Ever tried fishing in the dark and felt like you were just casting into a void? Yeah, me too. It’s frustrating, and honestly, a little spooky. But with the right light, night fishing can be incredibly rewarding. You can see what you’re doing, attract fish, and actually enjoy the experience. That’s why I put together this list of some of the best lights for fishing at night, based on my own experiences and what other anglers are saying.
Here’s a quick rundown of the lights we’ll be looking at:
- Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light: Best overall underwater light.
- THKFISH LED Fishing Gloves: Best hands-free lighting.
- YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro: Best for kayak fishing.
- KastKing Glow Fishing Lights: Best affordable light.
- Blackfire Clamplight Flashlight: Best versatile clamp light.
Top 5 Best Lights For Fishing At Night
Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light
The Green Blob is a submersible light designed to attract fish by creating a bright, illuminated area underwater. It’s known for its powerful output and durability, making it a popular choice for anglers targeting various species.
Pros:
- ✅ Super bright, attracts fish like crazy.
- ✅ Durable and waterproof design.
- ✅ Easy to use, just plug and play.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey.
- ❌ Requires a power source (generator or battery).
- ❌ May attract unwanted attention from other boaters.
Verdict: If you’re serious about night fishing and want to draw in the big ones, the Green Blob is a solid investment. It’s powerful and reliable, just make sure you have a way to power it.
THKFISH LED Fishing Gloves
These gloves are a clever way to have hands-free lighting while fishing. They feature built-in LED lights on the fingers, allowing you to see what you’re doing without holding a flashlight.
Pros:
- ✅ Hands-free operation is incredibly convenient.
- ✅ Lightweight and comfortable to wear.
- ✅ Affordable and practical.
Cons:
- ❌ Light output is limited compared to other options.
- ❌ Batteries need to be replaced periodically.
- ❌ Not fully waterproof.
Verdict: For close-up tasks like tying knots or baiting hooks, these gloves are a lifesaver. They’re not meant to light up the whole lake, but they’re perfect for focused illumination.
YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro
The YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro is a safety light designed specifically for kayaks and other small watercraft. It provides 360-degree visibility, making you more visible to other boaters at night.
Pros:
- ✅ High visibility with a bright LED light.
- ✅ Lightweight and easy to mount on a kayak.
- ✅ Durable and waterproof construction.
Cons:
- ❌ More expensive than basic safety lights.
- ❌ Requires a battery.
- ❌ Primarily for safety, not necessarily for attracting fish.
Verdict: If you’re kayak fishing at night, safety is paramount. The YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro is a worthwhile investment to ensure you’re seen by other boats.
KastKing Glow Fishing Lights
These are small, submersible lights that come in a variety of colors. They’re designed to attract fish to your fishing area, and they’re very affordable.
Pros:
- ✅ Very affordable.
- ✅ Compact and easy to carry.
- ✅ Come in different colors to attract different species.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as bright as higher-end options.
- ❌ Battery life can be limited.
- ❌ Some anglers find them less effective than larger lights.
Verdict: If you’re on a budget or just want to experiment with underwater lights, the KastKing Glow Fishing Lights are a good starting point. They’re simple, inexpensive, and might just help you land a few extra fish.
Blackfire Clamplight Flashlight
The Blackfire Clamplight is a versatile flashlight with a built-in clamp. This allows you to attach it to various surfaces, providing hands-free lighting wherever you need it.
Pros:
- ✅ Strong clamp for attaching to boats, branches, etc.
- ✅ Bright and focused beam.
- ✅ Durable and water-resistant.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit bulky.
- ❌ Requires batteries.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for underwater use.
Verdict: The Blackfire Clamplight is a handy all-around light for fishing. The clamp makes it easy to position the light where you need it, and it’s durable enough to withstand the elements.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right light for night fishing depends on a few factors, including the type of fishing you’re doing, your budget, and your personal preferences. Here’s a quick guide to help you make the right choice:
- Type of Fishing: Are you fishing from a boat, kayak, or shore? Boat fishing allows for larger, more powerful lights, while kayak fishing requires lightweight and compact options. Shore fishing may benefit from a headlamp or clamp light.
- Brightness: Consider the brightness of the light, measured in lumens. More lumens mean a brighter light. For attracting fish underwater, you’ll want a light with a high lumen output.
- Waterproof Rating: If you’re using a light near or in the water, make sure it has a good waterproof rating (IPX7 or higher).
- Power Source: Lights can be powered by batteries, rechargeable batteries, or AC power. Choose a power source that’s convenient for you and consider the battery life of the light.
- Color: Green and blue lights are generally considered to be the most effective for attracting fish. However, some anglers prefer white light for better visibility.
- Durability: Look for lights that are made from durable materials and can withstand the rigors of fishing.
- Budget: Fishing lights range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. Set a budget before you start shopping and stick to it.
FAQs
Q: What color light is best for attracting fish?
A: Green and blue lights are generally considered the most effective for attracting fish at night. These colors penetrate the water well and mimic the natural light that attracts baitfish.
Q: How do underwater fishing lights work?
A: Underwater fishing lights attract plankton and other small organisms, which in turn attract baitfish. The baitfish then attract larger predatory fish, creating a feeding frenzy around the light.
Q: Are underwater fishing lights legal everywhere?
A: It’s important to check your local regulations before using underwater fishing lights. Some areas may have restrictions on the type of light you can use or the times you can use them.
Q: How deep should I place my underwater fishing light?
A: The ideal depth for an underwater fishing light depends on the clarity of the water. In clear water, you can place the light deeper. In murky water, you’ll want to place it closer to the surface. A good starting point is about 3-6 feet below the surface.
Q: Can I use a regular flashlight for night fishing?
A: While you can use a regular flashlight, it’s not the best option. Fishing-specific lights are often brighter, more durable, and have features like hands-free operation or underwater capabilities. Plus, a regular flashlight may scare the fish!
Conclusion
Night fishing can be an amazing experience, and the right light can make all the difference. Whether you’re looking to attract fish with an underwater light, stay safe on the water with a visibility light, or simply need a hands-free way to tie knots, there’s a light out there for you. Consider your needs, budget, and the type of fishing you do, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful night on the water.
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