Ever been out on the water, the sun dips below the horizon, and suddenly you can’t see your line? Night fishing can be incredibly rewarding—the peace, the quiet, and often bigger catches. But you need the right gear, and a good light is absolutely essential. Without one, you’re basically fishing blind (literally!). I’ve tried a bunch of different lights over the years, and it makes a huge difference. So, let’s talk about some of the best options to illuminate your next night fishing adventure.
Product Overview / Quick Summary:
- YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro: A versatile and bright 360-degree light for kayaks and small boats.
- Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light: Submersible light to attract fish.
- ThruNite TN12 Pro EDC Flashlight: Powerful handheld flashlight with multiple modes.
- Blackfire Clamplight Flashlight: Hands-free flashlight with a strong clamp.
- BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro: Bright and comfortable headlamp for hands-free lighting.
Top 5 Best Lights for Night Fishing
1. YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro
The YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro is a standout for kayak and small boat anglers. It’s a 360-degree light that keeps you visible to other boaters, which is super important at night. The carbon fiber pole is lightweight and durable, and the light itself is bright enough to be seen from a good distance.
Pros:
- ✅ 360-degree visibility enhances safety.
- ✅ Lightweight and durable carbon fiber pole.
- ✅ Easy to mount on kayaks and small boats.
Cons:
- ❌ Can be a bit pricey compared to other options.
- ❌ Requires a power source (battery or USB).
- ❌ Mounting hardware might need adjusting for some kayaks.
Verdict: If you’re serious about kayak or small boat night fishing and want a reliable, highly visible light, the YakAttack VISI Carbon Pro is a great investment. The added safety and durability make it worth the cost.
2. Green Blob Outdoors Underwater Fishing Light
The Green Blob is designed to attract fish by emitting a bright green light underwater. It’s a simple but effective way to draw in baitfish, which in turn attract larger predators. I’ve used similar lights while fishing for crappie and it really helps concentrate the fish around your boat.
Pros:
- ✅ Attracts fish effectively with its bright green light.
- ✅ Durable and waterproof construction.
- ✅ Easy to deploy and use.
Cons:
- ❌ Requires a 12V power source (battery).
- ❌ Can be bulky to transport.
- ❌ Effectiveness can vary depending on water clarity and location.
Verdict: If you’re looking to improve your chances of catching fish at night, especially in murky or deep water, the Green Blob is a solid choice. Just make sure you have a suitable power source.
3. ThruNite TN12 Pro EDC Flashlight
The ThruNite TN12 Pro is a versatile handheld flashlight that’s perfect for a variety of tasks, including night fishing. It’s compact, powerful, and has multiple brightness modes, so you can adjust the light to suit your needs. I keep one in my tackle box for everything from tying knots to spotting landmarks.
Pros:
- ✅ Very bright with multiple output modes.
- ✅ Compact and easy to carry.
- ✅ Durable construction.
Cons:
- ❌ Can get hot on the highest setting.
- ❌ Battery life can be shorter on higher settings.
- ❌ Not specifically designed for hands-free use.
Verdict: A great all-around flashlight that’s perfect for night fishing and other outdoor activities. The brightness and durability make it a reliable tool to have on hand.
4. Blackfire Clamplight Flashlight
The Blackfire Clamplight Flashlight is a handy tool that offers hands-free lighting thanks to its integrated clamp. This allows you to attach it to your boat, hat, or any other convenient spot, freeing up your hands for fishing. I find this type of light particularly useful when re-rigging tackle in the dark.
Pros:
- ✅ Hands-free operation with a strong clamp.
- ✅ Durable and weather-resistant.
- ✅ Affordable price point.
Cons:
- ❌ Not as bright as some other flashlights.
- ❌ Clamp may not fit all surfaces.
- ❌ Battery life could be better.
Verdict: A practical and affordable option for those who need hands-free lighting while night fishing. It’s not the brightest light on the market, but the convenience of the clamp makes it a useful addition to your gear.
5. BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro
The BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro is a top-of-the-line headlamp that delivers powerful illumination and comfort. The no-bounce fit ensures it stays securely on your head, and the multiple lighting modes make it adaptable to various situations. Having a headlamp is great when you are trying to navigate a dark boat ramp or untangle a line.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely bright with 800 lumens.
- ✅ Comfortable and secure fit.
- ✅ Multiple lighting modes, including red light.
Cons:
- ❌ Higher price point.
- ❌ Battery life can be shorter on the highest setting.
- ❌ Some users may find the battery pack bulky.
Verdict: If you need a reliable, high-performance headlamp for night fishing, the BioLite HeadLamp 800 Pro is an excellent choice. The brightness and comfort make it a worthwhile investment for serious anglers.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right light for night fishing depends on your specific needs and fishing style. Here are some factors to consider:
- Brightness: Consider the lumen output. Higher lumens mean brighter light, which is important for visibility and safety.
- Type of Light: Decide whether you need a handheld flashlight, a headlamp, a 360-degree light, or an underwater light. Each type serves a different purpose.
- Power Source: Check the battery type and battery life. Rechargeable options are convenient, but make sure you have a backup power source if needed.
- Durability: Look for lights that are waterproof or water-resistant and made from durable materials.
- Hands-Free Operation: If you need your hands free for fishing, consider a headlamp or a flashlight with a clamp.
- Special Features: Some lights have special features like red light mode (to preserve night vision) or adjustable brightness settings.
FAQs
Q: What is the best color light for night fishing?
A: Green and blue lights are often used to attract fish underwater, while white light is good for general visibility. Red light can help preserve your night vision.
Q: How many lumens do I need for a fishing headlamp?
A: Aim for at least 300-500 lumens for adequate brightness. For more demanding tasks, 800 lumens or more may be preferable.
Q: Are underwater fishing lights legal?
A: Regulations vary by state and location, so check your local fishing regulations before using underwater lights.
Q: How do I mount a 360-degree light on my kayak?
A: Most 360-degree lights come with mounting hardware that can be attached to your kayak’s track system or other suitable surfaces. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right light can make a huge difference in your night fishing experience. Whether you need a bright headlamp for hands-free operation, an underwater light to attract fish, or a 360-degree light for safety, there’s an option out there for you. Consider your specific needs and fishing style to find the perfect light for your next nighttime adventure.
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