How to Keep Mosquitoes and Bugs Away When Fishing

Fishing on lakes and rivers means exposing yourself to different elements of Mother Nature, such as rain, humidity, the sun, and wind. However, one thing that most people forget about when heading out to the water is flying bugs. Similar to how you prepare yourself against the rough weather conditions when on water, you also have to take preventive measures to keep these winged insects out of the way.

Here are seven tips on how to keep mosquitoes and bugs away when fishing to keep yourself safe from all types of diseases:

1- Wear Loose-Fitting, Synthetic Fiber Clothes

First and foremost, it’s crucial to remember that mosquitoes can bite you through tight-fitting clothes. Therefore, when going fishing, it’s best to wear loose clothes so that mosquitoes can’t reach your skin in any way. Moreover, synthetic fibers also work as a repellent for keeping mosquitoes away. All in all, this is the most comfortable attire you can opt for to protect yourself from pesky bugs.

2- Apply Mosquito Repellent

Applying mosquito repellents that contain ingredients like DEET and Picaridin are also effective in keeping the mosquitoes away from your skin. It’s worth mentioning that while DEET keeps mosquitoes from biting your skin, Picaridin doesn’t even allow these bugs to land on your skin in the first place.

3- Use Herbal Oils as a Natural Alternative

If you don’t want to apply chemicals like DEET and Picaridin onto your skin, you can always strive for a natural alternative instead. For example, you can protect yourself from mosquito bites by applying herbal oils that keep the bugs away for at least six to eight hours. Not to mention, this is a better alternative in the sense that these oils are naturally antibacterial, anti-protozoan, and antifungal.

The best herbal oils for this purpose are lilac, lavender, coconut, eucalyptus, rosemary, and lemongrass. You only need to mix these oils with water before rubbing them onto your skin for the best results.

4- Wear Light-Colored Clothing

Research also proves that mosquitoes are more attracted to bright colors. Therefore, it’s better to wear light-colored clothing to enhance your chances of keeping the mosquitoes at bay when fishing.

5- Don’t Fish at Dusk or Dawn

Most importantly, it’s crucial to note that while mosquitoes are out and about on lakes and rivers at all times, the most activity from their side is detected at dusk and dawn since it is their peak feeding time. Therefore, it’s best not to go fishing during these times, even if you have the advantage of avoiding the sun during these times.

6- Avoid Fishing in Areas with Standing Water

Moreover, mosquitoes usually lay their eggs in standing water. Hence, it’s better to avoid such areas with still water when you’re fishing on lakes or rivers.