackle.com
One More Cast Splash Leaf Cap, crafted from a water-repellent material, this hat sheds rain like a duck, keeping you dry and comfortable even in the worst weather. Its peak provides excellent sun protection, making it perfect for sunny days too.
An internal sweatband helps wick away moisture, ensuring you stay cool and fresh.
Pros
- High quality, unique cap
- Waterproof
Cons
- May be a little too expensive for some
What to look for in a summer fishing hat
When selecting a summer fishing hat for angling, be it pleasure fishing, match fishing or on a fishing holiday, several factors should be considered. Primarily, the hat should provide ample sun protection with a wide brim to shield your face, neck, and ears.
Good ventilation is essential to prevent overheating, making mesh panels or eyelets crucial. Comfort is paramount, so consider the hat's fit, material, and any additional features like sweatbands. Durability is another key factor, as angling often involves exposure to harsh conditions.
Lastly, consider the fishing hat's style and whether it complements your personal preference and angling environment. If you don't like the way it looks and don't want to wear it, chances are you won't and it will offer no protection at all.
Glossary
Brim: The protruding part of a hat that shields the eyes.
Crown: The part of the hat that covers the head.
Ventilation: The airflow through a hat, often achieved through mesh panels or eyelets.
Baseball cap: A structured cap with a curved brim.
Bucket hat: A soft, round hat with a wide brim.
Boonie hat: A wide-brimmed, soft hat often associated with outdoor activities.
Trucker cap: A baseball cap with a mesh back.
Snapback cap: A baseball cap with an adjustable closure at the back.
Mesh: A net-like fabric used for ventilation.
Water-repellent: Material that resists water absorption.
Sweatband: Internal band to absorb sweat.
Eyelet: Small holes in the hat for ventilation.
Frequently asked questions on summer fishing hats
Should you wear a hat when fishing in summer?
When it is hot and sunny, wearing a hat when fishing is always advised as it will help keep you protected. The cooler you are, the better your decision making and the higher your enthusiasm will be, which will lead to you fishing better and ultimately catching more fish. It also reduces the chances of you getting burned or suffering ill-effects from too much heat and sunlight.
Does mesh ventilation make a difference in a fishing hat?
If fishing in hot conditions, mesh ventilation will make a huge difference to how cool your head will feel. This serves two purposes, it reduces sweat build up keeping your head cool, which in turn, makes sure you stay comfortable and keep the hat on throughout your session, allowing the other features on the cap to provide their benefits too.
Author Dan Webb first became involved in angling journalism in 2015 and has worked as Tackle Tester at Angling Times since April 2021. He is a fanatical all-round match angler and former England Youth International.