Fishing at night adds a challenging twist to a sport that already demands skill to master. Catching a fish in the dark, when your primary sense is at a disadvantage, takes the sense of accomplishment to a whole new level. Additionally, any activity undertaken in the evening or at night brings a unique thrill and excitement of its own.
As you might’ve guessed, evening fishing requires different precautions and preparations than a regular day fishing trip. Below are the most important ground rules for a safe and successful moonlit fishing adventure!
Check Out Your Spot Ahead of Time
Embarking on an evening fishing trip requires careful preparation to avoid unproductive or risky situations. It’s crucial to scout the fishing spot in daylight to observe the surroundings and note any obstacles like powerlines, low-hanging trees, or rocks that could complicate your expedition. Even with plans to start just before sunset, understanding the conditions helps you plan your approach and choose the right equipment. Creating a simple map can also offer guidance and prevent you from getting lost.
Prepare Your Equipment Before the Sun Sets
Before heading out for nighttime fishing:
- Ensure all your gear is organized and set up on your boat in advance, as organizing in dim light can lead to mistakes or injuries.
- Rig multiple rods with various lures and baits, like topwater lures or bulky jigs that create commotion and attract fish in low visibility.
- Keep your boat deck clear of clutter to prevent trips and damage to yourself or your equipment.
Have a Good Working Light
Effective lighting is key for safety and success during evening fishing trips. Equip yourself with easily accessible high-quality lights for hands-free operation, including headlamps, boat lights, and mounted flashlights. Experiment with light colours; many seasoned night anglers recommend green and white for their effectiveness in attracting fish, with green light known to lure baitfish by attracting bugs and plankton, thereby drawing in larger trophy fish.
Don’t Forget—Safety First!
When engaging in any sport or activity during nighttime, it is important to prioritize your safety above everything else. You should take all necessary precautions to keep yourself and anyone accompanying you safe while fishing and navigating the water. Begin by packing all the essential safety equipment such as lights, backup batteries, first-aid kit, life preserver, etc. and ensure that you inform someone of your whereabouts and expected return time.
Take things slow when you’re on the boat. It’s also a good idea to stay seated as much as possible, especially when casting, reeling in, and unhooking a fish. It’s easier than you might think to lose your balance while standing on a boat in the dark, particularly when you’re focused on something other than your own steadiness.
Looking to improve your fishing skills this year? Look no further than Lawrence Bay Lodge in Northern Saskatchewan! Surrounding our lodge is Reindeer Lake, an expansive body where you will find everything from Northern Pike to Walleye. Our experienced guides will provide the necessary guidance and knowledge to hone your craft and give you the best tips for any fishing you want to try on your own.
Book a guided fishing trip with us today and explore our outpost and lodging accommodations online!
