Fishing at night can be one of the best ways to land a catch—but you need the right lighting. Whether you're fishing off the rocks, out on a boat, or casting from the shore in New Zealand, fishing lights help you see better and attract more fish. They're simple to use and can make a big difference when the sun goes down.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through what fishing lights do, why they matter, and how to choose the best ones for your next night fishing trip.
Why Use Fishing Lights?
Fishing lights aren’t just about seeing in the dark. They help attract baitfish like sprats and pilchards. Those baitfish then bring in bigger species such as snapper, trevally, and kahawai.
Lights also help you keep track of your gear. You can see your rod tips, bait, and knots more clearly—especially when you're re-rigging after dark. If you’re on a boat or near others, lights also make sure you’re visible and safe.
Benefits of Using Fishing Lights
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Attract More Fish: Lights in the water bring in plankton, which attract baitfish, which bring in the bigger fish.
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Stay Safe: Better visibility makes it easier to avoid hooks, lines, and slipping hazards.
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Spot Bites Quickly: Glow sticks and lure lights let you see rod movement, even in the dark.
Whether you’re deep-sea fishing or casting off a jetty, the right fishing light gives you a clear edge.
Different Types of Fishing Lights
There’s no one-size-fits-all. Different lights suit different jobs. Here are the main types:
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Underwater Fishing Light – Sits below the surface to attract fish. Great for boat fishing or off a dock.
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Above-water LED lights – Mounted on boats or tripods for working light.
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Clip-on glow sticks – Easy to attach to rod tips or floats.
What to Look for in a Fishing Light
Brightness and Colour
Green and blue lights work best for most NZ waters. They attract baitfish fast. Brightness is measured in lumens. Go for a light bright enough to work in your conditions, but not so bright it scares off the fish.
Battery and Power
Some lights run on USB-rechargeable batteries, others on AA or 12V boat power. Check how long they last and whether they’ll last your full trip. It’s smart to carry a spare or backup.
Waterproof and Tough
Look for lights rated IPX6 or higher. That means they’ll keep working even in splashy or wet conditions. Tough plastic or sealed casings are best for saltwater use.
Popular Fishing Light Options
Here are some of the best types of fishing lights used around New Zealand:
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LED Lure: These lights are built into your lure or clipped onto the line. They flash in the water and attract fish by mimicking small prey.
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LED Glow Stick: These are reusable, small, and waterproof. Perfect for float tips, rod tips, or the end of your line.
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Deep Drop Fishing Light: Made for offshore fishing in deep water. These lights are super strong and work well when you’re targeting deep species.
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Eye-Shaped Fishing Light: These small lights look like fish eyes. They’re easy to use and help grab a predator’s attention.
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Cylindrical LED Lure Light: Tube-style lights that shine in all directions. Good for jigging or drifting at night.
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Squid Jig Light: These lights are made to attract squid. They glow like a squid’s natural food and increase your chances of a strike.
Each type suits different situations—so think about where you’re fishing and what you’re targeting before choosing.
Night Fishing Tips
Pick the Right Spot
Clear, calm water works best. Try wharves, rocky points, or slow-moving rivers. Avoid murky areas where the light won’t shine through well.
Let the Light Work
It takes time for fish to gather. Drop your light in and wait 10–20 minutes. Baitfish will show up first, then the bigger ones.
Use More Than One Light
Try mixing a glow stick on your rod with an underwater light near your bait. It helps cover more area and attract fish from all angles.
Check Your Gear First
Make sure your batteries are charged. Clip-on lights should be secure. Always test your setup before heading out.
Final Thought
Fishing lights make night fishing more exciting, more productive, and safer. Whether you're using a deep drop fishing light offshore or a simple LED glow stick on your rod, the right gear can help you hook more fish and enjoy the experience.
HOOK LINE SINKER offers reliable FISHING LIGHTS for every night fishing trip.
Happy fishing! 🎣
