
Can You Use Gardening Gloves for Fishing?
Recently, when we talked about the importance of fishing gloves, many anglers who don’t want to sign up for fishing gloves asked us if they could use their regular gardening gloves for fishing. While the scenarios and precautions are similar for gardening gloves, there are still some important considerations you need to understand in depth. So, let’s head towards this guide and get all your questions answered.

In this article, we will explore whether gardening gloves can be effectively used for fishing and provide alternatives to specialized fishing gloves. We will help you determine if your gardening gloves can serve the purpose of fishing gloves by discussing their pros and cons.
Can Gardening Gloves Be Used for Fishing?
When it comes to using gardening gloves for fishing, opinions are mixed. Some anglers find them useful, while others prefer specialized fishing gloves. Gardening gloves, especially rubber grips, can offer decent protection and grip, and we’ve found that sometimes gardening gloves with rubber strips can work quite well. However, they are not designed for wet environments and can be too abrasive for handling fish safely.
While some anglers report that gardening gloves with rubber strips can work “okay” when wet, using gloves specifically designed for fishing is generally recommended. These gloves are tailored to handle the unique fishing challenges, providing better grip, protection, and overall functionality.
Overall, we don’t recommend using gloves when they are dry. If they are wet, they can be used but are not recommended to be on the safer side. While gardening gloves might be a convenient option, they are not ideal for fishing. Using specialized fishing gloves ensures the well-being of the fish and provides a safer, more enjoyable fishing experience for anglers.
Do You Really Need Fishing Gloves?
Using fishing gloves can significantly enhance your fishing experience by providing several benefits, though there are some drawbacks to consider.
- Protection: Fishing gloves protect your hands from cold, sun, and potential injuries from fish spines, sharp fins, and hooks. They can also prevent blisters and cuts, which is especially useful during long fishing sessions.
- Enhanced Grip: Gloves improve your grip on slippery fish and fishing gear, reducing the risk of dropping your catch or your equipment. This is particularly important when handling large or strong fish.
- Comfort: Keeping your hands dry and warm enhances overall comfort, allowing you to focus on fishing rather than on discomfort from cold or wet hands.
Based on our experience, we highly recommend AFTCO’s fishing gloves. They have several different versions that fit the bill, and they are praised for their durability and comfort in various conditions.
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Cons of Using Fishing Gloves
- Cost: Specialized fishing gloves can be expensive, which might be a deterrent for some anglers. High-quality gloves with features like waterproofing, warmth, and dexterity can add up in cost.
- Dexterity: Some fishing gloves can reduce your ability to perform fine motor tasks, such as tying knots or handling small hooks. This can be frustrating, especially if the gloves are bulky or not designed for detailed work.
From our experience, while many anglers dislike wearing gloves, they still find it necessary to use them to handle fish and avoid injuries. Personally, I hate wearing gloves, but I have used brands like KastKing, AFTCO, and Mechanix. I usually end up wearing one to handle fish despite these drawbacks, as the benefits often outweigh the cons.
Material Of Gardening Gloves and Effects on Fish
Rubber-Coated
Rubber-coated gardening gloves provide a good grip, making them popular among some anglers. We’ve found that the best gloves are often gardening gloves with rubber strips all over them. These strips can help hold slippery fish securely.
However, it’s important to note that the rubber material can be harsh on a fish’s slime coat, which is essential for protecting the fish from infections and diseases. While rubber-coated gloves might seem convenient, they can cause harm to the fish if not used carefully.
Leather
Leather gloves are durable and offer excellent protection for the angler’s hands. They are tough and can handle rough tasks, making them a reliable choice for many. In fact, I once paid $20 for the heavy leather to make two pairs, $5 for the under, and a large lump of smoked marlin for my local boot maker to craft them. However, leather can become stiff and less effective when wet, reducing dexterity and grip. This stiffness can make it harder to handle fish gently, increasing the risk of damaging the fish’s slime coat.
Effect on Fish
Dry Gloves
Dry gloves can be quite damaging when handling fish as it can strip away the fish’s protective slime coat, making them more vulnerable to infections and diseases. This slime coat acts as a barrier against pathogens, so preserving it is crucial for the fish’s health.
From our experience, wearing garden or work gloves can be harmful to the slime coat of the fish, underscoring the need for caution when choosing gloves for fishing.
Wet Gloves
Wet gloves are slightly better for handling fish because the moisture helps reduce friction and damage to the slime coat. In our experience, it’s good practice to dunk your gloved hand in the water before grabbing the fish.
While wet gloves are an improvement over dry ones, they are still not as ideal as using wet, bare hands. Wet hands are gentler on the fish’s skin and slime coat, ensuring better protection and minimizing harm.
Also, check: Guide To Choosing Fishing Gloves – 5 Things You Must Look For
Alternatives to Specialized Fishing Gloves
Nitrile Gloves
Nitrile gloves are thin and flexible, making them a good option for anglers who need sensitivity. They provide decent protection against fish spines and hooks. However, they aren’t very durable and can become slippery when wet, which can make handling fish tricky. While some anglers appreciate their flexibility, they might not last as long as specialized fishing gloves.

Pros:
- Thin and Flexible: Nitrile gloves give you good sensitivity and allow for easy movement, which is great for handling fishing gear and doing detailed tasks.
- Protection: They offer decent protection from fish spines and hooks, keeping your hands safe from minor injuries.
Cons:
- Not Very Durable: Nitrile gloves can tear easily, especially when dealing with rough surfaces or big fish.
- Slippery When Wet: These gloves can become slippery when they get wet, making it harder to hold onto fish securely.
Work Gloves
Work gloves are durable and affordable, easily found in hardware stores. They protect well against sharp objects and rough surfaces. However, they often lack the dexterity needed for tasks like tying knots or handling small hooks. They are budget-friendly but might not offer the precision and comfort needed for fishing.

Pros:
- Durable and Cheap: Work gloves are strong and can handle tough tasks. Plus, they’re affordable and easy to find in hardware stores.
- Good Protection: They protect your hands from sharp objects, fish spines, and rough surfaces.
Cons:
- Lack Dexterity: Work gloves often make it hard to do detailed tasks like controlling boat, tying knots or handling small hooks.
- Not Always Comfortable: They can be bulky and reduce hand movement, making them less comfortable for long fishing trips.
Wool Gloves
Wool gloves are great for cold-weather fishing as they keep your hands warm, even when wet. They insulate well but are not waterproof and can become heavy when soaked, which can reduce their effectiveness. Anglers often double them up and use hand warmers to stay warm while managing their gear.

Pros:
- Warmth: Wool gloves keep your hands warm, even when they get wet, making them perfect for cold-weather fishing.
- Good Insulation: They provide excellent insulation, which helps maintain warmth in chilly and damp conditions.
Cons:
- Not Waterproof: Wool gloves soak up water and can become heavy, which isn’t ideal when fishing.
- Limits Dexterity: They can make it harder to move your fingers, which can be a problem when you need to do detailed tasks like tying knots, changing lures, or handling hooks.
Check our recommendations on 8 Best Fishing Gloves – Based On Testing
Are There Specific Gloves For Handling Certain Fish?
Yes, certain gloves are designed for specific tasks like filleting, handling sharp-toothed fish, or providing sun protection. Different fish species have different handling requirements, and using the right gloves can make a significant difference in safety and efficiency.
Northern Pike

Northern pike has sharp teeth and require gloves to handle their aggressive nature. The Berkley Coated Fishing Gloves are a good choice. They are durable with a textured coating that provides a firm grip, even on slippery fish. These gloves offer protection against the rough mouths and sharp gill plates of pike, making them a reliable option for handling these fish.
Salmon

Salmon are large, powerful fish that require gloves to provide both protection and a good grip. The Glacier Glove Ice Bay gloves are suitable for handling salmon. These gloves are made from fleece-lined neoprene, offering warmth and water resistance, which is ideal for cold water environments where salmon are commonly found. They ensure a secure grip on the slippery fish while keeping your hands warm.
Pickerel

Pickerels are known for their sharp teeth and slimy bodies, making them tricky to handle. From our experience, using gloves when handling catfish, pickerel, and northern pikes helps provide a better grip, preventing you from dropping them. The Berkley Coated Fishing Gloves are a great option for handling pickerel. These gloves have a textured coating that provides a firm grip, even when wet, and protects your hands from the pickerel’s sharp teeth. The gloves are also designed to minimize the removal of the fish’s slime coat, which is crucial for their health.
By choosing the right gloves for the specific fish you are handling, you can enhance your safety and the fish’s well-being, ensuring a more successful and enjoyable fishing experience.
What should You consider when choosing Fishing gloves?
Choosing the right fishing gloves can significantly improve your fishing experience. Here are some simple tips based on our experience:
Material: Pick gloves made from durable and breathable materials like neoprene or synthetic leather. These materials keep your hands dry and comfortable while fishing.
Weather Conditions: Think about the weather. For cold weather, choose insulated gloves that keep your hands warm and dry, like Glacier Glove Ice Bay. For sunny days, go for lightweight gloves with UV protection, such as Orvis Sunglove with UPF 50+. Personally, I wear wool fingerless gloves, double them up, and use hand warmers as necessary.
Grip: A good grip is crucial. Gloves with textured palms or rubberized grips help you hold onto slippery fish and gear better. Berkley Coated Fishing Gloves are a great option because of their textured grip, even when wet.
Protection Level: If you’re dealing with sharp-toothed fish or strong lines, choose gloves with extra protection. Gloves reinforced with Kevlar, for example, protect your hands from cuts and punctures, keeping them safe.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can choose fishing gloves that protect your hands and make your fishing trips more enjoyable.