Which Logo Printing Method is Best for Fishing Shirts? A Guide to Embroidery, Heat Transfer & Screen Printing

When I first started customizing fishing shirts, I had no clue which logo printing method was best. Screen printing? Embroidery? Heat transfer? It all sounded like factory jargon. If you're feeling the same—don’t worry, I’ve got you.

Screen printing, heat transfer, and embroidery are the three most popular ways to add logos to fishing shirts. Screen printing is great for bold, simple designs. Heat transfer allows detailed, vibrant images. Embroidery gives a premium look but works best on thicker fabrics. The best choice depends on your brand’s style, budget, and shirt material.

Let’s break it down so you can make the best decision for your brand.

Overview: 3 Common Logo Printing Methods Explained

There are three main techniques: screen printing, heat transfer, and embroidery. Each one has its own vibe, strengths, and challenges.

Screen printing is like old-school rock—reliable and bold.
Heat transfer feels more like modern tech—sleek and detailed.
Embroidery? That’s your luxury suit—classy but not always practical.

Screen printing pushes ink through a mesh stencil onto the fabric. It’s cost-effective and vibrant, but better for bulk and simple designs.

Heat transfer uses heat to press a printed design (usually vinyl or film) onto the fabric. It’s great for detailed artwork and small batches.

Embroidery stitches your logo directly into the fabric with thread. Durable and textured, it looks premium but adds weight and works best on thicker materials.

How Fabric Type Affects Logo Printing Choices

You wouldn’t use a sharpie on silk—and the same logic applies here. Different fabrics behave differently under heat, ink, or needle.

Fabric type plays a huge role in picking the right logo printing method. For lightweight, stretchy performance fabrics (like polyester used in most fishing shirts), heat transfer works well because it’s flexible and doesn’t weigh the shirt down. Screen printing also holds up, especially with synthetic-friendly inks. Embroidery, while stylish, may cause puckering or stiffness on thin fabrics.

Fishing Shirt Fabrics and Best Fit

Pros and Cons: Embroidery vs. Heat Transfer vs. Screen Printing

Each method has its moment—but none is perfect. Let’s weigh them up.

Embroidery is elegant and tough but adds cost and stiffness.
Heat transfer gives sharp details, but can peel or fade over time.
Screen printing offers solid colors and bulk value, but struggles with photo-like images.

Durability Matters: Which Method Lasts the Longest on Fishing Shirts?

I’ve had logos peel off after one season—and trust me, that’s a nightmare when you’re trying to build a serious brand.

Embroidery tends to last the longest, especially through frequent washing, saltwater exposure, and UV. Heat transfer can fade or crack if not applied properly or cared for gently. Screen printing is durable if you use the right ink (like plastisol) and avoid harsh detergents.

Durability Tips:

• Use cold water and air dry your fishing shirts.
• Avoid harsh bleach-based detergents.
• For heat transfer, ask your supplier about "sublimation-friendly" vinyl.

Which Printing Method Looks Best on Branded Fishing Apparel?

Looks matter—especially when your brand’s reputation is stitched (or printed) into every shirt.

Embroidery gives the most upscale look, especially for logos with strong, simple lines. Think minimal, clean, pro.
Heat transfer shines for detailed, colorful designs—ideal for brands with playful, bright personalities.
Screen printing wins with bold, graphic logos—think block letters, retro, or streetwear vibes.

Your logo’s style should drive this decision. A small patch-sized logo? Go with embroidery. A sleeve full of colorful fish? Heat transfer’s your friend.

Cost Comparison: What’s Most Affordable for Bulk Orders?

This one’s huge if you're starting a brand from scratch like I did. Every dollar matters.

Screen printing is the most cost-effective for large runs. The setup is pricey upfront (they need to make screens), but the more you print, the cheaper each shirt gets.

Heat transfer is better for small batches or custom drops. Less setup, faster turnaround.

Embroidery usually costs the most per unit, especially for complex logos or high stitch counts.

Recommended Printing Methods for Different Use Cases

Starting a lifestyle brand? Go for screen printing—it’s affordable, bold, and fast.

Selling limited-edition drops or colorful designs? Heat transfer keeps things flexible and vivid.

Need a pro look for your tournament team or corporate sponsor gear? Embroidery nails that premium vibe.

You can even mix and match: embroidery on the chest, heat transfer on the back or sleeves. It’s your brand—you get to set the rules.

Expert Tips from 15 Years in the Fishing Apparel Industry

After years working behind the scenes in factories and helping brands grow, here’s what I’ve learned:

• Test first. Always print a sample before committing to bulk.
• Think beyond looks. Consider how the shirt will be used—on a boat, in the sun, under saltwater spray.
• Ask your supplier questions. Good partners will help you pick the right method for your needs—not just upsell you.
• Plan your drops. Different seasons might call for different printing methods (lighter heat transfer in summer, embroidery for fall fleece).
• Don’t skip post-care education. Teach your customers how to care for their shirts so your brand looks good wash after wash.

Final Verdict: How to Choose the Best Printing Method for Your Fishing Shirts

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. But once you know your fabric, budget, and brand vibe—you’re set.

Take your time. Sample wisely. And remember, your logo is more than just a mark—it’s your story stitched (or printed) into every cast.