After a glorious day of casting lines and reeling in prized catches, you should feel nothing but satisfaction. However, many anglers feel something else: lower back pain. If you’ve been wondering why your back hurts after fishing all day, you’re not alone. The good news is that it’s fixable. Below, we’ll break down some of the most frequent causes of fishing-related back pain and what you can do to address them.
You Have Poor Posture
Fishing doesn’t seem like a strenuous activity, but poor posture can catch up with you. Whether you’re leaning over the side of your boat, hunching to tie your lure, or standing awkwardly for hours on the dock, all those small, repetitive strains on your back add up. Slouching or placing most of your weight on one side of your body forces your spine out of alignment, leading to stiffness and discomfort.
Paying attention to your posture can go a long way in reducing your pain. Keep your back straight and your shoulders relaxed. Additionally, shift positions often to avoid prolonged stress on any one area.
You’re Not Exercising Enough
Fishing is fun, but it’s not exactly a workout. If your core and back muscles aren’t strong enough to support you throughout the day, they’ll fatigue quickly and start to ache.
Fortunately, simple exercises are all you need to strengthen the muscles that support your spine and keep you comfortable for longer fishing trips. For instance, 10 minutes a day of planks, bridges, and stretches can do wonders for your back.
Moreover, a strong core doesn’t just help your back; it improves your overall balance when you’re standing on the boat or wading in the water. Building an easy but consistent fitness routine will keep both your cast and your back strong.
You’re Wearing the Wrong Shoes
Your footwear matters more than you might think. Spending hours on hard, uneven surfaces like a boat deck or rocky shore in unsupportive shoes stresses your entire body, including your back. Proper fishing footwear should offer cushioning and support to minimize the impact on your joints.
If you typically fish in flip-flops or worn-out sneakers, it’s time to invest in something with a solid arch and shock absorption. Comfortable, slip-resistant shoes will not only protect your back but also keep you safe on wet, slippery surfaces.
Your Boat Seat Isn’t Absorbing Shock
If you’re fishing from a boat, the seat you’re using could be the silent culprit behind your back pain. Many standard boat seats lack adequate cushioning and shock absorption. Over time, constant vibrations and rough waves transfer all that energy into your lower back.
To solve this, upgrade to a high-quality seat with ergonomic support and built-in padding. These seats and pedestals employ the science of shock absorption mechanics to stop harmful vibrations from affecting your back. This investment can make a world of difference for your comfort during long days on the water.
Back pain can take the fun out of what’s supposed to be a relaxing pastime. Now that you know why your back hurts after fishing all day, you can take steps to fix the problem and get back to reeling in that next big catch pain-free!