Real eye-catchers

When it comes to choosing the right pair of polarisation glasses, opinions are divided. Some swear by well-known premium suppliers whose models are usually not available for less than 200 to 300 euros, others claim that the glasses from the bargain bin next to the checkout at the discounter for less than 20 euros will do the job.  Others have opted for a model from the mid-price range and others claim that you can do without polarised lenses or sunglasses altogether when fishing. We therefore want to – attention, ambiguous! – to shed some light on the subject.

It is indisputable that polarised glasses are indispensable when fishing. On the one hand, they often help you spot fish that you would never see with the naked eye when spotting, and also those that have followed the lure almost all the way to the tip of the rod and that you can then still get to bite by skilfully guiding the lure or by casting again in a targeted manner. On the other hand, polarised glasses generally protect against harmful UV radiation. Some of us will be able to confirm that lures that jump back after a hang-up or a fly that has been unfavourably influenced by the wind can quickly go into the eye and that glasses have prevented worse. Therefore, a clear thumbs up for polarised glasses when fishing.

When it comes to choosing the right glasses, however, there are just as many opinions as there are brands, and newbies in particular are often confused. With the AQUILA “Sonar”, a development by Rudi Heger Flyfishing, we would like to introduce a model or a new brand that manages to combine all the advantages of expensive polarisation glasses with a more than affordable price. We tested the glasses for a few weeks and were impressed by the price/performance ratio.

We were particularly taken with the TAC lenses of the AQUILA models. Lenses are known to be the most expensive part of polarisation glasses and are made of a tri-acetate cellulose plastic in the AQUILA. The seven different layers of the lenses or the polarising filter ensure excellent anti-reflective properties on the water surface and remarkably good stability. We were able to determine this in comparison with other goggles during our tests at the sea and on the river alike. The AQUILA goggles also filter out 100% of the sun’s UV-A and UV-B rays, which is essential in goggles for water sports. The frame of the goggles is made of a classic polycarbonate plastic and gives the impression that it can withstand a lot despite its lightness. The “Sonar” model is available in three variants with the lens colours Ice Blue, Yellow and Brown – which have been developed for the most diverse areas of use.

Which brings us to the topic: It is not uncommon to meet anglers on the water who, in our opinion, have chosen the “wrong” colour for their lenses – probably out of ignorance. The brown lenses are all-round lenses that should be used on medium-light and slightly overcast days. The yellow lenses are suitable for fishing in rather poor weather, in the early morning or at dusk. The glasses then brighten up the surroundings and enhance the contrasts. The polarisation effect is then clearly weakened and the brightening of the water bottom is clearly in the foreground. The Ice Blue mirrored lenses are best suited for use on very bright, sunny days when glaring light becomes the real antagonist. Perfect for boating or fishing in salt water.

In terms of price, the AQUILA models range from around 50 to 60 euros – which makes them extremely attractive in view of their high quality. We couldn’t find any other disadvantages, and if anything was saved, it was on a case, because the AQUILAs only come with a microfibre cleaning bag. Of course, we can’t make any statements about the durability of the glasses at this point in time, but if someone from the readership asks about it again in 2023 at the same time, we’ll be happy to take up the subject again. Until then: A clear buy recommendation.

Because it is an inhouse development, the glasses are currently only available at
www.rudiheger.eu

Hard facts:

• Polycarbonate frame
• Soft nose pads
• Soft inner temples
• Robust TAC lenses
• Seven layers of protective lenses including polarising filter
• Lens colours: Ice Blue, Yellow and Brown
• 100% UV-A and UV-B protection
• Incl. microfibre cleaning bag