“LED boat lights:” Are they good for fishing?
Underwater boat lighting has experienced a surge of interest within the fishing industry. In fact, we are recieving numerous calls from fisherman asking about the benefits of LED lights for their boats. We made a list of the most frequently asked questions:
1. Why are LED Underwater lights better for my fishing vessel? Whether you’re fishing on a quiet inland lake, or out on the open ocean there are a variety of different product features that make underwater boat lights better suited for any vessel. Here are some of the key features and benefits they give to boaters. Longevity: Most high quality underwater LED boat lights have a lifespan of 40,000+ hours. This equates to 4.5 years of continual light output. This saves boaters time and money in the long run. Efficiency: LED boat lights will convert 80% of electrical energy into light output. On the other hand, traditional light bulbs typically only convert 20% of electrical energy into light output, losing the other 80% as heat. This efficiency allows LEDs to stay cool and run longer. Durability: This is a big one. LED lights are resistant to shock, vibrations and heavy impacts making them perfect for aquatic environments where they are exposed to weather and rough conditions. Instant Output: Unlike other light bulbs, LEDs power up to full brightness instantly. Boaters can also turn our LED boat lights on and off as much as they like without fear of compromising the lifespan of their lights. Power Draw: LED boat lights draw less power from your boat. This saves your battery, and allows you to stay out on the water longer.
2. What LED light color is best for fishing? The consensus tends to indicate that green and white lights will attract the most bait fish at night. Green is the best color for penetration (shorter wavelength) in fresh water inter coastal waterways and areas with poor visibility, green will make the water appear cleaner. However, it may not be the best for overall aesthetics. Blue and white win in this category.
3. Will LED lights help me attract bait fish around my boat? Yes. LED boat lights are proven to attract swarms of bait fish around the hull of the boat. As mentioned above, using white or green lights will generate a ton of bait fish activity. How does it work? Green LED lights have one of the shortest wavelengths in the color spectrum, meaning that it will penetrate (travel) further through the water before it scatters. In turn, for ocean waters, zooplankton is attracted to this green light and will quickly swim to
the surface to pursue the light source. Bait fish such as shrimp and squid will chase the zooplankton to the surface. Then, the predatory game fish that we’re after follow in pursuit. The LEDs set off a food chain reaction which delivers game fish right to the boat wheather your in fresh water or salt.
Underwater LED boat lights are great for any vessel. The best LED colors for attracting bugs and bait fish are green and white. Blue is also a nice color and has a short wavelength, and generates a beautiful aesthetic in the water at night. Hope this sheds some light . . .