That is likely true for most of us. I have been caught in the rain, and I've even gone on rides that I knew I would be caught in the rain for a portion of them.

Although I'm not certain what you point is for making that remark. It's never been a issue for me to ride in the rain without fenders. So I currently have no desire for fenders. The dirt streak up my back washes out with no issue or extra effort for laundry.

It's a personal preference and decision. So I still believe the OP should ride without and see if it's found to be a annoyance to get a little bit more wet and filthy while getting caught by the rain and/or puddles afterward. At least then their decision will be based on personal experience of their own making. And not the imagined issues or experiences of others that might not be quite the same.