A Short History of Bass Fishing Hats

If you’re an avid bass fisherman, chances are you own at least one fishing hat. If you are like me, you probably have more like 10.

But where do these hats come from? How did they become such a ubiquitous part of the bass fishing world? Let’s take a look at the history of bass fishing hats, including different styles and brands.

Origins

Bass fishing hats have their roots in the early days of competitive bass fishing. In the early 1970s, two men – Robert Byram and Dick Pope Sr. – founded the Bass Anglers Sportsman Society (BASS), which is widely considered to be the first major competitive bass fishing organization.

BASS held its first tournament in 1967, and by 1972, it had grown to include more than 2,000 members.

In those early days of competitive bass fishing, most anglers simply wore whatever hat they had on hand. But as the sport began to grow in popularity, some companies saw an opportunity to market specifically to bass fishermen.

In 1976, Hukk Clothing Company debuted its first line of bass fishing shirts and hats. The shirts were brightly colored and featured fish graphics, and the hats had adjustable straps that said “BASS” in big letters. Hukk’s clothes were an instant hit with bass anglers, and soon other companies began releasing their own lines of bass fishing apparel.

Today, there are dozens of companies that make bass fishing hats, and the designs are more varied than ever before.

Bass Fishing Hat Styles

Whether you’re looking for a hat that shows your allegiance to your favorite bass fishing team or you just want a comfy hat to keep the sun out of your eyes, there’s a bass fishing hat out there for you. And who knows?

In a few years’ time, we might even see a new style of bass fishing hat that takes the world by storm.

Even though the styles may be different, as long as they protect you from harmful UV rays, keep the sun and sweat out of your eyes, and don’t easily fly off in the wind, you should be good to go!

The key benefits of a fishing hat are sun protection, sweat wicking, and insect deterrence.

Fishing Trucker Hats

One of the most common types of fishing hats is the trucker-style hat. These are great because you can also wear them anywhere else, except maybe at church.

The Snapback Trucker Hat is a classic style that never goes out of fashion. It’s perfect for those hot summer days when you need to keep the sun out of your eyes. The mesh back will also help keep your head cool and dry.

Fly Fishing Hats

Most of the fly fishing hats on the market have some sort of additional shade protection. Whether it’s a flap on the back or a full brim around the entire hat, these hats are way more pronounced than your typical front bill hat.

As a fly-fisherman, you can also handle the extra sun protection since you aren’t going to be moving 50mph on a boat blowing your hat around.

Funny Fishing Hats

Fishing fans tend to have a pretty good sense of humor, which is why you will find a wide selection of “funny” hats, if that’s your personality.

My favorite is “The Rodfather” hat.

If you happen to be the 1 in a million that doesn’t get it, it’s a reference to “The Godfather”, a classic gangster movie from the 1970s.

Saltwater Fishing Hats

Saltwater fishing hats are basically the same as freshwater hats, but come in slightly different colors and styles for that “coastal” vibe.

There are also different brands that focus on saltwater vs freshwater. People seem to get pretty attached to their favorite brand and will rep the same brand for life.

Being landlocked in Oklahoma, I’ve always gotten a creepy vibe from saltwater anglers… just kidding.

Believe it or not, there is a scientific angle to the color of the hat. Lots of saltwater headwear is blue or lighter in color, which may help remain undetected against a blue sky backdrop while fishing.

Wide Brim Fishing Hats

The folding wide brim hat is perfect for those who want ultimate sun protection. The wide brim will shield your face and neck from the sun, while the UPF 50 fabric will block out 97% of UV rays. Plus, it folds up so you can easily pack it in your tackle box or bag when you’re done fishing for the day.

Fishing Hat Brands

There are lots of different brands to choose from. These are some of my favorite and most popular.

Huk Fishing Hats

Huk fishing is a very well known brand. They sell a wide variety of outdoor clothing, hats, accessories, rainwear, gloves, and gaiters. This is probably my favorite brand to rep on and off the water.

PFG Fishing Hats

PFG is a line within the Columbia Sportswear brand. You can’t go wrong with any of their apparel and other anglers should instantly recognize the brand.

Avid Fishing Hats

Avid Fishing is a sporting lifestyle brand that has garnered some attention over the past decade. I personally don’t have any of their apparel but I see a lot of guys wearing it.

I may have to pick up a hat to add to the collection.

13 Fishing Hats

13 Fishing is another relatively new company based out of Florida. They hit the market with a line of pretty decent fishing reels, rods, and gear at pretty affordable prices. I personally have one of their TAC40 baitcast reels and I use it on a daily basis.

Bass Pro Fishing Hats

If you don’t already know about Bass Pro Shops, I’m not really sure why you are reading this article.

Mossy Oak Fishing Hats

Originally famous for their camo, like many other hunting brands, they have ventured into other outdoor channels, including fishing.

It’s a solid brand if you love fishing and hunting equally.

Costa Fishing Hats

Most well known for their sunglasses, Costa apparel is high quality and durable.

I wish I had a pair of their glasses but for now, I’ll stick with a hat and my Costa t-shirt.

Simms Fishing Hats

Simms is a classic outdoor brand most known for northern style fishing, trout fishing, waders, etc.

Final Thoughts

Bass fishing hats have come a long way since they really gained popularity in the 1970s. Today, there are dozens of companies that make them, and the designs are more varied than ever before. So next time you’re shopping for a new bass fishing hat, take a moment to appreciate all the history that’s gone into making it!

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