How to Choose the Best Polarised Sunglasses for Fishing
First light on the water. A calm ripple, a shadow that might be a fish, a moment where better vision changes everything. The right sunglasses help you read the day, protect your eyes and make better decisions on the bank. This guide shows you how to choose with confidence.
Start with what you need to see
Ask one question before you buy. What do you need to see more clearly on your waters? If you stalk in close and hunt margins you need fast, bright clarity. If you sit on open pits and chase shows at range you need control in glare and chop. Match your lens to the job and the rest falls into place.
Lens tints that work for real sessions
Braun 247
Warm, balanced contrast for mixed conditions. Many anglers choose Brown 247 when light shifts through the day. It lifts definition without feeling harsh and keeps colour natural so water reads look honest.
Bernstein AMPM
High contrast for early, late and low light. Amber helps signs pop when the sun is shy or the swim is shaded. It is a favourite for stalking under trees and tracking subtle movement close in.
Switch photochromic
When you fish through changing light in one session, Switch earns its place. The lens reacts to UV and brightens or darkens to keep visibility steady. Many anglers use Switch as a single-pair solution for British weather that never makes up its mind. Read more about choosing tints
If glare is strong and persistent, a slightly darker base such as Brown 247 helps reduce eye strain across long hours. If you fish confined venues with heavy cover, Amber AMPM often gives you that extra edge in contrast. If your sessions run from dawn to dusk or you like to roam, Switch covers the spectrum with fewer compromises.
Frames that fit how you fish
Fit is performance. A snug wrap keeps stray light out and reduces reflections from the sides. A secure grip stays put when you move fast. Choose frames that match your face width and your style of angling.
- Wraps and fit-overs: Maximum coverage for glare control. Ideal for mobile work and bright water.
- Bays and similar shapes: Secure, lighter feel for all-day wear, on and off the bank.
- Isolators Round or Square with side shields: Removable shields block light ingress on the water, then pop off for a cleaner street look.
- Junior Bays: Scaled for younger anglers who need real polarisation, not toy lenses.
Side shields, reflections and why it matters
If you can block light sneaking in from the sides you see more below the surface. Side shields help your pupils settle, which preserves contrast and subtle detail. It is the difference between thinking you saw movement and knowing you did.
Polarisation quality and lens material
True polarisation cuts surface glare so you can see through the top layer of water. Pair that with durable, lightweight lenses and you get clarity you can wear all day. If you often drop or bash your glasses, go for impact resistance and scratch protection as a priority.
Match lens to scenario
- Low, flat light under trees: Amber AMPM helps pick out fins and shapes at close range.
- Bright midday on open pits: Brown 247 keeps colour honest and glare controlled for hours.
- Changeable weather, roaming all day: Switch photochromic maintains visibility as light swings.
Care that keeps vision clean
Rinse frames after dusty paths or salt spray. Use a soft cloth, not a sleeve. Store in a hard case. Clean lenses keep contrast high and small tells visible.
Recommended Fortis gear
Here are starting points many anglers choose for the conditions above. Pick your tint first, then choose the frame that suits your face and style.
- Buchten in Brown 247 or Switch – lightweight, secure and versatile.
- Wraps in Amber AMPM or Switch – glare control and coverage when the light is fierce.
- Isolatoren Rund oder Isolatoren Quadratisch with removable side shields – bank-ready focus that cleans up nicely off the water.
- Junior Buchten in Brown 247 – real polarisation for smaller faces.
Not sure yet? Start with our lens overview, then compare frames by fit and weight. A quick try-on at your local stockist seals the choice.
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