When it comes to sea fishing in the UK, having the correct clothing is essential to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. The right clothing can provide protection from the elements, keep you warm, and prevent accidents. Here we’ll take a look at the different types of sea fishing clothing available and why it’s important to choose the correct garments for your fishing trip.

Types of Sea Fishing Clothing

1. Waterproofs

Waterproof clothing is a must-have for any sea fishing trip. This type of clothing is designed to keep you dry in even the wettest of conditions. Waterproofs are available in different designs, including jackets, trousers, bib and braces, and full suits. They are also made from different materials, from basic PVC to breathable fabrics such as Gore-Tex.

2. Thermal Layers

If you’re sea fishing during the colder months, thermal layers are essential for keeping warm and comfortable. These garments are made from materials that trap your body heat close to your skin, so you stay warm. They are available in different types depending on your level of activity and the conditions you’re fishing in.

3. Base Layers

Base layers are designed to wick moisture away from your skin, keeping you dry and comfortable. They are also designed to be worn under other layers, such as thermal layers or waterproofs. They are available in a range of materials, including synthetic fabrics and merino wool.

4. Hats and Gloves

Hats and gloves are vital pieces of sea fishing clothing. They help protect you from the cold and the sun, as well as providing grip when handling slippery fish. There are a variety of styles available, from insulated woolly hats to grip gloves with reinforced palms.

Why it’s important to choose the correct garments for fishing in the UK

1. Safety

Sea fishing can be dangerous if the correct clothing is not worn. The UK’s coastal waters can be cold, choppy, and unpredictable, so it’s essential to wear clothing that provides good insulation and protection from the elements. Good quality waterproofs also reduce the risk of slipping and falling on wet surfaces.

2. Comfort

Fishing can be a long and tiring activity, so it’s essential to wear clothing that is comfortable and allows freedom of movement. Choosing breathable fabrics for your thermal and base layers will help prevent sweating and overheating, while good quality waterproofs will keep you dry and warm.

3. Protection from the sun

The sun’s rays can be damaging to the skin, even in the UK’s cooler climate. Wearing a hat and sun protection clothing will help protect your skin from the harmful effects of the sun’s UV rays.

4. Protection from the cold

The UK’s coastal waters can be cold, even in the height of summer. Choosing the right thermal layers will help keep you warm and comfortable, reducing the risk of hypothermia and ensuring you have an enjoyable fishing experience.

Waterproof ratings and breathability ratings

When choosing waterproof clothing, it’s important to understand the different ratings that are used to measure their effectiveness. Two important ratings to look for are waterproof ratings and breathability ratings.

1. Waterproof ratings

Waterproof ratings are measured in millimetres and indicate how much water pressure a garment can withstand before it starts to leak. The higher the rating, the more water-resistant the garment is. For sea fishing, a waterproof rating of at least 5,000mm is recommended to provide adequate protection.

2. Breathability ratings

Breathability ratings indicate how well a garment allows moisture to escape from the body. This is important for thermal and base layers, as well as waterproofs. Gore-Tex is a popular breathable fabric used in many sea fishing clothing designs. A breathability rating of at least 10,000g/m²/24hrs is recommended to ensure adequate moisture management.

In conclusion, selecting the correct clothing for sea fishing in the UK is vital for a comfortable and safe fishing experience. Waterproofs, thermal layers, base layers, hats and gloves are all important pieces of clothing necessary for sea fishing. Furthermore, choosing the appropriate waterproof ratings and breathability ratings can make a significant difference in keeping you dry, comfortable, and safe. By taking the time to choose the right gear, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the UK’s stunning coastlines and fishing opportunities.