If you get the chance to go night fishing, grab it as it can be a very satisfying experience. The rewards are great as there is less heat after sunset, which allows fish to come up to the surface to get oxygen or better air, instead of the opposite in the daytime when the heat drives them to go deeper underwater to get what they want.

There are a few tips to help beginners get started on night fishing:

The ideal type of fish to catch during night fishing is the kind that hibernate on sunset, or are slow moving in general. Bass come to mind as they basically stay around in the same areas for long periods of time.

The type of tackle used for fishing at night would be those which are heavier. This will allow you to get a good feel if the fish bite since you will need to rely on that with limited visibility. Heavier tackle and lures include pork rinds, rubber and hair jigs and they are cheap and easily available. Also try lures with contrasting colours, such as a top water bait that makes a lot of splash seem to work best at night in attracting bass.

Have your kit ready before hand as it is far easier to have it organized than trying to sort it out in the dark. Sitting quietly, watching the water with all your kit well organized around you means less disturbance to the fish and more quiet time to wait for your alarm to suddenly burst into life.

Keep at least a couple of torches with spare dry batteries available as you will need a light source to hook your lures. Why not try a night head light as this allows to have both hands free. Also remember to take some insect spray with you as you want to make your experience more pleasant.

The first signs of daybreak can be the prime time for locating feeding fish, whether it’s clusters of bubbles, disturbed silty patches or surfacing fish. Set yourself an alarm clock so you don’t miss that great opportunity.

Take a cooler bag with supplies such as snacks and also remember to take plenty of drinking water. Include a small tube of superglue and some electrician’s tape in your tackle box for carrying out basic bank side repairs. It can be necessary if something vital breaks or falls apart. Also remember to take a few spares of the essential equipment items.

What could be better than a watching the sun rise with a big catch next to you?

Yours In Boating