Mask helps keep sun off the face for anglers

With skin cancer on the rise, precaution on the water a good idea.

June 12, 2012 at 8:31PM
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)
(The Minnesota Star Tribune)

Skin cancer incidence is on the rise in America, and people who fish regularly are among those at risk.

Various lotions can help minimize damage from regular exposure to the sun. But clothing works best to protect skin.

Example: Guides in the Florida Keys and Bahamas know well that long-sleeved shirts, specialty gloves and hats with "skirts" that extend over the neck and ears offer optimal sun protection.

"Masks" of the type now offered by many different suppliers also were first popularized in the Caribbean. Now you see anglers and particularly guides wearing these lightweight, "barely there" masks regularly in Montana and throughout the West.

Sun masks for anglers are offered by various suppliers, including Simms and Patagonia.

Price is about $25.

about the writer

about the writer

Dennis Anderson

Columnist

Outdoors columnist Dennis Anderson joined the Star Tribune in 1993 after serving in the same position at the St. Paul Pioneer Press for 13 years. His column topics vary widely, and include canoeing, fishing, hunting, adventure travel and conservation of the environment.

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