Two More Pairs of Polarized Sunglasses Into the Rotation
While I could probably get by with one or two pairs of polarized sunglasses for my varied fishing efforts, as I’ve gotten older and my eyesight has gotten slightly worse, I’ve learned that there are benefits to having specialized eyewear for different circumstances. Not only do I end up seeing more and assumedly catching more, but I also feel less fatigued and brain-addled at the end of a long day on the water. Earlier this year, recognizing that reading glasses have become a permanent part of my attire, I added a set of sunglasses with readers built in for threading guides and tying knots. This fall, I’ve added two more pairs that I have become consistently-chosen options and should continue to be so for the near future.
Frame: King Tide 8, Black Pearl
Lens: Blue Mirror polarized 580 glass, scratch-resistant.
Case: This approximately 6”x8”x3” semi-hard container is the largest case I’ve seen for a single pair of sunglasses. It has a cutout for the glasses and space for other items, such as the included glasses retainer and cleaning cloth. It’s nice in the tow vehicle or in the boat, but when we travel I’ll probably transfer the glasses to a smaller case in order to conserve space.
Best Features: The sun-blocking side shields are removable, but I see no reason to do so. Combined with the non-skid hooding, they perfectly cup my eyes, blocking out just about all possible light without feeling like I’m being suffocated – and the vents have so far eliminated any fog. On Hanna, who has a larger head, they didn’t fit perfectly, but for my face it’s as if they were custom-molded.
Where I’ll Use Them: The King Tides will almost certainly become one of my go-to options just about everywhere I fish. I’ve worn various iterations and versions of Costas for nearly 30 years, and the optical quality is exceptional, but what I really like about these is the comfort factor. I forget they’re there. I recently fished a local lake until dark, and as the sunset approached I couldn’t figure out why it was getting so dark so soon. Only then did I realize that the glasses were still on and I had a few extra minutes of casting. I’m sure I’ll take them on long-distance trips, but I’m most excited about using them for sight fishing for bass in the spring.
Frame: Descend rimless frame (crystal) with straight temples
Lens: Blue water mirrored
Case: Hard case closes with a satisfying snap. Comes with a cleaning cloth and anti-fog wipes.
Best Features: These glasses are remarkably light, and while they let in a little bit more light than the King Tides, the overall lack of fatigue from their lightness should provide a benefit during extremely long days on the water, particularly in the salt. If I squint a little, I can see the nose pads out of the corner of my eyes, but I have to try to make that happen. Otherwise, they’re exceptionally clear and provide great object separation.
Where I’ll Use Them: These Revo glasses will be the first item I throw into my luggage when we head to Guatemala later this year. I love trying to see the rising sailfish in the spread before the mates see them, and while I’m rarely successful, I’ll continue to work to get better at it. That means being both focused and unfocused, so you can see slight movements in all directions, and it also means hours upon hours of staring at crystal blue water, waiting for action.
