Night Fishing Guide: Lights, Bite Alarms and Safety Tips

Night fishing is one of the best-kept secrets in the sport. Water cools, boat traffic disappears and many big fish move shallow to feed. Here is how to do it right.

Species that bite at night

• Catfish: the classic night bite.
• Walleye: feed in low light along shallow flats.
• Bass: summer nights can be excellent with dark topwaters and spinnerbaits.
• Saltwater: snook, stripers and squid around lighted piers and docks.

Essential night fishing tech

• Underwater LED fishing lights: green lights attract plankton and baitfish, and predators follow. Shop night fishing lights.
• Bite alarms: wireless bite alarms tell you the instant a fish takes your bait, even when you cannot see your rod tip.
• Smart LED floats: floats that glow or change color when a fish bites.
• Headlamp with red mode: keeps your night vision and avoids spooking fish.

Night tactics

• Scout your spot in daylight so you know snags, depths and safe footing.
• Use dark lures for silhouette and baits that make noise or vibration.
• Keep your area organized. Everything takes longer in the dark.

Safety checklist

• Tell someone where you are going and when you will be back.
• Wear a life jacket on boats and kayaks, and use required navigation lights.
• Bring spare batteries, a charged phone, and bug spray.
• Check local regulations; some waters have night fishing rules.