There are few things in this world that are better than spending all day on the water fishing. The only thing that can prevent you from fully enjoying this amazing experience is the heat on a hot summer day. Luckily, there are a few things you can do to beat the heat. These are the four best ways to stay cool when fishing in the South.
Cover Your Head
A small part of the brain called the hypothalamus regulates the temperature of your body. This is why it is very important to keep your head cool on a hot day. If you are able to keep the head cool, then the rest of the body will not get overheated. The best way to do this is by wearing a large hat or baseball cap, ideally one that “breathes” so as not to trap the heat It may also be a good idea to place a wet cloth underneath the hat at all times.
Wear the Right Clothes
You may be tempted to wear a t-shirt and your favorite pair of shorts the next time you go fishing on a hot day, but this may not be the best idea. Exposing your skin is just setting you up to get a serious sunburn. Luckily, there are shirts specifically designed for fishing. These shirts are made with a special material that absorb moisture and allow wind ventilation to keep you cool.
Adjust Your Fishing Times
Altering your schedule is a great way to beat the heat and still enjoy your favorite hobby. Head out to the water early in the morning to avoid the sun. If you do not want to get up early, then you can always try fishing after the sun goes down in the early evening. In addition to helping you stay cool, these are also the times when fish are the most active.
Drink Lots of Water
Drinking beer can be a big part of the fishing experience for some, but it should be avoided on dangerously hot days. The body needs to be properly hydrated to keep you from overheating. While you may think you can hydrate the body with beer, the alcohol will actually cause you to become dehydrated. Drink a few cups of water every hour you are in the heat and save the beer until you get home.