There are many styles of fish-fighting belts and harnesses on the market today. Harnesses can be used together with fighting belts for stand-up fishing to assist with securing the reel to the angler and to spread the weight being applied to the rod. The two main types of harnesses for stand-up fishing are kidney and shoulder harnesses.
Shoulder harnesses are generally favoured for lighter-class fishing gear, offering support during drawn-out fights with smaller fish. They distribute the rod’s weight across the shoulders to minimise arm strain. In contrast, kidney harnesses are ideal for heavier-class outfits where the weight and power of the fish demand a more stable support system. These harnesses distribute weight across the lower back and hips, providing stability and reducing fatigue during extended battles with larger fish.
Ultimately, the choice of harnesses depends on the angler’s preference, the type of fishing gear used, and how well the equipment is configured.