When preparing to head to your favorite lake or river for some fishing time it can be easy to forget the sun protection. Doing so, however, can present some ill effects to your short- and long-term health. According to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over-exposure to UV radiation can cause:
Not only are we being constantly exposed from above to ultraviolet (UV) radiation but most surfaces, including water increase the exposure by reflecting it from below. The reflective properties of water can cause an increase of UV exposure by up to 10%. Add in the reflective nature of surrounding surfaces and the exposure rate can be even higher.
Though this may sound a bit frightening, taking just a few measures to prepare for time in the sun can help anglers minimize the risk of these health issues. Protective clothing, sunscreen and good sunglasses should all be considered necessities before heading out onto the water.
Take Precautions by Covering Up
Cover up as much skin as possible. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, long sleeved shirt, gloves and long pants. Purchase clothing specifically designed for wearing in bright sunlight. Many specialty clothing manufacturers make a wide range of clothing using fabrics that filter harmful UV rays even more effectively than sunscreens. Select clothing that has Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) as high as possible. The UPF rating of clothing (according to REI) is based on a scale of 15 to 50+; garments with a rating greater than 50 are rated as 50+. Garments with ratings of less than 15 are not considered to be UPF garments.
It may seem counter-intuitive to cover up when out in warm, bright weather but modern fabrics and designs make warm weather outdoor clothing extremely breathable and cool.
Start with a wide-brimmed hat. A baseball cap may protect your scalp but provides no protection for ear lobes, temples or neck. Many styles of sun protection hats are available from a number of clothing manufacturers. These hats come in a wide range of weights that are suitable for weather temperatures from “it’s too cold to be fishing” to “it’s just too hot to be outside”.
Wear a long-sleeved shirt. Arms and shoulders are very susceptible to UV damage because they are most often extended when casting and reeling. Light reflection from the water’s surface can reach areas not normally exposed to the sun, bringing harmful UV rays to tender skin areas. The breathability of specifically designed shirts is surprisingly effective even on the hottest afternoons.
Long pants are also a good precaution. Like the hats and shirts designed for outdoor use these pants can be surprisingly cool. The protection they provide can also be invaluable. Wading extremely shallow, white sand flats in baggy shorts, on a bright sunny day can give the term "sunburn" a whole new meaning. The same can be said for standing on a bass boat deck for hours.
In extreme cases it is also advisable to cover as much facial area as possible. Wearing a sun mask, balaclava or buff can protect otherwise exposed facial areas. Wading bright white sand flats is one of these cases. While water can increase UV exposure by 10%, bright sand can increase it as much as 85%.
Sun protection gloves are especially important for anglers because our hands are often wet. The application of sunscreen to hands is quickly negated by repeated immersion. Specially designed gloves such as those by Dr Shade provide the needed protection to keep hands from getting sunburned.
Some of the UPF clothing items may seem a bit expensive compared to a cotton T-shirt. The cost however is far outweighed by the protection they provide. If you’re the type who doesn’t want to spend the big bucks on a specialty clothing item check with outlets such as Sierra Trading Post and other online discount retailers for discontinued items at bargain prices. Your local outdoor retailer may also offer summer UPF clothing during end of season and early season sales.
Wear Sunscreen to Protect Uncovered Skin
Not enough can be said about the importance of the protection sunscreen provides. Applying a layer of sunscreen to skin that will be exposed to the sun is an easy step to help minimize skin damage. Sunscreens can be purchased with a SPF rating of up to 100. When choosing a sunscreen product keep in mind that the higher the rating number, the longer the protection will last. There is a little more protection (greater % of UVB rays blocked) from higher SPF ratings as well.
Along with sunscreen a good lip balm like Carmex or Chapstick can help reduce the risk of sun and wind burn. Both brands offer products with SPF ratings as high as 30.
Don’t Forget Sunglasses
Choosing sunglasses for protection is simple and can be quite inexpensive. Choose glasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Wrap around styles are best at keeping harmful UV rays from reaching the eyes from the sides. The added advantage is that the polarization of the lenses also provides better vision into the water.
Retailers such as Wal-Mart, Bass Pro Shops and Cabelas all sell suitable sunglasses for under $20 that can be purchased at local stores or online.
Fishing and other outdoor activities are meant to be fun. Don’t let sunburn put a bad end to a day on the water. Protect yourself and your family for more enjoyable time outdoors.
To find out even more about sun exposure and the effects of UVA and UVB radiation visit the Environmental Protection Agency’s Sunwise Program webpages.
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