Fish retinas have cells that detect light in the UV and blue-green range. Green light penetrates much deeper into water than light in other colors, even white.
But why is it that green light attracts fish? Plankton need light to photosynthesize and reproduce, and they are particularly attracted to green light. Baitfish eat those plankton, which then attracts larger fish. As such, a green light is often a sign of food.
The shade of green most attractive to fish is between 520 and 530 nanometers (nm), which LEDs excel at achieving. As such, most fishing night lights will use LED bulbs.
It’s worth mentioning that blue also works well if you’re fishing with a light in saltwater. However, the same cannot be said of freshwater fish.
Benefits of Using Green Lights for Night FishingÂ
While fishing with lights at night won’t cause fish to leap directly onto your boat, it will draw them in.
Some additional advantages of using green light for fishing include the following:
Less Bait
As opposed to needing to dangle a single piece of bait in the water or to draw in fish with lures, green lights attract an array of plankton and baitfish with no physical need on your part.
Improved Visibility
The extra light makes it easier to see where the fish and potential obstacles are.
Reduced Prep Time
Tasks like selecting or catching bait, stocking a tacklebox with every type of lure you may need, and baiting your hooks, among others, are drastically minimized or eliminated when using a green light for fishing.
Be Seen by Rescuers
If there’s a major problem, fishing lights will become emergency beacons. They’ll also help you navigate through fog and rain to help others.
Best Practices for Using Fishing Lights
In shallow water, lights positioned close to the surface are best. Floodlights are often the best bet here, as they work well to create wide fields of green illumination. Submersible lights, placed five to ten feet below the surface, will work best for water 20 feet deep or greater.
Regardless of your chosen lights, remember that their effects aren’t instantaneous. You may have to wait 30 minutes or more for fish to react. And no matter what, fish activity will drop a few hours past sunset.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fishing Lights
Do Green Lights Help Night Fishing?Â
Green light is the most attractive to fish because it falls in the spectrum of light they see best. Plankton are attracted to green light for photosynthesis and reproduction, which draws in baitfish and larger fish. According to a study by the University of South Florida, green light works in fresh and saltwater, and blue light works equally in saltwater.
What Color Light Is Best for Night Fishing?Â
White light works in extremely shallow waters but can’t penetrate to lower depths. Blue light works a little better, but generally only in saltwater. Green is the overall winner because it shines the deepest and targets the shades that plankton, baitfish, and larger fish are attracted to.
