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Flats Nation Podcast with Al Perkinson of Bajío Sunglasses

Writer: Dave LeGear
Dave LeGear
Jul 7, 2022
3 min read

Updated: Sep 8

Looking for a better pair of sunglasses for flats fishing or other outdoor activities? With so many lens technologies, frame designs, and marketing claims to sort through, choosing the right pair can get confusing quickly. In this episode of the Flats Nation Podcast, we sit down with Al Perkinson of Bajío Sunglasses to talk fishing eyewear, lens technology, conservation, and what sets the Bajío brand apart.


Man fly-fishing outdoors under a bright sky, wearing cap and sunglasses, with Flats Nation text and Mend Provisions on his shirt.

Bajío Sunglasses and Fishing Eyewear

Sunglasses are one of the most important pieces of gear we use on the water, especially when glare reduction, eye protection, and spotting fish all come into play. Al Perkinson, founder of Bajío Sunglasses and a longtime outdoor-industry executive, joined Flats Nation for an in-depth conversation about the company, its approach to fishing eyewear, and the features anglers should consider when choosing sunglasses for time on the Flats.



Al Perkinson has been an executive in the outdoor industry for the past 20 years. He is a brand builder and growth agent who believes that social responsibility and great storytelling are keys to building beloved brands.

Bajío Sunglasses, if you are unfamiliar with the name since they were launched not ago during COVID 19 (talk about rough timing) is based in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, where it designs and builds performance sunglasses for anglers and other water enthusiasts.


Four pairs of sunglasses arranged on a green palm leaf, reflecting palm trees and a sunny beach scene.
An early Bajío sunglasses lineup, reflecting the brand’s first years in the fishing eyewear market.

Bajio is an independently owned, employee-owned company based in New Smyrna Beach, Florida. Founded by Al Perkinson and Marguerite Meyer, Bajío designs and assembles performance sunglasses in Florida with a strong focus on fishing, sustainability, conservation, and life on the water.

Al Perkinson on Fishing Eyewear


Al is an avid fly angler who understands firsthand how important clear vision, glare reduction, and lens performance can be when stalking fish on shallow flats. In the video below, he talks more about Bajío sunglasses and the needs of anglers who spend long days on the water.



Al’s experience in the outdoor industry goes well beyond eyewear. His background in fishing, brand development, and conservation has helped shape Bajío’s approach to building products for anglers who spend serious time on the water.


Flats Nation Podcast with Al Perkinson

Listen to the complete Flats Nation Podcast with Al Perkinson of Bajío Sunglasses on our Podcast page.

Prefer YouTube? Watch the full conversation with Al Perkinson below.



Fishing Eyewear, Lens Technology and Frame Materials


In this episode, Al and I talk sunglasses, Bajío’s lens technology, and the bio-based materials used in its frames. We also get into the thinking behind the brand and what anglers should look for when choosing eyewear for long days on the water. I think you’ll find the conversation both educational and interesting, especially if you take your fishing eyewear as seriously as we do.


Do your eyes a favor and try a pair of Bajío sunglasses. If you’re like me, your old pair may quickly get reassigned to driving duty. 😎

More from Flats Nation


If you enjoyed this conversation with Al Perkinson, explore more Flats Nation Podcast Episodes and visit our Media section for the latest podcasts, Sound Bites, and other Flats Nation content.


You can also support Flats Nation by checking out our Store, including our latest shirts, technical wear, hats, and other coastal lifestyle gear.


Flats Nation Performance wear in the blend-in colors we now have. Click on the picture to view our entire collection!
Explore Flats Nation performance wear and coastal lifestyle gear in our Store.

Tight Lines, and God Bless!

Dave and the Team



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