The American Outdoorsman, a clothing company based out of New York, has recently brought to market a sharp line of innovative garments. While visiting Outdoor Retailer in Utah, the Loadout Room met with this refreshingly young company to look over what they had cooking in the design pipeline. As well as what the company is all about. What we found were well designed, reasonably priced outdoor clothing with a twist. It seemed each piece we looked at had a feature or two that made us say, “well that’s smart”. Or, “what a great idea”. Once we realized this, we knew their products would be a perfect fit for the Loadout Room readers. Once such product is the Blackfoot River Ultimate Fishing Shirt.

A quick glance will reveal a stylish, well-tailored and functional shirt. Suitable for its intended purpose, fishing, or any other active outdoor sports. I’m not what you would call a fisherman. I do however, enjoy a good fish taco now and again. I also appreciate durable, comfortable clothing for whatever adventure I set out on. The Blackfoot River shirt has become one of my favorite tops to pack. Labor Day weekend was spent exploring the Porcupine Mountains with my wife and two sons. I recall putting this shirt on every evening as the temperature dropped and bugs came out. And for whatever reason, it didn’t smell as gamey as it should have after four days.

Blackfoot River
Seen with the Appalachian Trail Pants

The front of this 96% Nylon 4% Spandex shirt features a pair of traditional patch pockets that are secured with velcro. Making them quickly accessible with one hand versus fumbling around with a button. Both pockets have drain grommets which harkens back to the intended design of this fishing garment. Additionally, a waterproof vertical zipper surrounded by a reflective material accesses a discreet waterproof pocket. Perfect for a phone, fishing license or anything that can’t get wet. This was the great idea feature of this shirt. Also noteworthy is a utility loop sewn into the bottom of the chest pocket. Allowing attachment of any small accessory or tool. Or even your favorite fishing lure.

Blackfoot River
Waterproof pocket

Blackfoot River Ultimate Fishing Shirt specs courtesy of americanoutdoorsmangear.com

  • 96% Nylon / 4% Spandex
  • Built With Stretch Ripstop Fabric For Extra Durability and Ease of Movement
  • Quick-Dry
  • Moisture Wicking
  • UPF 30 Sun Protection
  • Underarm Eyelets For Breathability
  • Four Total Pockets Including Waterproof Zip Chest Pocket
  • Utility Loop And Rubberized Grommets/Buttons
  • Backed By A Guarantee Against Defects In Manufacturing & Workmanship
  • MSRP $64.99
Blackfoot River
Sunset on Lake Michigan

I’ve worn this shirt into the mountains, have kayaked the Great Lakes and have spent many nights around a camp fire in it. It’s a comfortable lightweight shirt that effortlessly moves with you while engaging in active sports. I can tell you, the 4% spandex pays off in spades while paddling a kayak. And when it does get wet, this thing dries in a hurry. I can only imagine how perfect this shirt is for fly fishing. However, The Blackfoot River Ultimate Fishing Shirt is much more than a fisherman’s shirt. Take a look at The American Outdoorsman website and pick out the active clothes for your next outdoor adventure.

Blackfoot River