Do Fish See Lures At Night? A Deep Dive into Underwater Visibility
The answer is nuanced, but definitively: yes, fish can see lures at night, but the effectiveness depends on factors like water clarity, ambient light, lure type, and the fish species. This article explores the science behind nighttime visibility underwater and how anglers can leverage this knowledge to improve their night fishing success.
The Underwater World After Dark: A Matter of Light and Perception
Understanding how fish perceive lures at night requires a grasp of the physics of light penetration underwater and the biological adaptations of fish vision. Unlike the clear, unfiltered light of day, nighttime visibility underwater is severely limited.
Light Penetration and Water Clarity
- Absorption: Water absorbs light, particularly red and orange wavelengths, much more quickly than blue and green. This is why the underwater world appears increasingly blue with depth.
- Scattering: Suspended particles like sediment, algae, and detritus scatter light, reducing visibility and creating a diffuse glow rather than sharp contrasts.
- Turbidity: A measure of water clarity, turbidity directly impacts how far light can travel. Clear water allows for greater light penetration, while murky water drastically reduces visibility.
The level of natural or artificial light present significantly affects whether fish see lures at night. Moonlight, starlight, and even distant city lights can provide enough illumination for some fish to detect lures.
Fish Vision: Adapting to the Darkness
- Rods and Cones: Similar to humans, fish eyes contain rods and cones, photoreceptor cells responsible for vision. Rods are highly sensitive to low light conditions and grayscale vision, while cones are responsible for color vision in brighter light. Many fish species have a higher concentration of rods, allowing them to see better in dark or murky environments.
- Tapetum Lucidum: Some fish possess a tapetum lucidum, a reflective layer behind the retina that bounces light back through the photoreceptors, increasing light sensitivity. This is the same mechanism that causes “eye shine” in nocturnal animals. Examples of fish with tapetum lucidum are walleye and crappie.
- Lateral Line: In addition to vision, fish rely on their lateral line, a sensory organ that detects vibrations and pressure changes in the water. This helps them locate prey and avoid obstacles even in complete darkness.
Lure Selection and Presentation for Night Fishing Success
While fish can see lures at night, the key is to choose lures that maximize their visibility and appeal in low-light conditions.
- Color: Dark colors (black, dark blue, purple) create strong silhouettes against the ambient light, making them easier for fish to detect. Lures with reflective elements (holographic finishes, glitter) can also attract attention by reflecting available light.
- Luminescence: Glow-in-the-dark lures or lures with UV-reactive components can provide their own light source, making them highly visible in the dark.
- Sound and Vibration: Lures that create noise or vibration can be effective, especially in murky water where visibility is limited. Rattling crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and jigs can trigger strikes based on sound and vibration.
Factors Beyond Vision: Smell and Vibration
It is not only about vision Do fish see lures at night, they also use other senses!
- Scent: Scented lures or adding scent attractants to lures can increase their effectiveness, especially in murky water or when targeting species with a strong sense of smell.
- Vibration: As mentioned earlier, lures that create vibration are great, even if fish don’t see lures at night, they feel them coming.
Common Mistakes in Night Fishing
- Using brightly colored lures: Bright colors that work well during the day can be ineffective at night because they don’t provide sufficient contrast.
- Fishing too fast: Fish are often less active at night, so slow retrieves and pauses can increase the chances of a strike.
- Ignoring the moon phase: A full moon provides more ambient light, which can improve visibility and increase fish activity. Fishing on darker nights may require more reliance on lures with built-in light or strong vibrations.
- Not considering water clarity: Choosing lures appropriate for the water clarity is essential. Darker lures and vibration baits tend to work better in murky waters.
A Comparison of Lure Types for Night Fishing
| Lure Type | Visibility | Sound/Vibration | Scent | Best Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| —————– | ————- | ——————- | ———— | ———————————- |
| Dark Jigs | High | Low | Optional | Clear to moderately murky water |
| Rattle Crankbaits | Moderate | High | Optional | Murky water |
| Spinnerbaits | Moderate | High | Optional | Moderately clear water |
| Glow-in-the-Dark | Very High | Low | Optional | Dark nights, murky water |
| Scented Plastics | Low | Low | High | Very murky water |
Safety Precautions for Night Fishing
- Wear a life jacket: Even experienced anglers should wear a life jacket, especially when fishing from a boat at night.
- Use a headlamp or flashlight: A reliable light source is essential for navigation and safety.
- Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to boat traffic, underwater hazards, and weather conditions.
- Fish with a buddy: It’s always safer to fish with someone else, especially at night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it true that fish are completely blind at night?
No, that’s a myth. While underwater visibility is reduced at night, fish are not completely blind. Their eyes are adapted for low-light conditions, and they also rely on other senses like their lateral line to detect prey and navigate. The question is Do fish see lures at night, and the answer is yes, to varying degrees.
What colors are most visible to fish at night?
Dark colors like black, dark blue, and purple create strong silhouettes and are often easier for fish to detect in low light. Lures with reflective elements can also be effective by reflecting any available light.
Does moonlight affect night fishing success?
Yes, moonlight can significantly affect night fishing. A full moon provides more ambient light, which can improve underwater visibility and increase fish activity. Fishing around a full moon can often be more productive.
Are glow-in-the-dark lures effective for night fishing?
Yes, glow-in-the-dark lures can be very effective for night fishing. They provide their own light source, making them highly visible in the dark, especially in murky water. It’s important to note that these lures might have a short lifespan, or need a recharge from a light.
How important is lure action for night fishing?
Lure action is crucial, particularly actions that create vibration or sound. Even if the fish can’t clearly see lures at night, they can feel and hear them. Rattling crankbaits and spinnerbaits are excellent choices because they create vibrations that attract fish.
Do different fish species have different night vision capabilities?
Yes, different fish species have varying degrees of adaptation to low light. Species like walleye and crappie possess a tapetum lucidum, which enhances their night vision. Other species may rely more heavily on their lateral line or sense of smell.
Is it better to fish in clear or murky water at night?
It depends on the species and the conditions. Clear water allows for greater light penetration, which can make it easier for fish to see lures. However, some species prefer murky water, as it provides cover and reduces light intensity.
How do I choose the right size lure for night fishing?
Generally, larger lures are easier for fish to detect at night, due to their bigger profile and potentially stronger vibrations. However, it’s important to match the lure size to the target species and the size of their typical prey.
Should I use scented lures for night fishing?
Scented lures can be particularly effective for night fishing, especially in murky water where visibility is limited. The scent can help fish locate the lure even if they can’t see it clearly.
What role does the lateral line play in night fishing?
The lateral line is crucial for fish to detect prey and navigate in the dark. Lures that create strong vibrations can be particularly effective because they stimulate the lateral line. So even if fish can’t see lures at night, they can still sense them.
Is night fishing more dangerous than daytime fishing?
Yes, night fishing can be more dangerous due to reduced visibility and increased risks of accidents. It’s essential to take extra safety precautions, such as wearing a life jacket, using a reliable light source, and being aware of your surroundings.
Are there any specific techniques that work well for night fishing?
Slow retrieves and pauses are often effective for night fishing, as fish are typically less active. Fishing near structures or weed beds can also be productive, as these areas often hold fish at night.