Columbia fishing shirts, such as the popular PFG (Performance Fishing Gear) Bahama II line, which I’m wearing above, have a strong following among hikers, not just anglers. Their lightweight, technical fabrics and practical features make them a smart alternative to traditional hiking shirts, especially in hot, sunny, or buggy environments. Relatively inexpensive, they last a long time, and for added insect protection, you can send them to InsectShield to be treated with Permethrin in a process that lasts for 70 washings.

Moisture Wicking

Most Columbia fishing shirts are made from quick-drying, moisture-wicking polyester or nylon that keeps you cool and comfortable during long hikes. They have a relaxed, vented fit that offers excellent airflow, with mesh-lined back vents that increase breathability, a big plus on steep climbs or humid days. They’re easy to wash and dry quickly, even if you just dip them in a stream and wring out the water, on land, of course, to prevent polluting the stream with your funk.

Sun Protection

Columbia PFG shirts usually feature Omni-Shade UPF 30–50 sun protection. This means they block 97–98% of harmful UVA and UVB rays even when wet. They have long sleeves and high collars that provide extra coverage for arms and neck—areas prone to sunburn while hiking. Roll-up sleeve tabs add versatility if you want to cool off.

Mesh vents behind the arms and back help vent excess warmth

Insect Protection

While the fabric isn’t treated with insect repellent, the tight weave acts as a solid physical barrier against most biting insects (mosquitoes, black flies, ticks). The collars can be flipped up for extra protection around the neck, which is helpful in buggy areas. This is particularly true if you wear a head net, because the collar provides a barrier to insects. If your head net doesn’t completely cover the back of your neck, when the bugs are bad, I often button the collar around my neck for extra protection. For extreme bug conditions (deep woods, swamps), pairing the shirt with a dedicated insect repellent like Sawyer Permethrin is recommended, as the shirt itself isn’t chemically treated.

Pockets

I also like the fact that Columbia’s PFG shirts have large chest pockets with Velcro or zipper closures that are handy for holding maps and sunglasses. You can never have enough pockets if you’re a hiker: I treat them as an extension of my packing system. Since I’m also a fly fisherman who bushwhacks to find remote streams and rivers, those pockets serve double duty!

Recommendation

Columbia PFG fishing shirts are a strong choice for hikers who need reliable and affordable sun protection, comfort in hot weather, and a decent physical barrier against insects.  They’re especially well-suited for desert hikes, open trails, and buggy environments. While they lack built-in insect repellent, their design and fabric still help minimize bites. If you do a lot of warm-weather hiking or want one shirt that works for both trails and water-based adventures, this is a versatile garment worth considering.

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