Whether you’re a novice or a pro, there are several tips and tricks that will help you catch a few more fish at night. This article will highlight several aspects of night fishing, including: Safety precautions, Seasons to fish at night, and Caring for your catch.
Safety precautions
Compared to day fishing, night fishing requires extra safety precautions. The most important safety item is the light. You should have a flashlight with good batteries. You should also keep running lights on while in motion.
There are some more advanced safety measures, like an approved type of fire extinguisher. You may also want to consider getting a waterproof phone to call for help.
A compass can help you keep track of your course and find your way back to shore. There are also black lights that can be helpful in the dark. Flotation devices, like life jackets, are also a good idea.
When you go night fishing, don’t go it alone. Always bring along a buddy. They can warn you of dangers and help you out if you need it.
When you go night fishing, make sure you are wearing reflective clothing. This helps you find your way and avoids scaring fish. Also, wear long sleeves to keep out the cold wind.
A two-way radio is also a good idea. It’s also a good idea to bring an extra flashlight.
A throwable flotation device is also an essential safety item. You should consider keeping one on board for everyone in the boat. You might want to bring a backup battery if you are going to be fishing for long periods of time.
If you go night fishing, you might want to consider taking a cell phone. This is a good idea because a cell phone can be a great emergency contact. Also, consider bringing a small first aid kit. A pocket knife is another good choice.
Night fishing can be a fun activity. But it’s also a very dangerous one. The best way to enjoy it is to make sure you are safe. It’s a good idea to have a plan and stick to it. You can even take a close friend with you. This way, you will be prepared for anything that might happen. You can also help coordinate emergency assistance when necessary.
The most important thing to remember about night fishing is to keep yourself and your boat safe. Follow these safety precautions and you will have a good time while catching some delicious seafood!
Lures that make sound
Creating noise in the water for night fishing is a good way to draw bass and other fish. Bass can’t see well at night and they rely on their senses to find food. They use their inner ear to detect nearby food and other prey. This helps them to avoid predators.
In order to catch bass at night, you need to use lures that make noise. There are several types of lures that can make noise, including topwater lures and spinners. Buzzbaits are also a good option. Buzzbaits are surface lures that create a water disturbance. They can also be effective for redfish and speckled trout.
If you are going to use a spinner for night fishing, choose one that has a dark color pattern. This will give you a more profound silhouette when it falls through the water.
Another good option is a worm. Most veteran fishermen prefer dark-colored worms for night fishing. Some anglers use worms with noise-producing tails when they pull them through stump fields.
Another great option is a large 8-10 inch ribbon tail plastic worm. This bait is easy to find at night and has a big profile. It also makes a lot of noise when popped.
Some anglers use a jig that has a blade in front of it. This blade displaces a lot of water. This will also draw bass to the lure.
If you are catching bass at night, you need to get your lure in front of them quickly. Night bass fishing lures should be larger than daytime baits, have a different look, and should offer enticement to hungry bass. You should also choose lures that are heavy braided line. This is important because bass can feel vibrations from the lure.
Buzzbaits and topwater lures are some of the best lures for night fishing. Buzzbaits are also effective on redfish and speckled trout. Buzzbaits create a disturbance in the water and the fish can detect the slightest movements around the lure.
Topwater frogs are also a good option for night fishing. These baits are designed to make noise, and they can be a good choice when you’re fishing for cover.
Caring for your catch
Getting your hands on a hefty sack of fish is no small feat. Taking care of said critter will have you licking your lips in no time. As such, it is only natural to take a stab at the best practices required to get the job done and to a T. For starters, consider an insulated chilly bag. The benefits include improved airflow and less stress on your gaff. The best part? Having a cooler in which to store your catch will go a long way towards making your next trip to the fish tank a positive experience. Having a designated catch room will also help ensure you don’t over ice your prized possession. Having a designated room will also prevent you from having to share it with other fish flies.
Although it is not always possible, incorporating a formal fish cleaning station will ensure that your prized possession isn’t a flinger by the time you make it to the boat. As such, make sure you keep it clean, even after you have tucked it away.
Seasons to fish at night
Depending on the season, fishing at night can be very productive. This is especially true if you have a good marine electronics system. Besides, you will also have a much cooler experience.
Fishing at night requires more finesse than day fishing. However, you can still catch big fish and enjoy a memorable experience.
Many fish species come out of hiding at night. This includes bluefish, catfish, walleye, and striped bass. The best time to fish for these species is when the moon is full and before sunrise.
During the night, fish tend to go to deeper waters. They are accustomed to hunting in low light situations. They will also seek cover after the light goes out.
Fishing at night is generally more productive when the water is overcast. This is because the fish are less likely to be disturbed by boats and other people. It also makes casting easier. Also, you can use dark lures for better results.
Predatory fish are also less active at night. Their advantage over their prey makes them less likely to eat during the day. They also move to shallower waters, where the light is less visible.
Catfish rely on their sense of smell more than their sight. They usually hang out at the bottom and use cut bait. They also tend to gather around bright lights near docks or boat lights.
You can also find tarpon fishing at night. Several guides use bright lights to locate them. Tarpon fishing at night is best between April and July.
Trout fishing at night is also more successful before sunrise. However, it can also change with the moon. During a full moon, the fish are more active. On the other hand, a new moon makes it harder to find a fish.
King mackerel are not very active at night. They can be found closer to harbors and piers, as well as in deeper waters. Depending on the local regulations, it may be prohibited to fish at night for mackerel.
Many anglers prefer day fishing over night fishing. Night fishing requires more finesse and a headlamp can help you spot the fish