Cologne And Fishing: A Good Catch Or Bad Blend?

There are many things to consider when preparing for a fishing trip, from the weather to the necessary safety equipment. But what about fragrance? Is it a good idea to wear cologne while fishing? Some people believe that wearing cologne or perfume can scare away the fish, while others argue that it can even be used as bait. So, should you wear cologne while fishing?

Scents that attract vs. repel fish

Fish have a strong sense of smell, which they use to find food, avoid danger, or identify other fish species. Their olfactory systems are highly developed, with a sense of smell 1,000 times stronger than that of humans. The scents are transmitted to the fish by the surrounding water.

Scents that Attract Fish

• Human saliva: It may even help neutralise repellent scents.
• Fish oil or freshly dead fish: Applying these scents to boats, lures, and lines can attract fish and yield a good amount of catch.
• Cheese: Effective for carp, tench, catfish, and other fish species.
• Coffee grounds: Anglers who use these lures report that they attract more bass and trout to their lines.
• Garlic: The smelly jelly scent draws fish to your bait, causing them to bite and hold on to it.
• Alcohol: It acts as a neutraliser for other scents, attracting fish as they won't smell the substances that repel them.

Scents that Repel Fish

• Human natural oils: The natural oils created by our skin are fish repellent.
• Sunscreen and bug spray: These leave an unpleasant taste and a burning sensation in the mouth.
• Perfumed and scented soaps: Avoid using these and opt for unscented or scent-stripping soaps.
• Smoking and nicotine: Keep smoking to a minimum while handling your fishing gear.
• Petroleum products: Motor oils, unleaded gas, diesel, marine grease, and reel oils are absolute repellents to fish.

While scents can be a factor in attracting or repelling fish, other factors like proper baiting, weather conditions, seasons, and fishing techniques also play essential roles in fishing success.

The effect of cologne on your bait

Wearing cologne while fishing is generally not recommended, as it can have a negative impact on your bait and, consequently, your fishing success. Here are some key points to consider:

Scaring Off the Fish

Some experienced fishermen believe that wearing cologne or perfume can scare away the fish. The strong scents can transfer from your skin to the bait, making it less appealing or even repellent to the fish. This is especially true for die-hard fishermen who prefer to use natural, biodegradable bait.

Interfering with the Bait's Scent

The whole point of bait is to attract fish, and some types of fish, like catfish, are particularly attracted to strong odors. However, if you're wearing cologne, the scent of your bait may be overwhelmed or altered by the fragrance, making it less effective.

Impact on Other Fishermen

In addition to potentially scaring off the fish, wearing cologne can also affect your fellow fishermen. Some people are sensitive to strong scents, and your cologne could distract or irritate them. This is especially true in enclosed spaces, such as a small boat, where the scent can build up.

Alternative Scents

While cologne is not recommended, there are alternative scents that can be useful when fishing. For example, WD-40 is said to attract fish like crazy, although it is illegal in some waters. Additionally, some fishermen believe that Ivory soap can be an effective attractant for catfish.

In conclusion, while cologne can have a negative impact on your bait and fishing experience, there are alternative ways to enhance your scent that may be more effective and less likely to scare off the fish or irritate your fellow fishermen.

The impact of cologne on fellow fishermen

Wearing cologne while fishing can have a significant impact on your fellow fishermen, and there are several reasons why it is generally not recommended. Here are some key points to consider:

Unpleasant Odour Mixture

Firstly, cologne can mix with the natural scent of the water, fish, and other elements of the fishing environment, creating an unpleasant odour. This mixture of fragrances can be off-putting to those around you and may even trigger negative reactions, especially for those who are sensitive to strong scents.

Insect Attraction

The use of cologne can also attract insects, which is the last thing you want while trying to enjoy a peaceful day of fishing. Insects can be a nuisance and may even carry diseases or cause allergic reactions. Your fellow fishermen will certainly not appreciate being surrounded by swarms of insects due to your choice of fragrance.

Fish Repellent

Believe it or not, the strong scent of cologne can sometimes repel fish. While this may not be an issue for all types of fishing, it can be a significant concern if you're hoping to catch a particular type of fish that is sensitive to smell. Your fellow fishermen may become frustrated if their catch is affected by your choice of cologne.

Overpowering Fragrance

Cologne has the potential to be overpowering in close quarters, such as on a boat or in a small fishing shack. In such confined spaces, the scent can become overwhelming and unpleasant for those around you. It can be challenging to escape the strong fragrance, and your fellow fishermen may find it uncomfortable or even nauseating.

Health and Safety Concerns

In some cases, cologne can also trigger health issues for those with respiratory problems or allergies. Strong fragrances can irritate the airways and cause discomfort or even breathing difficulties. It is important to be considerate of your fellow fishermen and avoid wearing cologne that could potentially affect their health.

Social Norms and Etiquette

In the fishing community, there is often an unspoken understanding that wearing cologne is not the norm. It may be seen as unnecessary or even frowned upon. By wearing cologne, you might unintentionally disrupt the social dynamics and etiquette of the group, creating an awkward or tense atmosphere.

In conclusion, while wearing cologne while fishing may seem like a harmless choice, it can have a significant impact on your fellow fishermen. It is important to be mindful of the potential consequences and avoid causing discomfort, irritation, or frustration for those around you. It is always best to err on the side of caution and opt for a more subtle approach to fragrance when engaging in outdoor activities such as fishing.

Cologne and personal odor

Cologne is a great way to boost your confidence and make you feel more attractive. However, there are certain situations where it is best to avoid wearing cologne, such as when you know you will be engaging in physical activities that will cause you to sweat and develop a strong body odour. This includes activities such as fishing, hunting, hiking, and playing sports. In these cases, it is best to apply cologne after you have finished the activity and have showered.

When deciding whether or not to wear cologne, it is important to consider the people around you and the environment you will be in. If you know you will be in an enclosed space for a long period, such as a commercial flight or road trip, it is best to avoid wearing cologne as even a tiny amount can build up and become overwhelming. The same goes for small spaces like elevators, dentist appointments, and cramped offices.

Another situation where cologne should be avoided is when fragrance matters a lot, such as at a wine tasting or culinary experience. In these cases, it is best not to wear any fragrance at all, as even a pleasant cologne can clash with the scents and tastes you are trying to appreciate. This idea also applies when going perfume shopping—you don't want your cologne to clash with or drown out other fragrances.

When it comes to personal odour, it is important to remember that cologne should be used in conjunction with good hygiene practices. Showering and using deodorant should be enough to keep you from smelling bad, and cologne can be added as a supplementary step in your routine. When applying cologne, always apply it to your skin, not your clothes, as this will allow the fragrance to interact with your body heat and natural oils, creating a unique and long-lasting scent.

In terms of how much cologne to apply, it is always better to start with a small amount and add more if needed. A gentleman's scent should be subtle, so begin with a single spritz at least six inches away from your body. You can test if it is too much by smelling it yourself or asking someone else for their opinion. If you need to apply more, try spraying a little closer to your body or doing an additional spritz. However, always remember that it is better to wear too little cologne than too much.

The right time to apply cologne

Cologne is a great way to boost your confidence and make you feel more attractive. However, there is a subtle art to wearing cologne, and it's important to know when to apply it and when to leave it off.

When to Apply Cologne:

• Daily Routine: In general, if you're going to be around other people, it's a good idea to wear cologne. This can include work, dates, social gatherings, etc. People will associate you with the delightful fragrance, adding to your allure.
• After a Shower: It is recommended to apply cologne right after a shower when your skin is clean and dry. The shower cleanses your body of any other scents and opens your pores, helping the cologne scent absorb and last longer.
• On Your Skin: Cologne is designed to interact with the heat of your body and your natural oils. It should be applied directly to your skin, preferably on heated areas such as your neck, chest, pulse points, forearms, or inner elbows. This allows the fragrance to diffuse throughout the day and develop your signature scent.
• Before Getting Dressed: Cologne should be applied directly to your skin, not your clothes. Spraying it on your clothes can mute the scent, prevent it from lasting long, and even cause staining or clinging when you don't want it to.
• Spare Application: If you're going out in the evening or need a touch-up, you can re-apply cologne by dabbing a little onto your pulse points.

When to Avoid Cologne:

• Enclosed Spaces: Avoid wearing cologne in enclosed spaces, especially for long periods. This includes commercial flights, road trips, dentist appointments, and cramped offices. The fragrance can build up and become overwhelming.
• Fragrance-Sensitive Situations: Avoid wearing cologne when fragrance matters a lot, such as wine tastings, culinary experiences, or perfume shopping. You don't want your cologne to clash with or overpower other fragrances.
• Physical Activities: If you're engaging in activities that typically involve sweating or strong body odour, such as fishing, hiking, or playing sports, it's best to skip the cologne. Apply it after you're done and have showered.
• Muted Occasions: There are certain occasions where you want to be more muted and not draw attention to yourself with a strong fragrance. This includes funerals, job interviews, and first dates.

In summary, while cologne can enhance your image and boost your confidence, it's important to apply it appropriately and avoid overdoing it. Always consider the setting and the people around you when deciding whether to apply cologne.

Frequently asked questions