17 Brands Like Pelagic for Serious Anglers Gear

Explore top brands like Pelagic for serious angler's gear. Discover durable, high-performance apparel that stands up to the ocean and looks great too.
Written by: 
Ash Read
Last updated: 

If you're a serious angler, you know that having the right gear is non-negotiable. Pelagic has set a high bar with its technical, high-performance apparel designed to handle whatever the ocean throws at you. Their gear is durable, functional, and looks great doing it.

But whether you're looking for a slightly different style, a specific type of gear, or just want to explore more options, you're in the right place. Here are 17 other brands that deliver the same level of quality and performance that serious anglers need.

1. Simms Fishing

Simms is a giant in the fishing world, known for top-tier waders, technical apparel, and durable accessories. Similar to Pelagic in its commitment to quality, Simms focuses on gear that can withstand the harshest conditions, whether you're facing rain, wind, or sun. Their specialty lies in innovative waterproof technology and ultra-comfortable layering systems.

While Pelagic excels in saltwater apparel, Simms is often the go-to for freshwater and fly anglers, thanks to its exceptional waders and cold-weather gear. If you need something that performs flawlessly in diverse fishing environments, from streams to open water, Simms is a must-see.

Shop now at simmsfishing.com

2. Aftco

Aftco (the American Fishing Tackle Company) is laser-focused on high-performance fishing clothes and tackle for dedicated anglers. They are famous for their sun protection gear, offering a huge lineup of UPF-rated shirts, shorts, and hoodies designed to keep you safe and comfortable during marathon sessions under the sun.

Like Pelagic, Aftco prioritizes function and durability in extreme conditions. Their key differentiator is an obsessive focus on sun-blocking technology and fishing-specific features. If sun protection is your top priority, Aftco's lineup is tough to beat.

Shop now at aftco.com

3. Huk

Huk brings a technical, athletic-inspired vibe to fishing apparel. They blend modern style with serious performance, offering moisture-wicking, UPF-rated, and anti-odor fabrics in everything from their popular fishing shirts to technical shorts and outerwear. Their gear is designed for active anglers who are constantly moving on the boat.

Huk shares Pelagic's commitment to performance but presents it with a sportier, more modern aesthetic featuring bold logos and colors. If you want gear that has the technical chops for a long day of fishing but feels like high-end athletic wear, Huk delivers that crossover appeal perfectly.

Shop now at hukgear.com

4. Grundéns

If your version of fishing involves battling brutal weather, Grundéns should be on your radar. Originally known for its unbeatably tough, commercial-grade rain gear, the brand now offers a full line of technical apparel for professional and recreational anglers alike. Think ultra-waterproof bibs, jackets, and reliable boots built to keep you dry no matter what.

Compared to Pelagic's focus on performance wear for sun and spray, Grundéns is the master of heavy-duty protection against cold and wet conditions. If you need pro-level, bombproof gear for hardcore environments, Grundéns is the standard.

Shop now at grundens.com

5. Fish Hippie

Fish Hippie perfectly captures the "work hard, fish easy" mindset. The brand offers lifestyle and performance apparel that’s comfortable on the boat but stylish enough for a celebratory dinner back on shore. They blend coastal style with technical features like moisture-wicking fabrics in their polos, button-downs, and shorts.

While Pelagic is all about high-octane performance, Fish Hippie takes a more relaxed approach. They provide functional, high-quality gear for the angler who values a laid-back coastal aesthetic that transitions seamlessly from fishing to casual life.

Shop now at fishhippie.com

6. Salt Life

Salt Life is not just a brand, it’s a mindset for anyone who lives and breathes the ocean. Their gear is deeply rooted in coastal adventures, with vibrant, eye-catching designs on everything from technical fishing shirts to swimwear and casual tees. You can count on lightweight, breathable fabrics perfect for hot, sunny days on the water.

Pelagic focuses more on the hunt, with a technical, sleek aesthetic. Salt Life, on the other hand, embraces the celebratory, lifestyle aspect of fishing with bold, colorful branding. It’s perfect for anglers who want functional performance pieces that also serve as casual wear that screams "I love the saltwater."

Shop now at saltlife.com

7. Guy Harvey

Fusing world-class marine art with functional fishing apparel, Guy Harvey offers gear that makes a statement. Known for its vivid, incredibly detailed illustrations of game fish and ocean life, the brand’s collection includes performance shirts, shorts, and accessories that celebrate the beauty of the sea.

Where Pelagic has a modern, performance-driven look, Guy Harvey stands out with its powerful artistic mission. Both cater to serious anglers, but this brand is for those who appreciate marine wildlife as art and want to wear that passion proudly.

Shop now at guyharvey.com

8. Orvis

With a rich heritage in outdoor sports, Orvis is a touchstone of quality, especially in the world of fly fishing. They’re celebrated for their expertly crafted fly rods, durable waders, and classic outdoor apparel that combines timeless style with practical features. Comfort and craftsmanship are at the core of everything they make.

While Pelagic dominates the deep-sea and bluewater scene, Orvis is the undisputed specialist for freshwater and fly fishing enthusiasts. Both brands value performance and durability, but Orvis offers a more traditional, refined aesthetic rooted in riverside and streamside adventures.

Shop now at orvis.com

9. Columbia PFG

Columbia's Performance Fishing Gear (PFG) line is specifically engineered for anglers. It’s packed with smart features like Omni-Shade™ UPF protection, Omni-Wick™ quick-drying fabrics, and vented "angler's" shirts designed for maximum airflow. It’s a massively popular and accessible choice for functional gear.

PFG offers a more affordable and widely available alternative to Pelagic, focusing on reliable, everyday performance that works for all types of fishing. It's the perfect option for someone who wants proven technology and great features without a specialty price tag.

Shop now at columbia.com

10. Patagonia Fly Fish

Patagonia is legendary for its commitment to sustainability and creating rugged, high-performance outdoor gear, and their Fly Fish line is no exception. This collection includes some of the industry's best waders, durable wading boots, technical jackets, and sun shirts, all designed with the serious fly angler in mind and built to last a lifetime.

Like Pelagic, Patagonia obsesses over technical performance and uses cutting-edge materials. But where Pelagic outfits the offshore angler, Patagonia caters to the fly fishing community with repairable gear and a strong environmental ethos. If you value eco-conscious production and legendary durability, this is your brand.

Shop now at patagonia.com

11. Salty Crew

Salty Crew is a lifestyle brand built for those who find refuge in the sea - whether that's fishing, surfing, or diving. Their products range from technical pieces like UPF 50+ fishing hoodies and quick-dry boardshorts to casual graphic tees and hats with a cool, vintage-inspired vibe. It's performance gear with a raw, adventurous saltwater spirit.

Where Pelagic is purely performance-focused, Salty Crew blends functional fishing features with a surf-culture edge. It’s a great fit for the angler who also surfs and wants versatile, stylish gear that reflects a love for all things a "bit salty."

Shop now at saltycrew.com

12. Free Fly Apparel

Comfort is king at Free Fly Apparel, a brand that built its reputation on ultra-soft performance gear made from natural bamboo fibers. Their hoodies, shirts, and shorts offer incredible breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and UPF sun protection, all while feeling ridiculously comfortable against the skin.

While Pelagic is known for robust, hard-wearing fabrics, Free Fly offers a softer, more comfort-driven alternative that still delivers on performance. If you want technical fishing gear that feels as cozy as your favorite t-shirt, Free Fly is a game-changer.

Shop now at freeflyapparel.com

13. Vissla

Vissla taps into modern surf culture and mixes it with eco-conscious innovation, creating gear that’s perfect for laid-back coastal adventures. Their lineup includes super-functional boardshorts, quick-dry performance shirts, flexible wetsuits, and stylish hats with clean, modern prints and a relaxed fit.

Where Pelagic is engineered for the rigors of big game fishing, Vissla's vibe is more aligned with surf-casting from the beach or a casual day on a near-shore boat. It’s a great alternative for the style-conscious angler who wants gear with a laid-back, surf-forward aesthetic.

Shop now at vissla.com

14. Kokatat

Kokatat specializes in high-performance technical gear for paddle sports, making them an incredible resource for kayak anglers. They are renowned for their industry-leading dry suits, paddling jackets, PFDs (personal flotation devices), and insulating layers that keep you dry and safe in challenging water conditions.

Pelagic outfits the angler on a powerboat, while Kokatat protects the angler sitting just inches from the water. Both brands prioritize extreme durability and waterproofing, but Kokatat’s specialized designs are tailored specifically for the unique needs of kayakers and paddlers.

Shop now at kokatat.com

15. Bassdash

For anglers who need solid performance gear that won’t break the bank, Bassdash is a fantastic option. This budget-friendly brand offers a wide range of apparel and accessories for both freshwater and saltwater fishing, including affordable technical shirts with UV protection, fishing vests with ample storage, and functional hats.

Compared to Pelagic's premium-level offerings, Bassdash delivers similar performance features - like moisture-wicking and sun blocking - at a much more accessible price point. It’s a perfect launching point for new anglers or a great way to build out your gear collection without a huge investment.

Shop now at bassdash.com

16. Cabela's

Cabela's is a one-stop-shop for everything outdoors, and its own brand of fishing gear offers a huge selection of reliable, practical, and affordable options. From technical apparel and waders to tackle bags and rain gear, Cabela's brand clothing is known for its durability and down-to-earth, function-first design.

While Pelagic is a specialized, technical brand, Cabela's is the powerhouse of value and variety. If you're looking for trustworthy gear at a great price or need to stock up on everything for a fishing trip in one place, you can't go wrong with their extensive in-house lines.

Shop now at cabelas.com

17. Columbia Sportswear

Beyond its stellar PFG line, the broader Columbia Sportswear brand is a master of accessible and versatile outdoor apparel. They offer a ton of gear - including moisture-wicking shirts, waterproof shells, and convertible pants - that works great for casual fishing trips, hiking, or any other outdoor activity.

Pelagic focuses entirely on the serious angler, but Columbia provides reliable, multi-purpose outdoor gear that crosses over into fishing seamlessly. It’s an ideal choice for the weekend angler or outdoor enthusiast who wants durable, well-made apparel that can handle a bit of everything.

Shop now at columbia.com

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