Artificial lights are a tool used by fishermen to increase their catches at night. When artificial lights are lowered below the surface, they attract plankton and baitfish which draw the attention of game fish. Large predators lurk in the shadows awaiting an easy meal. Follow a few simple steps to improve your catches and make the most of your next fishing trip.
Location
Lights only help catch fish when there are fish in the area to catch. Concentrate on areas near structure such as rock piles, submerged timber, drop offs and channels. The mouth of a creek or river is also a good place to start. Underwater springs that provide constant cold water often attract fish during the warmer months of the year. Choose your location carefully and remember to mark productive spots on a map or GPS unit.
Light Color
There are several different colors of light to choose from and depending on the water conditions, one color is often more productive than another. Depending on wavelength, light travels different distances under water. Water clarity, temperature, wind and weather all affect fishing conditions. Experiment with different colored lenses to see which one works the best. White, blue and green are all good choices.
Number of Lights
It is always better to have more than one light on a boat. A second light doubles the area of effective attraction drawing more bait and game fish. With more than one angler in the boat, an additional light gives each fisherman more room to fish, reducing tangles and increasing productivity.
Light Depth
Modern submersible lights are more effective and efficient than traditional lanterns. The also reduce the number of annoying insects that are often attracted to lights hung above the water. Suspend lights just below the surface of the water, but avoid lowering them more than three feet down.
Bait
It is always best to use bait that closely resembles the natural baitfish found in the water you are fishing. Locally caught bait is ideal, but never transfer baitfish from one body of water to another because invasive species may travel with them. Lures that resemble native baitfish are also a good choice. Lower your offering all the way to the bottom and raise it up approximately one foot. Allow it to sit for a minute or two and then raise it up another foot. Continue this process until you locate the depth where the fish are holding. Remember to keep track of where the strike occurs so you can immediately raise your offering to the same depth.
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