Did you know that some fish are more active during nighttime? Fishing at night can be challenging, but it’s also a great way to catch more fish. Just like day fishing, night fishing also requires good bait to make it successful. Therefore, here are the baits that you should use when you’re going for a night fishing.
What is Night Fishing?
Night fishing doesn’t only refer to the time when you fish. It’s also about when, where, and what types of fish you can get. Another thing that most people overlook is that it takes more confidence in one’s skill to do night fishing.
Compared to daytime fishing, you may need more preps for night fishing. In addition to the usual fishing gear, you also need to have lamps ready. If you plan to do night fish for freshwater fish, then put a small camping gear on your list. At any rate, you need to ensure that you put your safety above the idea of catching the fish.
Also, even though it’s called night fishing, you can start fishing when it’s dusk. If you choose to do night fishing in the summer, you can have the sunshine as the natural light until it’s finally dark. But the rule of thumb is to start before it’s dark. This is also a preventive in case you need to adjust your plan.
Night fishing has numerous benefits. The fish are more predictable, you can enjoy nature alone or with minimum people are just some of the obvious benefits. But it also holds some danger since some predators are also nocturnal. You should check on the area before you start doing night fishing. You also can join a group of recreational anglers who are experienced in fishing at night.
Why You Should Try Night Fishing
So why do night fishing? Again, some fish are more active at night. You also can see nature in a different light, pun intended, when you fish at night. The tides’ movement and other natural forces play a bigger part at night than during the day.
Fishing at night also means the water will have a cooler temperature. This is crucial if you’re angling for colder-water fish. It’s also crucial when you fish in the summer since the fish will be more likely to take the bait at night.
Most fish are also more attracted to lights. So when you do night fishing, it’s easier to lure them to see your bait. You can use the light to shine a specific area where your baits are ready. And then comes the fun part.
The Best Bait for Night Fishing
You can do night fishing for freshwater or saltwater fish. Each has different challenges. But in general, the fish are attracted to the light so you need to use it to your advantage. Here are the best baits that you should use to ensure your night fishing success.
Live Bait
If you prefer live bait, make sure that you are ready before you start fishing. Keep the bait in an ice container to keep them fresh. You also need to calculate if you have enough bait to catch the fish. Since you’re fishing at night, you don’t have time to catch more live bait.
Freshwater fish loves shiners and worms. You can’t go wrong with these two live baits. Ensure that you have enough supply in your pack and keep them nearby since some nocturnal animals also enjoy worms. Some fish also enjoys insects as bait.
As for the saltwater fish, you can use cut squid and fish. Some professional anglers prefer to catch their baits fresh from the ocean to lure their fish. Saltwater fish prefers fresh baits, and these professionals understand that. If you want to enjoy saltwater night fishing, you can do what the professionals do. But it’s okay if you come up with your ice box full of fresh fish as bait.
Artificial Bait
Anglers who use artificial bait for night fishing are mainly freshwater anglers. These baits are economical and they can use many times over. But the primary benefit of artificial bait is that they come in various colors and shapes.
You can use any type of artificial bait to catch the fish. But the most popular ones are topwater spinners and jigs. This is because these baits have similar movements to their usual diet. The fish will see it and chase the bait as if chasing their meal.
Topwater spinners for night fishing can be a deadly combo when you combine them with the smart use of the lamp. Use the light to direct the fish where the topwater bait is. Since the bait looks attractive above the surface, the fish won’t hesitate to come closer. Use this opportunity to catch the fish immediately.
One artificial bait that is a staple for night fishing is the ribbon-tailed worm. This bait will guarantee you more fish since it’s agile and active underwater. Many anglers can swear their lives on success when using this bait. A major benefit of using ribbon-tailed worm is you can combine it with any style of a rig to bring a bigger fish.
How To Choose The Best Bait For Night Fishing
Your preference plays a part in choosing the best bait for night fishing. If you are uncomfortable with cutting squids and fish for live bait, you can use artificial bait instead. But there are other things you need to know when choosing the lure for night fishing.
Color is the ultimate key to good bait. Fish is smart enough to notice the bait. Some fish may prefer colorful bait, while others prefer the most natural-looking one. To catch more fish, you need to understand their thoughts and preferences before turning them to your benefit.
Night fishing may not be for everyone. But it’s a unique and challenging activity that you will enjoy. Many anglers have switched from being regular daytime anglers to night fishing specialists. Whatever that is, you know yourself well. And that includes doing night fishing.