I recently penned an article for MUSKIE magazine (July issue) titled "See More, Catch More."
In it, I discuss the importance of wearing polarized sunglasses and I describe in detail how to choose a quality pair. Choosing
a pair solely by how they look on you or by the lowest price is certainly not your best bet. The four basic things to remember
when purchasing your next pair of sunglasses for fishing are:
* 100% UV/100% Polarized
* built to last, durable
* snug, comfortable fit
* a lifetime warranty.
Ultraviolent rays A & B damage the retina, are involved in the production of cataracts, and increase the chances of developing
macular degeneration. Correctly designed polarized lenses block out ultraviolet light through a process called absorption.
Quality sunglasses block out 100% of these dangerous rays. Look for glasses, such as my favorites made by Costa Del Mar, that
integrate the UV protection directly into the lenses. Inexpensive brands will just add a coating of protection. This coating
will wear off through everyday use and cleaning, leaving your eyes exposed to these harmful rays.
The primary function of a polarized lens is to eliminate reflected glare.
Glare reduction is key to all fishermen, but especially to those of us chasing a fish that has a tendency to examine and follow
a lure. Ripples, waves, and glare make it nearly impossible to see this fish or any subsurface structure. Costas add features
such as glare absorbing anti-reflective coatings applied to the back surface of your lenses.
Durability is in the details. Look for corrosion-resistant, stainless steel
spring hinges. Wire core or co-injected temples should adjust for the perfect fit. And, silicone nose pads provide excellent
gripping ability-even when you perpire.
Fishing eye ware should be so comfortable that you forget you have
it on, however, remember that you also want it "snug." You'll be racing around at 45 mph and don't want your glasses flying
off into the water. Step one is to find a frame style that rests well on your nose and behind your ears. There should be no
sunlight coming in from the top of the frame or from the sides.
Why is comfort so important? You want to wear these glasses all day long-and
well into the evening. The minute you take them off, you are inviting an accident to happen. Case in point: while fishing
in Canada this past year we received an alarming call over the marine radio. Two guys, who had fished together for years,
had a situation.Fellow #1 had taken off his sunglasses and his partner proceeded to mis-cast. A bucktail (treble hook and
all) was now solidly stuck in his eye. At the very least, this put a damper on the day's fishing. We raced across the Lake
of the Woods, then drove a couple hours to the nearest hospital. We were very lucky. An eye specialist was available who performed
surgery immediately. Thankfully, there was no loss of vision.but, there just as easily could have been. It is so very important
to wear eye protection at all times. 90% of all eye injuries (over 100,000 annually) could have been prevented. Choose a pair
of sunglasses that are so comfortable, you forget they are on!
Costa Del Mar is considered by many to be the industry's
benchmark of performance. Their lens technology and quality components help deliver the best-performing frames on the water.
Worn by professional anglers Jose Wejebe (the Spanish Fly) and Cindy Garrison, these glasses deliver extraordinary definition
and clarity.
Many models are available in prescription lenses, even in bifocals (Costa C-Mates). They also
proffer a variety of accessories-from neoprene rubber keeper cords to visor clips and hermit cloths.they'll help keep your
investment safe and handy.
For gals with smaller sized faces, I find their MP-2 style fit perfectly.
For daytime fishing, I like the green mirrored lenses. This lens is exceptional for freshwater fishing in variable light conditions.
In low light conditions, I prefer a yellow or amber lens. This style is available in several frame colors (such as black or
tortoise.)
Lastly, they offer four sunglass styles that have interchangeable lenses. Try on the Fluid, Tropic
Star, Reef Raider or Release styles for the utmost in versatility and performance. Each sunglass is available with 3
polarized lens sets for different light conditions.
To find a dealer near you, visit:
Or, call (386) 677.3700. Tell them A Blond & Her Boat sent you!
By: Patricia Strutz
