Have you ever wondered whether or not your choice of clothing factors into how many fish you catch? Although we’re fairly certain that fish can’t tell the difference between a pair of high end Gucci dress pants and your favorite pair of Levi’s, you might be surprised to learn that some species of fish can distinguish one color from another quite well!
When fishing from the shore the color of your clothing can in fact affect your fishing success. Trout, for example, can see colors very well up to 12 feet away. The color white, as well as fluorescent colors such as red, yellow, and orange are highly visible to trout. It is therefore possible that brightly colored clothing could negatively impact your trout fishing success, especially if you’re fishing for trout in clear water shallow brooks and streams. It is recommended that trout fishermen wear earth tone or camouflage clothing that allows the angler to blend in with their surroundings. This is why trout fishing clothing such as vests and waders are usually only available in earth tone colors.
Experts have also weighed in with their opinions as to whether or not clothing color has any impact on bass fishing. The general consensus is that if you are fishing for bass or other game fish from shore then you should try to wear earth tone or camouflage colors as well. This may not matter as much if you are fishing in murky water, but it certainly holds true when you are fishing in clear water.
Although the color of a fisherman’s clothing may not be as important as the bait and tackle being used, it is still very important to be mindful of fish habitat and to try to avoid spooking them. Try wearing earth tone or camouflage clothing the next time you go out fishing and let us know if you noticed a difference.