Best Fishing Watches: Top 5 Picks for Anglers

Carly Brasseux // September 17

Fishing is a popular activity that requires proper gear to ensure a successful and enjoyable experience. One essential piece of equipment that can enhance your fishing experience is a fishing watch. A fishing watch is designed to provide anglers with useful information such as the time, weather, and tide data, making it easier to plan your fishing trip and increase your chances of catching fish.

When it comes to purchasing the best fishing watch, there are several critical factors to consider. The first is the watch's durability and water resistance. Since fishing involves being exposed to water and other harsh elements, you need a watch that can withstand these conditions. The second factor is the watch's features, such as GPS, barometer, and moon phase data, which can help you plan your fishing trip and improve your chances of catching fish.

After researching and testing various fishing watches, I've compiled a list of the best fishing watches on the market. In this article, I'll provide an in-depth review of each watch, highlighting its features, pros, and cons, to help you make an informed decision when purchasing a fishing watch. So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced angler, keep reading to find the best fishing watch for your needs.

Best Fishing Watches: Top 5 Picks for Anglers

Best Fishing Watches

As an avid fisherman, I know the importance of having the right gear to make my fishing trips successful. One piece of gear that I never leave home without is my fishing watch. A good fishing watch can help me keep track of the time, tide, and weather, and even provide me with useful information like moon phases and fish activity. In this article, I've put together a list of the best fishing watches on the market, so whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you can find the perfect watch to help you catch more fish.

Casio Men's Fishing Gear 10 Year Battery Black Resin Watch

If you're looking for a fishing watch that's both stylish and functional, the Casio Men's Fishing Gear 10 Year Battery Black Resin Watch is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The LED backlight ensures visibility during the day or evening, making it easy to read the watch face in any lighting condition.
  • The “Fishing Mode” shows the suitability of a specific date and time for fishing, as indicated by one of five levels, which is a really helpful feature for any angler.
  • With a water resistance of up to 100 meters, you don't have to worry about getting it wet while fishing or engaging in other water activities.

Cons

  • The analog minute hand on the watch may not work properly in some cases, which can be a bit frustrating.
  • The crystal is prone to scratches, so you need to be careful when wearing it.
  • The analog hands can be a bit of a distraction when you're trying to read the digital display.

Overall, I think this is a great watch for anyone who enjoys fishing or spending time outdoors. The “Fishing Mode” is a really useful feature that can help you plan your fishing trips more effectively, and the LED backlight ensures that you can read the watch face in any lighting condition. The only downsides are the potential issues with the analog minute hand and the scratch-prone crystal, but these are minor issues that can be easily overlooked. If you're in the market for a fishing watch, the Casio Men's Fishing Gear 10 Year Battery Black Resin Watch is definitely worth checking out.

Casio Illuminator LED Light 10-Year Battery Dual-Time Moon Phase Fishing Level Watch

If you're looking for a reliable and durable fishing watch, the Casio Illuminator LED Light 10-Year Battery Dual-Time Moon Phase Fishing Level Watch is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • The 10-year battery life ensures that you won't have to worry about replacing the battery anytime soon.
  • The LED Illuminator feature makes it easy to read the watch in low-light environments.
  • The moon phase and fishing level indicators are incredibly useful for fishing enthusiasts.

Cons

  • The watch may be too large and bulky for some people.
  • The instructions for setting up the calendar's lunar mode can be a bit confusing.
  • The watch may not be suitable for more intense water activities.

I recently took this watch on a fishing trip and was impressed by its functionality and durability. The LED Illuminator feature was especially helpful when it started to get dark out. The moon phase and fishing level indicators were also incredibly useful for determining the best time to fish.

One thing to keep in mind is that the watch may be too large and bulky for some people, especially those with smaller wrists (like some of us ladies). Additionally, the instructions for setting up the calendar lunar mode can be a bit confusing, so it may take some trial and error to get it right.

Overall, if you're looking for a reliable and functional fishing watch, the Casio Illuminator LED Light 10-Year Battery Dual-Time Moon Phase Fishing Level Watch is definitely worth considering.

GOLDEN HOUR Mens Watch

If you're looking for a sleek and stylish watch that won't break the bank, the GOLDEN HOUR Mens Watch is a great choice.

Pros

  • The Japanese imported quartz analog movement provides precise timekeeping.
  • The stainless steel mesh band is comfortable and breathable, making it suitable for all kinds of occasions.
  • The multifunctional sub-dial provides a variety of useful features, including a chronograph and calendar.

Cons

  • The watch is only waterproof up to 30 meters, so it's not suitable for swimming or diving.
  • The watch is relatively heavy, which may take some getting used to.
  • The lack of a backlight makes it difficult to read the time in low-light conditions.

I've been wearing the GOLDEN HOUR Mens Watch for a few weeks now, and I'm really impressed with its overall quality and design. The watch feels sturdy and well-made, and the stainless steel mesh band is both comfortable and breathable. I've worn it to work, on weekends, and even to a couple of formal events, and it's looked great in every setting.

One of my favorite features of the watch is the multifunctional sub-dial, which allows you to use the watch as a chronograph, calendar, and run seconds timer. It's a really useful feature that I've found myself using more often than I thought I would.

The only real downside to the watch is that it's not very waterproof. While it can withstand daily splashes and short immersions in water, it's definitely not suitable for swimming or diving. Additionally, the lack of a backlight makes it difficult to read the time in low-light conditions, which can be a bit of a nuisance.

Overall, I would definitely recommend the GOLDEN HOUR Mens Watch to anyone who's looking for a stylish and affordable timepiece. It's a great choice for everyday wear, and the multifunctional sub-dial makes it a versatile and practical accessory.

Buying Guide

When looking for the best fishing watch, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some important factors to keep in mind when making your purchase:

Water Resistance

One of the most important features to consider when looking for a fishing watch is water resistance. Since fishing involves being around water, it's crucial that your watch is able to withstand exposure to moisture. Look for watches that are rated for at least 50 meters of water resistance to ensure that they can handle being submerged.

Durability

Fishing can be a rugged activity, so it's important to choose a watch that can handle the wear and tear that comes with it. Look for watches with durable materials, such as stainless steel or tough resin, and scratch-resistant screens.

GPS and Navigation

If you're planning on fishing in unfamiliar waters, a watch with GPS and navigation features can be incredibly helpful. Look for watches that have built-in GPS or the ability to connect to your smartphone's GPS to help you find your way.

Fishing-Specific Features

Some fishing watches come with specialized features designed specifically for anglers. These can include things like tide charts, moon phase data, and fishing-specific weather forecasts. Consider which features are most important to you and look for watches that offer them.

Comfort and Fit

Finally, it's important to choose a watch that is comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Look for watches with adjustable bands and lightweight materials to ensure a good fit. Additionally, consider the size of the watch face and choose one that is easy to read without being too bulky or heavy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should I look for in a fishing watch?

When looking for a fishing watch, there are a few key features that you should consider. Firstly, the watch should be waterproof and have a strong build quality to withstand harsh outdoor conditions. Secondly, it should have a reliable and accurate timekeeping function, as well as a stopwatch and countdown timer. Additionally, it's helpful to have a watch with a compass, barometer, and thermometer to aid in navigation and weather prediction.

Can you recommend a durable watch for frequent fishing trips?

I would recommend a watch from the G-Shock line, as they are known for their ruggedness and durability. The G-Shock watches are shock-resistant and have a solid build quality, making them ideal for outdoor activities like fishing. Some popular models include the G-Shock Rangeman, Mudmaster, and Gulfmaster.

How do smartwatches enhance the fishing experience?

Smartwatches offer a range of features that can enhance the fishing experience. They can provide real-time weather updates, GPS tracking, and even allow you to control your fishing gear remotely. Additionally, some smartwatches have fishing-specific apps that can provide information on the best fishing spots, bait recommendations, and more.

Are there watches designed specifically for both fishing and hunting?

Yes, there are watches designed specifically for both fishing and hunting. These watches often feature camouflage designs and have features like moon phase data and hunting-specific timers. Some popular models include the Casio Pro Trek PRW-3510Y-8CR and the Suunto Traverse Alpha.

What's the advantage of a G-Shock watch for fishing?

The advantage of a G-Shock watch for fishing is its durability and ruggedness. G-Shock watches are designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions and are shock-resistant, making them ideal for fishing trips. Additionally, they often have features like tide graphs, moon phase data, and fishing-specific timers.

Do any fishing watches offer tide information and moon phase data?

Yes, many fishing watches offer tide information and moon phase data. These features can be particularly helpful for predicting the best times to fish. Some popular models that offer these features include the Casio Pro Trek PRW-2500T-7CR and the Garmin Quatix 5.

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About the Author

Carly Brasseux

Carly Brasseux is a determined and passionate freelance outdoor writer, published author, business owner and social media/marketing consultant based in Texas. In a world where women are the fastest growing segment of the hunting population, she is a major proponent of those women wanting to learn more about the outdoors and hunting. Her handle, Miss Pursuit, is an expression of her enthusiasm for all things outdoors, from educating women through her experiences learning to hunt over the last decade, to getting out with her kids to explore the wild. Her expertise in social media and marketing, as well as her vast network of people in the outdoor industry, have given her the influence to make an impact for years to come. Member of the Mule Deer Foundation, Backcountry Hunters & Anglers, Stewards of the Wild and the Texas Wildlife Association.