Night fishing with lights isn't just a technique; it's an art form that can transform your angling experience. As the sun dips below the horizon and the water turns to ink, a whole new world of fishing opportunities emerges. But here's the thing – success in the nocturnal realm isn't just about having a light; it's about knowing how to use it effectively. Whether you're a seasoned pro looking to up your game or an avid daytime angler ready to explore the night bite, mastering the use of boat lights can be a game-changer.

If you're already convinced, check out these choices to upgrade your lights:

Marine LED Light Bars

Underwater Boat Lights

Want to know more before you buy? Carry on reading and we'll show you why you should use night lights for fishing, why Black Oak is your best choice, and how you can fish better with lights after the sun goes down.

Quick Facts and Benefits of Night Fishing with Lights

Let's face it, fellow anglers – there's something magical about being out on the water when the rest of the world is asleep. But beyond the allure of solitude and the thrill of the unknown, night fishing with lights offers some serious advantages:

1. Increased catch rates: Many fish species are more active at night, feeding with abandon under the cover of darkness.

2. Access to different species: Some fish, like walleye and crappie, are notorious night feeders that are more easily targeted after dark.

3. Cooler temperatures: Especially in the dog days of summer, night fishing offers a respite from the sweltering heat.

4. Less crowded waters: Say goodbye to jockeying for position at your favorite spot – the night is yours.

But here's the kicker – to truly capitalize on these benefits, you need the right tools for the job. That's where quality boat lights come into play.

Featured Black Oak LED Lights for Night Fishing

Before we dive deeper into the details of night fishing techniques, let's talk hardware. Black Oak LED offers some of the best lights in the business for nocturnal anglers. Here are our top three choices.

Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL12)

The Fathom LED Underwater Light (FL12) is the perfect addition to elevate your night fishing adventures. This ultra-compact, low-profile light is designed to seamlessly mount on any boat, ensuring brilliant illumination whether installed on the transom or along the hull. Its 65-degree beam angle, enhanced with New Hydro Block Technology, penetrates deep into the water, making it ideal for attracting fish from afar. Boasting a lifespan of over 50,000 hours and backed by advanced driver technology with thermal rollback, the FL12 ensures both longevity and performance.

Available in vibrant colors like White, Blue, Deep Blue, Green, as well as a distinctive Dual Color Blue and White, this light transforms your boat into a nocturnal fish magnet. Easy to install with just one cable entry hole and three mounting screws, the FL12 also includes reverse polarity protection for hassle-free use. Illuminate your night fishing trips and experience unparalleled success with the FL12.

2 Inch Marine Flush Mount Spreader Light

The 2 Inch Marine Flush Mount Spreader Light from Black Oak LED Pro Series 3.0 is your ultimate on-board solution for illuminating fishing gear and work areas during nighttime adventures. Perfectly designed for low-profile mounting on Fiberglass T-Tops, gunwales, a rub rail, or any location requiring discreet, high-output lighting, this spreader light features two powerful 10w Cree LEDs, delivering an impressive 1,560 lumens across a 90° pattern. This robust lighting ensures your fore and aft decks are bright as day, making rigging gear, baiting hooks, and handling your catch a breeze after dark.

Its DuPont powder coating provides resilience against sun and salt exposure, ensuring long-lasting durability, unlike those cheap light strips, while its IP69k waterproof rating guarantees unbeatable water resistance. With a stainless steel mounting kit and wiring pigtail included, installation is straightforward and secure. Illuminate your boat with the top-tier performance and reliability of Black Oak LED's Marine Flush Mount Spreader Light and transform your night fishing into a hassle-free, productive experience.

10 Inch Marine Single Row: Black Oak LED Pro Series 3.0 - 5 Watt Combo LED Light Bar - Spot & Flood Optics (50w)

The 10 Inch Marine Single Row LED Light Bar from Black Oak LED Pro Series 3.0 is your ultimate solution for safe and efficient navigation before and after your fishing trips. Perfect for mounting on your boat's T-Top, bow, or pilothouse, this versatile light bar combines spot and flood optics to deliver impeccable visibility, ensuring you navigate with confidence even in the darkest waters. With an astounding beam reach of over 900 meters and widespread flood lighting, you can easily spot channel markers, traps, and any potential obstacles.

But that’s not all—this light bar doubles as a safety beacon, illuminating your journey back to the dock, keeping your crew safe, and making your vessel easily visible to others. The Pro Series 3.0 upgrade includes 360° Ceramic Protection from UV, saltwater, and corrosion, along with a 2 Stage Hydrex Seal for unmatched waterproof reliability. Enhanced with a 4x stronger Dynamax housing, this light bar is built to withstand the harshest marine conditions without compromising performance.

These lights aren't just bright – they're engineered specifically for the demanding conditions of night fishing. But remember, having the best gear is only half the battle. It's how you use it that separates the weekend warriors from the night fishing ninjas.

How and Why Lights Attract Fish

Now, let's get down to the science of why lights are so effective for night fishing. It's not just about illuminating your work area (though that's certainly a bonus). The real magic happens beneath the surface.

The Food Chain Reaction

Picture this: You flip on your underwater lights, and within minutes, you've kickstarted a miniature ecosystem. Here's how it goes down:

1. Plankton attraction: These tiny organisms are drawn to the light like moths to a flame.

2. Baitfish aggregation: Small fish, sensing an easy meal, swarm in to feast on the plankton buffet.

3. Predatory fish response: The big boys, smelling opportunity, cruise in to capitalize on the baitfish bonanza.

It's like setting up an all-you-can-eat buffet for fish, with your boat at the center of the action. But not all lights are created equal when it comes to triggering this reaction.

Light Penetration in Water

Here's where things get a bit technical, but stick with me – this knowledge can make or break your night fishing success. Water absorbs different wavelengths of light at different rates. Red light, for instance, gets absorbed quickly and doesn't penetrate deep. Blue and green light, on the other hand, can punch through to greater depths.

Factors affecting light penetration include:

• Water clarity

• Dissolved organic matter

• Suspended particles

In most fishing scenarios, you're looking for that sweet spot of light penetration that attracts fish without spooking them. This is where the color of your lights becomes crucial.

Choosing the Right Lights for Night Fishing

Alright, let's talk about choosing the right lights for your night fishing arsenal. This isn't just about brightness – it's about strategic illumination that puts more fish in your boat.

Types of Fishing Lights

You've got three main options when it comes to boat lights for night fishing:

1. Underwater lights: These bad boys are the gold standard for serious night anglers. Mounted below the waterline, they create a halo of light that penetrates deep and attracts fish from all directions. If you're fishing in deeper waters or targeting species that hang out below the surface, underwater lights are your best bet.

2. Above-water lights: Mounted on your gunwales or T-top, these lights cast a broad swath of illumination on the surface. They're great for shallow water fishing and can help you spot surface activity. Plus, they double as work lights when you're rigging up or handling your catch.

3. Floating lights: These portable options can be tossed out away from your boat to create separate attraction points. They're versatile and can be great for prospecting new areas, but they lack the power and consistency of fixed boat lights.

Each type has its place, and many serious night anglers use a combination of all three. The key is matching your light setup to your fishing style and target species.

Color Considerations

Now, let's talk color of light. This isn't about aesthetics – the color of your lights can make a huge difference in your fishing success. Here's the breakdown:

• Green lights: The heavyweight champion of night fishing. Green penetrates water effectively and is highly visible to fish. It's particularly effective for attracting baitfish, which in turn brings in the predators.

• White lights: A close second to green, white light provides excellent visibility and can be effective in clearer waters. Some anglers swear by alternating green and white lights to create a more dynamic attraction zone.

• Blue lights: While not as commonly used, blue light penetrates water well and can be effective in very deep or clear water scenarios.

• Combination approaches: Many experienced night anglers use a mix of colors. For example, green underwater lights combined with white above-water lights can create an irresistible setup for many species.

Remember, different species may respond better to different colors. Don't be afraid to experiment and see what works best in your local waters.

Brightness and Range

When it comes to brightness, more isn't always better. Sure, you want enough lumens to attract fish, but too much light can be overwhelming and actually push fish away. Look for lights with adjustable brightness settings so you can dial in the perfect intensity for different conditions.

As for range, consider the depth and clarity of the water you're fishing. In murky water, a super long-range light isn't necessary. But if you're fishing clear, deep lakes or offshore, a light that can penetrate 30 feet or more can be a game-changer.

Pro tip: Don't just focus on the specs. Get out there and see how different lights perform in your local waters. What works in the crystal-clear waters of the Florida Keys might not be ideal for a muddy Midwest reservoir.

Setting Up Your Boat for Night Fishing

Alright, folks, let's talk about turning your boat into a fish-attracting machine. Setting up your lights isn't just about slapping them on wherever they fit. It's about creating an irresistible underwater light show that'll have fish lining up like it's Black Friday at Bass Pro Shops.

Light Placement: Underwater Lights or Boat Mounted Lights?

First things first – where you put your lights can make or break your night fishing success. Here's the lowdown:

Underwater mounting options: If you're serious about night fishing, underwater fishing lights are the way to go. Mount them below the waterline, ideally on the transom or along the sides of your hull. The goal is to create a 360-degree halo of light around your bass boat. Remember, fish can approach from any direction, so coverage is key.

Above-water positioning: For your above-water lights, think about creating a workspace that doesn't interfere with your fishing. Mount them high enough to cast light where you need it, but not so high that they create glare on the water. T-top mounted lights are great for overall illumination, while gunwale-mounted lights or light strips can provide targeted lighting for specific areas.

Multiple light configurations: Don't be afraid to mix and match. A combination of underwater and above-water lights gives you the best of both worlds. You can attract fish below the surface while still having enough light to work with above water.

Pro tip: Consider the layout of your boat and your fishing style. If you're a bow fisherman, make sure you've got good coverage up front. Stern anglers might want to concentrate more lights at the back of the boat.

Power Sources and Battery Life

Listen up, because this is where a lot of night fishing newbies get caught with their waders down. All those lights are useless if you run out of juice halfway through your trip.

Rechargeable vs. disposable batteries: For smaller, portable lights, rechargeable batteries are the way to go. They'll save you money in the long run and are more environmentally friendly. For your main boat lights, you'll want to wire them directly into your boat's electrical system.

Solar options: Some anglers are turning to solar-powered lights for supplemental illumination. They're great for topping up your light banks during the day, but don't rely on them as your sole power source.

Power management tips: Here's a pro move – set up a separate battery bank just for your fishing lights. This way, you're not draining your main battery and risking a dead engine at the end of the night. Also, consider LED lights. They draw less power and last longer than traditional bulbs.

Remember, the last thing you want is to be sitting in the dark when the bite is hot. Plan your power needs carefully, and always bring backup options.

Consider Water Depth and Structure

Now, let's talk about where to drop those lights. Just like in real estate, it's all about location, location, location.

Identifying Prime Fishing Spots

Using depth finders: Your fish finder isn't just for locating schools of fish. Use it to identify underwater structures, drop-offs, and depth changes. These are the areas where predatory fish love to hang out, waiting to ambush their prey.

Understanding fish habitats: Different species prefer different habitats. Walleye might be cruising sandy flats, while bass are holding tight to submerged timber. Know your target species and their preferred hangouts. Then, position your boat and lights accordingly.

Pro tip: Look for areas where deeper water meets shallow areas. These transition zones are prime feeding grounds for many species.

Anchoring Techniques

Two-anchor system: This is the gold standard for night fishing. It keeps your boat positioned perfectly over your chosen spot and prevents swinging in the wind or current. Drop your bow anchor, then back down until you're over your spot and drop the stern anchor.

Positioning for optimal light coverage: Once anchored, adjust your position so your lights are illuminating the most productive areas. If you're over a submerged hump, try to position your lights so they're shining down the slopes on all sides.

Remember, proper anchoring isn't just about staying put – it's about creating a stable platform for fishing. A boat that's constantly moving makes it harder to detect those subtle night bites.

How Many Lights and How Deep

Alright, anglers, let's tackle the question that's probably been nagging at you: how many lights do you really need, and how deep should they go?

Determining the Number of Lights

Boat size considerations: As a rule of thumb, bigger boats need more lights to create an effective attraction zone. For a small jon boat, you might get away with one or two lights. For a 25-foot center console, you're looking at four or more.

Target species factors: Some fish are more light-sensitive than others. If you're after species like crappie or walleye that prefer lower light conditions, you might opt for fewer, less intense lights. For species like snook or tarpon that aren't afraid to venture into brightly lit areas, more lights can be better.

Pro tip: Start with a basic setup and add lights as needed. It's easier to expand your system than to scale back if you've gone overboard (pun intended).

Optimal Depth for Light Placement

Shallow water setups: In water less than 10 feet deep, you'll want your lights closer to the surface. This prevents them from being obscured by bottom structure and creates a wider surface area of illumination.

Deep water strategies: For deeper waters, don't be afraid to drop those lights down. In 20-30 feet of water, lights positioned 5-10 feet below the surface can be incredibly effective. They'll attract bait fish from the depths while still creating enough surface illumination for you to work.

Remember, the goal is to create a column of light that attracts fish from various depths. Experiment with different depths until you find the sweet spot for your local waters.

General Technique for Fishing Under the Lights

Now that we've got our boat lit up like a Christmas tree, let's talk about how to actually catch some fish.

Patience and Timing

Allowing time for fish to gather: This isn't run-and-gun fishing, folks. When you first set up your lights, give it time. It can take 30 minutes or more for the food chain reaction to really get going. Use this time to rig up, have a snack, and observe the water around your boat.

Peak fishing periods: While lights can attract fish all night long, there are often peak periods of activity. The first couple hours after sunset and the hours leading up to sunrise can be particularly productive. Pay attention to patterns over multiple trips to dial in the best times for your area.

Fishing Methods

Vertical jigging: This is bread-and-butter night fishing technique. Drop your lure straight down and work it vertically through the water column. Start near the bottom and slowly work your way up until you find where the fish are holding.

Drift fishing: If you're not anchored, try drifting through your lighted area. This allows you to cover more water and can be particularly effective for species like walleye that might be scattered over a larger area.

Still fishing: Sometimes, the simplest approach is the best. Especially when the bite is hot, simply dropping a baited hook into your light zone and waiting can be devastatingly effective.

Pro tip: Always have a rod rigged with a topwater lure. Even if you're focusing on deeper water, you never know when a big predator might come crashing through the surface to attack bait.

Remember, night fishing is all about reading subtle cues. Pay attention to any flashes or swirls in your light zone. These could indicate feeding fish and help you dial in the most productive depth and technique.

Lures and Bait Selection

Alright, night owls, let's talk about what to tie on the end of your line. When it comes to night fishing, your bait and lure choices can make or break your success.

Live Bait Options

Minnows and shad: These are the gold standard for night fishing. Hook them through the lips or just behind the dorsal fin and let them swim naturally in your light zone. The flash of their scales can be irresistible to predatory fish.

Nightcrawlers and other worms: Don't overlook the humble worm. Especially for species like walleye and catfish, a worm on a slip sinker rig can be deadly effective. The key is to let it sit still and let the scent work its magic.

Pro tip: Bring a variety of bait sizes. Some nights, fish may key in on smaller offerings, while other nights, they might want a bigger meal.

Artificial Lures

Glow-in-the-dark lures: These can be game-changers for night fishing. Charge them up with your headlamp before each cast. Soft plastic jerkbaits, grubs, and even crankbaits with glow finishes can all be effective.

Soft plastics: Stick to lighter colors like white, chartreuse, or pearl. These show up better in your boat's lights. Curly tail grubs, swimbaits, and flukes are all solid choices.

Spinnerbaits and jigs: The flash and vibration of a spinnerbait can be particularly effective at night. For jigs, add a soft plastic trailer for extra action and bulk.

Remember, night fishing isn't just about sight – it's about sound and vibration too. Don't be afraid to use lures that make some noise or displace water.

Species-Specific Strategies

Every fish species has its own quirks when it comes to night fishing. Let's break down some strategies for popular game fish.

Freshwater Species

Bass: These bruisers love to prowl the shallows at night. Focus on points, drop-offs, and submerged structure near shore. Big soft plastics, jigs, and topwater lures can all produce.

Crappie: Look for them suspended around brush piles and bridge pilings. Small jigs tipped with minnows are hard to beat. Keep your presentation slow and steady.

Walleye: The kings of night fishing. They often move shallow to feed after dark. Try trolling crankbaits along breaklines or vertical jigging over deeper structure.

Saltwater Species

Snook: These ambush predators love to hang around lighted docks and bridges. Free-lined live baits or large soft plastics worked slowly through the light can trigger explosive strikes.

Redfish: Look for them cruising the edges of your light zone. A live shrimp under a popping cork or a scented soft plastic worked slowly along the bottom can be deadly.

Trout: They'll often school up under lights to feed on baitfish. Small soft plastics or live shrimp fished under a float can lead to non-stop action.

Pro tip: Always be ready to adapt. Fish behavior can change throughout the night as water temperatures fluctuate and bait moves in and out of your area.

Safety Considerations

Listen up, folks – night fishing is a blast, but it comes with its own set of risks. Let's talk about staying safe out there.

Navigation Lights

Legal requirements: This isn't just about avoiding a ticket – it's about staying alive. Make sure your red and green navigation lights and your white stern light are all functioning properly. Know the specific requirements for your area and boat size.

Visibility for other boaters: Consider adding extra LED strips or courtesy lights to make your boat more visible. Remember, other boaters might not be as careful as you are.

Personal Safety

Life jackets: Wear them. Period. No excuses. Modern inflatable PFDs are comfortable and won't get in the way of your fishing.

First aid kit: Keep one on board and know how to use it. Night fishing often means handling sharp hooks in low light conditions. Be prepared for minor injuries.

Communication devices: Always carry a fully charged cell phone in a waterproof case. A VHF radio is also a smart backup for offshore trips.

Pro tip: Let someone on shore know your plans, including where you're fishing and when you expect to return. It's an extra layer of safety that could save your life.

Environmental Considerations

As anglers, we're on the front lines of conservation. Let's make sure we're doing our part to protect the waters we love.

Light Pollution Awareness

Minimizing impact on local ecosystems: While our fishing lights are great for attracting fish, they can disrupt natural cycles for other wildlife. Be mindful of nesting areas for sea turtles or birds, and avoid shining lights directly on shorelines.

Following local regulations: Some areas have restrictions on the use of artificial lights for fishing. Always check local laws before lighting up.

Catch and Release Practices

Proper handling techniques: Night fishing often means handling fish in low light conditions. Use rubberized nets, wet your hands before touching fish, and minimize their time out of water.

Using appropriate gear: Match your tackle to your target species. Using gear that's too light can lead to extended fight times and increased stress on the fish.

Remember, we want these fisheries to be around for future generations. Practice responsible angling, and leave your fishing spot cleaner than you found it.

Conclusion

Well, night owls, we've covered a lot of ground – or should I say, a lot of water. From choosing the right lights to dialing in your techniques for specific species, you're now armed with the knowledge to take your night fishing game to the next level.

Remember, night fishing with lights isn't just about catching more fish (although that's a nice bonus). It's about experiencing the water in a whole new way. There's something magical about being out there when the rest of the world is asleep, watching your lights dance on the water and never knowing what might swim into view.

So grab those Black Oak LED lights, rig up your favorite night fishing setup, and get out there. The night is calling, and the fish are waiting. Just don't blame me if you get hooked on the nocturnal bite and start showing up to work with dark circles under your eyes. Trust me, it'll be worth it.

Joshua Cordray