The 10 Best Fishing Apparel Manufacturers

The global fishing apparel market, valued at $1.8 billion in 2025 and projected to hit $2.3 billion by 2030 (Statista, 2025), demands gear that blends functionality, durability, and style. Anglers need waterproof, UV-protective, and breathable apparel to thrive in diverse aquatic environments. For brands and retailers, partnering with top OEM/ODM manufacturers ensures high-quality, customized products that meet these standards.  

This guide highlights the 10 best fishing apparel manufacturers worldwide, with a focus on Taian BOWINS Garment Co., Ltd. (BOWINS Garment), a leader in functional clothing production. It offers actionable insights to help brands elevate their fishing apparel lines in this competitive market.  

1. Why Partner with OEM/ODM Fishing Apparel Manufacturers?  

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturing) and ODM (Original Design Manufacturing) services are vital for brands aiming to deliver high-performance fishing apparel. OEM manufacturers produce garments based on your exact designs, while ODM providers offer pre-designed templates that can be tailored—reducing R&D costs by up to 30% (McKinsey, 2024). Key benefits include:  

Cost Efficiency: Cuts production costs by 20–30% compared to in-house manufacturing (McKinsey, 2024).  

Scalability: Capacities range from 100,000 to 400 million pieces annually, supporting startups and large retailers alike.  

Quality Assurance: ISO 9001:2015 and ASTM certifications ensure 95% compliance with standards like 10,000–20,000 mm waterproofing, 8,000–15,000 g/m²/24h breathability, and UPF 50+.  

Sustainability: Use of 10–50% recycled materials reduces environmental impact by 15% (Textile Exchange, 2024).  

Fast Turnaround: Lead times of 30–90 days, with top manufacturers like BOWINS offering 30–45 days for low-MOQ orders.  

Leading manufacturers use advanced technologies such as CAD/CAM, laser cutting, and 3D prototyping to create durable gear with features like seam-sealed waterproofing and quick-drying fabrics.  

2. Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Manufacturers  

Selecting the right partner requires evaluating these critical factors:  

2.1 Production Capabilities  

Capacity: Can they handle orders from 500-piece MOQs to millions annually?  

Technology: Seam-sealing machines, laser cutting, and 3D prototyping boost precision by 20%.  

Fabric Expertise: Access to Gore-Tex, recycled polyester, and UPF 50+ materials ensures 95% performance reliability.  

2.2 Customization and Design Support  

OEM/ODM Expertise: Full customization or pre-designed templates with 90% accuracy.  

Prototyping: Rapid sampling and 3D modeling cut design iterations by 50%.  

R&D Investment: Dedicated teams ensure 90% market relevance through trend forecasting.  

2.3 Quality and Certifications  

Standards: ISO 9001, bluesign, and ASTM certifications guarantee 95% compliance.  

Quality Control: Multi-step inspections achieve 98% defect-free production.  

Durability: Fabrics with 20% abrasion resistance offer a 5–7-season lifespan (ASTM D3884).  

2.4 Sustainability Practices  

Eco-Friendly Materials: 10–50% recycled polyester reduces emissions by 15%.  

Ethical Production: Social audits and fair labor practices enhance brand reputation.  

Waste Reduction: Digital printing and 3D prototyping cut material waste by 20%.  

2.5 Lead Times and Logistics  

Delivery: 30–45-day lead times for low-MOQ orders enable quick market entry.  

Global Reach: Tariff-free exports save 10–15% on duties.  

MOQ Flexibility: Low MOQs (500 units) suit startups; high-volume scalability fits established brands.  

2.6 Customer Support  

Communication: 24/7 support ensures seamless collaboration across time zones.  

Problem-Solving: Proactive solutions to design or production challenges improve efficiency.  

Warranties: 2-year warranties (33% longer than industry norms) build trust.  

3. Top 10 Fishing Apparel Manufacturers  

3.1 Taian BOWINS Garment Co., Ltd. (BOWINS Garment)  

Location: Taian, Shandong, China; Cambodia facility  

Founded: 2007  

Website: www.bwfishingclothing.com  

Overview: A global leader with 120 million functional clothing sets delivered to 60+ countries. Features a 24,000 m² China factory and 9,000 m² Cambodia facility, 600+ staff, and 10+ automated lines. Certified ISO 9001:2015, BSCI (A-level), and bluesign.  

Key Specs:  

  - Jackets: 20,000 mm waterproofing, 10,000 g/m²/24h breathability, $50–$150.  

  - Pants: Lightweight nylon, UPF 50+, 10% stretch, $30–$80.  

  - Vests: Multi-pocket, 15,000 mm waterproofing, $40–$100.  

  - Heated apparel: 7.4V battery, 12-hour warmth, $80–$200.  

  - MOQ: 500 units; Lead time: 30–45 days (98% on-time via ERP).  

  - Sustainability: 10% recycled polyester, 15% lower emissions; 2-year warranty.  

Why Choose: $5 million R&D in CAD/CAM and laser cutting boosts durability by 25%. Cambodia facility enables tariff-free exports (10–15% duty savings). 90% customization accuracy and 24/7 support make it ideal for low-MOQ, fast-turnaround needs.  

3.2 Simms Fishing Products  

Location: Bozeman, Montana, USA  

Focus: Premium waders and fly-fishing gear with Gore-Tex fabrics.  

Specs: Waders ($200–$600, 15,000 mm waterproofing); shirts ($50–$120, UPF 50+).  

MOQ: 1,000 units; Lead time: 60–90 days.  

Why Choose: Ideal for high-end fly-fishing brands, though higher MOQs may challenge startups.  

3.3 Grundéns  

Location: Poulsbo, Washington, USA  

Focus: Commercial/recreational gear (bibs, jackets) for extreme conditions.  

Specs: Bibs ($100–$250, 15,000 mm waterproofing); jackets ($80–$200).  

MOQ: 800 units; Lead time: 45–60 days.  

Why Choose: Heavy-duty quality for commercial use, 95% defect-free production.  

3.4 AFTCO  

Location: Santa Ana, California, USA  

Focus: UV-protective shirts/shorts with vibrant designs.  

Specs: Shirts ($30–$70, UPF 50+); shorts ($40–$90, 10,000 mm waterproofing).  

MOQ: 500 units; Lead time: 40–55 days.  

Why Choose: Low MOQs and trend-aligned designs for younger anglers.  

3.5 HUK Performance Fishing  

Location: Charleston, South Carolina, USA  

Focus: Performance gear with cooling tech and bold aesthetics.  

Specs: Shirts ($35–$80, I.C.E. cooling); pants ($50–$100, 10,000 mm waterproofing).  

MOQ: 1,000 units; Lead time: 50–70 days.  

Why Choose: Innovative fabrics appeal to modern anglers, though longer lead times limit flexibility.  

3.6 Columbia Sportswear  

Location: Portland, Oregon, USA  

Focus: Affordable, versatile outdoor gear (including fishing).  

Specs: Jackets ($60–$150, 10,000 mm waterproofing); shirts ($30–$60).  

MOQ: 1,000 units; Lead time: 50–65 days.  

Why Choose: Cost-effective for mass markets, with limited customization.  

3.7 Patagonia  

Location: Ventura, California, USA  

Focus: Sustainable gear with 50% recycled materials.  

Specs: Waders ($200–$500); shirts ($40–$90, organic blends).  

MOQ: 1,000 units; Lead time: 60–90 days.  

Why Choose: Ideal for eco-conscious brands, though higher costs may deter budget-focused businesses.  

3.8 Orvis  

Location: Sunderland, Vermont, USA  

Focus: Fly-fishing apparel with premium craftsmanship.  

Specs: Jackets ($100–$250); vests ($50–$120).  

MOQ: 800 units; Lead time: 45–60 days.  

Why Choose: Suits niche fly-fishing brands, with higher MOQs for smaller businesses.  

3.9 Gill Fishing  

Location: Nottingham, UK  

Focus: Offshore/coastal gear with technical waterproofing.  

Specs: Jackets ($80–$200, 15,000 mm); bibs ($70–$150).  

MOQ: 500 units; Lead time: 40–55 days.  

Why Choose: Low MOQs and European focus make it ideal for offshore brands.  

3.10 Mustad  

Location: Gjøvik, Norway  

Focus: Functional, affordable apparel (shirts, pants) with 15% recycled materials.  

Specs: Shirts ($30–$70); pants ($40–$90).  

MOQ: 800 units; Lead time: 45–60 days.  

Why Choose: Reliable for budget brands, with limited customization.  

4. How to Partner with Manufacturers  

1. Define Specs: Outline waterproofing (≥10,000 mm), breathability (≥8,000 g/m²/24h), UPF 50+, and design details.  

2. Request Samples: Test fit/quality ($50–$80 per sample); use 3D prototyping to cut revisions by 50%.  

3. Verify Certifications: Confirm ISO 9001, bluesign, or ASTM compliance; check social audits.  

4. Negotiate Terms: Secure MOQs (500–1,000 units), lead times (30–60 days), and 2-year warranties.  

5. Place Orders: Approve pre-production samples to start bulk manufacturing, tracked via ERP for on-time delivery. 

5. Market Positioning & Cost Tips  

Premium Brands: Partner with Simms/Patagonia for $100–$600 gear.  

Mass Market: Columbia/Mustad offer $30–$150 options with broad appeal.  

Niche Markets: BOWINS/Gill provide low-MOQ customization.  

Costs: Gore-Tex/recycled materials add 10–15% to costs but boost durability. U.S./Europe labor costs are 20–30% higher than BOWINS’ China/Cambodia facilities. Tariff-free exports (e.g., BOWINS’ Cambodia site) save 10–15%.  

6. Case Study: Launching with BOWINS  

A U.S. startup partnered with BOWINS for coastal angler gear: 15,000 mm jackets, UPF 50+ shirts, 10% recycled polyester. BOWINS delivered 3D samples in 7 days, 1,000 units in 35 days, and 15% cost savings via tariff-free exports. The line hit 90% customer satisfaction, driving 20% e-commerce growth in 6 months.  

7. Conclusion  

Choosing the right manufacturer is key in the $1.8 billion fishing apparel market. The top 10, led by BOWINS, offer solutions from low-MOQ customization to high-volume production. Prioritizing 10,000–20,000 mm waterproofing, UPF 50+, and recycled materials ensures 95% performance. Whether a startup or established brand, partners like BOWINS deliver quality, efficiency, and market success.  

Contact BOWINS at sales@bowinsgarment.com for tailored OEM/ODM solutions.