Last updated on August 17th, 2023
- What Does Trout Taste Like: Unraveling the Flavor Mysteries - August 2, 2023
- Best Fishing Bibs Tested & Reviewed: Buyer’s Guide - July 19, 2023
- Fishing for Whiskers: Best Bait for Catfish - July 12, 2023
Whether you are a seasoned angler or a novice fisherman, investing in the best fishing watch that is most suitable for you can significantly enhance your fishing experience. While traditional watches keep you updated on the time, fishing watches go a few steps further, offering a plethora of features to aid your outdoor adventures. This article will guide you through important features to consider while choosing a fishing watch and give you insights into when and how to best utilize these innovative tools.
Editor’s Picks: Best Fishing Watches
Key Features of the Best Fishing Watches on the Market
There are a lot of choices in the market, but the best fishing watch for you should offer more than just timekeeping. Here are the essential features to consider while choosing the ideal fishing watch for you:
1. Durability: Fishing environments can be tough on your gear. Hence, your fishing watch should be built to endure. Durable watches often have robust casing materials such as stainless steel or reinforced resin and scratch-resistant faces made from mineral glass or sapphire crystal.
2. Water Resistance: Given the nature of fishing, your watch must be able to withstand exposure to water. A good fishing watch should be able to resist water at least up to 100 meters. Some premium models offer up to 200 meters of water resistance.
3. Battery Life: Fishing can be a day-long or even multi-day activity. A good fishing watch should have a long battery life to keep up with your adventures.
4. Display Quality: Your watch should have a high-quality display for easy readability. Backlit displays are especially helpful for early morning or late evening fishing.
5. Tidal Charts and Moon Phases: Fishing success is often tied to tidal movements and lunar phases. Some fishing watches offer built-in tidal data and moon phase indicators, which can be incredibly helpful when planning your fishing trips.
6. Barometer: A built-in barometer provides real-time data about atmospheric pressure, a key factor influencing fish behavior. A sudden drop in pressure often precedes bad weather, giving you a heads-up to seek shelter or pack up for the day.
Best Fishing Watch for the Money
Disclaimer: All products in this article were independently researched and reviewed by our team of experienced anglers. Learn more about our review process here. We use so-called affiliate links in this article. This means that if you click on one of the links provided in this article and end up making a purchase, we might earn a small commission at no extra cost for you. We only recommend products we’ve tested and believe in.
Casio Pro Trek Solar Fishing Watch
Key Features and Specifications
The Casio Pro Trek PRW-3510Y-8CR is a robust and advanced watch that comes with a myriad of features designed to assist outdoor enthusiasts, including anglers.
Specifications:
- Model: PRW-3510Y-8CR
- Type: Digital watch
- Water Resistance: Up to 200 meters
- Battery: Solar powered
- Material: Stainless Steel and Resin
- Features: Triple Sensor (Altimeter/Barometer, Thermometer, Compass), Sunrise/Sunset Data, World Time, Stopwatch, 5 Daily Alarms, Full Auto LED Backlight (Super Illuminator)
This Pro Trek model boasts Casio’s Triple Sensor technology, providing real-time information about altitude, atmospheric pressure, temperature, and directions. It also includes sunrise/sunset data, which can be crucial for planning fishing activities.
The watch is solar-powered, eliminating the need for battery replacement. With water resistance up to 200 meters, it is suitable for all water-based activities. The watch also has an auto LED backlight for easy reading in low-light conditions.
Performance
The Pro Trek PRW-3510Y-8CR shines in a variety of fishing situations. The Triple Sensor technology provides valuable data for anglers, such as barometric pressure changes, which can indicate a change in fish behavior.
The sunrise and sunset times are essential for anglers who want to fish during peak feeding times. Its 200-meter water resistance is more than adequate for any fishing scenario, and the solar-powered battery ensures the watch won’t die in the middle of a trip.
Pros
- Advanced Features: The Triple Sensor technology, combined with sunrise/sunset data, offers valuable information for anglers.
- Solar Powered: The solar-powered battery reduces the need for frequent battery replacements.
- Robust Water Resistance: With a water resistance of up to 200 meters, it is suitable for a range of water-based activities.
- Durable and Comfortable: The combination of stainless steel and resin ensures the watch’s durability while maintaining comfort.
Cons
- No Moon Phase or Tide Data: The watch lacks these features which can be crucial for some fishing situations.
- Complex Interface: Some users might find the watch interface to be complex due to the multitude of features.
Conclusion
The Casio Men’s ‘PRO TREK’ Tough Solar Powered and Stainless Steel Watch PRW-3510Y-8CR is a versatile, feature-rich watch that caters to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts, including fishermen. Although it lacks tide and moon phase data, its other fishing-specific features and superior durability make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, long-lasting fishing watch. Its solar-powered functionality ensures you never have to worry about running out of battery in the midst of a fishing expedition. With a focus on utility and durability, this Pro Trek watch is a solid investment for any angler.
NIXON Base Tide Pro A1307 Digital Watch
Key Features and Specifications
The NIXON Base Tide Pro A1307 is a digital watch designed with the active outdoor enthusiast in mind.
Specifications:
- Model: A1307
- Type: Digital watch
- Water Resistance: Up to 100 meters
- Battery Life: 2 years
- Material: 41mm TR90 case and ultra-soft silicone band
- Features: Pre-programmed tide information for 550 global beaches, chronograph, timer, 3 alarms, and dual time
The NIXON Base Tide Pro offers a robust design, featuring a TR90 case that’s durable, lightweight, and resistant to heat and UV damage. It also comes with a comfortable silicone band, designed for all-day wear.
The watch is designed to withstand water depths up to 100 meters, making it ideal for most water-based activities, including fishing. The digital display offers an array of features including pre-programmed tide information for 550 global beaches, a chronograph, a timer, 3 alarms, and dual time.
Performance
The Base Tide Pro shines in a variety of fishing situations, thanks to its comprehensive tide information for numerous global locations. This feature alone makes it an excellent tool for coastal and offshore fishing, where tides play a significant role in fish behavior.
The watch’s water resistance is reliable, holding up well for fishing in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Meanwhile, the long battery life ensures the watch keeps ticking even on extended fishing trips.
Additionally, the chronograph and timer features are helpful for timing your fishing sessions or keeping track of soak times when bait fishing.
Pros
- Comprehensive Tide Information: The watch provides pre-programmed tide information for 550 global beaches.
- Durable and Comfortable: With a TR90 case and silicone band, the watch is both sturdy and comfortable for all-day wear.
- Good Water Resistance: With water resistance up to 100 meters, the watch is suitable for a variety of water-based activities.
- Long Battery Life: With a battery life of 2 years, you can rely on the watch for long-term use.
Cons
- No Barometer or Moon Phase Features: The watch lacks some fishing-specific features such as a barometer and moon phase indicators.
- Display Could Be Brighter: Some users may find the display a bit dim, particularly in bright sunlight.
Conclusion
The NIXON Base Tide Pro A1307 Digital Watch is a robust, feature-rich accessory for any angler. With a focus on durability, comfort, and comprehensive tide information, it is a reliable companion for your fishing trips. While it may lack some specific features like a barometer and moon phase indicators, its overall performance and utility make it a great choice for any angler who values reliable tide information and a sturdy, water-resistant design.
Casio Men’s Fishing Gear Black Resin Watch WSC-1250H-1AVCF
Key Features and Specifications
The Casio WSC-1250H-1AVCF is a watch designed to offer practicality and durability, featuring a suite of features catering to the needs of anglers.
Specifications:
- Model: WSC-1250H-1AVCF
- Type: Digital watch
- Water Resistance: Up to 100 meters
- Battery Life: 10 years
- Material: Black Resin
- Features: Moon Data, Fishing Timer, Second Time Zone, Stopwatch, Countdown Timer, 5 Daily Alarms
The Casio Fishing Gear Watch features a fishing timer that indicates the suitability of a specific day for fishing based on lunar data and moon age. With water resistance up to 100 meters, this watch is perfect for fishing in different environments.
One of the highlights of this watch is the impressive 10-year battery life, reducing the need for frequent battery changes. Moreover, its resin band and casing ensure durability while maintaining a comfortable fit.
Performance
The Casio Fishing Gear Watch is a standout when it comes to fishing-specific features. The moon data and fishing timer are particularly useful for anglers, providing valuable insights into the best times for fishing.
The 100 meters water resistance allows for worry-free use in different fishing environments, from shores to boats. The watch’s longer battery life ensures consistent performance over years of fishing expeditions.
Moreover, the additional features such as the second time zone, stopwatch, countdown timer, and daily alarms add to its utility beyond just fishing scenarios.
Pros
- Fishing-Specific Features: The watch’s moon data and fishing timer are valuable tools for planning fishing trips.
- Long Battery Life: With a 10-year battery life, the watch offers hassle-free use for extended periods.
- Durable and Comfortable: The black resin material ensures the watch’s durability while providing a comfortable fit.
- Water Resistance: The watch’s 100-meter water resistance is ideal for various fishing scenarios.
Cons
- No Tide Information: Unlike some fishing watches, this model does not provide tidal data.
- Display Might Be Small: For some users, the display size may seem small, making it challenging to read in certain conditions.
Conclusion
The Casio Men’s Fishing Gear WSC-1250H-1AVCF watch is a durable, long-lasting, and feature-packed choice for both seasoned and novice anglers. Although it lacks tidal information, the moon data, fishing timer, and exceptional battery life make this watch a reliable companion for fishing expeditions. The combination of practicality, durability, and affordability makes it a highly recommended choice for anglers.
SUUNTO Core Outdoor Sports Watch
Key Features and Specifications
The SUUNTO Core is an all-around outdoor watch designed to cater to the needs of sports enthusiasts, including fishermen, with a range of valuable features.
Specifications:
- Model: Core
- Type: Digital watch
- Water Resistance: Up to 30 meters
- Battery: User replaceable
- Material: Elastomer Strap, Aluminum Case
- Features: Altimeter, Barometer, Compass, Storm Alarm, Weather Trend Graph, Sunrise/Sunset Times
The SUUNTO Core incorporates valuable features such as a barometer, altimeter, and compass, collectively known as the “ABC” functions. The storm alarm feature alerts users to sharp drops in barometric pressure, signaling worsening weather conditions. The watch also provides sunrise and sunset times for over 400 locations, aiding in planning outdoor activities, including fishing trips.
Performance
In terms of performance, the SUUNTO Core is a reliable companion for all outdoor enthusiasts, including anglers. The watch’s barometric features are especially useful for fishing, as pressure changes can influence fish behavior. The storm alarm is also a handy feature, warning anglers of potential storms, and giving them enough time to seek safety.
The sunrise and sunset times can help plan fishing trips, as these times often coincide with increased fish activity. However, the water resistance of only 30 meters might be a limiting factor for some water-based activities.
Pros
- ABC Features: The altimeter, barometer, and compass functions provide valuable information for outdoor activities, including fishing.
- Storm Alarm: Alerts for potential storms based on rapid changes in barometric pressure.
- Sunrise/Sunset Data: Useful for planning fishing trips to coincide with peak fish activity.
- Weather Trend Graph: Visual representation of weather changes.
Cons
- Limited Water Resistance: With a water resistance of only 30 meters, it might not be suitable for all water-based activities.
- No Moon Phase or Tide Data: These features, often beneficial for fishing, are not available in this model.
- Battery Life: Some users have reported relatively short battery life, and the watch requires a user-replaceable battery.
Conclusion
The SUUNTO Core is a feature-rich watch that provides a multitude of functions designed to aid in outdoor activities, including fishing. While it lacks tide and moon phase data, the range of other features, especially the barometric functions and storm alarm, make it an excellent tool for any angler. With a strong focus on weather forecasting and navigation, this watch is a reliable addition to any fishing trip. However, if your fishing adventures often involve deeper water activities, the limited water resistance might be a downside to consider.
Garmin 010-02064-00 Instinct
Key Features and Specifications
The Garmin Instinct is a rugged, reliable outdoor watch built to withstand the toughest environments while providing a comprehensive suite of features to outdoor adventurers, including fishermen.
Specifications:
- Model: 010-02064-00 Instinct
- Type: Digital watch
- Water Resistance: Up to 100 meters
- Battery: Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode
- Material: Fiber-reinforced polymer case, silicone band
- Features: GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo, Barometric altimeter, Compass, Heart rate monitoring, Activity tracking, Smart notifications
The Instinct offers three global navigation satellite systems (GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo) to track in more challenging environments than GPS alone. The built-in 3-axis compass and barometric altimeter enhance navigation capabilities. The watch also includes health monitoring features like heart rate and stress tracking.
Performance
For fishing enthusiasts, the Garmin Instinct provides a solid range of features. The navigation systems, combined with the barometric altimeter, offer valuable data about location and atmospheric pressure, both of which can influence fishing conditions.
The Instinct also includes smart notifications, so you can stay connected without having to access your phone during your fishing trips. With water resistance up to 100 meters, it is suitable for a wide range of water-based activities.
Pros
- Highly Durable: The fiber-reinforced polymer case ensures the watch can withstand tough conditions.
- Triple Navigation Systems: GPS, GLONASS, and Galileo provide superior tracking and navigation.
- Health Monitoring: Heart rate and stress tracking add a health dimension to the watch.
- Extended Battery Life: Up to 14 days in smartwatch mode reduces the need for frequent charging.
Cons
- No Fishing-Specific Features: The watch lacks features like moon phase or tide data, which can be beneficial for fishing.
- Complex Interface: Some users may find the array of features and data a bit overwhelming.
Conclusion
The Garmin 010-02064-00 Instinct is a durable, feature-rich outdoor watch that provides a wealth of data and connectivity options for outdoor enthusiasts, including anglers. Though it lacks some fishing-specific features, the superior navigation systems, durability, and health tracking make it a versatile tool for any outdoor activity, including fishing. With robust construction and a long battery life, it is designed to endure the toughest conditions, making it a reliable companion for any fishing trip.
When to Use a Fishing Watch
A fishing watch comes in handy in a variety of fishing scenarios, from offshore angling to fly fishing in a river. If you’re planning a beach fishing trip, the tide information can guide you to fish at optimal times. The moon phase data is beneficial for night fishing, as many fish are more active during specific lunar phases.
In addition to fishing, these watches are useful for various outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and hunting, offering valuable weather and location insights.
Conclusion on the Best Fishing Watch
Investing in a high-quality fishing watch can undoubtedly enhance your fishing experience. These watches combine the best of outdoor technology and convenience, providing a wide array of data at your fingertips. With durability, water resistance, long battery life, high-quality display, and essential fishing data like tidal charts, moon phases, and a barometer, a fishing watch can be your reliable partner in many successful fishing adventures.
FAQ Section
How water-resistant should my fishing watch be?
For regular fishing activities, a water resistance rating of 100 meters should suffice. However, for activities like snorkeling or diving, you may want a watch with a higher resistance rating of at least 200 meters.
How does a barometer in a watch help in fishing?
Fish are sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure. Typically, fish tend to feed heavily before a storm, which is often signaled by a drop in atmospheric pressure. A watch with a barometer can give you this information in real time.
Do I need a fishing watch if I only fish occasionally?
While regular anglers may benefit more from the specific features of a fishing watch, occasional fishers can also benefit from features like water resistance, durability, and atmospheric data. Moreover, these watches are useful for other outdoor activities as well.
How accurate are the tidal charts and moon phase data on fishing watches?
Most fishing watches provide reasonably accurate tidal and moon phase data. However, they should be used as guides rather than definitive sources of information. It is always a good idea to check local tide tables and lunar charts for the most accurate and localized information.
