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Fishing with kids is one of life’s great joys—but it also comes with responsibility. Here’s how to help shield young skin from harmful UV rays during a day on the water.

For many families, a day spent fishing together is the stuff memories are made of. Whether casting for bass or panfish from a dock, trolling the back bays or spending hours in a skiff chasing trout and reds under the summer sun, it’s an experience that brings generations together. But that same sun that glints so beautifully off the water is also a silent risk—particularly for kids. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation, just one blistering sunburn during childhood can more than double a person’s chances of developing melanoma later in life.

The good news is that preventing sun damage is entirely doable with the right gear and a little planning. Sunscreen, of course, is the go-to—but it’s only the beginning. Sun-protective clothing, including long-sleeve performance shirts made with built-in Ultraviolet Protection Factor, is now widely available and ideal for fishing. These lightweight, breathable shirts are designed for moisture-wicking comfort and block up to 98 percent of UVA and UVB rays without relying on chemicals.

Another smart investment? Fishing gloves, which many parents overlook when dressing their kids for a day outside. Children's hands are especially vulnerable to sunburn, particularly while holding rods, reeling, or helping with bait. Fingerless sun gloves—like those worn by serious anglers—are now made in youth sizes and are an excellent way to prevent burn and long-term sun exposure. One great option is the Pro 365 Guide Glove from Fish Monkey. It’s got an ultralightweight design that dries extremely quickly, while also providing second-skin fit for all-day comfort. And it’s got UPF 50-plus sun protection. It’s available in sizes down to Small and XS too.

A snug-fitting cap with a Performance Face Guard can provide shade for the face, ears, and back of the neck—areas most prone to overexposure. Pair that with polarized sunglasses (yes, they make child-sized versions) to protect young eyes from glare and harmful rays bouncing off the water’s surface.

And while spray-on sunscreens may be convenient, dermatologists recommend lotion-based, broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher—applied generously and re-applied every two hours or after swimming or sweating. Don’t forget overlooked spots like the tops of feet, backs of knees, and under the chin, where reflected sunlight can sneak in.

Teaching kids to take sun protection seriously from a young age not only keeps their fishing trips comfortable—it builds habits that will serve them for life. After all, no one wants their favorite memory of catching their first fish to come with a painful sunburn. With the right protection, you can help ensure the only thing your young angler brings home is a good story and maybe even dinner.

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