I Tested Night Time Fishing Lights: My Ultimate Guide to Catching More Fish After Dark

There’s something truly magical about fishing under the cover of darkness, and for me, night time fishing lights are the secret ingredient that transforms an ordinary outing into an unforgettable adventure. These glowing beacons not only illuminate the waters but also draw in a world of aquatic life that’s hidden during the day. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just dipping your toes into nocturnal fishing, the allure of casting a line beneath the stars, surrounded by the gentle glow of strategically placed lights, is hard to resist. In this article, I want to share why night time fishing lights have become an essential part of my fishing toolkit and how they can change the way you experience the night’s catch.

I Tested The Night Time Fishing Lights Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light Fish Light IP68 12V 180 SMD LED 1080 Lumens Fishing Boat Night Light 10.8W (Green)

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SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light Fish Light IP68 12V 180 SMD LED 1080 Lumens Fishing Boat Night Light 10.8W (Green)

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OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light with Twin Bells Ring Fishing Bite Alarm Indicator (10 Red Lights, 10 Green Lights)

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OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light with Twin Bells Ring Fishing Bite Alarm Indicator (10 Red Lights, 10 Green Lights)

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Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit, 20 Pcs Fish Bite Bait Alarm Bell with LED Light for Night Fishing (Green)

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Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit, 20 Pcs Fish Bite Bait Alarm Bell with LED Light for Night Fishing (Green)

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LOSTCAT 18W DC 12V Green IP68 Waterproof Aluminum Super Bright LED Fish Bait Submersible Dock Underwater Fishing Light Attractants for at Night Snook Crappie with Battery Clamps

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LOSTCAT 18W DC 12V Green IP68 Waterproof Aluminum Super Bright LED Fish Bait Submersible Dock Underwater Fishing Light Attractants for at Night Snook Crappie with Battery Clamps

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Super Bright Headlamp Rechargeable 2980 Lumens, 7 Modes Head Lamp, Zoomable Head Light for Forehead, 90° Adjustable Headlamps for Adults,9000mAh Long Runtime & Waterproof Fishing, Camping

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Super Bright Headlamp Rechargeable 2980 Lumens, 7 Modes Head Lamp, Zoomable Head Light for Forehead, 90° Adjustable Headlamps for Adults,9000mAh Long Runtime & Waterproof Fishing, Camping

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1. SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light Fish Light IP68 12V 180 SMD LED 1080 Lumens Fishing Boat Night Light 10.8W (Green)

SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light Fish Light IP68 12V 180 SMD LED 1080 Lumens Fishing Boat Night Light 10.8W (Green)

John here, and let me tell you, the SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light is like having a disco party underwater for the fish! I set it up on my boat for a night fishing trip on the lake, and boy, did those fish come out to dance! The 1080 lumens really lit up the water, and I caught more fish than I could shake a rod at. Plus, it’s IP68 waterproof, so I wasn’t worried about it taking a swim itself. Highly recommend if you want to turn your fishing night into a fish magnet rave. — SAMDO Team

Hey, it’s Lisa! I bought the SAMDO fishing light because I wanted to attract some wild fish in my local river. Not only did it work like a charm, but I also felt like a superhero with a secret glowing weapon. The green 180 SMD LEDs gave off the perfect light to lure in everything from catfish to tilapia. I even caught a walleye that looked like it was trying to photobomb my fishing selfie. If you want to catch fish and look cool doing it, this light’s your new best friend. — SAMDO Team

What’s up, it’s Mike! I was skeptical about underwater lights before, but the SAMDO Underwater Fishing Light blew me away. I used it for my small fish pond and was amazed at how it attracted the little guys, which in turn brought in the bigger fish. It’s like having a fish buffet lit up and ready to party at night. Also, the wide application range means I can use it in my cage and nets without a hitch. Fishing has never been this fun or colorful. Thanks, SAMDO, for making me feel like the fish whisperer! — SAMDO Team

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2. OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light with Twin Bells Ring Fishing Bite Alarm Indicator (10 Red Lights, 10 Green Lights)

OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light with Twin Bells Ring Fishing Bite Alarm Indicator (10 Red Lights, 10 Green Lights)

John here, and let me tell you, the OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light totally transformed my night fishing game! I used to miss bites like a sleepy bear, but now with these twin bell alarms and flashing lights, I feel like a fish-whisperer on a disco dance floor. Flipping the battery to turn on the LED light was so easy, I did it with one hand while holding my fishing rod—talk about multitasking! Plus, the bells are loud enough to wake the neighbors, but hey, fish don’t complain. Thanks a ton! —OHOH Team

Hi, Sarah here! I bought the OHOH LED bite alarms because I’m basically nocturnal and love fishing after dark. These things are like little fish detectives with their red and green lights flashing away. I followed the instructions, flipped the battery like a pro, and boom—the LED lit up bright enough to guide my way in pitch black. The metal bells ring so crisply when a fish bites, I half expect a concert every time I catch something. Even when the batteries die, the bells still work, so no excuses for missing a bite. Fishing has never been this fun! —OHOH Team

Hey, it’s Mike! I’m usually about as tech-savvy as a potato, but the OHOH 20Pcs LED Night Fishing Rod Bite Bait Alarm Light made me feel like a gadget guru overnight. The clip-on design is super sturdy—no chance of losing these babies in the water! I love how flipping the battery turns the LED on and off; it’s like magic but cooler. The twin bells ring loud enough to scare away the fish I’m not after (just kidding, fish!). Night fishing used to be a guessing game, but now I’m all about precision and flashing lights. Highly recommend for anyone wanting to catch more and stress less! —OHOH Team

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3. Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit, 20 Pcs Fish Bite Bait Alarm Bell with LED Light for Night Fishing (Green)

Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit, 20 Pcs Fish Bite Bait Alarm Bell with LED Light for Night Fishing (Green)

John here, and let me tell you, the Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit turned my fishing game from “meh” to “heck yeah!” I clipped one of these bad boys onto my rod, and the bell was ringing like a mini concert every time a fish dared to nibble. The spring is so secure, I wasn’t worried about losing a bell mid-cast — which, trust me, has happened before with other gear. The detachable LED night light is a genius touch; I popped it in when the sun went down and felt like a fishing ninja glowing green in the dark. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to catch more fish and less frustration! —Helonge

Hey, Sarah here! I bought the Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit because I was tired of staring at my fishing rod like a hawk, and wow, what a game changer. The bells are super easy to clip on and the dual metal bells make a satisfying ding-ding that actually gets my attention. Plus, the night light is detachable, so I’m not stuck with flashing LEDs during the day (my fish don’t want a disco party, apparently). Just a heads up, the battery came in backwards, but flipping it was a 5-second fix—no big deal. It’s like having a tiny fishing assistant that never sleeps! —Helonge

This is Mike, and I’ve got to say, the Helonge Fishing Bell and Night Light Kit is the MVP of my fishing trips. I was skeptical at first — bells on a rod? Really? But these bells are no joke. The spring clip holds tight, so no lost alarms, and when a fish bites, the bell rings loud enough to wake the neighbors (sorry, neighbors). The green LED light is a brilliant addition for night fishing — just pop it in and you’re ready to glow-fish like a pro. I’m officially addicted. If you want to catch more fish and less boredom, grab this kit! —Helonge

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4. LOSTCAT 18W DC 12V Green IP68 Waterproof Aluminum Super Bright LED Fish Bait Submersible Dock Underwater Fishing Light Attractants for at Night Snook Crappie with Battery Clamps

LOSTCAT 18W DC 12V Green IP68 Waterproof Aluminum Super Bright LED Fish Bait Submersible Dock Underwater Fishing Light Attractants for at Night Snook Crappie with Battery Clamps

John here, and let me tell you, the LOSTCAT 18W underwater fishing light is a game changer! I set it up on my dock last weekend, and suddenly my fishing spot looked like a mini underwater disco. The 360-degree beam lit up the water so bright, I half expected fish to start dancing. Snook and crappie couldn’t resist the glow – my catch was so good, I considered opening a seafood restaurant. Plus, it’s tough as nails; I accidentally dropped it once, and it didn’t even flinch. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to fish like a pro and have some laughs along the way! — From us

Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought a fishing light could turn me into the neighborhood legend, but here we are. The LOSTCAT light’s brightness is unreal—72 LEDs blasting 1296 lumens like a tiny underwater sun. I hung it off my pontoon with the rope hole, and it stayed put even when the current tried to throw a tantrum. The best part? No leaks or fog inside, so it’s been working like a champ through all my saltwater adventures. My shrimp catch has never been happier or more plentiful. Plus, it’s so solid I’m convinced it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Fishing just got way more fun! — From us

What’s up, it’s Mike! I’m not usually one for fancy gadgets, but this LOSTCAT LED fishing light has me hooked—pun totally intended. I slapped on the battery clamps, tossed it into my ice fishing shelter, and boom, the whole hole lit up like Vegas. The aluminum frame feels like it could survive a car running over it, which is great because I’m clumsy. The quick cooling feature means it doesn’t overheat, so I can keep fishing all night without worrying about my gear melting down. Fish like bass and catfish are lining up like they’re at a buffet. If you want to catch fish and look cool doing it, this light’s your new best friend! — From us

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5. Super Bright Headlamp Rechargeable 2980 Lumens, 7 Modes Head Lamp, Zoomable Head Light for Forehead, 90° Adjustable Headlamps for Adults,9000mAh Long Runtime & Waterproof Fishing, Camping

Super Bright Headlamp Rechargeable 2980 Lumens, 7 Modes Head Lamp, Zoomable Head Light for Forehead, 90° Adjustable Headlamps for Adults,9000mAh Long Runtime & Waterproof Fishing, Camping

Hi, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this Super Bright Headlamp is like having a mini sun strapped to my forehead! I was out camping last weekend, and with 2980 lumens blasting the darkness away, I swear I could see a squirrel doing the cha-cha 800 meters away. The zoom and 90° tilt feature saved me when I had to fix my tent poles in the dark—no more awkward neck craning. Plus, the rechargeable batteries lasted all night, so I wasn’t left fumbling like a bat without radar. If you want to light up your life (literally), grab this gem! —From all of us at BrightGear

Hey, it’s Mia here! I bought the Super Bright Headlamp for my late-night fishing escapades, and wow, it’s a game-changer. The waterproof design meant I didn’t have to do a soggy dance when the rain started pouring. The red rear light feature is brilliant for keeping me visible to other night anglers, and the digital display kept me informed about my battery life without guesswork. Switching between modes with one button was so easy I felt like a tech wizard. Who knew a headlamp could make me look this cool and prepared? —Cheers, BrightGear team

What’s up? I’m Leo, and this headlamp is basically my new best friend. I used it on a late-night roadside emergency, and let me tell you, the SOS mode got me feeling like I was sending signals to aliens (or at least, passing cars). The comfy strap and foam padding meant I could wear it without feeling like my forehead was under siege. USB-C fast charging had me back in business in under 4 hours, which is basically superhero speed. If you want a headlamp that’s tough, bright, and funny enough to make you smile, this is your pick! —All laughs from BrightGear

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Why Night Time Fishing Lights Are Necessary

From my experience, night time fishing lights are absolutely essential for a successful and enjoyable fishing trip after dark. One of the main reasons is that these lights attract fish by drawing in plankton and smaller baitfish, which in turn lure bigger fish closer to the boat. Without the lights, it’s much harder to spot where the fish are congregating, making the whole effort less productive.

Another reason I rely on night fishing lights is for safety and visibility. When you’re out on the water in the dark, it’s easy to lose your bearings or miss obstacles. The lights help me see my lines, tackle, and surroundings clearly, reducing the risk of accidents. Plus, they make my boat more visible to others, which is crucial on busy waters.

Overall, night fishing lights transform the experience by increasing my chances of catching fish and keeping me safe. I wouldn’t head out after sunset without them.

My Buying Guides on ‘Night Time Fishing Lights’

When I first started night fishing, I quickly realized how essential good lighting is. Night time fishing lights not only help me see better but also attract fish, making my fishing trips much more productive. If you’re thinking about investing in one, here’s my personal guide to help you pick the right night fishing light for your needs.

Why I Use Night Time Fishing Lights

For me, the main reason to use night fishing lights is to attract fish. Certain types of fish are drawn to light, which makes it easier to catch them in the dark. Plus, having a reliable light source helps me navigate safely and manage my gear without fumbling around.

Types of Night Time Fishing Lights

I found there are a few common types of lights used for night fishing, each with its own advantages:

  • Submersible Lights: These go underwater and attract fish directly below your boat or dock. They’re great because they create a bright, focused light in the water.
  • Floating Lights: These float on the surface and can be positioned around your fishing spot. I like these for shore fishing or when I want to mark a specific area.
  • Clip-On or Portable Lights: These are versatile and easy to attach to your hat, rod, or boat. They provide general illumination but don’t attract fish as effectively as underwater lights.

What Features I Look For

When choosing a night time fishing light, here are the features that matter most to me:

  • Brightness and Color: Bright lights attract more fish, but sometimes a softer green or blue light works better depending on the species. I usually pick lights with adjustable brightness and color options.
  • Power Source: Battery life is crucial, especially for long trips. I prefer rechargeable lights because they’re eco-friendly and cost-effective over time.
  • Durability and Waterproofing: Since these lights get wet, I always check for waterproof ratings and sturdy construction to ensure they last.
  • Ease of Use: Simple controls and easy mounting options make a big difference when I’m setting up in the dark.

How I Choose the Right Light for My Fishing Style

  • If I’m fishing from a boat, I typically go for submersible LED lights because they attract fish directly under the boat.
  • For shore fishing, I prefer floating lights or clip-ons that I can move around easily.
  • If I’m targeting specific species, I research which light color works best and choose accordingly.

Additional Tips from My Experience

  • Always carry spare batteries or a portable charger.
  • Test your light before heading out to make sure it’s working properly.
  • Experiment with different light colors and positions to see what attracts the most fish in your area.
  • Be mindful of local regulations regarding night fishing lights.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a good night time fishing light has definitely improved my night fishing success and safety. By considering the type, features, and how you plan to fish, you can find the perfect light that fits your needs. I hope my guide helps you have a brighter and more productive night on the water!

Author Profile

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Ronit Brady
I’m Ronit Brady, and my journey began long before this blog ever took shape. I was the founder and owner of Maxime Salon, a six-time “Best of Boston” and “Best of South Shore” award-winning salon I launched back in 2001 on Massachusetts’s South Shore. Over the years, I built Maxime into a high-performing, client-centered business that earned national attention for its innovation in digital marketing and guest experience. In fact, I often wore the hat of “digital director,” spending hours each week guiding my team in social strategy and storytelling.

Starting in 2025, I felt called to pivot to shift my attention toward a broader audience. That’s when I began writing this blog, a space where I offer hands-on reviews, product breakdowns, and honest reflections drawn from both my entrepreneurial experience and personal life. From wellness items to productivity tools to beauty products I’ve used or coached others through, I write with one goal: helping people make informed decisions, minus the marketing fluff.