With summer here, the temperatures are rising, which makes for hot days by the lake. Fishing trips along the Alabama Bass Trail are a fun way to enjoy your summer, but make sure you’re prepared. We’re here to help you beat the heat with these quick tips:  

Stay hydrated  

Having cold drinks in a cooler can help you stay refreshed as well as hydrated.   

Protect your head 

With the sun above, it’s important to protect your head! Wearing baseball caps or wide-brimmed hats will help keep your head cool and keep the sun off your face.  

Protect your eyes 

Wearing sunglasses can make your day more enjoyable. But they are also important for protecting your eyes from the sun’s damaging rays, especially as the glare bounces off the water.  

Use sunscreen 

The best way to prevent yourself from looking like a lobster at the end of your fishing day is to use sunscreen. Applying a high SPF sunscreen to all exposed skin often throughout the day will help protect your skin from sun injury.  

Dress for the weather 

Wearing the right clothing while out fishing can make all the difference. The ideal fishing attire is lightweight, moisture-wicking, has UV protection, and is light colored. UV protection apparel will help defend your skin from the sun’s rays. Lightweight and light-colored clothing will help you stay cool by deflecting the sunlight. Moisture-wicking clothing is quick drying to keep you cool and keep you from sweating through your clothes.   

Find shade 

Seek out shade whenever possible, whether it’s under a tree, pier or bridge. Finding shade will keep you out of direct sunshine and in return keep you cool.  

Find a breeze  

In addition to the shade, finding a spot where there is movement of the air can help you stay cool.  

Move the boat 

If you’re on a boat and there is not much breeze, change your location every so often. This will allow for a change of airflow and help to cool you down.  

Fish in the morning or evening  

Sometimes you need to beat the heat by hitting the water early in the morning before the sun gets too hot. In the evening as the sun goes down is another great time to go fishing.  

Jump in  

If you really need to cool off, you can always go for a dip in the water. As long as it’s safe to do so, hopping into the water can be a refreshing way to beat the heat.  

Don’t forget to always check the weather reports prior to your fishing trip and pack accordingly. Being prepared is key!