Fishing during the day can often be challenging due to the high activity levels in most venues. However, as the sun sets and the lakes become quiet, night fishing offers a unique opportunity for a fruitful expedition. To ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, it’s crucial to be properly prepared. Let’s explore some essential tips to make your night fishing adventure a memorable one.
Let there be Light
When embarking on a night fishing trip, it’s essential to pack a couple of lights to prevent fumbling around in the dark. LED lights are your best choice, as they provide bright, concentrated light and offer improved battery life. Consider including a head torch in your kit to work hands-free. Isotopes can also be handy for quickly locating essential items in low-light conditions. Some fishing equipment even features recesses for fitting inexpensive isotopes, which can last for years.
Shelter: Comfort is Key
Depending on the weather conditions, choose an appropriate shelter for your night fishing excursion. In colder weather, a twin-skinned bivvy is the optimal choice, while a brolly type shelter would suffice on pleasant summer evenings. Make sure to secure your shelter with robust screw-type pegs, especially in windy conditions. A comfortable bed chair and a warm sleeping bag are indispensable for a good night’s sleep.
Organize with Ease: Bed Chair Pouch
Keep your essential items within reach by investing in a bed chair pouch. This handy accessory attaches to the chair frame via Velcro tabs and provides zip-up storage for small items like car keys, wallets, phones, and baiting tools. No more worrying about losing important belongings in the dark!
Sustenance for the Adventure
Feeling hungry and parched can quickly dampen the excitement of a night fishing trip. Be sure to pack plenty of food and a flask of tea or coffee to keep yourself energized. Consider bringing a single burner and a lightweight pot for cooking, along with an ample supply of gas. Additionally, don’t forget to include drinking water and store perishable food in a cool bag during hot weather. The cool bag can also double as a convenient storage option for your frozen baits.
Terminal Tackle: An Organized Approach
To save time and streamline your night fishing experience, organize your terminal tackle before setting off. Prepare half a dozen rigs beforehand, so they’re ready to use when needed. This proactive approach allows you to focus on the fishing action rather than wasting time on tedious setup tasks in the dark.
Using Markers: Hitting the Spot
Accurately hitting pre-baited areas after dark can be challenging. To overcome this hurdle, choose a significant tree on the opposite bank as a visual marker. Arrive before sunset or visit the venue during daylight hours to select the ideal marker. Utilizing a visual reference point will help you cast accurately and increase your chances of success.
Get Organized: Setup and Sit Back
Before the sun goes down, take the time to organize your fishing spot. This preparation will make it easier to arrange your swim with the benefit of daylight. By doing so, you can sit quietly on the bank, causing minimal disturbance, and be ready to take action when the fish start biting. Avoid fumbling around at the crucial moment by ensuring that you’re fully prepared to land your catch.
Raising the Alarm: Staying Alert
Nobody wants to sleep through a good run! To avoid missing any action, consider using remotes tuned into your alarm frequencies. Place these remotes close to your head when settling down for the night, and they’ll wake you up if any fish take the bait. Additionally, set an alarm on your phone or bring an alarm clock to ensure you wake up at sunrise, ready to make the most of prime fishing time.
The Best Bait: Enhance Your Chances
Carp rely heavily on their sense of smell after dark, so it’s crucial to enhance your bait accordingly. Adding scents or flavors can make your bait more enticing to fish. Artificial corn that glows in the dark can also be a useful addition to your tackle box. Remember to avoid leaving bait on the ground, as it may attract unwanted visitors like rats. Instead, consider using a bucket with a lid or storing your bait above the ground for better preservation and protection.
Safety First: Emergency Preparations
Accidents can happen, so it’s wise to be prepared for unforeseen events. Pack a small emergency kit with items like plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent, and sunblock. Don’t forget to bring your phone in case you need to call for help. If you find yourself without a signal, dial 112, which will connect you to emergency services through another network’s signal.
Spares and Repairs: Be Ready for Anything
Always have spare baiting tools and batteries on hand. Unfavorable weather conditions can quickly ruin your fishing expedition, so consider carrying a spare set of clothes to stay dry and comfortable. Including a small tube of superglue and some electrician’s tape in your tackle box will also prove invaluable for basic repairs on the bankside.
Night fishing can be an exhilarating and rewarding experience if you are well-prepared. By following these tips and ensuring you have all the necessary equipment, you’ll be ready to embark on a productive adventure. So, gather your gear, choose a tranquil spot, and get ready to reel in some fantastic catches under the stars. For quality fishing equipment and gear, check out East Coast Paddle Sports. Happy night fishing!
