Ever spent a whole day fishing, only to realize your shorts are soaking wet, heavy, and totally uncomfortable? That miserable feeling ruins a great day on the water. Choosing the right fishing shorts is more than just picking a color; it’s about staying comfortable, dry, and ready for action from sunrise to sunset. Too often, standard shorts just don’t cut it when dealing with splashy waves, sudden downpours, or long hours under the sun.
The perfect pair needs to handle sweat, dry fast, and have pockets that actually work for your gear. If you are tired of shorts that cling, chafe, or fall apart after a few trips, you are in the right place. We have cut through the noise to bring you the ultimate guide. Keep reading to discover the must-have features that separate the best fishing shorts from the rest. We will show you exactly what to look for so your next trip is your most comfortable one yet!
Top Men’S Fishing Shorts Recommendations
- Premium Fabric: This mens cargo shorts is made of 90% Nylon and 10% Spandex fabric. The hard-resistant and well-made fabric sturdy enough for outdoor activities
- Lightweight & Quick Dry: Lightweight and quick dry fabric delivers improved sense to skin and helps to keep you cool in hot summer
- Comfort Fit: The mens hiking shorts with partial elastic waistband, suit for most body shape, allowing full range of motion and providing a comfort fit
- 5 Utility Pockets: Mens golf shorts features 2 front side pockets, 1 back pockets with zipper closure, 2 pockets on the left thigh. A lot of color options available
- Mens Summer Shorts: Great for various outdoor activities, such as hiking, golf, cycling, climbing, fishing and work. The men's casual shorts also suitable for every day wear
- 5 Zipper Pockets Hiking Shorts: Including 2 slash pockets, 2 flat pockets, and a back pocket. All the deep zipper pockets allows for secure storage of valuables like wallets cell phone and keys.
- Lightweight Moisture Wicking Fabric: Lightweight cargo shorts are made of breathable fabric, features moisture wicking and quick drying, keep you comfortable and cool in summer outdoor activities.
- Expandable Waist Cargo Shorts: Designed with a elastic back waistband, button closure with zip fly and 2'' belt loop for a personalized fit, offers a security support to ensure you move-freely and bends easily.
- Sun Protection & Water Repellent: Durable UPF 50+ sun protection helps to block harmful UV rays when you are hike, play or relax outdoors. Added durable water repellent finish to repel light moisture and dirt.
- Mens Summer Shorts：Great for various outdoor activities, such as hiking, golf, cycling, fishing and yard work. The men's casual shorts also suitable for every day wear and a ideal gift for families and friends.
- Lightweight & Quick-Drying Fabric: Men's golf shorts are made of high-performance fabric that features extreme comfort, lightweight, quick-drying, breathable, UPF 50+, and moisture-wicking, with durable properties
- 5 Practical Pockets: Men's performance golf shorts have multiple pockets making them convenient for you to take necessities. 2 deep side pockets with 1 zipper pocket with the capacity to hold golf balls and phones; 2 back pockets one with zipper closure for carrying more items
- Moisture Wicking: Golf shorts for men have moisture-wicking technology that can move perspiration away from the body to provide a dry fit that's comfortable for all-day wear
- Stretch Waistband: The engineered stretch waistband delivers improved fit and mobility. The brushed tricot-lined waistband keeps your shirt tucked in through the golf swing
- Occasions: Men's golf dress shorts are suitable for golf, hiking, work, surfing, fishing, outdoor sports, business activities, and daily casual wear. Careful technology is a good choice for presents, you can choose to give to your husband, child, family, or friends
- Huk | Uniting anglers through performance-engineered, technical gear designed to fuel your passion and pursuit no matter when, where or how you fish
- NEXT LEVEL 10.5" SHORT - This fishing short protects your skin from the sun's harmful rays and is quick drying ensuring all day comfort | 10.5" length falls at the knee
- TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE FISH SHORT - The Next Level incorporates perforated back yoke, zippered back pocket, plyer and cargo pockets and gusseted crotch for maximum mobility; you’ll never want to fish without this fully featured short again
- MULTIPURPOSE ANGLING SHORT - On the boat, dock or just hanging around town, these shorts will make your day a little better and always have you at the ready to fish
- FABRIC COMPOSITION - Cotton/polyester blend allows air to pass through and let your skin breathe (55% cotton, 35% polyester, 14% spandex)
- US size, Men's shorts with partial elastic waist for comfort fit, equipped with a belt, Suitable for most people and body shape. Elastic wear, water repellent, wear-resisting, breathe freely, comfortable.
- Mens casual shorts using high performance wicking fabric for outdoor sports, Lightweight short features Advanced moisture-wicking technology that pulls moisture away to keep you cool and dry, Suitable for most men, boys or teens.
- Advanced UPF 50 sun protection technology men's hiking shorts for maximum protection against the sun, reduces your exposure to harmful UVA/UVB radiation. High-performance wicking fabric, high quality fabric for outdoor sports.
- Cargo Shorts For Men: Multi pockets men's shorts features 2 front slash pockets,2 back pockets, plus 2 thigh pockets with zipper closure for your belongings.
- Mens Summer Shorts: Mid and high rise, 3D cutting, Suitable for Daily wear, hiking, hunting, travelling, camping, fishing, mountaineering, biking, cycling.
- Seven convenient and durable pockets to free your hands: Two front pockets，two SBS zippered back pockets, one large zippered cargo pocket with one small open pocket on it, and one plier pocket. Thanks to its neatly cutting, the multi-pocket design provides large capacity storage without being fussy
- Equipped with highly functional UV protection ability that rates UPF 50+, help you enjoy the sun without getting sunburned by harmful UVA and UVB rays
- Loose fit design made with durable 4-way stretch for freedom of movement; Elastic waistband with strong waist tabs provides adjustable comfort; Gusseted crotch with small breathe holes enhances range of motion and breathability
- Humanized small details design: A small accessory loop that near the front waist tab to attach small stuffs like fishing shear, keys and so on; A hidden loop on the cargo pocket for attaching bottle opener or small gadgets
- Specifically designed for outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, surfing, sailing as well as daily wear. The Bassdash shorts will make your day more comfortable and have you ready to go outside
- DESIGN: These lightweight mens shorts are made from quick drying 92% polyester/8% elastane blended stretch material for maximum comfort - all Powered by Hydroplex Technology.
- COMFORT & BREATHABILITY: Advanced moisture wicking for a natural cooling effect that offers up to 30% reduction in body surface temperature while also providing 40+ UPF protection.
- VERSATILITY: The comfortable, stretchy material with cooling and moisture wicking capabilities make these shorts ideal for all outdoor activity n and out of the water. Perfect for fishing, hiking, exercising and also look great for casual wear.
- MULTIPLE POCKETS: 2 hand pockets, 2 rear buttoned pockets, 1 left leg pocket for multi-tool, 3 right leg front pockets, and 1 right side pocket with elastic band for a can, bottle, or phone | Partial elastic waistband | Button fasten & zippered Fly
- SIZING: Small (28"-30") | Medium (32"-34") | Large (36"-38") | X-Large (40"-42") | 2X-large (44"-46") | 3X-Large (48"-50") | Features a 7” inseam | Comfort fit partial elastic waistband | Button fasten & zippered Fly
- HUK: Uniting anglers through performance-engineered, technical gear designed to fuel your passion and pursuit no matter when, where or how you fish
- SUN PROTECTION: This fishing short protects your skin from the sun's harmful rays - Huk added the most advanced sun-blocking +30 UPF materials to their apparel to block both UVA and UVB rays
- STRETCH: Fabric gives you the flexibility and stretch you need for comfort, while maintaining shape and fit
- QUICK DRYING: Dries quickly so that you can stay comfortable on or off the water
- COMFORTABLE: Extremely comfortable short with blended fabric to provide flexibility and stretch
The Angler’s Essential: A Comprehensive Buying Guide for Men’s Fishing Shorts
Choosing the right pair of fishing shorts can make a big difference on a hot day by the water. Good shorts keep you cool, dry quickly, and hold your gear. This guide helps you pick the best shorts for your next fishing trip.
Key Features to Look For
When shopping, certain features really matter for anglers. These details separate great fishing shorts from regular summer shorts.
Quick-Drying Fabric
Water is everywhere when you fish. You might splash water, get caught in rain, or wade into the shallows. Shorts that dry fast are a must. Look for materials like nylon or polyester blends. They wick moisture away from your skin quickly.
Ventilation and Breathability
Heat and humidity can wear you out. Good fishing shorts allow air to move freely. Some shorts have mesh panels or vents built in. These features help keep you cool when the sun beats down.
Ample and Secure Pockets
You need a place for pliers, lures, sunscreen, and your phone. Look for shorts with multiple pockets. Zippered pockets are excellent for securing valuable items so they don’t fall out while casting or netting a fish.
Mobility and Stretch
Casting requires a wide range of motion. Shorts should not restrict your legs. A little bit of stretch in the fabric allows you to move freely without feeling tight, especially when bending or climbing into a boat.
Important Materials for Performance
The material dictates how the shorts perform in wet and sunny conditions.
- Nylon: This is a top choice. Nylon is very durable, lightweight, and dries extremely fast. It resists abrasion well.
- Polyester: Often blended with nylon, polyester is also quick-drying and resists wrinkles. It is usually very affordable.
- Spandex/Elastane Blends: Small amounts of these materials add stretch. This blend improves comfort and movement significantly.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Quality isn’t just about the fabric; it’s about how the shorts are put together.
Quality Indicators (What makes them better):
- Reinforced Seams: High-quality shorts use strong stitching, especially where the legs meet the waistband. This prevents tearing after heavy use.
- UPF Protection: Many modern fishing shorts include built-in Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) ratings. This shields your skin from harmful sun rays.
- Water-Repellent Finish (DWR): Some shorts have a Durable Water Repellent coating. This causes water to bead up and roll right off the surface.
Quality Reducers (What to watch out for):
- Heavy Cotton: Avoid 100% cotton shorts for serious fishing. Cotton absorbs water and becomes heavy, taking forever to dry.
- Flimsy Zippers: Cheap, plastic zippers break easily or get stuck with salt water or sand. Choose durable, high-quality zippers.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about where and how you will wear your shorts.
For Saltwater Anglers:
If you spend time on the ocean, look for corrosion-resistant hardware. Saltwater is tough on metal. Shorts should be highly resistant to salt stains and dry very quickly after a spray.
For Fly Fishing and Kayaking:
Wading requires excellent mobility. Shorts with an inseam around 7 to 9 inches offer the best balance between coverage and freedom. Look for an elastic waist or a gusseted crotch area for maximum flexibility.
For Casual Boat Days:
If you mostly sit on the deck, comfort is key. A relaxed fit and soft fabric are important. You might prioritize style slightly more here, but quick-dry ability remains necessary.
Men’s Fishing Shorts FAQ
Q: What is the ideal inseam length for fishing shorts?
A: Most anglers prefer an inseam between 7 and 9 inches. This length offers good coverage while preventing fabric from bunching up when you wade or sit for long periods.
Q: Are fishing shorts different from hiking shorts?
A: Yes. While both are designed for outdoor activity, fishing shorts usually focus more on water resistance, quick drying, and often feature specialized pockets for tools like clippers or line spools.
Q: How should I wash my high-tech fishing shorts?
A: Always check the label first. Generally, wash them in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners, as they can clog the pores of the quick-dry fabric and reduce its wicking ability.
Q: Do I need UV protection in my fishing shorts?
A: If you spend many hours under direct sun, UPF protection is highly recommended. It adds an extra layer of defense against sunburn on your legs.
Q: Why do some shorts have vents?
A: Vents, often mesh-lined, allow heat and sweat vapor to escape the shorts. This greatly increases airflow, keeping you cooler during intense heat.
Q: Are cargo pockets on fishing shorts useful?
A: Cargo pockets are very useful for holding bulky items like a small tackle box or a large phone. Just ensure they close securely with a zipper or strong Velcro.
Q: Can I wear these shorts casually?
A: Absolutely. Most modern fishing shorts have a clean look. They function perfectly as comfortable, durable shorts for everyday summer wear.
Q: What makes nylon better than polyester for fishing?
A: Nylon is generally stronger and more abrasion-resistant than polyester. However, polyester is often lighter and sometimes cheaper. Both perform very well when dried.
Q: How important is stretch in fishing shorts?
A: Stretch is very important for active fishing. It allows you to cast overhead, climb rocks, or get into a kayak without the fabric binding or ripping at the seams.
Q: Should I buy shorts with belt loops or an elastic waist?
A: This depends on preference. Belt loops allow you to secure shorts firmly, especially when carrying heavy gear. Elastic waists offer maximum comfort and flexibility, particularly if you plan on wading deep.